Madrid, more than a city: Capital of Culture

Madrid is not only known for its historical monuments and delicious cuisine, but also for its diverse cultural scene. From museums to theaters to bustling streets filled with music, Madrid offers a unique cultural experience that captivates residents and visitors alike. Explore with us all the cultural opportunities that Madrid has to offer, a city that breathes art, music and creativity.

Museums that Will Inspire your Soul

Madrid is home to some of the world’s most prominent art museums, where you can find masterpieces ranging from classical art to contemporary avant-garde.

• Museo del Prado, with its impressive collection of European paintings, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco, is a must-see for art lovers.
• Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, famous for being home to Picasso’s iconic Guernica, offers a fascinating look at modern and contemporary art.
• Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza Madrid it exhibits an impressive collection of masterpieces from different eras and styles, ranging from the Renaissance to the twentieth century.
• Museo Arqueológico de Madrid, some of the most important objects on display in the museum are the Dama de Elche, the Pozo Moro Monument, the Statue of Livia, the Dama de Baza, the six crowns of the incredible Treasure of Guarrazar, the Nebsumenu Stele, and the Statue of Harsomtus-Em-Hat.

In addition, Madrid has numerous art galleries more attached to emerging trends and market concerns, many names in art have been able to exhibit and, on lucky occasions, even make a living from their work.

Music: Rhythms that Move the Soul

Music is at the heart of Madrid, from passionate flamenco to refined classical music and vibrant rock and jazz concerts. Flamenco fans can immerse themselves in the authenticity of this art in tablaos such as Las Carboneras or Corral de la Morería, where dancers and singers captivate with their passion and skill. For lovers of classical music, the Teatro Real offers a programme of opera and concerts that delight the most demanding ears. In addition to the numerous concerts, held in the different venues that Madrid has such as the Wizin Center and festivals that are organized annually in Madrid for all types of audiences.

Theater: Where Magic Comes to Life

Theatre is an integral part of Madrid’s cultural scene, with a wide range of productions ranging from dramaturgy classics to innovative contemporary plays. Gran Vía, known as the “Broadway of Madrid,” is home to numerous theaters that offer musical shows, comedies, and dramas that appeal to a diverse audience. In addition, the Teatro Español, the Teatro María Guerrero and the Teatro Valle-Inclán are emblematic places where you can enjoy a wide variety of theatrical proposals that reflect the richness and diversity of the Spanish scenic panorama.

Screens that Tell Stories

Madrid is also a major destination for film lovers, with a large number of movie theaters screening national and international films. The Doré Cinema, managed by the Spanish Film Archive, is a prominent place to enjoy classic cinema and independent films in a unique and nostalgic atmosphere. In addition, film festivals such as the Festival Internacional de Cine de Madrid (FICMAD) and Documenta Madrid provide a platform for experimental and documentary cinema, as well as emerging talent in the film industry.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid

Madrid Fashion Week is an important component of the city’s culture, celebrating fashion as an art form and cultural expression, and attracting the attention of people from different backgrounds, thus contributing to Madrid’s dynamism and cultural diversity.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid is much more than just an exhibition of fashion collections; It is a showcase for creativity, innovation and artistic expression. Designers present their latest creations on the catwalks, showcasing the hottest trends and setting the tone for fashion in the seasons to come. In addition, Madrid Fashion Week not only highlights the talent of Spanish designers, but also serves as a platform to promote Spanish fashion internationally.

Ifema, an exhibition and cultural events centre

With a wide range of facilities and a strategic location, IFEMA is a meeting point for events of all kinds, from trade fairs and congresses to cultural shows and art exhibitions.

One of the most outstanding characteristics of IFEMA is its capacity to host large-scale events. Its modern facilities offer versatile and adaptable spaces that can accommodate events of different sizes and formats. This allows the celebration of international fairs, such as FITUR (International Tourism Fair), ARCO (International Contemporary Art Fair) and Madrid Games Week, which attract thousands of visitors from all over the world.

