Practical Tips for Moving to Madrid: What Every Expat Should Know

Relocating to Madrid can be an exciting adventure — Spain’s capital offers vibrant culture, excellent food, and a warm community. But like any move abroad, there are practical things to keep in mind to make the transition smoother. Here are some key areas expatriates should consider when settling in Madrid and Spain.

Language: Spanish First, English Sometimes

While English is increasingly common in Madrid, especially among younger people and in international companies, Spanish remains essential for daily life.

• Learn the basics early: A few phrases can go a long way in shops, banks, or the doctor’s office.

• Castilian Spanish (Castellano): Be aware that Spanish in Spain differs slightly from Latin American Spanish (e.g., pronunciation of c and z as a "th" sound).

• Bureaucracy is in Spanish: Expect official documents, healthcare forms, and government websites to be in Spanish only.

Food & Lifestyle: A Culture Around the Table

Madrid is a food lover’s paradise, but the schedule takes some getting used to.

• Meal times are later: Lunch is usually around 2–3 p.m., and dinner rarely before 9 p.m.

• The “Menu del Día”: A great-value fixed-price lunch offered in many restaurants during weekdays.

• Grocery shopping: Supermarkets are modern, but locals also shop in traditional markets for fresh produce.

• Embrace tapas culture: Sharing small plates is not just about food — it’s about social connection.

Healthcare & Doctors: A Trusted System

Spain’s healthcare system is excellent but navigating it as an expat requires preparation.

• Public vs. private: Spain has a strong public system (Seguridad Social), but many expats also choose private health insurance for faster appointments and English-speaking doctors.

• Choosing a doctor: In the public system, you’ll be assigned a GP (médico de cabecera). Private clinics allow more flexibility.

• Pharmacies: Pharmacists are very knowledgeable and often provide advice for minor health issues.

Culture & Daily Life: Embrace the Rhythm

Spanish culture is warm, social, and family-oriented, but some differences stand out.

• Punctuality: Social gatherings are more flexible with time, though professional meetings are stricter.

• Public holidays: Spain has many, and life slows down dramatically on these days.

• Siesta?: While not as common in big cities, smaller businesses may close mid-afternoon.

• Social life outdoors: Terraces, plazas, and parks are central to Madrid’s lifestyle.

Working Relations: Professional, But Personable

The Spanish workplace has its own unique dynamics.

• Hierarchy matters: Respect for seniority is important, though relationships tend to be warm and less formal than in some countries.

• Networking is social: Building trust often happens over coffee, meals, or after-work drinks (cañas).

• Work-life balance: Spaniards value time off and long holidays in August. Be prepared for offices to feel quieter in summer.

• Communication style: Meetings may include digressions, but decisions are ultimately centralized with leadership.

Moving with Pets: Make It Smooth for Your Furry Friends

Madrid is a pet-friendly city, but relocating with animals requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition.

• Documentation: Pets traveling to Spain need a microchip, up-to-date vaccination records, and, if arriving from abroad, an EU pet passport. Make sure all paperwork is completed well in advance.

• Transport: Airlines have specific rules for pets. Small animals may be allowed in the cabin, while larger ones typically travel in the cargo hold — unless you travel with Air Italia, which has slightly more flexible options for in-cabin pets. Always check the airline’s requirements before booking.

• Housing: Not all apartments in Madrid accept pets. Always confirm pet policies with your landlord or rental agency before signing a lease.

• Daily Life & Outdoors: Madrid offers plenty of dog-friendly parks, professional dog-walking services, and nearby natural escapes. The Sierra de Madrid is just a short drive away, offering scenic walking paths, forests, and lakes — perfect for pets to explore and exercise. Keep in mind that summers can get extremely hot, so provide pets with shade, fresh water, and avoid walking them during peak heat hours.

Madrid offers expats an enriching blend of tradition and modernity. By embracing the language, adapting to the food culture, preparing for healthcare, understanding local customs, navigating working relations, and planning ahead for pets, you’ll find yourself not just living in Madrid — but truly belonging.