Madrid is one of the most popular destinations in Spain. This city is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture.
However, when it comes to the size of Madrid, there are different opinions. Some people consider Madrid a big city while others think it’s a small one. Let’s explore this topic in detail.
What is the definition of a big city?
Before we decide whether Madrid is a big or small city, it’s important to define what exactly we mean by “big” or “small”. Usually, cities are classified based on population size, land area, or both.
According to the United Nations’ definition, a city with a population of over 10 million is considered a megacity. A large city has a population of over 1 million while a medium-sized city has between 500,000 and 1 million inhabitants. Small cities have less than 500,000 residents.
Madrid’s population
Based on the population criterion mentioned above, Madrid can be classified as a large city. According to the latest estimates from the National Statistics Institute (INE), Madrid has a population of around 6.7 million people in its metropolitan area as of 2021. This includes not only the city proper but also surrounding municipalities that are part of the metropolitan region.
Metro Area Size
In terms of land area, Madrid covers 605 square kilometers (233 square miles) according to World Population Review. While this may seem like a large area at first glance, it’s actually smaller than other major European cities like London (1,572 sq km) and Paris (1,012 sq km).
The Perception
Despite being classified as a large city based on its population size and having an extensive public transportation system that covers all corners of the metropolitan area such as buses and metro, Madrid might feel smaller than it actually is. This is because many of Madrid’s main attractions and landmarks are located in the city center, which can be easily explored on foot or by using the public bikes that are scattered throughout the city.
Conclusion
So, is Madrid a big or small city? Based on population size, Madrid is a large city.
However, when it comes to land area and perception, it might not feel as big as other major cities in Europe. Whatever your perspective may be, there’s no denying that Madrid has plenty to offer for both locals and tourists alike. From its stunning architecture to its world-renowned art museums and delicious cuisine, this city is definitely worth a visit.
- Population: 6.7 million people (2021)
- Land area: 605 sq km (233 sq mi)
- Classification: Large city