As you have seen, Madrid is much more than a city of monuments and tapas; It is a melting pot of culture that offers an enriching and stimulating experience for all the senses. Whether admiring masterpieces in museums, letting yourself be carried away by the passion of flamenco, being moved by an opera at the Teatro Real or enjoying a film in a historic cinema, Madrid invites its visitors to immerse themselves in its rich and diverse cultural scene and discover the beauty and creativity that make it unique.

Madrid, capital of spanish and international sport

In Madrid, sport is more than a physical activity, it is a way of life. While football is undoubtedly the undisputed king of sport in Madrid, the city is home to a wide range of sporting activities: from tennis to basketball, and from athletics to water sports. In this analysis, we will explore the diversity of Madrid’s sports landscape and its impact on the daily lives of the people of Madrid.

Football: Passion and Devotion

You can’t talk about sport in Madrid without mentioning football, a passion that unites the city and pits two rival giants against each other: Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid. Real Madrid, with its iconic Santiago Bernabeu stadium, has long been a symbol of greatness and success in world football. On the other hand, Atletico Madrid, with its fervent fan base, has consistently challenged Real Madrid’s dominance and has achieved success both domestically and internationally.

Basketball: The Legacy of Real Madrid and Movistar Estudiantes

Basketball is another prominent sport in Madrid, with Real Madrid Baloncesto leading the charge. With a rich history of success in the ACB League and Euroleague, Real Madrid has been a bastion of elite basketball in Spain and throughout Europe. In addition, Movistar Estudiantes, one of the oldest basketball clubs in Spain, has left an indelible mark on Madrid’s basketball scene, fostering local talent and competing at the national level.

Tennis: Mutua Madrid Open

Madrid is also an important hub for tennis, with the Mutua Madrid Open being one of the most prestigious tournaments on the ATP and WTA circuit. Every spring, the world’s best players gather at the Caja Mágica to compete in this exciting event. In addition to the Mutua Madrid Open, the city is home to numerous tennis clubs and facilities where fans can enjoy this exciting sport all year round.

Athletics: The Madrid Marathon and Beyond

And what about athletics? The Zurich Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Madrid is like a big festival of energy and determination. Watching runners cross the finish line is inspiring, don’t you think? And it doesn’t matter if you are an experienced runner or just starting out, in Madrid there is always a race that will challenge you and fill you with satisfaction.

Water Sports: Rowing in the Manzanares

Although Madrid does not have a coast, the Manzanares River gives us the opportunity to enjoy water sports. The Madrid Rowing Federation, founded in 1929, is one of the oldest rowing clubs in Spain and offers programs for rowers of all ages and abilities. In addition to rowing, canoeing and other water sports are popular with Madrid residents and visitors.

Madrid offers a wide range of sports activities to satisfy all tastes and abilities that you can check here. Whether competing in a stadium full of fans or enjoying a quiet afternoon on the river, sport is an integral part of life in Madrid and continues to play an important role in the city’s identity and social fabric.

Skating: On Ice and on Wheels

In Madrid, skating is an activity that can be enjoyed all year round, both on wheels and on ice. Whether it’s specialty rinks, outdoor parks, or indoors, the city offers a wide variety of options for skaters of all skill levels. Discover the best locations and clubs to practice this exciting sport.

• Palacio de Hielo: It is one of the largest and most popular ice rinks in Madrid, open all year round. They offer skating lessons and equipment rental.
• La Nevera: Ice rink in Majadahonda, in the northwest area of Madrid. They offer figure skating classes, ice hockey, and free skating sessions.
• Pista de Hielo Chamartín: Rink located in the Chamartín station, ideal for recreational skating. They offer activities for all ages and skate rentals.
• Skatepark Madrid Río: Located within the Madrid Río park, this skatepark is ideal for advanced skaters who enjoy ramps, rails and bowls.
• Parque del Retiro: Madrid’s most iconic park features wide paved paths perfect for roller skating. It is a very popular meeting place for skaters of all levels.
• Club Patinaje Madrid (CPM): School specialized in inline skating with courses for all ages and levels. They organize guided tours of the city and group skating sessions.
• Rolling Dance & Burger: A leisure space inspired by the 70s that combines an indoor roller skating rink with live music and a restaurant. It is ideal for having a good time in a group.
• Madrid Patina: Inline skating school with classes for all ages and levels. They organize routes, workshops, and skating competitions in Madrid.

