Intro
I visited the capital of Spain, Madrid, for a few days in February 2025, and here are my impressions of that short stay. Madrid, to me, was your typical tier-one European capital city. With a population in the couple-million range, it’s spread out—not as colossal as London or New York City, but definitely big and bustling. While the city felt clean, the weather was solid (even in February), and there were a few decent attractions in the center, I wouldn’t say it was the most exciting European city I’ve visited. It’s an excellent place to live and work—especially if you like the pace of a big capital—but as a tourist destination, it just didn’t hit the same notes as places like Sevilla or Barcelona.
Demographics
Madrid is home to around 3.3 million people, making it one of the largest cities in Europe. It’s diverse, with a high population of expats and immigrants from all over the world, creating a pretty international vibe. While the city has a vibrant local culture, you can definitely tell that it’s a major business hub, which makes the overall feel of Madrid a little more cosmopolitan compared to some of the more laid-back southern cities like Sevilla.
In terms of the people, Madrid is an interesting blend of people from all walks of life, with a mix of professionals, students, and tourists. You’ll also see a wide variety of Spanish accents and languages due to the diverse population.
Accommodation
Madrid has a great selection of accommodations, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. However, the cost of accommodation in Madrid can vary significantly depending on the time of year. Being the capital, it’s always in demand, so last-minute deals aren’t always easy to find. In general, expect to pay a premium for staying in the city center, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Gran Vía and Puerta del Sol. If you’re looking for more affordable options, you’ll find plenty of Airbnb rentals and hostels in neighborhoods a little further out, like Lavapiés or Malasaña.
Price Breakdown (2025 Edition)
Here’s a rough idea of what you’ll be spending in Madrid:
| Item | Estimated Price (USD / EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Monthly Airbnb (1BR) | $1,300–$1,800 / €1,200–€1,700 | Varies by neighborhood. More affordable in areas outside the center. |
| 🏨 Hotel (1 night, 3-star) | $95–$150 / €85–€140 | Mid-range hotel, centrally located. |
| 🛎️ Hostel (1 night) | $30–$50 / €28–€45 | Basic but clean dorm room. |
| 🍽️ Cheap Meal (menu del día) | $10–$15 / €9–€14 | A full meal with drink. |
| 🍷 Mid-Range Dinner (for 1) | $20–$35 / €18–€32 | Includes a drink or dessert. |
| 📱 SIM Card (10–15GB, prepaid) | $10–$15 / €9–€14 | Available at major stores like Vodafone or Movistar. |
| 🚗 Uber/Bolt (10–15 min ride) | $8–$12 / €7–€11 | Affordable for short rides. |
Bonus:
- Coffee: $1.50–$3 (€1.30–€2.70)
- Glass of wine or beer: $2–$4 (€1.80–€3.50)
Tourism
Madrid is home to some major cultural and historical landmarks, but the overall vibe felt a little more “work-focused” than touristy, at least compared to other Spanish cities. That being said, there’s plenty to see and do. Highlights include:
- The Royal Palace: A stunning building with lavish interiors. Perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Prado Museum: If you’re into art, this world-renowned museum is a must-see. Think Goya, Velázquez, and more.
- Retiro Park: A massive green space right in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a row on the lake.
- Gran Vía: Madrid’s main shopping street—think Broadway but with a Spanish twist.
Areas of Interest
- Royal Palace & Almudena Cathedral: A stunning example of royal grandeur.
- Retiro Park: A perfect escape from the hustle and bustle with beautiful gardens and peaceful lakes.
- Puerta del Sol: Madrid’s iconic square, packed with history and tons of shopping.
- Gran Vía: Madrid’s answer to Broadway and Times Square.
- Malasaña & Chueca: These neighborhoods are more laid-back, filled with cool cafés, bars, and eclectic vibes.
Food
Madrid’s food scene is diverse. While it doesn’t have the tapas dominance of Sevilla, you can still find plenty of delicious small plates (called raciones) at various restaurants. The city is also known for its bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich) and cocido madrileño (a hearty chickpea stew).
