Located in the very heart of Spain, Madrid is full of experiences that can only be lived in its region. The destination is an inviting, diverse place filled with all kinds of people from all parts of the world – a thriving metropolis in every way. Madrid´s fast pace and energetic lifestyle make it the most vibrant destination in Europe, blessed with the best of modernity and old-world tradition. One moment you can enjoy the bustling arts scene and flamenco performances of the city center, before journeying through picturesque and fairytale-like towns the next, just 30 minutes away.

Discover the true extent of what Madrid has to offer
 
Madrid is a captivating travel destination that seamlessly blends the essence of a modern metropolis with the allure of rural getaways. This all-action location strikes a harmonious balance between ancient and contemporary, art and everyday life, creating a tapestry where historic landmarks stand proudly alongside contemporary neighborhoods.
 
While Madrid’s urban core offers a wealth of experiences – from world-class art museums and iconic landmarks like the Gran Vía and the Royal Palace to a thriving culinary scene and vibrant nightlife – its charm extends far beyond. Just a short drive away, visitors can escape the bustle and immerse themselves in the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
 
The nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites of Alcalá de Henares, Aranjuez and San Lorenzo de El Escorial beckon with their regal splendor and architectural marvels, while picturesque towns like Buitrago del Lozoya and Manzanares el Real offer a glimpse into rural Spain’s timeless charm. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore breathtaking hiking trails and cycling routes in the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, a natural paradise just a stone’s throw from the city center.
 
This is what makes Madrid unique. Sip the finest local wines in the vineyards of the rolling hills, explore the medieval towns and be up close with nature one moment, and then be back in the heart of the city and ready for an evening of memorable dining the next. Immerse yourself in the Madrileño character by venturing down streets which are full of life and welcoming to everyone who sets foot on them.
 
The tourism fundamentals
 
Madrid ticks all the boxes for travelers seeking an exceptional destination. With its authentic culture, friendly locals and a safe environment, the region offers a welcoming atmosphere that puts visitors at ease. Complemented by a favorable climate and top-notch infrastructure, Madrid provides an ideal setting for seamless travel experiences.
 
Moreover, the destination stands out by offering unparalleled value for money, with luxury travel experiences that are more accessible compared to other European destinations, making it an attractive choice for discerning travelers.
 

 
 
Madrid tourism by numbers

3rd best city destination for 2023, according to Euromonitor

14 million visitors

54%-proportion of visitors coming from abroad
 
€21.4 billion – income generated by tourism
 
2nd safest European capital

172 destinations connected with direct flights
 
2nd best city in the world for amount of green spaces
 
The Beating Heart 
 
Madrid’s bustling metropolis has a huge amount to offer, with three iconic landmarks lying at its urban core – Gran Vía, Plaza de España and Plaza de Cibeles. 
 
Often referred to as Madrid’s Broadway, Gran Vía is a vibrant neighborhood characterized by impressive buildings, lively shops and bustling theatres that showcase the city’s cosmopolitan charm and architectural beauty. The square of Plaza de España, with its striking sculptures, can be found adjacent to this while Plaza de Cibeles, with its grand fountain, remains a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. 
 
Meanwhile, iconic neoclassical landmarks include Banco de España and Palacio de Cibeles. Banco de España is a monumental building housing Spain’s central bank, featuring a grand facade and impressive interior courtyard. The iconic Palacio de Cibeles, now Madrid’s City Hall, is another architectural marvel blending baroque and French Renaissance styles and is known for its intricate exterior carvings and elegant dome. 
 
Encircling these historic architectural wonders lies one of Europe’s premier shopping destinations, with Madrid renowned as the fashion capital of Spain – from century old shops to large shopping centers like El Corte Ingles, Las Rozas Village and Galería Canalejas, Madrid has it all. 
 

 

A Bustling Creative Scene 
 
For those seeking more ways to immerse themselves in the local culture, Madrid’s arts scene is an obvious choice. 
 
The city’s Golden Triangle of Art, comprised of the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums, attracts art enthusiasts from around the world and is the largest concentration of art in the world.  
 
Beyond these famed institutions, visitors can find a total of 250 galleries scattered across the city. Some that are particularly worth visiting include the Royal Collections Gallery and the Palacio de Liria, which highlight the rich artistic heritage associated with Spain’s monarchy. 
 
There’s also an array of different live performances to enjoy. The city is home to more than 200 theatres that showcase everything from classic plays to modern productions. The Teatro Real, inaugurated in 1850 and reopened in 1997 after extensive renovation, is Madrid’s foremost opera venue, featuring a 1,700-seat auditorium and an eclectic program of classical and contemporary productions. 
 