Other sports

Madrid offers a wide range of sports activities to satisfy all tastes and abilities that you can check here. Whether competing in a stadium full of fans or enjoying a quiet afternoon on the river, sport is an integral part of life in Madrid and continues to play an important role in the city’s identity and social fabric.

Transport and Mobility in Madrid Capital: Complete Guide for Residents and Visitors

One of the strengths of the Spanish capital is its public and private transport system. Whether you are a tourist or live in Madrid, there is an extensive transport network for all types of public. All this is promoted by the Madrid City Council with the Madrid 360 Sustainability Plan, where it promotes the use of this transport to, among other things, improve air quality in Madrid. In this guide we tell you the variety of options you can find in the capital:

• Madrid Metro: Possibly the most recognized and iconic means of transportation in Madrid is the heart of the city’s public transport system. With an extensive network of lines connecting every corner of the capital, the metro offers a fast, safe and economical way to get around Madrid. In addition, it has extensive schedules that adapt to the needs of users, with frequent services between 6:00 and 1:30 in the morning. It is the most used means of transport by locals and visitors.

• Renfe cercanías: Renfe’s commuter trains offer wide coverage in terms of stations and lines, allowing fast and efficient transport. It is part of the commuter network of Renfe, the Spanish state-owned railway company. This service connects the capital, Madrid, with nearby metropolitan areas, facilitating the daily transport of thousands of passengers. In addition, it connects the capital with provinces of other communities such as Castilla la Mancha or Castilla y León, favoring tourism.

• City Buses (EMT): Managed by the Empresa Municipal de Transportes (EMT), it is one of the largest urban bus operators in Europe, with an extensive network of routes that cover practically all the city’s neighbourhoods and some neighbouring municipalities. In addition, in recent years they have focused on renewable energies by offering a fleet of hybrid and electric buses supporting the reduction of emissions in Madrid.

• Bicycles and Bike Paths: In recent years, Madrid has opted for a network of cycle paths to promote the use of bicycles in large cities. In addition, the public bike rental system, known as BiciMAD, offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the city. With stations strategically distributed throughout the capital, users can easily rent a bike and return it at any station in Madrid. n addition, the Madrid City Council supports different related initiatives such as Aparca-bici to park your bicycle comfortably.

• VTC and Taxi: Madrid also offers a variety of private transportation options, such as taxis and VTC. Taxis are easily accessible throughout the city and are an option for many users for short journeys or for those who prefer to avoid public transport. All have an app to facilitate the service.
  • Freenow: It offers the traditional taxi service in a more convenient and simple way through an app. Although they can be requested directly in the middle of the street, the telephone service throughRadio-taxi is still in force.
  • VTC: The VTC system works only through its app, the best known are Uber, Cabify and, very recently Bolt.

• Carsharing: Finally, we talk about the option that is gaining weight in the capital for its convenience, car rental by the hour. This option is very simple as you can find them in different parts of the city or even in public car parks. Just download the app and follow the instructions. It should be noted that in some companies the activation and recognition of the account can take up to 48 hours.
  • Free2Move x Share Now: It has been operating in Madrid since 2016, it has a large fleet of electric vehicles on and off the M-30.
  • WiBLE: It provides service throughout the centre of Madrid with a fleet of more than 650 vehicles. In addition, it offers the cheapest price per minute.
  • Zity: Operated by Renault and Ferrovial. It has been operating in the capital since 2016, and has managed to add more than 165,000 customers.
  • Voltio byMutua: Operated by Mutua Madrileña, it offers a very complete Carsharing service in Madrid.
• Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport is Madrid’s main airport, located about 12 km from the city centre and with four terminals. This airport is very well connected to the center through various means of transportation. Metro line 8 connects the airport to Nuevos Ministerios in approximately 15 minutes, while Renfe Commuter Line C-1 offers quick access from Terminal 4 to major stations, such as Atocha and Chamartín. Also available is the EMT Airport Express service (line 203), which connects the centre of Madrid with all terminals and operates 24 hours a day, offering a comfortable and economical option.

