Introduction

Moving to Madrid an expat guide is a brilliant resource to find out about this vibrant city. When you decide to become an expat, you’re embarking on a truly awesome adventure.

A history of adventure

At the beginning of the seventeenth century we Brits began colonizing America. In the eighteenth century we landed in Australia and ran screaming from the scary wildlife. By the early nineteenth century we were sipping Darjeeling tea in India. The anticipation for a new life in an exotic place must have been palpable for our forebears. They packed up their belongings and braced themselves for a long voyage out at sea to a strange, new world.

Europe is only a Stone’s throw away

Luckily, in modern times, we don’t have to endure months long expeditions to move to another country. Europe is now only a stone’s throw away. Even though we are now no longer a full member of the European Union, Spain offers much more than many other European countries. And the city centre of Madrid is one place you will find fascinating and very rewarding to visit, as the local culture is very metropolitan.

We have you covered

Unlike our ancestors, you don’t have to worry about how you’ll get everything abroad, because Indalo Transport have that covered. We specialize in removals from UK to Spain, especially moving to Madrid. This reassures you that your belongings are safe, sound and fully insured.  The team genuinely love helping expats move to Spain.

In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the various aspects of moving to Madrid, including its iconic city center, reliable public transport services, renowned attractions, diverse housing options, and the vibrant expat community. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or simply a change of scenery, Madrid has everything you need to make it your new home. Join us as we explore the enchanting allure of Spain’s capital city!

Moving to Madrid – a Vibrant Environment

Madrid: The Capital City of Spain

Embarking on a journey to Madrid, the Spanish capital, is a thrilling prospect for individuals seeking a vibrant and culturally rich environment. As one of Europe’s major cities, Madrid offers an extraordinary blend of historical significance, a bustling city center, and countless opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Madrid is the capital city of Spain and it’s also the largest city of the country, with nearly 3.2 million inhabitants. It is an elegant city, filled with beautiful boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. Additionally, there are fashionable shopping areas, historical quarters and rich repositories of European art.

‍Culture

Moving to Madrid presents an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a city teeming with captivating attractions and a vibrant cultural scene.

The Royal Palace, a stunning architectural masterpiece and the official residence of the Spanish monarchs, offers a glimpse into the city’s regal history. Museo del Prado, renowned for its extensive art collection, and the Reina Sofia Museum, home to masterpieces such as Picasso’s “Guernica,” captivate art enthusiasts from around the globe.

There is also the Temple of Debod, the Almundena Cathedral and the national archaeological museum. Sportwise, as well as the Bernabeu stadium, home to Real Madrid. This isn’t the only footbal team in the city, as there is also Atlético Madrid, just as famous.

Shopping

For shopping you have the popular El Rastro market. Nature enthusiasts will relish Madrid’s abundant green spaces, including the iconic Retiro Park and Casa de Campo. These sprawling oases provide tranquil retreats from the bustling city streets and serve as perfect venues for outdoor activities, picnics, and leisurely strolls. Moreover, there are botanical gardens, a zoo, an aquarium and a plethora of art and history museums.

Madrid is an international commercial hub and political capital that still has deep Spanish roots. Expats needn’t worry about the pressures of a high-speed lifestyle that they may have experienced in the big cities of the UK.

This city is the place to go if you’re looking to further your career with an excellent quality of life.

Madrid City Centre

Madrid’s city center, often referred to as the “barrio de las letras,” captures the essence of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. This historical district boasts narrow streets, picturesque plazas, and charming cafes where you can indulge in delectable tapas. There are many green spaces too.

The vibrant nightlife scene in Madrid’s city center offers an array of Michelin-star restaurants, trendy clubs, and traditional taverns, ensuring an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike. And you can also find word class tapas bars, that staple of Spain gastronomy. Local cuisine, both for a spanish citizen or an expat, will give you a truly world class dining experience.

Public Transport

One of the remarkable features of living in Madrid is its exceptional public transport system. The Madrid Metro, one of the largest underground networks in the world, seamlessly connects the city center to its suburban areas, making it convenient to explore the entire city.

Madrid public transport services can be made better by obtaining a personal public transport card. This allows you to navigate the comprehensive network effortlessly and access Madrid’s numerous attractions.

For expats with children, Madrid boasts a range of schools that provide exceptional education and cater to diverse communities. You will be able to find an international school quite easily. They ensure a smooth transition for families moving to Madrid and offer a nurturing environment for children to thrive academically and socially.

Employment in Madrid

Madrid presents a plethora of employment opportunities across various industries, from the city centre out to the various suburbs, including the service industry, finance, education, and more. Living in Madrid, English speakers can find rewarding positions teaching English or working in multinational companies that value language skills.

Multinationals

While Madrid’s city centre experienced the full impact of the global financial crisis, it has successfully rebounded and offers a promising job market for both locals and expats alike. Madrid plays host to an array of large multinational corporations with direct foreign investment. The average salary in Madrid is generally inferior to other major European cities. However, the cost of food, eating out and drinking is also significantly lower than it would be elsewhere.

Real Estate in Madrid

A typical Spanish apartment block

Finding a suitable home in this Spanish Capital is an exciting part of the relocation process. The city offers a variety of housing options, from a cozy one bedroom apartment in Madrid’s city center to a spacious three bedroom apartment in more suburban areas. Madrid’s cost of living is generally affordable compared to other major European cities, making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking a high quality of life without incurring exorbitant expenses.

