How Much Money Should I Take to Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a trip to Madrid but unsure about how much money you should take with you? It can be tricky to estimate the correct amount of cash you’ll need for your stay, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city’s cost of living. But don’t worry, in this article, we’ll guide you through the process of determining how much money you should take to Madrid.

Consider Your Accommodation

Your accommodation costs will typically be your most significant expense while in Madrid. Depending on your preferences and budget, you could choose from a range of options such as hostels, hotels, Airbnbs or vacation rentals.

Hostels: If you’re traveling on a tight budget, hostels are a great option. Expect to pay around €10-€30 per night per person.

Hotels: Mid-range hotels can cost between €50-€120 per night for two people. Luxury hotels can charge upwards of €200 per night.

Airbnb: Airbnb is popular in Madrid and offers many affordable options at around €50-€100 per night for two people.

Eating and Drinking Out

Madrid is known for its delicious food and drinks, and it’s worth setting some money aside to experience it all! Eating out at local cafes and restaurants can cost anywhere between €10-€25 per person for a meal.

If you’re looking to save money on food while still getting an authentic taste of Madrid, consider visiting local markets like Mercado San Miguel or Mercado de la Cebada. Here, you’ll find an array of local foods like tapas and fresh seafood at reasonable prices.

Alcohol prices vary depending on where you go in Madrid; expect to pay around €3-€5 for a beer or wine at a local bar.

Transportation Costs

Madrid is a large city, and you’ll likely need to use public transportation to get around. The city has an extensive metro system, which is the most cost-effective option. A single metro ride costs €1.50, and a ten-ride ticket costs €12.20.

If you’re planning on using buses or trams, expect to pay around €1.50 for a single trip or €20 for a ten-trip ticket.

Sightseeing Costs

Madrid has many attractions and sightseeing options that are worth visiting, like the Royal Palace of Madrid, Prado Museum, and Retiro Park.

Prices vary depending on the attraction; expect to pay between €10-€20 for entrance fees to museums and galleries.

Other Expenses

It’s always good to have some extra cash on hand for unexpected expenses like souvenirs or emergencies. We recommend setting aside at least €100-€150 as a buffer.

Conclusion

So, how much money should you take to Madrid? Based on our estimates:

Accommodation: Expect to spend between €10-€200 per night. Food & Drink: Budget around €20-€50 per day.

Transportation: Budget around €10-€20 per day. Sightseeing: Expect to spend around €50-€100 for attractions. Other expenses: Set aside at least €100 as a buffer.

Keep in mind that these are rough estimates; your actual expenses may vary depending on your travel style and preferences. By budgeting appropriately before your trip, you’ll ensure that you have enough money to enjoy all that Madrid has to offer!