Aerial view of Madrid’s Gran Vía and the domed Metropolis Building at golden hour

Spain · The Capital

Madrid

Royal palaces, three of the world’s great art museums and a food scene that runs late into the night. Experience Madrid with private guides and the best tables in town, planned by our Spain specialists.

  • 3 world-class art museums
  • 1725 Botín, the oldest restaurant
  • 33 min by train to Toledo

Hassle-Free Dream Travel!

Google ★★★★★ 5.0 · 601 reviews
Stewart Logan
★★★★★
Mikaila from The Travel Byrds put together a fantastic trip for us to Vancouver. Everything was arranged to fit our preferences including experiences I would never have known how to navigate myself. What a great way to travel, no stress, all fun — because a professional does the hard part for you.
Karen Terry
★★★★★
Amazing family vacation to Italy * can't wait to go back!
Brandie Penrose
★★★★★
We used CeCe as our travel advisor for our European trip, and she was amazing! She was able to work with a very tight deadline, listened to all of the things we asked for, and executed the trip perfectly. It was exactly what we were looking for. Highly recommend her services for anyone looking to plan a trip!
Loida Martinez
★★★★★
I cannot speak highly enough about my experience with Christina Gaspari and The Travel Byrds! She made sure to ask plenty of questions at the beginning, kept in touch while planning to make sure the things she was going to book for us were what we wanted, and made sure we had all info we might need and more before our trip. The trip itself was incredible thanks to her! Not having to worry about anything and having a full itinerary ready full of amazing experiences and even relax time accounted for was wonderful! She really put in so much work for our trip which was to multiple countries! Thanks Christina! <3
Steven Alsip
★★★★★
We have traveled with Travel Byrds 5 times and we love their service, last trip to Costa Rica was amazing. Our every concern was addressed/ all needs were met. Our agent's advice and expertise are much appreciated and we will not travel again without them!
Stephanie Fitzgerald
★★★★★
Paige planned my week-long trip to Greece. From my very first call with her to discuss my vacation “must-haves”, I was impressed with both her knowledge and her enthusiasm. She listened to my wants, made suggestions based on our discussion and then perfectly planned my trip… from the islands we visited to the hotels to the excursions. As my trip got closer, she brought in another team member to do any final bookings and modifications. It was so reassuring to know that she and her team had everything covered. I worried about NOTHING. I cannot recommend her enough.
Alexa johnson
★★★★★
If I could give Sylvie more than 5 stars, I would! Planning our honeymoon to Paros, Greece and Rome and Florence, Italy felt a little overwhelming at first, but Sylvie made the entire process so easy and stress-free. She truly thought of every single detail, and I honestly couldn’t have dreamed up a better trip or a more perfect way to start our marriage. Every hotel, transfer, flight, and excursion was seamless. On top of that, the travel app she created for us was incredible. It had every piece of information we could possibly need all in one place, so even traveling somewhere completely new felt easy and organized. We never had to wonder what was next or worry about missing anything because she had already thought of it. Not only is Sylvie incredibly organized and knowledgeable, but she genuinely cares about creating an unforgettable experience for her clients. Our honeymoon exceeded every expectation, and we made memories we’ll cherish for the rest of our lives. I cannot recommend Sylvie enough. If you’re thinking about booking a trip, do yourself a favor and let her handle it. It was hands down one of the best decisions we made, and we’re already looking forward to planning our next adventure with her!
Todd Brydges
★★★★★
Our trip to the Rockies and National Parks was the second adventure Sylvie planned for us, and once again she knocked it out of the PARK! 🙂 Her recommendations and family excursions were spot-on and perfectly matched our interests and family dynamic. She handled all the details, taking the stress and anxiety out of the planning process. We highly recommend reaching out to Sylvie for your next trip—she’ll make sure you have an amazing experience.
Stewart Logan
★★★★★
Mikaila from The Travel Byrds put together a fantastic trip for us to Vancouver. Everything was arranged to fit our preferences including experiences I would never have known how to navigate myself. What a great way to travel, no stress, all fun — because a professional does the hard part for you.
Karen Terry
★★★★★
Amazing family vacation to Italy * can't wait to go back!
Brandie Penrose
★★★★★
We used CeCe as our travel advisor for our European trip, and she was amazing! She was able to work with a very tight deadline, listened to all of the things we asked for, and executed the trip perfectly. It was exactly what we were looking for. Highly recommend her services for anyone looking to plan a trip!
Loida Martinez
★★★★★
I cannot speak highly enough about my experience with Christina Gaspari and The Travel Byrds! She made sure to ask plenty of questions at the beginning, kept in touch while planning to make sure the things she was going to book for us were what we wanted, and made sure we had all info we might need and more before our trip. The trip itself was incredible thanks to her! Not having to worry about anything and having a full itinerary ready full of amazing experiences and even relax time accounted for was wonderful! She really put in so much work for our trip which was to multiple countries! Thanks Christina! <3
Steven Alsip
★★★★★
We have traveled with Travel Byrds 5 times and we love their service, last trip to Costa Rica was amazing. Our every concern was addressed/ all needs were met. Our agent's advice and expertise are much appreciated and we will not travel again without them!
Stephanie Fitzgerald
★★★★★
Paige planned my week-long trip to Greece. From my very first call with her to discuss my vacation “must-haves”, I was impressed with both her knowledge and her enthusiasm. She listened to my wants, made suggestions based on our discussion and then perfectly planned my trip… from the islands we visited to the hotels to the excursions. As my trip got closer, she brought in another team member to do any final bookings and modifications. It was so reassuring to know that she and her team had everything covered. I worried about NOTHING. I cannot recommend her enough.
Alexa johnson
★★★★★
If I could give Sylvie more than 5 stars, I would! Planning our honeymoon to Paros, Greece and Rome and Florence, Italy felt a little overwhelming at first, but Sylvie made the entire process so easy and stress-free. She truly thought of every single detail, and I honestly couldn’t have dreamed up a better trip or a more perfect way to start our marriage. Every hotel, transfer, flight, and excursion was seamless. On top of that, the travel app she created for us was incredible. It had every piece of information we could possibly need all in one place, so even traveling somewhere completely new felt easy and organized. We never had to wonder what was next or worry about missing anything because she had already thought of it. Not only is Sylvie incredibly organized and knowledgeable, but she genuinely cares about creating an unforgettable experience for her clients. Our honeymoon exceeded every expectation, and we made memories we’ll cherish for the rest of our lives. I cannot recommend Sylvie enough. If you’re thinking about booking a trip, do yourself a favor and let her handle it. It was hands down one of the best decisions we made, and we’re already looking forward to planning our next adventure with her!
Todd Brydges
★★★★★
Our trip to the Rockies and National Parks was the second adventure Sylvie planned for us, and once again she knocked it out of the PARK! 🙂 Her recommendations and family excursions were spot-on and perfectly matched our interests and family dynamic. She handled all the details, taking the stress and anxiety out of the planning process. We highly recommend reaching out to Sylvie for your next trip—she’ll make sure you have an amazing experience.