Madrid offers a wide range of transportation and mobility options for residents and visitors alike. With its excellent transport infrastructure and focus on innovation, Madrid remains one of the most accessible and easy to get around cities in Europe.

Madrid Capital: Discover an Abundant Leisure and Entertainment Offer

Madrid offers a wide range of leisure options for all tastes and ages. From the cultural and historical richness to the exciting nightlife and delicious gastronomy, Madrid is a destination full of unique experiences.

Gastronomy: Enjoy a Unique Culinary Experience

Madrd´s gastronomy is famous all over the world for its variety and flavour. From classic tapas bars to fine dining restaurants, Madrid offers a wide range of culinary options.

The list of restaurants in the capital is huge, and you can consult it in search engines that allow you to make all the necessary filters to find the type of food you need.

Nightlife: Explore Madrid’s Nightlife Scene

When night falls, Madrid comes alive with a lively nightlife. The party in Madrid is the order of the day, numerous bachelor and bachelorette parties are already held. From Malasaña’s most iconic bars, the best nightclubs to the exclusive clubs in the Salamanca area, the city offers endless entertainment options. With live concerts, comedy shows and cultural events, Madrid guarantees fun until the early hours of the morning.

Parks and Green Spaces: Relax in Nature

Madrid is not just a city, escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquility of Madrid’s many parks and green spaces. Here is a small list of the most emblematic:

• Parque del Retiro: Madrid’s most iconic park is an iconic landmark that offers visitors a perfect blend of nature, culture, and recreation. In addition, between May and June the Madrid Book Fair is held, a massive event that changes the perspective of the park and focuses on reading.
• Cerro del Tío Pío: For many, the best sunset in Madrid. This park, also known as Seven Tits Park for its iconic shape, is popular with local residents and visitors for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
• Casa de Campo: It is a sprawling park located in Madrid, Spain, known for its expansive green areas, lakes, attractions, and outdoor activities. It is one of the largest parks in the city and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, paddleboarding, boating, and visits to attractions such as the zoo and amusement park.
• Madrid Rio: It is a large public space located along the Manzanares River in Madrid, Spain. This urban renewal project transformed former industrial and transportation areas into a vibrant, modern linear park. Madrid Río offers a variety of recreational and cultural facilities, including green areas, walking and biking trails, sports areas, playgrounds, and spaces for cultural events and activities.
• Historic garden of El Capricho: Located in the district of Barajas, it is a scenic treasure unknown to the people of Madrid. This garden, created in the 18th century, is an outstanding example of the romantic gardens of the time. El Capricho hides one more secret: its famous bunker in the Jaca Position, a unique enclave of the Civil War in Europe due to its current state of conservation that housed the General Headquarters of the Republican Army of the Centre. It is said that it was the scene of the last duel to the death in Spain.

Events and Festivals: Celebrate Madrid’s Diversity

Madrid is the scene of numerous events and festivals hroughout the year. From Art Week to the San Isidro festivities, including LGBT Pride. And when Christmas arrives, the city is transformed into a fairy tale, with flea markets, bright lights and shows that fill every corner with magic, making even the most skeptical immerse themselves in the festive spirit. Whether it’s exploring the latest artistic trends, enjoying local tradition and culture, celebrating diversity, or letting yourself be swept away by the magic of the season, there’s always something exciting to discover and celebrate in Madrid for all tastes and ages.

