Madrid is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are March–June and September–November, when the weather is pleasant, and the city’s lively terraces are in full swing. Summers (July–August) can be hot (38°C+ / 100°F+), but many locals escape and there is air-conditioning everywhere, leaving the city quieter. Winters are mild, with festive Christmas lights and markets adding charm.

While the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Prado Museum are must-sees, don’t miss:

• Cerralbo Museum – A beautifully preserved aristocratic mansion, offering a glimpse into Madrid’s 19th-century high society.
• Sorolla Museum – The former home of Spain’s great impressionist painter, Joaquín Sorolla, filled with his stunning light-filled works.
• San Miguel Market (but go beyond the crowds!) – and explore nearby district of La Latina, with excellent taverns and wine bars.
• Templo de Debod – A real Egyptian temple, gifted to Spain and offering one of Madrid’s best sunset views.

Madrid is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from hearty Castilian dishes to tapas of every kind, and modern gourmet cuisine. Here are the must-try specialties:

• Cocido Madrileño
  A hearty chickpea-based stew, slow-cooked with meat, chorizo, and vegetables, served in separate courses. A true winter comfort food! Try it at La Bola, Malacatin or Lahrdy (for a more exclusive experience)
• Bocadillo de Calamares
  A crispy calamari sandwich, a simple yet iconic Madrid street food, usually enjoyed with a beer in Plaza Mayor. Try it at El Brillante.
• Huevos Rotos
  Literally “broken eggs,” this dish features runny fried eggs over crispy potatoes, often with Iberian ham. A local favorite! Casa Lucio is famous for this dish and once you try them there, you will understand why!
• Churros con Chocolate
  The perfect sweet treat: deep-fried churros dipped in thick, velvety hot chocolate. Chocolatería San Ginés (open since 1894, this is the most famous spot for churros in Madrid!). 
• Tapas. Unlike the Basque Country’s pintxos, Madrid’s tapas are often larger portions meant for sharing. Look for: Patatas Bravas (fried potatoes with spicy brava sauce), Gambas al Ajillo – Sizzling garlic shrimp and Callos a la Madrileña – Traditional tripe stew, a Madrid specialty. There are many districts for tapas in Madrid: La Latina is the most famous one, but locals go in herds to Retiro (Calle Menorca area) and Calle Ponzano.
• Drinks. Madrid has a strong vermouth culture, served on tap in old-school tabernas. Enjoy it pre-lunch with some olives or anchovies. in summer locals love Tinto de verano,  refreshing red wine and lemon soda mix, a lighter alternative to Sangria, and a favorite among locals. But La caña is “queen” in most bars. Beer is not just a drink—it’s a ritual. Locals rarely order large beers; instead, they prefer “cañas”, small draft beers (about 200ml) that stay cold and refreshing until the last sip. A caña is always served with a small free tapa in many traditional bars, making it the perfect social drink.

Madrid is a fantastic city for families, with lots to explore:

• Retiro Park – Rent a rowboat on the lake or visit the Crystal Palace.
• Zoo, Parque de Atraciones or Faunia – All 3 are top children´s attractions. Faunia, the least known of the 3, is a unique interactive zoo with different climate zones.
• El Rastro Market – Madrid’s lively Sunday flea market has fun street performers for kids.
• Bernabeu. Real Madrid´s stadium is a temple for soccer lovers and offers a very intersting visit that children love.

Madrid’s historic areas have cobblestone streets, but taxis, buses, and the modern metro system make getting around easy.

The Royal Palace and major museums have wheelchair accessibility.

Consider one of our private guided tours with transport for a more comfortable experience.

Madrid is very safe, but as in any major city:

Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol and Gran Vía.Use public transport—taxis and the metro are reliable and efficient.Dine like a local—Spaniards eat late! Lunch starts around 2 PM, and dinner is rarely before 9 PM.