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Madrid isn’t just Spain’s capital; it's the heartbeat of the country. For us, it's a city bursting with life, color, and soul. It’s a place where long lunches stretch into evening conversations, where laughter fills the streets, and every corner seems to whisper, "Let’s celebrate." The energy here is undeniable, and the warmth of the people makes you feel instantly at home.

As you wander, you’ll find yourself lost in the charm of centuries-old architecture, stumbling upon cozy cafés tucked away on quiet streets, and maybe even catching an impromptu street performance that feels like a slice of magic. From world-class museums to intimate tapas bars nestled in narrow alleys, Madrid invites you to slow down, take it all in, and savor each moment.

We’ve made so many cherished memories here, and now, we can’t wait for you to create your own. Whether it’s your first time in Madrid or your tenth, we hope this city steals your heart, just as it did ours.

To help you along the way, we’ve included a list of some of our favorite places to visit. But when it comes to food, honestly, you can’t go wrong. No matter where you are in Madrid, there’s always a bar, a restaurant, or a tapas spot just around the corner. From quick bites to fine dining, the culinary scene here is as diverse and exciting as the city itself. So, wherever your taste buds take you, we’re sure you’ll find something that leaves you wanting more.

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<aside> 📖 Table of contents

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<aside> 🔆 Time & weather

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<aside> 📍 Madrid maps

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<aside> 🚋 Getting around

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<aside> 🎡 Places to visit

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<aside> 🦺 Safety & numbers

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<aside> 😱 Fun facts Madrid

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<aside> ✅ Dynamic Checklist

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<aside> 🍽️ Food and drinks

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Local time & weather:

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<aside> 🧳 Check list

<aside> 💡 Nestled in the heart of Spain, Madrid is not only the country’s capital but also its beating heart. With over 3 million people calling it home, this city sits 650 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest capitals in Europe. Madrid is famous for its endless sunny days, grand boulevards, and streets that come alive with energy at every turn. It’s a city that effortlessly blends history with modern flair, from world-class art museums to iconic landmarks and neighborhoods that never seem to sleep. Whether you're soaking in the culture or simply enjoying the vibrant street life, Madrid always has something exciting to offer.

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<aside> 🚨 Safety & emergency numbers Madrid is a very safe city, but like any large capital, it's always wise to stay alert, especially in busy areas like Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and metro stations. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so we recommend keeping your bags zipped, phones secure, and valuables close to you at all times.

Emergency numbers in Spain

You’ll find pharmacies on most major streets, and they’re marked with a green cross.

For non-emergencies or quick questions while you're in town, feel free to WhatsApp us!

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<aside> 😱 Fun facts about Madrid & Spain • Madrid is home to the oldest restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botín, which opened in 1725 (and was once a favorite of Hemingway!). • The city has more bars per capita than anywhere else in Europe, tapas culture is real, and delicious.

• Madrid's metro system is one of the largest in the world, and it's super easy to navigate.

• The Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue in Puerta del Sol is the official symbol of the city.

• The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest functioning royal palace in Europe, even bigger than Buckingham Palace!

• Flamenco isn’t just a dance; it’s a whole cultural experience that originated in southern Spain and is often performed in cozy tablaos across Madrid.

• Churros and chocolate are a local obsession, and we get it.

💛 Personal fun facts:

• Paul becomes laser-focused on one mission the moment we land: getting a bocata de jamón. (Bonus if it's from a train station or tiny market.)

• Roxy basically plans her days around where to get the best churros con chocolate, her personal favorite? San Ginés, always.

• One of our favorite Madrid rituals: strolling through El Retiro, then grabbing a caña at a terrace bar while the sun sets.

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🎡 Madrid - maps

🚋 Getting around

<aside> 🚕 Madrid is easy to navigate thanks to its excellent metro, affordable taxis, and walkable neighborhoods. The airport is well-connected, and getting to the city center is quick and smooth, whether you take a train, bus, or ride-share.

For guests new to the city, the most comfortable and stress-free way to move around is by taxi. They’re very safe, regulated, and easy to find, just look for the classic white car with a red stripe and the Taxi sign. Whether you're heading to your hotel, a tapas spot, or the wedding venue, taxis are a reliable option that will get you exactly where you need to go with no fuss.

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