Madrid is a friendly city known for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Madrid, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Madrid?
You should plan to spend around $174 (€160) per day on your vacation in Madrid. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $64 (€58) on meals
- $20 (€18) on local transportation
- $168 (€154) on hotels
A one week trip to Madrid for two people costs, on average, $2,441 (€2,240). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,221
€1,120
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,441
€2,240
-
One Month
Per person
$5,231
€4,800
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,441
€2,240
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,882
€4,480
-
One Month
For a couple
$10,462
€9,600
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Madrid cost?
A one week trip to Madrid usually costs around $1,221 (€1,120) for one person and $2,441 (€2,240) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Madrid on average costs around $2,441 (€2,240) for one person and $4,882 (€4,480) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Madrid will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Madrid on average costs around $5,231 (€4,800) for one person and $10,462 (€9,600) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Madrid expensive to visit?
Madrid is an extensive city brimming with engaging activities. Here, you'll find a mix of travelers, from those looking to save a buck to those ready to indulge in luxury. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
You can find Madrid to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit can help you save money.
On average, budget travelers spend $68 (€63) per day, mid-range travelers spend $175 (€160) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $457 (€418) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Madrid.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Madrid is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Reims or Bruges.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Madrid Expensive?
Madrid
How much money do I need for a trip to Madrid?
The average Madrid trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Madrid travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Madrid cost?
Madrid on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$33
(€30)
|
$84
(€77)
|
$216
(€198)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$8
(€7.14)
|
$20
(€18)
|
$52
(€48)
|
|
Food 2
|
$24
(€22)
|
$64
(€58)
|
$169
(€155)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$15
(€13)
|
$36
(€33)
|
$89
(€82)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$4-13
(€4-12)
|
$11-32
(€10-29)
|
$26-78
(€24-71)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Madrid without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
Madrid on a Shoestring Budget?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $68 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Madrid is home to plenty of hostels, including Cats Hostel Madrid Sol, The Hat Madrid, and Mola Hostel. In hostels like these, you can snag budget-friendly dorm beds and enjoy a social environment, but be prepared for basic amenities. The city also offers superb public transit, making it easier for budget travelers to avoid the high costs of taxis and Ubers. For many travelers to Madrid, food is a key attraction, yet budget-conscious visitors often stick to street food or hostel cooking, missing out on the delicious local dining experiences.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Madrid. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $175 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Madrid. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Catalonia Las Cortes is a good kid-friendly option, and Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Madrid here.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $457 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the city, prepare for a luxury price tag. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private tour of the royal palace, private guide, fast entrance and pick up at the hotel. - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Madrid
Madrid offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $89, but during peak summer season, they can average $166. Prices range from $51 to $319, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Madrid for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $168 (€154). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $84 (€77) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Madrid? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Madrid include:
- CoolRooms Atocha starting at $198
- Hotel Artiem Madrid starting at $65
- Catalonia Las Cortes starting at $98
- Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid starting at $158
- Atocha Hotel Madrid Tapestry Collection by Hilton starting at $136
In the large city of Madrid, you'll find a broad selection of places to stay. Options range from budget hostels like Cats Hostel Madrid Sol to charming vacation rentals and luxurious hotels. While city center accommodations can be pricier, they offer easy access to public transit and popular attractions.
While Madrid has an excellent public transit system that allows for staying farther from the city, cheaper accommodations could lead to more expensive and time-consuming commutes.
Madrid is a very family friendly city. If you're traveling with kids, you'll likely want to find an apartment or accommodation with more space. Because it's a big city, you might find that rooms are smaller and more cramped than you'd expect.
With many people staying up to a week in Madrid, it might be worth booking a vacation rental with a kitchen if you're staying longer, so you can prepare your own food.
By traveling in the off-peak times like the low or shoulder season, and steering clear of summer, you'll find cheaper lodging and smaller crowds.
Walking is a favored way to experience Madrid, so finding a central accommodation is a great idea. Just remember, this might come with a steeper price tag.
Transportation Budget in Madrid
In a large city like Madrid, you'll need to think about how to get around. Fortunately, the city has a solid public transit system. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system. For a cost-effective option, stick to public transit, but you can also easily grab a taxi or rideshare when needed.
Visitors who like to get their exercise by walking will enjoy their time here. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.
Public Transit: 
(excellent)
Walkability: (excellent)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $20 (€18) per person, per day, on local transportation in Madrid. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Madrid is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$20
€18
When using public transportation often, be sure to invest in multi-day transit passes as they can really help save you money.
Stay vigilant against pickpockets on the buses and trains, and don't let your guard down in the stations. Madrid is quite a big city.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Shuttle Transfer Arrivals: Madrid Airport to City Center for $150 details
- Private Shuttle Transfer from City Centre to Airport for $160 details
- Private Transfer from Madrid Hotels to Madrid Airport for $60 details
How much does it cost to go to Madrid? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Madrid will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Below, you'll find common transit prices in Madrid, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.
Food Budget in Madrid
The cuisine in Madrid is world-class, and you don't want to miss it. Make sure to take some time to eat at the local restaurants and taste some of the special dishes. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Madrid can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Madrid is $64 (€58) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$64
€58
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Madrid is around $64 (€58) per person, with previous travelers spending from $25 to $170. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Madrid are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $19
- Lunch: $10 to $25
- Dinner: $19 to $45
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $10
Madrid has typical Spanish cuisine with a few local specialties as well. Some of the local dishes include Gallinejas and entresijos, which is lamb that is fried in its own fat, Callos a la Madrilena, a spicy beef tripe dish, and Cocido Madrileno, which is a chickpea soup. There's also great seafood available, which is a little surprising given the city's inland location. It can be expensive though.
