Cheap holidays and trips to Madrid

If you plan to spend a few days in Madrid, you should know that public transport reaches all corners of the community. In addition to being cheap and running smoothly, the underground, city buses, commuter rail network and taxis are the best way to travel. If you wish, you can rent a bike in Madrid, a scooter or an electric car to move freely around the centre, a very affordable option to suit all budgets.

The Autonomous Community of Madrid has an unrivalled offer in terms of accommodation, adapted to all tastes and budgets. Hotels of all categories, from one to five stars; bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, tourist apartments... And, of course, unique spaces such as campsites, bungalows and charming cottages.

And if you really want to get away from the routine and feel adventurous without venturing too far, it features very original places: staying overnight in a train carriage from the 1960's, a charming Mongolian yurt , a dome in the moonlight or a vintage caravan. Stars, nature, peace, silence... Sounds great, right?

In the Autonomous Community of Madrid, opening hours are usually later than in the rest of Europe. This is largely due to the specific time zone of Spain, which is governed by the central European timetable rather than the Western one, despite the fact that its geographical location and condition would be suited to the latter.

Shops open at around 9-10am and restaurants and bars start serving their lunches and dinners later than in other countries and cities. However, in tourist areas you can eat whenever you like, especially in the centre of the capital.

What's more, on the streets of Madrid and especially in the old town, the entertainment never stops, day or night. Madrid residents love being out in the street and interacting with each other.

It should be pointed out that in the Autonomous Community of Madrid it is very easy to communicate, since in most shops and restaurants the staff are fluent English speakers. Ordinary Madrid residents, especially young people, know the language of Shakespeare well, and as for the natives less skilled with foreign languages… they make up for it with their innate friendliness!

It is important to know that the menu varies according to the time of year. In winter, soups and stews abound, and in summer the food on offer is much lighter. There are notably cold dishes such as Russian salad, salmorejo or gazpacho.

Don't forget to ask about the day's menu offered by most restaurants in Madrid! This consists of a first and second course plus dessert or coffee, for about 12 euros.