For a truly immersive cultural experience, it’s also worth heading down to one of Madrid’s iconic tablaos to witness the passion and artistry of flamenco dance. Madrid is the capital of flamenco – originating in the heart of the city, these intimate music venues have nurtured generations of flamenco dancers, contributing to the art form’s global recognition as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. 
 
Here, visitors can enjoy the rhythmic beats and impassioned footwork while enjoying a culinary feast of authentic tapas and local wines, as well as a Michelin Star experience at Corral de la Morería. 
 
Exploring the Wider Madrid Region 
 
Just a short drive from the vibrant metropolis of Madrid, visitors can escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the region’s rich rural heritage and natural splendor. 
 
One such gem is Buitrago del Lozoya, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Sierra Norte mountains. Known for its well-preserved 15th-century walls and castle, it sits on a peninsula formed by the Lozoya River. The town also houses the Picasso Museum, featuring works donated by the artist’s barber.  
 
For those seeking an even deeper connection with nature, Manzanares el Real should be on the list of places to visit. This idyllic town is surrounded by rugged landscapes, hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the region’s pristine beauty. It is dominated by its impressive 15th-century castle, one of the best-preserved fortresses in the Madrid region, featuring distinctive Gothic-Renaissance architecture and offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and La Pedriza natural park.
 
The rural outskirts of Madrid hold countless other treasures. Patones, a quaint village nestled in the mountains, boasts a unique black slate architectural style with centuries old houses and narrow streets built entirely from this local stone. Rascafría, meanwhile, is another mountain town which offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the region’s stunning natural scenery and outdoor recreational activities. Situated in the Lozoya Valley, it is home to the serene Finlandia pine forest and the majestic 15th-century Monastery of Santa María de El Paular.  
 
The charming town of Chinchón is also well worth a visit. With its distinctive Plaza Mayor and well-preserved medieval architecture, this gem of a place provides a real glimpse into the Madrid region’s storied past. Here, visitors can wander through the narrow streets, soak up the local atmosphere and indulge in the area’s culinary delights. The Torre del Reloj clock tower is all that remains of the 14th-century Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church, while to the south of the settlement, you will find the remains of the 15th-century Castillo de los Condes.  
 
 

 
Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds in Madrid 
 
You can truly have it all in Madrid – and sometimes even on the same day.  
Madrid’s idyllic location offers the vibrance of an urban, cosmopolitan destination with a serene rural escape just 30 minutes outside of the city. That means you can tour a picturesque medieval town like Chinchón, drive to a UNESCO world heritage site, or explore the natural scenery of villages like Rascafría, or one of many vineyards, and be back in city centre for a shopping spree by the afternoon.  
While traversing from the city to the countryside, a trip isn’t complete without thrilling the senses. From reveling in locally sourced ingredients at Michelin-star restaurant Montía, to restaurants that intrigue with the avant garde like Aranjuez´s Casa José, to traditional madrileño food like La Casa del Pregonero in Chinchón, there’s exciting cuisine around every corner, and for every palate. 

 

 
 
Calle Gran Vía 
 
The Calle Gran Vía is the grand boulevard that cuts through the heart of Madrid. Dating back to the early 20th century, this iconic street has been the center of shopping and fashion in the Spanish capital for over a century. Lined with architecturally impressive buildings housing major retail stores, boutiques, restaurants and theatres, Gran Vía pulses with energy day and night.  
The street is essentially one long pedestrian mall, allowing shoppers to stroll from store to store unhurried. All the top Spanish fashion brands such as Mango and Desigual have flagship locations along Gran Vía, and you’ll also find major international labels like H&M, Bershka, Nike and Adidas, as well as Zara’s flagship store in Plaza de España. 
With its neon lights, crowds and constant hustle and bustle, strolling down the Gran Vía is like walking through the crossroads of Madrid’s shopping, dining and nightlife scenes.  
 
 

 
 
Unique Accommodations to Suit Luxury Tastes 
 
After a day of exploring Madrid’s iconic landmarks and delving into the city’s vibrant shopping districts, visitors can make their retreat to a range of accommodations tailored to their preferences.   
If you’re searching for the unique, then this is the place to be. Only in Madrid can you stay in a hotel that is home to a Velazquez painting or hosts the flagship restaurant of the world´s best chef.      
As a region, Madrid offers a wide range of luxury and high-end accommodation options to suit every taste, including upscale boutique hotels and relaxing retreats in the countryside, as well as many of the large international hotel brands.  
Indeed, travelers can choose from a range of luxury and unique stays in central locations. And for visitors searching for a more tranquil experience, why not explore what rural Madrid has to offer just a short drive away from the city center?    
Whatever the occasion, you can count on staying in style in Madrid.  
Stay inside for refined luxury. Step outside for a cultural odyssey like no other.  
Elegance, grace and artistry in every detail. To experience this level of Spanish sophistication is quite simple – stay in one of Madrid’s five-star hotels. 
 