Exploring Madrid with the Family: Leisure for Children

Madrid not only offers a wide range of activities for adults but also has numerous leisure options for family enjoyment.  Although Madrid has a “Children´s Agenda” where you can keep up to date with plans with children in the capital, here are some ideas to spend an unforgettable day with the little ones:

• Parque de Atracciones de Madrid: Located in Casa de Campo, this amusement park offers fun for the whole family. From thrilling roller coasters to gentler rides for the little ones, there’s entertainment for everyone. In addition, the park organizes shows and special events throughout the year.
• Museo del Ferrocarril: Located in the old station of Delicias, this museum will fascinate children who love trains and history. With an impressive collection of historic locomotives and carriages, as well as interactive activities, it’s an educational and exciting experience for the whole family.
• Parque Warner Madrid: A few kilometers from the city, in San Martín de la Vega, this theme park is an ideal destination for movie and cartoon lovers. With attractions based on Warner Bros. characters, live shows, and themed areas, it offers a day full of fun and adventure.
• Faunia: This nature theme park immerses visitors in different ecosystems, from the jungle to the North Pole. Children can discover a wide variety of animals, participate in interactive activities, and learn about nature conservation in a fun and educational way.
• Zoo Aquarium de Madrid: Located in Casa de Campo, with over 6,000 animals belonging to over 500 different species, each visit is an opportunity to discover new creatures and learn about their natural habitat and behavior.

Madrid capital is a destination that offers a unique leisure and entertainment experience. With its rich history, delicious gastronomy, and exciting nightlife, Madrid guarantees unforgettable experiences for all its visitors. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore all that this amazing city has to offer!

Tours

Tours in Madrid are not only meant for tourists, but they are also a perfect option for those who plan to stay in the city for a while, whether to study, work, or live. These tours allow you to get to know the most emblematic places, discover local curiosities and immerse yourself in the history and culture of Madrid in an enjoyable and deep way. In addition, they are a great way to quickly get acquainted with the city and discover corners that would otherwise go unnoticed.

• Sandemans New Europe: They offer free tours of the historic center of Madrid, as well as specialized tours.
• Madrid City Tour: Hop-on hop-off bus tour that takes in the highlights of the city.
• Walks of Madrid: Guided walking tours that include visits to iconic places and hidden corners of Madrid.
• Devour Tours: Specializing in gastronomic experiences, visiting traditional markets and restaurants.
• Civitatis: Wide variety of themed tours, from historical to night experiences.
• Segway Madrid: Segway tours to get to know Madrid in a fun way, ideal for those looking for something different.
• OgoTours: They offer historical and cultural tours in small groups, including themed tours.
• Madrid Bike Tours : Guided bike tours of the city, perfect for exploring in an active and eco-friendly way.

Places of interest

Madrid is a city full of history, culture and entertainment, with attractions for all tastes. From royal palaces to vibrant food markets, this guide will take you through the must-see places you can’t miss during your stay in the capital. Below you will find the main tourist attractions along with links to learn more and plan your visit:

• Royal Palace of Madrid: Official residence of the King, where state ceremonies are held.
• Retiro Park: Large historical park with gardens, a lake and the iconic Crystal Palace.
• Museum Prado: National museum that houses masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya and Bosch.
• Puerta del Sol: Iconic meeting point, home of the clock that marks the chimes of the New Year.
• Plaza Mayor: Historic square surrounded by arcades, famous for its events and architecture.
• Gran Vía: Emblematic street full of theaters, shops, and entertainment venues.
• Museo Reina Sofía: Contemporary art centre with iconic works such as Picasso’s “Guernica”.
• Temple of Debod: Egyptian temple donated to Spain, with stunning sunset views.
• Almudena Cathedral: Modern cathedral with views of the city and an impressive crypt.
• San Miguel Market: Historic gastronomic market, ideal for tasting tapas and local products.
• Santiago Bernabéu Stadium: Real Madrid’s stadium offers guided tours and a unique view of the club.
• Gallery of the Royal Collections: It exhibits important works of art and cultural heritage belonging to the Spanish Crown.

Make Madrid your home | Access and rehabilitation of housing

Madrid has been facing a shortage of affordable housing for several years, a problem that affects both low-income residents and the middle class.

Against this backdrop, Madrid City Council has stepped up to implement measures to address the housing crisis and provide support to those who need it most.

