Madrid

Welcome to Madrid

Madrid is the capital of Spain and is also known as Villa y Corte. It is the biggest city in the country and the third largest in the European Union with over 3 million inhabitants (more than 6 million in its metropolitan area).

It is located in the centre of the Iberian Peninsula, and is surrounded by mountains and natural parks. Although it is located in the centre of the country, it has traditionally been the hub between different areas of Spain and is therefore connected to all major Spanish cities by train, road or air.

Madrid has a lot of interesting attractions that offer both culture and amusement. The city is full of great monuments, like the royal palace, the Plaza Mayor or the many statuettes, and for people interested in art, the museums Del Prado, Reina Sofia or Thyssen have some of the most fantastic collections of famous Spanish painters like Velazquez, Goya, Picasso or Miro.

The weather in Madrid varies a lot depending on the season, from hot and dry in the summer, with temperature of approx. 29C to cold -4C and with some rain in the winter.

Madrid’s gastronomy is very varied and could be described as a mix of Spanish cuisine from various regions. The dishes are normally tasty, filling and are usually ordered to share.

What to visit in Madrid?

• Puerta del Sol. The Puerta del Sol is Madrid’s most renowned square. It houses numerous landmarks like “El Oso y el Madroño”, KM 0 and the most famous clock in the city.
• Retiro Park. El Retiro Park is Madrid’s most renowned park, with a large lake, musicians, puppet shows, fortune tellers and spaces with exhibitions.
• Royal Palace of Madrid. The Royal Palace is the Royal Family’s official residence. It is also referred to in Spanish as “Palacio de Oriente” and was founded in the 1800s.
• Almudena Cathedral. The cathedral of Madrid, Almudena Cathedral, was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993 when it was completed. Information on its opening hours and more.

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