Paella is a popular dish in Madrid, but if you're going to try it, go ahead and pay for a good restaurants. The more budget options found in the Sol and Plaza Mayor areas are not good and are best avoided. Instead head to the La Latina neighborhood where you'll find some great restaurants. For take away food that is good, go to the shops along Calle Arenal.
Lunch is usually served late, around 2pm or 3pm and dinner isn't served until 9pm or 10pm. Some touristy restaurants may serve meals earlier, but in general this is the norm. Bars generally stay open all day long and offer tapas and bocadillos for a good price. Fast food chains are also open around town all day.
One way to save money is to eat at nicer restaurants for lunch rather than dinner. Numerous restaurants in tourist spots or business zones offer lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These options are typically smaller and less expensive versions of their dinner menus. If you explore the right places, you might score a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget-friendly price. Afterward, simply have a light dinner.
When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.
A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Pack a water bottle to avoid buying drinks on the go. Plus, it's beneficial for the planet.
Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Madrid. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Local Tapas Tour with Private Dinner and Bottomless Wine for $102 details
- Madrid Tapas Dinner Party with Guide for $74 details
- Half-Day Spanish Local House Dinner Experience in Madrid for $129 details
Typical prices for food in Madrid are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Madrid. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
-
Coffee
€2.00
-
Ice Cream
€3.00
-
Kebabs (for 2)
€16
-
Croissant
€1.50
-
Lunch at Airport (for 2)
€16
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Madrid
The allure of Madrid is undeniable, especially since it offers food, music, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Madrid typically cost an average of $36 (€33) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$36
€33
There are many historic and cultural sights throughout Madrid. Don't miss the Museo del Prado, which has an excellent collection of art, perhaps one of the best in the world. Also visit the Palacio Real (Royal Palace), and Plaza Mayor, the most famous plaza in Madrid. Take in a Flamenco show and have a meal of tapas. Both are quintessential Spanish experiences. Also head over to Mercado de San Miguel, which is an impressive indoor market in Madrid. Parks are great places to pass time in Madrid as well. It's fun to people watch and simply relax in the sun. Some of the most popular parks include El Retiro Park, Parque del Capricho, and La Casa de Campo.
Popular activities around Madrid include Flamenco shows, concerts, the opera, football (soccer), bullfighting and basketball. Any of these activites offer visitors a unique experience and are worth checking out. Popular festivals include La Transhumancia, which is a yearly event when shepherds take over the city with their sheep and livestock for the day. La Paloma is a huge street party in the La Latina neighborhood. The bars play music and food stalls line Carrera de San Francisco.
Music:
Madrid's music scene is renowned for its popularity and draws in crowds. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.
Shopping:
Be sure to enjoy the shopping here, as it's an experience you won't forget. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Madrid. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Tour 'Best of Prado Museum' (Skip the line ticket. 7 people max.) for $54 details
- Private Walking Tour: Madrid Old Town With a Local Guide for $193 details
- Prado Museum Private & Customized Tour for $118 details
Nightlife Budget in Madrid
The nightlife scene in Madrid is exciting and dynamic, drawing visitors who enjoy exploring the local bars, clubs, and parties. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $21 (€19) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Madrid per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$21
€19
Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.
When drinking at night, be mindful of your surroundings, as pickpockets and other crimes can happen. Stay safe by sticking with a group of trusted people.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Madrid. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Windmills of Don Quixote Wine Tour & Tasting from Madrid for $171 details
- Spanish Wine Tasting for $81 details
- Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra for $12 details
Here are some typical drink and nightlife prices in Madrid, drawn from the experiences of past travelers. These costs can give you a general sense of what to expect, though your own spending will differ based on how often you enjoy alcoholic beverages and how much you consume. Remember, one of the most effective ways to reduce your travel costs is to limit alcohol consumption.
-
Beer
€5.00
-
Drinks and Tapas (for 2)
€13
Travel cost data last updated: Jun 18, 2024
Traveling in Madrid
Madrid, Spain
Madrid, the capital of Spain, overs visitors countless opportunities to experience Spain's culture, art, cuisine, and nightlife. It is the largest city in Spain, and as such has much to explore. The city is situated on the Iberian Peninsula on the Spanish central Castillian plateau. If you're flying into Spain, you'll likely fly into the Madrid airport as it's one of the largest airports in Europe. Madrid is well connected to the rest of Spain with planes, trains and buses, making it a popular place to visit for many travelers doing a European tour.
Madrid's climate is relatively dry with a hot and dry summer season and a cold winter with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are moderate in temperature but do get the most rain. These are the best times to visit as the temperatures are comfortable and you avoid some of the summer crowds.
Neighborhoods & Around
Madrid has a diverse population with many interesting and unique neighborhoods. Some of the most interesting include Alonso Martinez, with its many pubs and clubs, Barrio de las Letras, with its rich history and Plaza de Santa Ana, and Chueca, with its eclectic shops and trendy cafes. Tribunal and Conde Duque are known for their rock and pop music clubs. Gran Via is also a popular area for nightclubs. La Latina is where you want to go to try tapas. Nearby Lavapies is an ethnic area with a large population of African, Asian and Latin American residents. Both Moncloa and Ciudad Universitaria have large student populations.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
We've used Madrid as a base for exploring nearby towns. There are tours you can book which are affordable and convenient.