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Picture of Madrid, Spain

Travel Guide for
Madrid

Spain

Hot summers, mild winters, dry overall

Introduction

Madrid, Spain's lively capital, sits in the heart of the country and bursts with art, history, and charm. Even in January, the city is inviting—expect crisp, cool days (about 6–12°C/43–54°F) that are perfect for strolling its wide boulevards or exploring world-class museums like the Prado or Reina Sofía.

Madrid’s welcoming culture makes it a fantastic destination for families. Cozy cafés, beautiful parks like Retiro, and interactive museums offer fun for all ages. You’ll also find tasty, budget-friendly tapas to enjoy together, plus exciting traditions and local warmth that bring Spanish heritage alive.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

Dates15-23 January 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationApartment or house

Interests and Activities:

family activitiesarts and cultureoutdoor adventures

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Picture of Madrid, Spain

Key Facts

Location

Community of Madrid

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

3,365,000

Language

Spanish

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type C/F

Time zone

UTCCET (UTC+1)

Country code

+34

Internet access

Broadband, 4G/5G widely available

Climate

Hot summers, mild winters, dry overall

See More Spain Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-os)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta esto? (kwan-to kwes-tah es-to)
  • please

    por favor (por fa-bor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-syahs)
  • excuse me

    perdón (pair-don)

Map

Logistics

Madrid is easily reached by air, with Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) serving many international and domestic flights—this is the fastest and most convenient option for most travelers, especially families. Once in Europe, high-speed trains (Renfe AVE) from cities like Barcelona and Seville offer a comfortable alternative, as do intercity buses for those on a tighter budget.

Within Spain, trains and buses are punctual, family-friendly, and affordable, making them excellent choices for travel to and from Madrid. January weather in Madrid is generally mild, though occasional rain can cause minor delays, so it’s helpful to check forecasts closer to your travel dates. Madrid isn’t accessible by sea, so ferries and boats are not viable transportation options.

Weather

Madrid experiences a continental Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Expect plenty of sunshine year-round, though winters can bring chilly temperatures, especially at night. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, making them ideal for sightseeing, family activities, and outdoor adventures.

From January 15 to January 23, Madrid is typically cool, with daytime highs averaging 8-12°C (46-54°F) and lows near 2-4°C (36-39°F). While rain is possible, snowfall is rare but not unheard of—mostly light and short-lived. Extreme weather events are uncommon, so arts and culture outings or indoor family activities are great options if it’s chilly.

Food & Drink

Madrid’s cuisine features classic dishes like cocido madrileño (hearty chickpea stew), bocadillo de calamares (fried calamari sandwich), and tapas such as patatas bravas and tortilla española. Don’t miss churros with chocolate for a sweet treat, and try local drinks like horchata or a refreshing tinto de verano.

For family-friendly dining on a reasonable budget, check out Mercado de San Miguel for a variety of tapas, Casa Labra for its famous cod croquettes, and Café de Oriente for views of the Royal Palace. Many casual tapas bars and neighborhood restaurants offer “menú del día” lunch specials.

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are increasingly available. Enjoy leisurely meals—Madrid locals value relaxed, social dining experiences.

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Paella

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Tortilla Española

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Gazpacho

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Pulpo a la Gallega

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A picture of Churros con Chocolate

Churros con Chocolate

Churros con Chocolate is a delightful Spanish dessert enjoyed throughout the day. The crispy, deep-fried churros are paired...

Accommodation

For a family-friendly stay in Madrid, consider renting an apartment or house in neighborhoods like Salamanca, Chamberí, or Centro. These areas offer safe, walkable streets, playgrounds, and easy access to attractions. Look for apartment-style accommodations and houses on Hotels.com, which lists many family-friendly options at reasonable prices.

Apartments near Retiro Park or Plaza Mayor put you close to parks, museums, and dining. Many apartments offer kitchens and laundry—ideal for families. January is low season, so you’ll find better rates and more availability, but pack warm clothes as winter temperatures can dip. Book early on Hotels.com for the best selection!

Itinerary

Ease into Madrid by soaking up the city’s dynamic atmosphere, enjoying family-friendly spaces, and introducing yourself to Spanish culture with a leisurely orientation day.

Discovering Puerta del Sol & Plaza Mayor

Explore Madrid’s iconic plazas—Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. These historic squares are full of street performers, unique shops, and local snacks, offering a lively taste of the city’s urban spirit.

Prado Museum with Reina Sofia Museum Guided Tour

Prado Museum with Reina Sofia Museum Guided Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover why this tour won the TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS' CHOICE AWARD 2025! Hit the Prado Museum as the first visitors when the doors open to the public on this 4-hour Madrid tour. This experience offers access to the museum early in the morning before the crowds arrive. An expert guide will lead you through this beautiful building and you’ll see works such as Velazquez’s ‘Las Meninas’ and El Greco’s ‘The Annunciation’. Learn about the artwork from a guide, and then after a small break, head to the Reina Sofía Museum and admire abstract and surrealist works by Picasso, Dali and more. Do not miss this chance to visit two of the most important museums in Spain!