Meet the city

The Madrid Highlights

Spain’s capital is grand by day and lively by night. Tap through to explore its royal and artistic heart.

The Royal Palace of Madrid behind its ornate iron gates

One of Europe’s largest palaces

The Royal Palace is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, though today it’s used for state ceremonies. Its more than 3,000 rooms include the gilded Throne Room and a royal armory.

Next door, the Almudena Cathedral and the Sabatini Gardens complete a perfect morning, especially with a private guide.

  • Private guided palace tour
  • The Royal Armory and Throne Room
  • Sunset at the nearby Temple of Debod
The Cibeles Palace and fountain at the start of Madrid’s Paseo del Prado

The Golden Triangle of Art

Three great museums sit within walking distance along the Paseo del Prado: the Prado, with Velázquez, Goya and El Greco; the Reina Sofía, home to Picasso’s Guernica; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which spans the centuries.

An expert art guide helps you see the masterpieces without the overwhelm, at your own pace.

  • Velázquez’s Las Meninas at the Prado
  • Picasso’s Guernica at the Reina Sofía
  • Private, skip-the-line tours
Madrid’s Gran Vía lit up at dusk beneath a dramatic sky

Madrid’s grand boulevard

Built in the early 20th century, Gran Vía is lined with theaters, shops and elegant buildings like the Metropolis, with its famous winged statue on the dome.

Rooftop bars along the boulevard offer some of the best sunset views in the city.

  • Rooftop drinks at sunset
  • Theater and musicals
  • Shopping in the Salamanca district nearby
Madrid’s rooftops and skyline with a Spanish flag flying in the foreground

Plazas, markets and tapas

The heart of old Madrid revolves around the arcaded Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol. Just beyond, the Mercado de San Miguel and the lanes of La Latina are perfect for a tapas crawl.

Finish with chocolate and churros at a classic chocolatería, or dinner at Botín, recognized as the world’s oldest restaurant.

  • Tapas in La Latina
  • Plaza Mayor and Mercado de San Miguel
  • Churros and hot chocolate
Almudena Cathedral in Madrid glowing in the late-afternoon sun

The cathedral beside the palace

Facing the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral took more than a century to complete and was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. Its bright, modern interior surprises many visitors.

Climb to the dome for one of the best views over the palace and the Casa de Campo beyond.