A Vibrant Culinary Scene  
 
Madrid’s gastronomic landscape is like no other. Masterfully melding venerable traditions with cutting-edge modern cuisine, the region offers many an opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable eating experience.  
The storied tabernas and tascas (taverns) showcase the time-honored flavors of Spanish cooking such as jamon ibérico, cocido madrileño stew and crisp vermouths from the historic vineyards of Madrid. Cava Baja, Madrid’s tapas-strewn thoroughfare, is home to classic old-world casas and century-old restaurants where recipes have been lovingly preserved for generations. You will also find the world’s oldest operating restaurant, Botín, in Madrid. 
At the same time, avant-garde chefs are reinventing traditional fare at Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy. Madrid is home to some of the most inventive restaurants in the world. DiverXO and Ramón Freixa are among the most revered, offering daring tasting menus that celebrate Spain’s regional ingredients and culinary heritage through an innovative modern lens. 
Browsing the city’s gourmet food markets, including the likes of Mercado de San Miguel and Mercado San Antón, is a kaleidoscope for the senses that offers fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, hanging jamon legs and stalls serving up tapas delicacies.  
From the homey comforts of old-world recipes to experimental haute cuisine that pushes boundaries, Madrid’s menus provide something for everyone. The region strikes a phenomenal balance, allowing food lovers to delight in historic hospitality one moment and revel in creative reinvention the next. Whether you’re seeking a social sharing feast at one of countless tapas bars or a creative new tasting experience, our culinary riches provide a myriad of gastronomic delights to explore across its narrow streets and numerous plazas. 
What’s more, Madrid’s foodie scene extends far beyond its restaurants alone. Bakeries, like the iconic Mallorca, will tempt those who pass by with their crisp napolitanas and sugar-dusted ensaimadas.  

 
One Madrid, 36 Michelin Stars 
 
There is no more reliable barometer for quality than the Michelin Guide, and Madrid features strongly once again in 2024’s edition. 
The region now boasts 28 restaurants which hold 36 Michelin stars between them, including the three-star DiverXO headed up by the supremely talented Dabiz Muñoz, who is recognized as the best chef in the world three years in a row. Six restaurants, meanwhile, each hold an impressive two stars – Deessa, Smoked Room, Paco Roncero, Ramón Freixa Madrid, DSTAgE and Coque.  
The latter, alongside El Invernadero, also retained their Green Star, which is awarded by the Michelin Guide to restaurants operating at the forefront of sustainable gastronomy.  
And it is not just in the center of Madrid where Michelin experiences can be enjoyed. In Valdemoro you will find Restaurante Chirón, which is run by chef Iván Muñoz and his sommelier brother, Raúl. Meanwhile, in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Montia offers a style of cuisine inspired by the surrounding wilderness.  
The Michelin Guide also recognized 20 more Madrid restaurants with a Bib Gourmand, commending their offering of great food at moderate prices. In addition, another 114 establishments have been listed and acknowledged for their quality.   
 
 

 
900 Years of Winemaking Heritage  
 
No gastronomic hub is complete without a local wine pairing. Indeed, Madrid’s wines, in addition to its other categories of food and beverages, have their own designation of origin.  
Madrid’s winemaking heritage stretches back over nine centuries – a rich tradition that has been woven into the fabric of the city and its surrounding landscapes.  

Just beyond the bustling metropolis, the vineyards of Madrid’s wine region unfurl across more than 9,000 hectares of rolling hills and valleys. At the heart of this legacy lies San Martín de Valdeiglesias, a picturesque enclave where the art of winemaking has been perfected by generations of devoted monks. Here, among the pristine vineyards, the sacred orders of old have quenched the thirst and caressed the palates of countless visitors. 
The region’s flagship wine varieties – the exquisite Malvar, the elegant Albillo, and the bold Garnacha – have become synonymous with Madrid’s winemaking prowess, each embodying the unique character and nuances that have made this region a must-visit for wine connoisseurs.  
And with 51 wineries dotting the landscape — each one a testament to the enduring passion and skill of Madrid’s winemakers — the city’s viticultural heritage continues to thrive. 

