Visit Madrid April-May or September-October. Avoid August (locals on vacation, hot). Fly into MAD. Metro + walking. Stay near Sol or Salamanca.
At a Glance
| Country | Spain |
|---|---|
| Main airport | MAD |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Language | Spanish |
| Best time to visit | April–May, September–October |
| Visa for US citizens | US citizens enter Schengen visa-free for 90 days. ETIAS coming. |
Top Things to Do in Madrid
- Prado Museum (Velázquez, Goya)
- Royal Palace + cathedral
- Retiro Park (Crystal Palace, boating)
- Plaza Mayor + Puerta del Sol
- Reina Sofia (Guernica)
- Mercado de San Miguel (food market)
- Tapas crawl in La Latina
- Day trip to Toledo (UNESCO)
- Day trip to Segovia (aqueduct)
- Real Madrid stadium tour
Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
- Sol / Centro — central tourist
- Salamanca — upscale shopping
- Malasaña — hipster, nightlife
- Chueca — LGBTQ scene
- La Latina — old quarter, tapas
- Lavapiés — multicultural
Our recommendation: Sol / Centro (central + walkable), Salamanca (upscale), Malasaña (hip nightlife).
What to Eat
- Tapas (jamón ibérico, croquetas, tortilla)
- Cochinillo (roast suckling pig)
- Cocido madrileño (chickpea stew)
- Churros con chocolate
- Bocadillo de calamares
- Vermouth aperitivo
- Sangría
How to Get Around
Metro is great. Walking in Centro. Avoid driving — Madrid Central low-emission zone. Cercanías trains for day trips.
How to Get There from the USA
The main airport is MAD. Direct US flights are available from major gateways depending on the season.
👉 See our New York flight page or New York To London route page.
👉 Call +1 (833) 546-3547 for live agent quotes and bundle with hotels.
Visa & Entry Requirements (US Citizens)
US citizens enter Schengen visa-free for 90 days. ETIAS coming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Madrid?
April–May, September–October.
Do US citizens need a visa for Spain?
US citizens enter Schengen visa-free for 90 days. ETIAS coming.
Where should I stay in Madrid?
Sol / Centro (central + walkable), Salamanca (upscale), Malasaña (hip nightlife).
How do I book cheap flights to Madrid?
Call +1 (833) 546-3547 24/7.
Can you bundle the flight with a hotel?
Yes — we are a full-service travel agency. View our hotel booking page.