Madrid is the capital and largest city in Spain, and proudly holds its place among Europe’s and the World’s great cities. A hub of culture, energy and elegance, Madrid city breaks are the perfect mix of history, art, food and lively nightlife.
Madrileños embrace life with passion – from late-night tapas and flamenco to high-end shopping and football at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid. With a legendary food scene and lively nightlife, it’s no surprise Madrid Holidays from Ireland are always in demand.
Visit the Royal palace:
Step inside Spain’s grand royal residence, with lavish rooms, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens. It’s a highlight of Madrid’s rich history.
Tour the Prado Museum:
Discover one of the world’s finest art galleries, featuring masterpieces by Goya, Veláquez, Titan and more – a must for any art lover.
Admire Picasso’s Guernica:
Head to the Reina Sofía Museum to visit Picasso’s most famous work and explore Spain’s incredible modern art scene.
Relax in Retiro Park:
Madrid’s central park is perfect for a stroll, rowing on the lake, or enjoying a picnic under the trees – a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Catch a game at Santiago Bernabéu:
Feel the energy of a Real Madrid match or take a behind-the-scenes tour of one of football’s most iconic stadiums.
Snap photos at Plaza Mayor:
This grand historic square is lined with arcades, restaurants and centuries of stories – perfect for people-watching and pictures.
Go on a Tapas Crawl:
Discover small bites packed with flavour in lively bars across the city.
Try Spanish Favourites:
Enjoy traditional dishes like croquetas, paella, and jamón ibérico.
Sip and Savour at Local Markets:
Head to Mercado de San Miguel or Antón Martín for great food and atmosphere.
Indulge in Sweet Treats:
Don’t miss churros dipped in chocolate – a Madrid must.
Dine in Style:
From Michelin-starred restaurants to rustic tavernas, Madrid serves it all.
Car Rental:
A car is a fantastic way to explore Madrid and its surrounding area at your own pace. At Flyshannon, we’ve partnered with Cartrawler to provide Affordable and Reliable Car Hire.
Walk the City with Ease:
Madrid's city centre is compact with and very walkable, making it easy to explore on foot and discover hidden gems along the way.
Use the Madrid Metro:
One of Europe's best metro systems with 12 lines connecting key areas like Sol, Gran Via, Retiro and the airport. It's fast, safe and affordable.
Hop on Local Buses:
Madrid's bus network is extensive and runs late, with many 24 hour routes for easy access to attractions and neighbourhoods.
Taxis:
Licensed taxis are available citywide and are reasonably priced. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt also operate in Madrid.
When is the best time to go on a Madrid Holiday?
Spring (April – June) and Autumn (September – October) are ideal for sightseeing with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is hot and lively, while winter offers festive charm and great value.
Are there direct flights to Madrid from Ireland?
Yes, there are direct flights to Madrid from Dublin, Cork and Shannon with several airlines. Flight times range from 2.5 – 3 hours.
What’s included in a Flyshannon Madrid holiday package?
FlyShannon’s Madrid Holiday packages include flights, central hotel accommodation and ATOL protection. Many packages offer low deposits and flexible payment options.
Is Madrid a Walkable City?
Yes, Madrid is very walkable. Most attractions are located within a compact area, and the city also has a reliable metro system for getting around quickly.
How Long Should I Stay in Madrid?
A 3-4 night stay is perfect for a city break, giving you enough time to explore major sights, enjoy local food, and take in the city’s atmosphere.