City guide - Madrid
Essential tips
Adjust Your Meal Times
In Spain, meal times are quite different from what you might be used to. Lunch typically takes place around 2 or 3 PM and is often followed by a siesta. Dinner can start as late as 11 PM, so be prepared for a later bedtime.
Take the Tapas Road Less Traveled
Plaza Mayor is tempting with its stunning architecture, but it’s often a tourist trap. Locals avoid spending 20 euros on a simple “menu del dia” in these areas. Instead, explore off the main strips to find a good place to eat. Look for restaurants with a sign highlighting their meal of the day and avoid those that mention fish and chips or hamburgers.
Skip the Tip
Tipping is not a common practice in Spain like it is in other countries. While exceptional service might warrant a small tip, it’s generally not necessary.
Communication
Spanish is the main language spoken in Madrid. While you might get by with English in the city center, it’s helpful to know some Spanish phrases to communicate with the locals.
Local festivities and traditions in Madrid
Madrid is synonymous with celebration, boasting around 12 bank holidays each year and a variety of festivities.
Dos de Mayo - May 2nd
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This holiday commemorates the uprising against the French occupation with flamenco shows and vermouth toasts.
San Isidro - May 15th
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Madrileños celebrate their patron saint with concerts, traditional shows, and activities for all ages. Festivities include dressing up, dancing chotis in the streets, and enjoying traditional fare like limonada or rosquillas.
Nochevieja - December 31st
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On New Year’s Eve, gather at Plaza del Sol and eat 12 grapes during the countdown to midnight to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one.
Pride Week - since 1977
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Madrid hosts incredible parades, summits, and parties throughout the week in the streets across the city center. Today it’s one of the biggest pride celebrations globally!
August Fiestas
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Each neighborhood hosts its own festival in honor of its patron saint throughout August, featuring street vendors, traditional dance, and songs. Famous fiestas include San Cayetano and La Paloma.
Festival de Otoño
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This performative arts festival attracts many with a wide array of local and international artists.
Transportation in Madrid
Madrid boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including buses, metro, and trams. All tickets can be purchased directly from machines at stations. Here are your transportation card options for Zone 1:
SINGLE RIDE TICKET
≃ €2.00
- One-time trip on buses, metro, or trams in Zone A
- Transferable between metro lines
- Non transferable between modes of transportation
10 Trip Ticket
≃ €6.10
- 10 one way, single trips on buses, metro or trams in Zone A
- Transferable between metro lines
- Non transferable between modes of transportation
30 Day Unlimited Ticket
≃ €21.80
- Unlimited journeys for a month
- Valid in Zone A
1 Day Unlimited Ticket
≃ €10.00
- Unlimited rides for one day
- Best for a day of extensive travel around the city
Metro de Madrid has more fare options dependent on your individual needs. If you want more information, feel free to have a look on their website.