How to look for a home in Madrid?

Looking for housing in Madrid can be an exciting process but also a bit exasperating due to the high demand and the various types of housing available in the city. But don’t worry, we’re going to help you in this process:

Use real estate portals: There are several online real estate portals where you can search for properties in Madrid. These sites allow you to filter your results according to your preferences and get in touch directly with property owners or real estate agencies.

1. • Idealista: Idealista is a useful and easy-to-use tool for searching for housing in Madrid, providing a wide selection of options and advanced search tools to help you find the perfect home for you. In addition, you have the option of buying, selling and sharing a flat.
   • Fotocasa: It is a very popular application in Spain to search for a flat. Like the others, use search filters, where you can see a list of properties that match your criteria. You can explore the available options and click on the ones that interest you to get more details.
   • Badi: It is a useful and practical tool that allows you to easily find rooms for rent and roommates in Madrid, thus facilitating your search for shared accommodation in the city.
   • Homelike: Platform specialized in renting furnished apartments for professionals and expats.
   • Spotahome: Company that offers medium and long-term rentals, ideal for professionals and retirees.
   • Vive y estudia: Designed for students, this platform offers shared flats within its platform with a minimum stay of three months in high seasons and a minimum of one month during the summer months.

Consult real estate agencies: Another option is to go to local real estate agencies that can help you find housing in Madrid. These agencies usually have access to a wide range of properties and can offer you personalized advice according to your needs.

Explore different neighborhoods: Madrid is a diverse city with a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. Take the time to explore different areas and consider factors such as accessibility to public transportation, proximity to services and shops, and the general atmosphere of the neighborhood.

Rental Grants in Madrid

We tell you about the grants you can opt for if you are thinking of renting a house in Madrid or you are already renting.

1. Rental Assistance Program: The Regional Government of Madrid offers direct financial aid to tenants with difficulties in paying rent. These subsidies can cover part of the monthly rent, thus facilitating access to rental housing.
2. Youth Rental Voucher: This aid is intended for people between 18 and 35 years of age residing in the Community of Madrid who can prove a regular source of income. In addition, they must have a current rental contract for a home or room whose rent is equal to or less than 600 euros per month in the case of housing leases and 300 euros per month in the case of room rentals.

Thinking of buying a home?

If, on the other hand, you have the idea of buying a home in Madrid and you are under 35 years of age, the Community of Madrid has approved an initiative, hand in hand with different banks, to facilitate access to housing for young people. Known as My First Home, it consists of financing up to 95% of your mortgage if it is your first home.

On the other hand, the Social Housing Program (VPO). Housing intended for families with limited incomes, which is offered at below-market prices. These homes are managed by the regional or local government and are designed to ensure that those with fewer resources can access decent housing.

Rehabilitation of buildings in Madrid

In addition, the Madrid City Council is committed to the remodelling of all areas of Madrid to guarantee the energy effectiveness of all homes in Madrid and the adaptation of buildings for people with disabilities or rare diseases.

1. Plan Adapta: This aid consists of promoting the adaptation of homes where people with disabilities and rare diseases reside, to improve their quality of life by eliminating architectural barriers and improving their autonomy by facilitating indoor mobility or increasing safety in the domestic environment, as well as promoting accessibility in residential buildings and premises located on the ground floor of residential buildings with the aim of eliminating architectural and sensory barriers. The maximum amounts of this aid can be consulted here.

1. Plan Rehabilita Madrid: The purpose of this subsidy is to encourage and promote the carrying out of accessibility, conservation, energy efficiency and health actions in buildings completed before 1998 and that their use is specific to housing.

1. Plan Transforma tu Barrio: This programme is specific to the rehabilitation of residential buildings in the Madrid neighbourhoods of Orcasitas, Meseta de Orcasitas and Barrio de San Pascual.

The housing situation in Madrid presents significant challenges, there are various aids and subsidies available for those who need support to access adequate housing. These measures are part of a broader effort to address the housing crisis and ensure that all Madrid residents can enjoy a safe and affordable home.