What to Wear in Madrid

Madrileños dress neatly rather than formally. Jeans are fine almost everywhere, but you'll see few sports shorts or flip-flops in the city outside the height of summer, and people make a small effort to go out in the evening. Aim for smart casual and you'll blend in.

Summer (June to September)

The heat is dry and fierce in the afternoon. Wear light, loose clothes in linen or cotton, a hat and sunglasses, and carry water. Churches, including the cathedral, expect covered shoulders, so a light scarf or shirt helps. Evenings stay warm in July and August, but by late September a thin layer is useful after dark.

Winter (December to February)

Visitors from northern Europe are often caught out. The sun is bright, but the air is cold, the wind off the Guadarrama mountains can bite, and mornings sometimes start below freezing. Bring a proper warm coat, a scarf and gloves. Many older buildings are cold inside, too.

Spring and autumn

The biggest swing is between day and night. A sunny afternoon can feel like summer, then the temperature drops fast after sunset, which at this altitude catches people out. Layers solve it: a T-shirt, a light jumper and a jacket.

Shoes

Old Madrid is cobbled and hilly in places, the walk from the Plaza Mayor down to La Latina is steep, and museum days mean hours on your feet. Bring comfortable shoes that are already worn in. If you're heading to Toledo, which is even steeper, see our day trips guide.

Packing list

• Comfortable walking shoes with some grip for cobbles
• Light, breathable clothes for summer, and a hat
• A warm coat, scarf and gloves from December to February
• A light jacket or jumper for spring and autumn evenings
• Something to cover your shoulders in churches
• One smarter outfit for dinner out
• Sunglasses and sunscreen, all year
• A cross-body bag that closes, for the Metro and the Rastro

For which months bring which weather, see our best time to visit guide.