What Is the Capital of Spain?
Short answer: Madrid is the capital of Spain. Below is an evergreen, fact-checked guide with history, districts, top landmarks, a 7-day itinerary, practical costs, safety, day trips, and a concise FAQ. External references point to reliable sources (Ayuntamiento de Madrid, INE, UNESCO, official museums) and open in a new tab.
Why Trust This Guide
- Primary data from the City of Madrid and Spain’s statistical office INE.
- Heritage facts checked against UNESCO and official museums (Prado, Reina Sofía, Thyssen).
- Practical sections based on current transport/tourism pages (esmadrid.com).
Madrid at a Glance
Madrid sits in central Spain at 40°25′N 3°42′W. City population ≈ 3.3M (metro ≈ 6.7M). Area: ~604 km². Altitude: ~667 m (one of Europe’s highest capitals). Administrative map: 21 districts subdivided into 131 neighborhoods. Main industries: public administration, finance, tech, tourism, creative sectors. Sources: INE, Madrid.es.
From Fortress to Capital: A Brief History
Mayrit to Madrid (9th–15th centuries)
Founded as Mayrit (Arabic “place of water”) by Emir Muhammad I in the 9th century as a hilltop alcázar guarding the Manzanares River. Christian forces took the site in 1083 under Alfonso VI.
The Habsburg Decision (16th–17th centuries)
In 1561 Philip II moved the royal court from Toledo to Madrid—central location, no competing powerful bishopric, and good overland connections. The move triggered the city’s “Austrian Madrid” growth (Plaza Mayor, Casa de la Villa).
Bourbon Modernization (18th–19th centuries)
Charles III created boulevards, parks, and institutions. The 19th century saw railways, the Prado’s consolidation, and urban expansion.
20th Century to Today
Post-1975 democratic transition turned Madrid into an open, creative metropolis. Ongoing projects focus on greener mobility and cultural tourism. See official city portal.
Districts Overview
| District | Highlights | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Gran Vía | Bustling, historic |
| Retiro | El Retiro Park, Crystal Palace, Prado nearby | Green, museum belt |
| Salamanca | Serrano luxury shopping | Upscale |
| Chamberí | Sorolla Museum, classic cafés | Residential, elegant |
| Malasaña | Nightlife, street art | Alternative, youthful |
| La Latina | Tapas lanes, El Rastro market (Sun.) | Traditional |
| Arganzuela | Matadero cultural center, Madrid Río | Creative riverside |
Top Landmarks (Editor’s Picks)
- Royal Palace – ceremonial residence with 3,418 rooms.
- Prado Museum – Velázquez, Goya, Bosch; advance tickets recommended.
- El Retiro Park – 125 ha of gardens and a photogenic Crystal Palace.
- Reina Sofía – Picasso’s Guernica and Spanish modern art.
- Thyssen-Bornemisza – bridges medieval to modern masters.
7-Day Madrid Itinerary (Compact)
Day 2: Royal Palace & Almudena → sunset at Debod Temple.
Day 3: Prado → Retiro boating → Literary Quarter.
Day 4: Thyssen → Reina Sofía → Atocha tropical hall.
Day 5: Salamanca shopping → gourmet food halls.
Day 6: Day trip to Toledo or Segovia.
Day 7: Malasaña & Chueca nightlife or Bernabéu tour.
Practical Madrid (Prices are ballparks)
- Airport to center: Metro + supplement ≈ €5–€6; MetroMadrid.
- Transport: 10-trip “Metrobús” €12.20; Tourist Travel Pass from €8.40/day.
- Museums: Prado €15; Reina Sofía €12 (free late slots—check official sites).
- Food: Menu del día €12–€16; churros at San Ginés.
- Stay: Decent central hotel/apt ~€80–€140 per night off-peak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping advance tickets for the Royal Palace or Prado on busy weekends.
- Underestimating summer heat; consider spring or fall for comfort.
- Eating on Gran Vía only—venture to La Latina or Lavapiés for value.
- Not validating tourist transport passes correctly.
FAQ
Why is Madrid the capital?
Philip II centralized the court in 1561 for geographic neutrality and logistics. The choice stuck and institutions grew around it.
Is Madrid safe?
Yes—violent crime is low. Watch for pickpockets in Sol, Gran Vía, and on crowded Metro lines.
Best time to visit?
April–June and September–October. Winters are crisp and largely dry; summers can be hot.
What day trips are easiest?
Toledo (30–35 min AVE bus/train), Segovia (27 min AVE), El Escorial.
