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Destination:

Madrid

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temperatur
23°
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tid
02:04

Madrid

In the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, surrounded by mountains and natural parks, Madrid is an irresistible destination that boasts a wealth of cultural and leisure offers. It is home to renowned museums, art galleries, elegant buildings, and charming squares, as well as two world-class football teams, Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid. The capital of the Kingdom of Spain also boasts unique neighbourhoods, bustling nightlife, and scrumptious cuisine. Brimming with energy and character, Madrid is a city that is sure to captivate the hearts of many travellers.
Exterior view of the Prado Museum. Madrid. Spain.
Prado Museum
Calle de Ruiz de Alarcón 23, Madrid

The Prado Museum, officially known as Museo Nacional del Prado, is an internationally renowned museum that boasts an impressive collection of over 7,000 paintings (although only approximately 1,500 are currently on display). Established two hundred years ago, the museum's collections have expanded to include artworks by Spanish masters such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as pieces by renowned Flemish artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel, and Anton Van Dyck.

Young woman a photo camera and taking picture in Plaza Mayor square, Madrid
Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor, the main square of Madrid, boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the late 16th century when it was named Plaza del Arrabal, hosting the city’s most popular market. Today, it is a top tourist attraction with a lot to offer. One of the highlights of the plaza is the equestrian statue of King Philip III, located in the centre. Sculpted by Giambologna and finished by Pietro Tacca in 1616, it originally stood at the entrance to Casa de Campo Park before Queen Isabella II had it moved to the Plaza Mayor in 1848. The plaza's most striking building is the Casa de la Panadería, the first to be established in 1590, which was initially the most important bakery in Madrid. Today, it houses the Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre and the Tienda Casa de la Panadería, a shop selling souvenirs of Madrid made by local artisans. Another popular spot is El Arco de Cuchilleros, the most famous of the nine entrances to Plaza Mayor. Plaza Mayor is also an excellent place to enjoy a coffee or grab a bite, people-watch, and soak up the city’s rich history. Throughout the year, there are various events, including the drum parade at Easter, outdoor concerts, and the Christmas market in December, so be sure to check the calendar when you're visiting.

El Corte Ingles, a department store in Madrid, Spain
El Corte Inglés
Plaza del Callao, 2, Madrid

El Corte Inglés, the retail giant of Spain, is both loved and hated, but successfully performs the main task of a department store, which is to provide a wide variety of products for most people. Here, you can find designer clothing, their own affordable and mid-range clothing lines, large perfumery and makeup sections, accessories, toys, children's and baby's clothing, art supplies, souvenirs, food and gourmet products, home furniture and decor, electronics, books, and various services all under one roof.

Spanish Fans for Sale in El Rastro flea market in Madrid, Spain
El Rastro Flea Market
Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, Madrid

El Rastro is said to be the largest flea market in Europe with some 3,500 stalls covering the winding streets of the oldest residential part of Madrid. Remember that the real finds are mostly located on one of the side streets, and always keep a close eye on your belongings, as it is a popular area for pickpockets.

Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, Madrid

Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), commonly known as Barajas Airport, is the main international airport serving Madrid. It lies a little over 10 kilometres northeast of the city. The cheapest way to get to Madrid is by metro: line 8 goes to Nuevos Ministerios. The journey takes about 30 minutes. There are also train (Line C1) and bus connections. Official taxis, identifiable by their white colour and red stripe with Madrid’s coat of arms, operate from signed ranks outside all terminals. Make sure that the taxi driver starts the meter at the beginning of the journey.

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Spain, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

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