  • Views from the dome
  • Combine with the Royal Palace
  • Quiet early-morning visits

In the city and beyond

Things to Do and Day Trips

Madrid sits at the center of Spain’s high-speed rail network, so historic cities are a short ride away. Filter by what you love.

Toledo’s Alcázar crowning the hilltop old town under a blue sky33 min by train

Toledo

The “City of Three Cultures,” where Christian, Jewish and Muslim heritage meet in a hilltop maze of lanes above the Tagus River.

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The high-speed train takes about 33 minutes. Visit the cathedral, the El Greco museum and a damascene workshop, and save room for marzipan.

Salamanca’s cathedral and old town above a stone bridge over the river1.5 hrs by train

Salamanca

Spain’s oldest university city, built of golden sandstone, with one of the country’s most beautiful plazas.

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About an hour and a half by train. Look for the little astronaut carved into the cathedral doorway during a 1990s restoration.

The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia reflected in still waterUnder 2 hrs by train

Valencia

Paella’s hometown, with the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and long Mediterranean beaches.

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The high-speed train takes under two hours, making Valencia an easy overnight or a stop on the way to the coast.

Flamenco dancers in traditional dresses performing in a Spanish plazaEvenings

Flamenco in a tablao

Madrid has some of Spain’s best flamenco venues. We reserve front-row seats at an intimate show, often with dinner.

Golden Spanish empanadillas served on a patterned plateAfternoons

A private tapas tour

Hop between classic bars in La Latina and Huertas with a local guide, from jamón and croquetas to vermouth on tap.

Madrid’s Gran Vía lit up at dusk beneath a dramatic skySunset

Rooftops on Gran Vía

Madrid’s rooftop terraces are the place to be at sunset, with views over the domes and the boulevard.

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Pair a rooftop drink with a show in one of Gran Vía’s theaters, then a late dinner nearby.

Know before you go

How to Do Madrid Well

Madrid runs on its own clock. These tips help you enjoy it like a local.

Timing

Late nights are normal

Lunch is from 2 pm and dinner rarely before 9 pm. Siesta-time quiet and late nights out are part of the rhythm.

Museums

Go early or with a guide

The Prado and Reina Sofía are busiest at midday. Timed tickets and a private guide make a big difference.

Where to stay

Central and characterful

We love the area around the Paseo del Prado, the elegant Salamanca district and the streets near Gran Vía.

Getting around

Trains for day trips

High-speed trains from Atocha and Chamartín reach Toledo, Segovia and beyond. In town, walk or use private drivers.

Climate

Hot summers, crisp winters

Madrid sits high on the central plateau. July and August are hot and dry, while winter days are often cold but sunny.

Sundays

The Rastro market

Madrid’s famous flea market fills the streets of La Latina on Sunday mornings, followed by tapas nearby.

Work with One of Our Travel Experts

The average person takes over 11 hours researching their vacation. Take that time back and let us handle the nitty gritty of reading reviews, asking questions, comparing hotels and more.

The Alhambra palace in Granada at sunset with the Sierra Nevada behind

After a true deep dive into your requests, your travel agent will come back with a variety of suggested hotels, activities, and surprise experiences. You tell us which ones fit you best and we'll work through the logistics!

Barcelona’s rooftops stretching to the sea, framed by the spires of the Sagrada Família

You'll be equipped with an itinerary complete with the details of your trip. If anything happens along the way, you can relax knowing your travel agent will take care of everything!

Sailboats anchored in the turquoise water of Cala Macarella, Menorca

Good to know

Madrid FAQs

How many days do I need in Madrid?

Three days covers the palace, the art museums and the old town. Add a day for each day trip, such as Toledo or Segovia.

Is Madrid or Barcelona better?

Both, if you can. Madrid is about art, royal history and tapas, while Barcelona brings Gaudí and the beach. The high-speed train links them in about two and a half hours.

What is the best time to visit Madrid?

April to June and September to October are ideal. Summer is hot, and many locals leave the city in August. See our best time to visit Spain guide.

Do I need to book the Prado in advance?

It’s a good idea. Timed tickets save waiting in line, and a private guide helps you focus on the masterpieces.

Is Madrid a good base for day trips?

Yes. Toledo, Segovia and El Escorial are under an hour away, and Salamanca and Ávila are easy by train or with a private driver.

Your Dream Spain Getaway

Madrid is a feast of art, royal history and late-night tapas. Tell us about the trip you’re dreaming of, and one of our Spain specialists will start designing it with you.

  • A tailor-made itinerary, designed around you
  • Tickets, guides and transfers handled
  • Hand-picked hotels with exclusive perks

Start Planning Your Tailor-Made Trip by Contacting One of Our Spain Specialists

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