An Illustrious Sporting Heritage 
 
Madrid, perhaps more than any other region in the world, is synonymous with sports.  
As the home of four top-league clubs in Spain’s La Liga, the city is the world’s soccer capital in the eyes of many. It’s home not only to Atlético de Madrid’s 68,000-capacity Civitas Metropolitano stadium, but also to Real Madrid’s newly remodeled Santiago Bernabéu stadium – a global symbol of the world’s most watched sport. 
Located in the very heart of Madrid, the newly renovated Santiago Bernabéu provides fans with an immersive journey into Real Madrid’s storied history, including a glimpse of its illustrious and unparalleled trophy cabinets. Just a matter of weeks ago, Real Madrid added another Champions League title to their collection – the most prestigious accolade in European club soccer – bringing the club’s total successes in the competition to an unprecedented 15 wins. 
Beyond soccer, Madrid is also a major hub for tennis. The Madrid Mutua Open, an ATP Masters 1000 tournament, has seen legendary players like Djokovic, Nadal and Federer compete on its courts. Since the tournament’s inception in 2002, Spaniards have won the title eight times, with Rafael Nadal having lifted the trophy five times, and Carlos Alcaraz claiming victory in both 2022 and 2023.  
Looking ahead, Madrid also eagerly awaits the 2026 Formula One season, with the racing circuit making a return to our region.   
 
 

 
 
Embracing the Great Outdoors 
 
It’s not just about watching sports in Madrid, as visitors and residents alike can engage in a variety of sporting activities themselves. 
For golf fans, Madrid is the European region with the most golf courses close to its urban center, with 25 of them designed by prominent legends such as Severiano Ballesteros. With such a golfing pedigree, Madrid was named as European Golf Destination of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators for 2024. 
It is easy to see why. At the Real Club de Golf La Herrería in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, for example, golfers can enjoy a challenging 18-hole course while marveling at the breathtaking backdrop of the imposing 16th-century El Escorial Monastery, creating a unique blend of sport and historical splendor.
And there’s so much more that the region also has to offer for those seeking to enjoy the great outdoors.  Active tourism is a cornerstone of life for many madrileños (Madrid natives), and visitors can also join in on the excitement.
Madrid boasts nine protected natural spaces that are perfect for trekking, including the stunning Sierra de Guadarrama National Park and UNESCO-listed beech tree forests of Hayedo de Montejo. With mountain areas, greenways, lush pine and oak forests, alpine peaks, reservoirs and a network of trails winding through its rural corners, Madrid provides a gorgeous backdrop for a range of outdoor activities, catering to all levels of adventurers. 
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Madrid’s surrounding landscapes offer rock climbing, canyoning and caving, as well as bungee jumping, paragliding and hot-air ballooning. Whether you’re looking to enjoy nature or awaken your adventurous spirit, there’s something for everyone. 
Madrid also offers plenty of green spaces in the city center. Here you will find the historic monument of Puerta de Alcalá, built in the late 18th century by King Charles III, which is surrounded by pedestrian-friendly green areas that provide the ideal settings for leisurely strolls. 
It’s definitely worth visiting El Retiro Park – one of Madrid’s largest and most cherished green spaces. Spanning 125 hectares, its lush gardens, ponds and majestic fountains provide an oasis of calm amidst the urban hustle. 

Explore Antiquity Throughout Madrid 
 
In Madrid, visitors can enjoy the great outdoors by traveling back in time. Departing from the ultra-modern of the city center, travelers can journey deep into the 15th century within just 30 minutes.  
There are three extraordinary towns of historic and cultural interest which frame the metropolitan heart in the shape of a triangle. All are recognized by UNESCO, and all are easily accessible.  

Alcalá de Henares: A historic city northeast of Madrid, Alcalá de Henares boasts a rich cultural heritage as the birthplace of revered writer Miguel de Cervantes. Its charming old town, featuring the iconic Cervantes Birthplace Museum and the magnificent Universidad de Alcalá, offers visitors a glimpse into Spain’s literary and architectural treasures.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial: The northwestern corner of the triangle, San Lorenzo de El Escorial is a monumental complex that includes a royal palace, monastery, church and library. This 16th-century masterpiece exemplifies Spanish Renaissance architecture and houses invaluable artworks, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture aficionados. 

Aranjuez: South of Madrid and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001, Aranjuez is known for its stunning Royal Palace, a 16th-century marvel nestled in lush gardens. This grand estate, featuring exquisite architecture and lavish interiors, served as a spring retreat for Spanish royalty and offers visitors a glimpse into the opulence of the monarchy’s golden age

 

 
 
Fall head over wheels on Madrid’s Grand Tour 
 
Pedal your way through the enchanting landscapes of Spain with Madrid’s Grand Tour, a spectacular 420-kilometer cycling route divided into 17 stages. The route is a dream come true for cycling enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of experiences from the vibrant urban spaces of Madrid to the surrounding pine forests, majestic alpine peaks and picturesque vineyards and olive groves. 
Madrid’s Grand Tour is well suited to accommodate cyclists of various skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned road cyclist, a mountain biking enthusiast or a casual rider, the tour can be adapted to match your preferences and abilities. With each stage varying in difficulty, everyone can enjoy the journey at their own pace.