Must-tries include:
- Bocadillo de calamares: A fried squid sandwich, Madrid-style.
- Cocido madrileño: A delicious chickpea stew with meats, perfect for cold days.
- Tortilla española: The classic Spanish omelet.
- Churros con chocolate: You’ve seen them on Instagram; now try them for real. Dunked in thick, rich hot chocolate.
- Callos a la madrileña: A hearty stew made with tripe, sausage, and beans.
Weather (by Month)
| Month | Avg High (°F/°C) | Avg Low (°F/°C) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 51°F / 10°C | 34°F / 1°C | Chilly but sunny. |
| February | 55°F / 13°C | 36°F / 2°C | Nice for sightseeing. |
| March | 61°F / 16°C | 42°F / 6°C | Spring vibes. |
| April | 66°F / 19°C | 48°F / 9°C | Perfect for exploring. |
| May | 74°F / 23°C | 55°F / 13°C | Beautiful weather, sunny. |
| June | 84°F / 29°C | 63°F / 17°C | Starting to get hot. |
| July | 95°F / 35°C | 68°F / 20°C | Major heat. |
| August | 94°F / 34°C | 68°F / 20°C | Peak heat. Locals often leave. |
| September | 84°F / 29°C | 61°F / 16°C | Still warm but pleasant. |
| October | 70°F / 21°C | 50°F / 10°C | Mild and comfortable. |
| November | 57°F / 14°C | 41°F / 5°C | Sweater weather. |
| December | 50°F / 10°C | 34°F / 1°C | Cold but manageable. |
Nightlife
Madrid is known for its nightlife. The city comes alive after dark, with a range of spots from chilled-out cocktail bars to energetic clubs. Top spots include:
- La Vía Láctea: A popular late-night bar in Malasaña with a funky, retro vibe.
- Sala BarCo: A great club for electronic music lovers.
- Del Diego Cocktail Bar: Known for its expertly crafted cocktails.
- Medias Puri: A hidden gem with a fantastic party atmosphere—go if you want to dance until sunrise.
- Café de la Palma: A cozy, stylish spot perfect for drinks and people-watching.
Dating
Madrid’s dating scene is fun, fast, and a bit flirtatious. There’s no shortage of places to meet new people, whether at cafés, art galleries, or nightlife spots. People are generally open to casual dates or something more serious—language exchange meetups and apps like Tinder and Bumble are popular here. Expect a bit of a fast pace but also a charming local warmth.
Public Transportation
Madrid has a comprehensive public transport system that includes:
- A robust metro system with 12 lines.
- Plenty of buses and suburban trains.
- E-scooters and bikes.
Public transport is reliable and affordable. Alternatively, taxis and Uber are widely available, though more expensive.
City Layout
Madrid’s city center is mostly grid-like, but the charm of the city lies in its neighborhoods. Malasaña is quirky, Chueca is vibrant, and La Latina is perfect for tapas. The city has wide boulevards, leafy parks, and a lot of open spaces that make it feel more expansive than its population suggests.
Safety
Madrid is one of the safest big cities in Europe. It’s well-policed, and locals tend to be friendly and helpful. Like any major tourist city, you’ll want to keep an eye out for pickpockets in busy spots, but overall, it’s a very safe place to explore.
Digital Nomad Factor
Madrid is a great place to work remotely, with plenty of cafés offering fast Wi-Fi and a growing number of coworking spaces. There’s a strong digital nomad community here, but if you’re seeking more laid-back vibes or a stronger focus on work, places like Sevilla or Valencia might be more up your alley.
Pollution
Madrid’s air quality isn’t the best, especially in the summer months. While the city has made efforts to improve air quality, traffic is still a factor, especially in the more congested parts of the city. But compared to other European capitals, it’s relatively moderate.
Overall Rating
6.5/10
Madrid is a solid, functional city. If you’re visiting as a tourist, it might not be as exciting as other places in Spain, but it’s still enjoyable. If you’re looking for a city to live and work in, Madrid is an ideal choice. If I didn’t have a job keeping me there, though, I’d be much more inclined to settle in a smaller city like Sevilla or somewhere on the coast.
