Is Madrid the Third Largest City in Europe?

By Michael Ferguson

Madrid is a beautiful city in Spain, known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. However, there is often confusion surrounding whether or not Madrid is the third largest city in Europe. In this article, we will explore the facts and figures surrounding Madrid’s population and its place in Europe’s cities.

What are the Largest Cities in Europe?

Before we delve into whether Madrid is the third largest city in Europe or not, let’s take a look at the top ten largest cities on the continent. According to data from Eurostat, as of 2021, the top ten largest cities in Europe are:

  1. Moscow
  2. Istanbul
  3. London
  4. St. Petersburg
  5. Berlin
  6. Madrid
  7. Rome
  8. Kiev
  9. Paris
  10. Bucharest

As we can see from this list, Madrid does indeed feature as the sixth largest city in Europe.

Is Madrid Really the Third Largest City in Europe?

There are some sources that claim that Madrid is actually the third-largest city on the continent. However, this is not entirely accurate.

It’s important to note that when considering whether a city is “the third largest,” we need to be clear about what metric we’re using to measure size. For example, if we’re measuring population size within city limits only, then Madrid ranks sixth as shown above.

However, some sources may include metropolitan areas or urban agglomerations when measuring a city’s size. In this case, Madrid would move up to third place behind Istanbul and Moscow.

What is an Urban Agglomeration?

An urban agglomeration refers to the contiguous geographic area that comprises a city and its surrounding suburbs, towns, and villages. This includes areas that are not technically within the city limits but are still densely populated and economically integrated with the city.

When measuring a city’s size, using its urban agglomeration can provide a more accurate representation of its true size and influence.

Conclusion

So, is Madrid the third largest city in Europe? The answer depends on how we measure size.

If we’re looking at population size within city limits only, then Madrid ranks sixth. However, if we include its urban agglomeration, then it moves up to third place behind Istanbul and Moscow.

Regardless of where it ranks in terms of size, Madrid remains an incredible destination for travelers seeking culture, history, and adventure. Its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant nightlife make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Europe.