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| TIPS AND PRACTICAL ADVICE |
 Security:
Madrid is like any other large cosmopolitan city. There are all sorts of people and places. If you don't want to find yourself in an unfortunate situation, keep close track of your wallet, don't take all your money with you and be on the lookout especially when you are in places frequented by tourists, where there tend to be more thefts and purse-snatchings (Pza. España, Puerta de Sol, etc.). If you are unfortunate enough to have a mishap, ask for help immediately; people from Madrid are known to be helpful and kind.
VAT refunds:
If you reside outside the European Union, you can get the VAT of your purchases in Spain refunded to you as long as you have spent more than 90.15 Euros. Ask Spanish Customs about this upon your arrival in Spain.
Public transportation: Madrid has many different means of high quality public transportation with extensive service routes. Use public transportation as much as you can. You and your pocketbook will appreciate it. For long trips inside the city the Metro is your best bet. If you are not traveling during rush hour a scenic bus ride may be recommendable. If you want to visit the outlying areas of greater Madrid, be sure to try the fast, comfortable commuter trains known as “Cercanías”.
Opening hours:
Lots of businesses and shops have extensive opening hours. Many shopping malls and department stores open from 9 am to 10 pm, (give or take an hour and a half). Smaller shops usually open from 10 am to 2 pm, and 5 pm to 8:30 pm. Many shops open the first Sunday of each month.
Tourist information:
The City of Madrid has many different tourist information offices located throughout the city. Be sure to use them; they will be of great assistance to you. And of course, they are free of charge. Locations include: Plaza Mayor 3, Barajas airport and Atocha railway station.
Touristic information office : 91 588 16 36.
E-mail: turismo@madrid.org |