4.1 (308 reviews)

From $81 USD

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Attractions

4.8 (2399 reviews)
Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen Tour from Madrid

Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen Tour from Madrid

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On this excursion we will visit the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, an architectural heritage site of the Humanity, and the Basilica of the Valle de los Caídos, a monument that stands out for its gigantic size. 5 hour direct tour to the Valle de los Caídos with its basilica excavated in the Sierra de Madrid and discover the grandeur of the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, a World Heritage Site and symbol of Spanish supremacy of the sixteenth century.

From $70 USD

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5.0 (974 reviews)
Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with Bottomless Wine Pairing

Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with Bottomless Wine Pairing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Cooking Clubhouse will help you dive deep into the roots of a traditional Spanish Paella by leading you through a hands on and very dynamic workshop that will allow you to learn the secretes to a restaurante grade paella, all the mean time enjoying our bottomless Spanish wine pairing!

From $141 USD

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3.8 (60 reviews)
Madrid Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral Guided Tour

Madrid Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral Guided Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On this tour you will enjoy two of the two most important monuments in Madrid. Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral.

From $64 USD

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5.0 (11 reviews)
Pamper your feet with foot bath and reflexology massage

Pamper your feet with foot bath and reflexology massage

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Foot Reflexology is a therapeutic technique based on the stimulation of reflex zones in the foot. Activates the self-healing power of the body, relaxes mind and body, balances the energy, and regulates the functioning of the organs. Reflexology provides a state of relaxation, releases stress, detects and eliminates stress zones. It is also a good alternative to relieve muscle contractures, for all those who do not like body massages. What is sure common to everyone, is that you will leave with enchanted feet What's included: 15 minutes of foot bath with Dead Sea salt and rose flower + 40 minutes of Foot Reflexology

From $101 USD

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4.9 (9 reviews)
Madrid Prado Museum Private Guided Tour for Kids and Families

Madrid Prado Museum Private Guided Tour for Kids and Families

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Visiting the Prado Museum in Madrid has never been more fun and educational for kids and families! This private 1.5 tour has been designed to make children and parents love the Prado and its famous masterpieces. You will visit the highlights of the collections including Van der Weyden's  Escorial Deposition, Bosch's Garden of Earthly Delights, Velazquez's Las Meninas, Goya's Third of May and other famous masterpieces.  You will have an exclusive guide specialized in working with kids that will engage the whole family with games, scavenger hunts, visual tools and other playful activities. Usually children do not like museums but after this tour they will ask you to stay in and continie the visit. You will love it!

From $260 USD

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5.0 (9 reviews)
Private Tapas Tour (Only your group will participate)

Private Tapas Tour (Only your group will participate)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Private guided tour of 3 traditional bars/taverns in Madrid ending in a cozy chocolate shop in Madrid. Visit Madrid with your family or friends in a private and intimate way with a private tour where only your group will participate. With an expert guide in gastronomy and history who will take you to the most classic tapas bars in old Madrid. With the guide, apart from tasting the most popular wines and tapas in the city, you will also learn about the culture of Spain. This is a tour that mixes both gastronomy and the history of the city and the country, so at the end of this private tour you will leave with more knowledge of Spanish culture. This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.

From $105 USD

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5.0 (28 reviews)
Madrid Food Tasting Tour of Hidden Gems (Small Groups)

Madrid Food Tasting Tour of Hidden Gems (Small Groups)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Embark on an unforgettable food tour in Madrid like a local, where authenticity and genuine Spanish flavors take center stage. Unlike typical touristy experiences, our carefully curated tour leads you to five different local gems, ensuring an immersive culinary adventure. Each stop is within walking distance, making it a relaxed and enjoyable way to explore the city's flavors. We prioritize visiting traditional establishments, where you'll get a true taste of authentic dishes. Engage with the locals and feel like part of the community as you share in their culinary delights. On this journey through 5 cozy local eateries, we will treat you to Madrid’s famous calamari, followed by tapas of jamón ibérico and Spanish tortilla. Next, indulge in the best mushrooms paired with refreshing sangria in a hidden gem. Later, savor the rich flavors of vermut, Spain’s beloved aperitif wine. Finally, enjoy croquetas, one of Spain’s most famous tapas, perfectly paired with a glass of Spanish wine.

From $101 USD

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5.0 (11 reviews)
Canyoning Adventure in Madrid National Park with Transport

Canyoning Adventure in Madrid National Park with Transport

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

ENJOY CANYONING IN MADRID The Canyoning tour of Somosierra is the only open canyon of the Community of Madrid and offers the opportunity to live a fun aquatic adventure in the impressive scenery of the river Duratón gorges. After a 30 minute walk from the car, we will reach the top of the canyon. The canyoning descent includes waterfalls, pools, vertical rappels/abseils through 30 meters granite walls and a fun slide of 9 meters. This activity is suitable for adventureous people and is led by professionals guides so that participants can safely enjoy one of the most exciting water sports in Madrid.

From $236 USD

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