The process of buying and renting is different from the UK., your home country. The main thing to do is research the area you would like to live, as prices and quality can vary dramatically. The city centre is very expensive in comparison to the suburbs.

Negotiation

Negotiation is key to making a deal quickly and efficiently with estate agents in Spain. If you can demonstrate that you have a strong understanding of the local market, you shouldn’t get stung on the deal.

Once you’re settled however, you’ll find that Madrid is a melting pot of cultures. Nearly a fifth the inhabitants of Madrid have immigrated from abroad. There are also an impressive number of international schools with a bilingual or full English curriculum.

Healthcare & Lifestyle in Madrid

Healthcare

In terms of healthcare, Madrid provides access to excellent medical care, It’s public healthcare system, highly regarded for its quality, ensures that residents receive comprehensive healthcare services. Private options are also available for many expats seeking additional medical facilities or expedited services.

The city’s healthcare system really is considered to be one of the best in Europe. Visit the local town hall once you are living in Madrid to make sure you are on the ‘padron list’ and have access to free healthcare if you qualify.

The coast is far far away

The only downside of living in Madrid is that it is not a coastal city, like Barcelona or Valencia. Therefore you won’t be able to chill out at the seaside, unless you travel nearly two hours by train to the East coast. As Madrid is quite high up, winters are cold compared to other parts of the country.

The summers in Madrid can also get very hot. During July and August the temperature will rarely drop below 30 degrees. Even in winter, Madrid has about three times more sun than in the Northern half of Europe.

Indalo Transport : Your Reliable Removals Company

Preparing for your move to Madrid from the UK

When you’ve gone through all your belongings and worked out what to take with you to Madrid, contact several removals companies for quotes. After you’ve got your quotes, do a little background research into the firms you’ve contacted. Make sure to check out their customer reviews to see if they’re really as good as they say they are.

Check to see if the company is fully insured and that they understand the new rules brought about by Brexit. This includes the need to complete customs clearance for your removal prior to arrival in Spain. have a look in to whether they offer a packing service if that is something you want. Once you’ve decided, book with your chosen removals company as soon as possible, to make sure they can collect the removal when you need.

Maybe we’ll be your first choice of getting your things safely to Spain from the UK. We have been helping clients just you since 2013.

We also take care of full customs management for you, and we make sure you get Transfer of Residence relief if you qualify for a tax free import into Spain. Contact the Spanish consulate in the first instance, if you’re thinking of a move to Madrid. They will be able to help with your plans on living in Madrid.

The Free Essential European Removal Guide.

When you’re sure you will be moving to Madrid, download our free Essential European Removal Guide. This will make sure you don’t miss anything important before you leave. It covers all the steps you’ll need to carry out before your move to Madrid.

If you want to know what our lovely clients think of us, read our reviews and testimonials here

Enriching Experience

Moving to Madrid promises an expat life filled with enriching experiences, endless cultural discoveries, and unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth. With its captivating blend of history, diverse cuisine, efficient public transport system, Madrid stands as one of Europe’s finest capitals. So, if you’re considering a move to Spain’s enchanting capital city, seize the chance to embark on a remarkable journey that will undoubtedly redefine your life. Start planning your Madrid moving today and embrace the splendor that awaits you! 

The Best Madrid Removals Company

If you’re planning a move to Madrid, choosing the right removals company is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free relocation. Indalo Transport is the ideal partner for your move to Spain’s captivating capital city. With our expertise and dedication, we will handle your possesions with the utmost care they deserve, and deliver everything safely to your new home in Madrid. Our team of experienced professionals

understands the intricacies of international removals, offering a professional removals services tailored to meet your specific needs. From packing and transportation to customs clearance and delivery, Indalo Transport takes care of every aspect of your move, leaving you free to focus on the excitement of starting a new chapter in Madrid. Trust in our reliability, efficiency, and commitment to your complete customer satisfaction. Let us turn your Madrid moving experience into a stress-free and seamless journey.

Conclusion of Moving to Madrid an expat guide

As you prepare to embark on your journey to Madrid, you are on the verge of an enchanting adventure. Madrid offers an exquisite blend of historical significance, thriving city life, and countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. From its captivating cultural attractions, Michelin-star restaurants, and charming city center to its efficient public transport system and excellent healthcare, Madrid stands tall among Europe’s finest capitals.

With the support of Indalo Transport, your reliable partner in international removals, you can rest assured that your belongings will be handled with utmost care and delivered safely to your new home in Madrid. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to ensuring a stress-free move, allowing you to focus on the excitement of starting a new chapter in this enchanting city.

So, seize this chance to enrich your life and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a charming café in the city center or basking in the warm Spanish sun, your new life in Madrid awaits. Welcome to this vibrant city that will undoubtedly captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more.

With Indalo Transport by your side when you are moving to Madrid, the transition to your new home will be smooth. As you begin this chapter of your life, we wish you success, happiness, and many enriching experiences in this captivating city. Welcome to Madrid – a city where dreams come alive, and adventures never cease!

Now you can sit back, relax and start enjoying your wonderful new life

Ahh, soaking up the rays in one of sunny Madrid’s city centre tapas bars, bliss!