Useful information

LOCAL TIME
Madrid operates on Central European Time (CET) during the winter months and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during the summer.

MUSEUMS AND MONUMENTS
Madrid is home to some of Europe’s most famous museums and historical landmarks. Here are a few must-see places:

The Prado Museum (Museo del Prado): One of the world’s premier art museums, housing an impressive collection of European art from the 12th to the early 20th century.
Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real): The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, this grand palace is open to the public for tours, offering a glimpse into Spain's royal history.
Puerta del Sol: Madrid's symbolic heart and a lively square where the city's history and culture come together.
Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro): A peaceful and expansive park ideal for relaxation, boat rides, or a stroll among sculptures and fountains.
Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena): A stunning neo-Gothic cathedral next to the Royal Palace, showcasing the rich architectural diversity of Madrid.
Temple of Debod (Templo de Debod): An ancient Egyptian temple relocated to Madrid, offering spectacular views, especially at sunset.

TYPICAL STORE HOURS
In Madrid, most stores and shopping areas follow similar opening times:

Supermarkets: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (some may close for lunch, particularly smaller shops).
Local Shops: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Many are closed on Sundays.
Shopping Centers: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Some may open on Sundays.

TYPICAL RESTAURANT HOURS

Lunch: Served from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Many restaurants offer a fixed-price menu (menú del día).
Dinner: Usually from 8:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Dinner is served later in Spain than in many other countries.
Tapas Bars: Open throughout the day, with evenings being particularly popular.

TYPICAL BANK HOURS

Monday to Friday: Morning hours from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Some banks may reopen in the afternoon (4:30 PM to 7:00 PM).
Saturday and Sunday: Most banks are closed, although ATMs are available 24/7.

ELECTRICITY AND PLUGS
Madrid uses the standard European voltage of 220V and the type C or F plug (two round pins). Make sure to bring an adapter if your home country uses a different plug type.

CLIMATE
Madrid has a continental Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot, with average temperatures often above 30°C (86°F), while winters are cold and dry. Spring and autumn are mild, with pleasant temperatures. Be prepared for sunny days, particularly in summer, and always carry water during outdoor activities.

PERSONAL SAFETY
Madrid is a generally safe city for both locals and tourists. However, like in any major city, be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like tourist hotspots, public transport, and busy streets.

WATER
Tap water in Madrid is safe to drink. Bottled water is also widely available if you prefer it.

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS

National Police: 091
Civil Guard: 062
Local Police: 092
Emergency Services: 112

TELEPHONE

To call Madrid from abroad, dial +34 followed by the local number.
To make international calls from Madrid, dial 00, then the country code and the recipient's number.

TIPPING
Tipping in Spain is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, it's customary to leave around 5-10% if you're satisfied with the service. Tipping in cafes and taxis is also common, though not required.

CURRENCY
The official currency is the euro (€). Most establishments in Madrid accept credit or debit cards, though smaller shops may prefer cash.

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
Spanish is the official language, although English is widely understood in tourist areas.