Madrid

Orientation

The capital of Spain, Madrid is a captivating city that blends colourful history with modernity. It is also home to the world-renowned soccer team, Real Madrid.

City Facts

• Madrid Population: 4,072,000 (Source: UN Population Division 2000 estimate)
• Spain Population: 39,801,000 (Source: UN Population Division 2000 estimate)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Time Zone: GMT+1; or GMT+2 between the last Sunday in March to last Saturday in October every year.
• Language: Spanish

Weather

Weather Forecast

Climate

Since it is located near a mountain range, the Madrid weather is more extreme than any other Spanish cities. Its average temperature reaches 32°C (93°F) in summers, and as low as 10°C (53°F) in winters.

Travel Tips

When to Visit - Arts and Events

Bullfighting is an important part of the Spanish culture and a thriving activity in Madrid. Another part of the Spanish culture is flamenco music, which has been performed in Madrid since the early 19th century.

Dining

The Spanish is serious about their food, and dining out in Madrid is a must to enhance your visit. The intriguing collection of traditional and contemporary Spanish dishes will make your mouth water. Moreover, fish is always high on any menu as Madrid is the world’s second biggest fish market. Madrid is surrounded by the Spanish wine-making region, so there is an exciting range of tasty wines to accompany your meals.

Tipping Advice

Tipping is not compulsory in Madrid, but as most workers are quite poorly paid, so they generally appreciate a small tip as an acknowledgement of good service. About 10 percent of the bill should be given in restaurants and taxis and hotel porters also expect tip.

Transportation

Air, road and rail links put Madrid in touch with the rest of Europe and the world.

Arriving by Air

International and domestic flights arrive at the Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD), which is linked to the city by the Metro underground trains.

Getting Around Madrid

The 10-trip ticket for both the Metro and city buses is a bargain for getting around the Spanish capital, which is prone to congested traffic conditions.