Moving abroad to work or study can feel like a daunting prospect, but there’s no better place to do it than Madrid. Right in the heart of Spain, Madrid is the perfect place to settle if you want to fully immerse yourself in Spanish culture, food and, of course, the language.
Madrid is a city that blends the modern and the historic. It’s a thriving metropolis that attracts people from all over the world, yet it has kept its rich culture and classic grandeur. Its museums and galleries sit side by side with lively cafés, Michelin-starred restaurants and a buzzing nightlife.
Here are five reasons why moving to Madrid, or studying in Madrid, could be the best decision you ever make:
1. Culture
Spaniards are proud of their long, deep-rooted history and culture, whether they’re talking about art, literature or traditions. Madrid is one of Europe’s great cultural capitals, with an endless list of things to see and do.
- Architecture: on one of Madrid’s most famous sunset viewpoints stands a genuine ancient Egyptian temple. The Templo de Debod, built in the 2nd century BC, was given to Spain by Egypt in 1968 and rebuilt in Madrid stone by stone. From the hill where it stands you get a panoramic view over central Madrid and the Casa de Campo, the city’s largest park.
- Squares: the two best-known squares are the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol. The Plaza Mayor, in the heart of the historic centre, is one of the most visited spots in the city. It’s known for its symmetry and its sober, elegant style, with nine entrance arches and handsome buildings all around it. The Puerta del Sol is another must-see. It’s home to the famous statue of the bear and the strawberry tree (the symbol of the city), the statue of Carlos III (the king who modernised Madrid) and Kilometre Zero, the plaque that marks the starting point of Spain’s road network.
- Museums: the Prado and the Reina Sofía are two of the most famous art museums in the world, and both offer free entry at certain times every week.
- Royal Palace: Madrid has plenty of places worth visiting, but the Royal Palace is one you really shouldn’t miss. It’s the largest royal palace still in use in Western Europe, with 3,418 rooms and a floor area of 135,000 m². Inside, it’s remarkable for its art collection and the fine materials used to build and decorate its rooms.
- Flea market: El Rastro is the most famous flea market in Spain. Every Sunday and public holiday morning, the streets of La Latina fill with stalls selling second-hand items, vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, books and much more.
2. A fantastic location
Thanks to its central location, Madrid is the perfect base for exploring the rest of the country. Whether you fancy the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona or the charming old town of Seville, you’re only a short train ride or flight away.
Madrid is also ideal for day trips to places such as Toledo, Aranjuez, Alcalá de Henares, Segovia and Cuenca.
3. A great place to study, with a great quality of life
- Wonderful weather: Madrid is one of the sunniest capitals in Europe, with blue skies for most of the year.
- Friendly people: Spaniards are sociable, warm and fun. They’re also known for being generous, and they love a good night out!
- Learn Spanish: living in such a beautiful city is an amazing experience, and learning Spanish will make it even better. Why not take Spanish classes in the centre of Madrid, at a school with experienced native teachers? You’ll be able to chat freely with the locals and feel at home in Spanish culture much sooner. For more information about our Spanish courses, email us at info@inhispania.com.
- Affordable living: the cost of living in Madrid is lower than in many other European capitals, such as London, Paris or Amsterdam.
- Cheap public transport: if you’re under 26, the Abono Joven (youth travel pass) costs just €10 a month and covers the metro, buses and Cercanías trains throughout the Madrid region.
4. The city that never sleeps
- Madrileños really know how to enjoy life. It’s no surprise that the city’s bars and clubs are a key part of its culture, with something going on every night of the week.
- A typical night out in Madrid doesn’t get going until around midnight and often goes on until 5 or 6 in the morning!
- Between work and partying, madrileños make the most of the sunny weather. You’ll find them chatting on one of the city’s countless terrazas (outdoor terraces) over a caña (small beer) or a glass of wine.
5. Tapas
- One of the best things about Madrid is that in many bars your drink comes with a free tapa, a small bite to eat. It’s a tradition that goes back centuries.
- Tapas are so deeply rooted in Spanish culture that there’s even a verb for them: tapear, which means going out with friends for tapas.
- Like so much of Spanish culture, tapas are all about socialising: the meal revolves around sharing good food and good conversation.
- Foodies will love Madrid’s food markets (San Miguel, San Antón, San Ildefonso and La Cebada), where you’ll find everything from huge octopus to the juiciest seasonal fruit.
The only downside of moving to Madrid is that you might never want to leave! Many people fall head over heels for the city: they extend their contracts, visas or studies, or simply get hooked on the culture and the relaxed, easy-going lifestyle. Between the amazing weather, the delicious food and the cheerful, upbeat madrileños, going back to life as it was at home becomes very hard indeed!
