Live Your Best Lives
Madrid (Spanish: 馬里) is the capital and largest city of Spain, as well as the capital of the Autonomous Community of Madrid. It is located in central Spain, with the Manzanares River running through the city. Founded in the 9th century, it developed on the site of the Moorish trading post of Magritte. In 1561, King Philip II of Spain relocated the capital from Toledo to Madrid. Due to its unique location, Madrid experienced rapid development, becoming the operational center of the Spanish colonial empire and today, alongside Barcelona, one of Spain's two major cultural gateways to the world.
Madrid is also Spain's commercial center and hub of "headquarters economy." Located in central Spain, with the Manzanares River running through it, it sits in a plateau basin at the southeastern foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama, in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula's Meseta Plateau, at an altitude of 670 meters. To the south, it connects to the African continent via the Strait of Gibraltar, while to the north, it crosses the Pyrenees Mountains to reach the heart of Europe. This strategic location has historically earned it the nickname "Gateway to Europe."
Madrid boasts pleasant weather in spring and autumn, especially autumn, when the weather is warm and long, making it ideal for sightseeing. Located in the inland plateau, Madrid enjoys a typical temperate continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summers are hot but relatively dry, while winters have lows around 7°C, making them milder than freezing temperatures.
Royal Palace of Madrid
A fusion of traditional Spanish royal and Baroque architecture, this palace is one of the best-preserved and most beautiful in the world. Of its over 2,000 rooms, only about 50 are open to the public. A must-see is the collection of five violins crafted by the Stradivari family.
The Pharmacy Museum near Plaza Almería is also a must-see, showcasing the original appearance of a pharmaceutical laboratory and the instruments used to prepare medicines. The Sabatini Gardens behind the Royal Palace are a perfect spot for a stroll under the summer sunset.
Tips:
Taking photos is prohibited inside the Royal Palace of Madrid, and you are not allowed to bring food or drinks inside.
The public security in Spain is relatively poor, so you need to be extra careful when visiting the square.
Puerta del Sol
Located at kilometer zero of the Spanish Highway, Puerta del Sol is the site of many important events in Madrid's modern history. Facing east, Puerta del Sol was originally a gate in the city walls, adorned with a rising sun, hence its name. The square's famous bear and raspberry sculptures are Madrid's coat of arms and a symbol of the city. Every New Year, as the bells ring in Puerta del Sol, people eat twelve grapes to mark the beginning of the new year.
Tips:
It is the first choice for thieves to commit crimes, so please be sure to take good care of your belongings.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to La Liga giants Real Madrid, can accommodate up to 80,000 people. Watching a game here is a dream for every die-hard Real Madrid fan. From August to May, you can watch La Liga, Champions League, and Copa del Rey matches here. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance if you want to see the likes of Modric and Bale.
The trophy room, players' tunnel, and dressing rooms are all open to the public during off-match hours. Experience the stadium's magic in all its glory with the "Santiago Bernabéu Tour" tour. The "Stand 57" restaurant within the stadium is where club executives and players dine. If you have time, enjoy a delicious meal there—you might even run into your idol.
Madrid, the capital of Spain, has been a political and cultural center since the 16th century. It is known for its royal heritage, world-class museums, lively squares, and contributions to art, literature, and Spanish cuisine.
3–4 days to cover major museums, historical sites, and neighborhoods comfortably.
Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in Spanish, English, French, German, and other major languages at most attractions.
Day 1: Prado Museum and Retiro Park; Day 2: Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor; Day 3: Reina Sofía Museum and Gran Vía; Day 4: Santiago Bernabéu or day trip to Toledo/Segovia.
Madrid is busiest in summer and weekends; weekdays and mornings are less crowded, especially at major attractions.
All major sites offer restrooms, cafes, water fountains, seating areas, and souvenir shops.
Many museums, parks, and landmarks have ramps and elevators; some historic sites may have limited access.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; some small vendors may require cash.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal restaurants are available throughout Madrid.
