Madrid is Spain’s dynamic capital, where grand boulevards meet world-class museums and spirited neighbourhoods. From the historic expanse of Plaza Mayor to the leafy serenity of Retiro Park, the city reveals a rich tapestry of art, architecture and lively street scenes.
Whether you’re wandering through the vast galleries of the Prado, savouring a vermouth at an outdoor café in La Latina, or tapping your feet to live flamenco in Lavapiés, Madrid pulses with an energy that rewards every type of traveller. Here, timeless royal palaces sit alongside cutting-edge galleries, and late-night tapas crawls sit comfortably with sunrise yoga sessions in hidden garden squares.
Currency: Euro (€)
Average Temperature: 6–10°C in winter, 25–35°C in summer
Average Flight Time from UK: Approximately 2.5 hours
Time Difference: +1 hour (CET); same time during British Summer Time (BST)
Luxury:
• Elegant five-star hotels with rooftop terraces and spa facilities
• Historic palaces-turned-hotels with regal interiors and central locations
• Designer hotels in chic neighbourhoods like Salamanca
Boutique:
• Stylish mid-sized hotels in refurbished townhouses
• Art-filled boutique stays near the museums and parklands
• Trendy city-centre hotels with rooftop bars and tapas lounges
Affordable & Traveller-Friendly:
• Comfortable 3-star hotels and city guesthouses
• Modern aparthotels with kitchenettes and flexible space
• Self-catering flats and short-stay rentals near major attractions
• Royal Palace of Madrid – One of the largest palaces in Europe, full of royal treasures and ceremonial rooms
• Prado Museum – Home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish greats
• Retiro Park – A lush urban escape with gardens, lakes, and a striking glass pavilion
• Plaza Mayor – Madrid’s central square surrounded by cafés, arcades, and centuries of history
• Gran Vía – The city’s iconic avenue, known for its theatres, shopping, and vibrant atmosphere
• Templo de Debod – An ancient Egyptian temple with sunset views over the city
• Tapas: From jamón ibérico to patatas bravas and garlic prawns, Madrid’s tapas culture is lively and flavour-packed
• Cocido madrileño: A hearty chickpea stew served in stages — traditional comfort food
• Churros con chocolate: A sweet treat for breakfast or an indulgent snack
• Market dining: Visit Mercado de San Miguel for gourmet bites in a buzzing historic market
• Vermouth culture: Sip local vermouth with olives and snacks like the locals do
Winters: Cool and relatively dry, daytime highs around 12 °C
Summers: Hot and sunny, daytime highs often exceeding 30 °C
Rainfall: Light showers mostly in autumn and spring
Best Times to Visit: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Language: Spanish; English is spoken in tourist areas, but basic Spanish is helpful
• Transport: Excellent metro, bus, and train networks; easy to get around on foot or by taxi
• Tipping: Around 5–10% in restaurants if not already included
• Safety: Madrid is generally very safe, with well-patrolled public areas and reliable public transport
• Opening Hours: Many shops close mid-afternoon and reopen in the evening, especially outside central districts
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Thorne Travel
Registered Office: 153 Main Street, Kilwinning, KA13 6EQ
All holidays shown are subject to availability. Thorne Travel acts as retail agents for ATOL protected tour operators.
153 Main Street Kilwinning, Ayrshire | KA13 6EQ
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Ayrshire | KA30 8AB
66-68 Main Street Prestwick, Ayrshire | KA9 1PA
Telephone: 0300 373 0800
Email: enquiries@thornetravel.com
All content and pricing on our website is subject to availability and may change out with our control. Prices advertised are per person, based on 2 sharing unless otherwise specified. Prices are a guide and may not include relevant supplements and/or benefits. Images and descriptions are to be used as a guide as these can vary and your Holiday Expert will confirm at the time of booking. Please call and speak to our Holiday Experts for up to date, accurate pricing and advice
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