Madrid: A Region of Contrasts
Discover the urban energy and rural charm of the Community of Madrid, from bustling city life to historic villages
Crossing of streets at Puerta de AlcaláAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
Madrid offers a unique blend of urban energy, rural charm, and a mix of historical and modern architecture. Explore the region's diverse landscapes and rich culture.
Panoramic view of MadridAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
The Community of Madrid has 179 municipalities and two smaller local entities, each with its own unique attractions and characteristics. The imperial and modern capital is complemented by various urban centers and picturesque towns steeped in history and tradition.
Madrid and its neighborhoods
Home to more than three million people, Madrid is a modern, cosmopolitan city that still maintains its traditions and rich historical heritage.
Ventas Metro StationAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
The capital's diversity and dynamism are reflected in its many different neighbourhoods. These range from the historic centre to the modern Malasaña neighbourhood, the upmarket Salamanca neighbourhood, the traditional La Latina neighbourhood and Las Letras, which was once home to important writers and artists.
Urban centres on the outskirts
Beyond the capital, the Community of Madrid boasts numerous urban centers spread throughout its outskirts.
Students at the Universidad Camilo José Cela in Villanueva de la CañadaAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
There are historic sites such as San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Aranjuez and Alcalá de Henares; university cities such as Móstoles and Villanueva de la Cañada; industrial hubs such as Fuenlabrada and Alcobendas; technology parks such as Leganés and Getafe; and innovative cities such as Las Rozas.
Towns and rural areas
Madrid's expansive landscape is completed by a collection of towns and rural areas. These charming places are immersed in nature, where time seems to pass at a different pace and traditions remain intact.
Puebla de la SierraAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
The towns of the Community of Madrid invite you to sample the local cuisine, experience the popular, historically and traditionally significant festivals, and explore the beautiful landscapes that best capture the essence of the region.
Historic villas
The Villas of Madrid are unique destinations, renowned for their cultural heritage, gastronomic offerings and natural beauty. These eleven municipalities, each with fewer than 20,000 inhabitants, preserve their historical heritage and boast extensive tourist infrastructure.
Buitrago del LozoyaAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
Do you know them? The eleven municipalities known as the Villas of Madrid are Manzanares El Real, Patones, San Martín de Valdeiglesias, Torrelaguna, Villarejo de Salvanés, Buitrago del Lozoya, Chinchón, Colmenar de Oreja, Navalcarnero, Nuevo Baztán, and Rascafría.
This content has been created in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sport of the Community of Madrid.
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.