Meals: late and in two services
Lunch between 2pm and 4pm, dinner from 9pm; many kitchens close between the two. The menú del día is the weekday lunch deal. Full details in our guide to meal times in Madrid and in where to eat in Madrid.
Alcohol in the street
Drinking in the street is banned in the Community of Madrid, except on terraces and at authorised festivals. See drinking alcohol in the street in Madrid and, for evenings out, Madrid at night.
Tap water
It is safe and monitored, and bars must serve it free of charge. Details and fountains in our guide to tap water in Madrid.
Sundays and public holidays
Shops are free to open, El Rastro runs on Sundays and museums offer free hours. See what is open on Sundays in Madrid.
Money and tipping
Cards are accepted almost everywhere and tipping is not compulsory. See money, payments and tipping in Madrid.
Safety, scams and health
Keep your belongings in a zipped pocket on the metro and at Puerta del Sol: see scams to avoid in Madrid. The 112 number answers day and night; hospitals and pharmacies are in health and emergencies in Madrid.
Getting around
Tickets, contactless payment and times are in our transport in Madrid guide.
Summary table
| Topic | Key point | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Meals | Lunch 2pm-4pm, dinner from 9pm | Meal times |
| Alcohol | Banned in the street except on terraces | Alcohol in the street |
| Water | Safe tap water, free fountains | Tap water |
| Sunday | Shops free to open, El Rastro 9am-3pm | Sundays |
| Tipping | Optional | Money and tipping |
Information checked in October 2026.
Further reading
To plan your trip, see Madrid in 3 days and the Madrid travel budget.
