Madrid on a Budget: History, Art & Culture
A trip to Madrid on a limited budget is still possible! You can find affordable hostels, street food and free activities. Explore museums, parks and the city's vibrant nightlife without breaking the bank.
Madrid on a Budget: History, Art & Culture
Experience the culture and energy of Madrid without breaking the bank.
21 June 2023
A trip to Madrid on a limited budget is still possible! You can find affordable hostels, street food and free activities. Explore museums, parks and the city's vibrant nightlife without breaking the bank.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Stay at Hostal Bahía Madrid, an affordable hotel located near the city center.
- Start your day with coffee and churros at Chocolatería San Ginés, a Madrid institution since 1894.
- Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, a stunning 18th-century palace with over 3,000 rooms.
- Stroll through the Puerta del Sol, a bustling square with a clock tower and a statue of a bear and a strawberry tree.
- Wander around the historic Plaza Mayor, an iconic square with beautiful architecture and plenty of restaurants and cafes.
- End your day with a delicious dinner at La Galette 2.0, a French-inspired restaurant with a cozy ambiance and affordable prices.
- Start your day with breakfast at La Mallorquina, a popular pastry shop that has been serving delicious treats for over 120 years.
- Visit the famous Prado Museum, home to an impressive collection of European art from the 12th to the 19th century.
- Stop by the Reina Sofia Museum, a modern art museum that houses works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali.
- Take a walk through El Retiro Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city with a lake, rose garden, and the stunning Crystal Palace.
- Enjoy a tapas lunch at Casa Dani, a traditional Spanish restaurant that serves delicious ham, cheese, and seafood dishes.
- End your day with drinks and live music at Café Central, a legendary jazz club that has hosted some of the world's best musicians.
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Madrid, Spain by plane is to fly into Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) from your nearest major airport. Many airlines offer direct flights to Madrid from around the world, so check with your preferred carrier for availability and pricing.
Car
If you are traveling to Madrid by car, the A-6 is the major highway that links Madrid with northwest Spain, while the A-4 links Madrid with southern Spain. Other routes may also be available depending on your starting location. Be sure to check for tolls and plan your route accordingly.
Train
While there are train routes to Madrid from other European cities, the best option will depend on your starting location. The most popular national railway company in Spain is Renfe, which offers high-speed trains that run to Madrid from several cities throughout the country.
Boat
While there are no direct boat routes to Madrid, some cruise lines offer packages that include a stop in the nearby port city of Valencia. Once there, you can take a train or bus to Madrid. The port of Valencia is serviced by several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises.
Bus
Buses are a popular and affordable way to get to Madrid from other Spanish cities. Several companies, such as ALSA and Avanza, offer daily bus service to Madrid from cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. The main bus station in Madrid is Estación Sur de Autobuses.
