Which place is cheaper, Madrid or Brisbane?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Brisbane or Madrid?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Madrid can help you decide which place is right for you.
Brisbane
Brisbane is a diverse, cultural, and active coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Madrid
Madrid is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Brisbane and Madrid: Pros and Cons
Brisbane
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good scuba and snorkeling destination
- Popular beach
- Good for hiking
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Less popular for food
- Public transit not as usable
Madrid
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
Is there more to do in Brisbane or Madrid?
You'll generally find more things to do in Madrid than Brisbane. Madrid is bigger than Brisbane, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Madrid is better known for its food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Brisbane is more popular for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Madrid is more touristy than Brisbane and is known for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. Also, Madrid is famous for The Prado Museum. Brisbane is well known for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.
How is Brisbane different from Madrid?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Madrid and Brisbane. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brisbane or Madrid?
Brisbane
Madrid
Brisbane is a great coastal city for its historical sights. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Brisbane. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.
Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
Is the Food Better in Brisbane or Madrid? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Brisbane
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Madrid has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.
Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Nightlife?
Brisbane
Madrid
The vibe at night is superb in both Brisbane and Madrid.
Many people head to Brisbane for the nightlife scene. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.
Madrid has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Music?
Brisbane
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Brisbane is not a live music destination.
Madrid has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.
Brisbane is not a live music destination.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?
Brisbane
Madrid
Brisbane is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Madrid is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Brisbane. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.
Madrid is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Beaches?
Brisbane
Madrid
Brisbane is a great coastal city for its beaches. However, Madrid is not a beach destination.
The beaches at Brisbane attract visitors from all over. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.
Madrid is not a beach destination.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Hiking?
Brisbane
Madrid
Brisbane is a coastal city with good options for hiking. However, Madrid is not a hiking destination.
Plenty of visitors go hiking around Brisbane. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.
Madrid is not a hiking destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Madrid?
Brisbane
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.
Many people travel to Madrid specifically to go shopping. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.
Brisbane is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Families?
Brisbane
Madrid
You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Madrid.
You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.
Madrid is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Couples?
Brisbane
Madrid
Madrid is great for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.
Madrid is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.
Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Brisbane
Madrid
For backpackers, both Brisbane and Madrid are superb places to visit.
Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.
Backpackers come from all over to visit Madrid. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Students?
Brisbane
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for students.
Students come from all over the world to visit Madrid. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.
Brisbane is a great coastal city to visit as a student. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.
Is Brisbane or Madrid Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Brisbane
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.
Public transit in Madrid is top-notch. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.
Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.
Is Brisbane or Madrid a more walkable city?
Brisbane
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.
Madrid is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.
Brisbane is very walkable. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.
For even more information, also check out Is Brisbane Worth Visiting? and Is Madrid Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Madrid or Brisbane?
How long in Brisbane or Madrid?
In either Brisbane or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Madrid than Brisbane because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.
Families should spend more time in Brisbane than Madrid. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Brisbane, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Madrid than Brisbane. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Madrid that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than Brisbane if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Madrid.
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How many days in Brisbane or Madrid? Ideal Length of StayBrisbane 2-3Madrid 2-5
One day in Brisbane or Madrid?
Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Brisbane. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
Madrid is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
A weekend in Brisbane or Madrid?
Brisbane is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Madrid is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Madrid, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.
Five days in Brisbane or Madrid?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brisbane. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Madrid is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Madrid, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
A week in Brisbane or Madrid?
Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Brisbane. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
Madrid is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBrisbane $133Madrid $146
The average daily cost (per person) in Brisbane is $133, while the average daily cost in Madrid is $146. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Brisbane and Madrid in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBrisbane $82Madrid $83
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBrisbane $164Madrid $166
Compare Hotels in Brisbane and Madrid
Looking for a hotel in Brisbane or Madrid? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Brisbane Hotel Prices and Madrid Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Brisbane $18Madrid $20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brisbane
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Brisbane:
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Airtrain to the City$9.91
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Go Card$17
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brisbane
Also for Brisbane, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Theme Park Return Transfer: $529
- Private Transfer between Brisbane/BNE Airport -Gold Coast / OOL Airport(1-11Pax): $297
- NOOSA: Private Transfer to/fro Brisbane Airport (BNE): $254
- Private Transfer to Gold Coast /OOL Airport from Brisbane /BNE Airport (1-7 Pax): $228
- Brisbane Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Brisbane hotels: $208
- Brisbane Airport (BNE): Private Transfer to Brisbane Port: $208
- Brisbane Airport (BNE): Private Transfer to Brisbane hotels: $186
- Airport Transfer: Brisbane Airport BNE to Brisbane in Luxury Car: $145
- Sirromet Winery 3 Course Lunch, Tour, Tastings and Transfers: $132
- Tangalooma Snorkel the Wrecks Day Cruise Transfers: $129
- Private Transfer: Cruise Port to Brisbane Airport BNE or Brisbane City: $123
- Tangalooma Marine Discovery Day Cruise Transfers: $122
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:
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Taxi Ride$28
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid
Also for Madrid, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Segovia: Full-Day Tour with Transfer to and from Madrid: $452
- Private Transfer from Moratalla to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $273
- From Hot Air Balloon over Segovia with Transfer: $264
- Balloon Ride with Transfer Option from Madrid City: $264
- Private Transfer from Bolnuevo to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $254
- Private Transfer from La Manga strip dos Mares to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $237
- Arrival Transfer Madrid Airport MAD to Avila City by Sedan: $229
- Private Transfer from La Manga Club to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $227
- Private Transfer from Corvera Golf Resort to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $218
- Private Transfer from Cieza to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $205
- Private Transfer from El Verger to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $191
- Private Transfer from La Torre Golf to Alicante–Elche (ALC) Airport: $182
Is it cheaper to fly into Brisbane or Madrid?
Prices for flights to both Madrid and Brisbane change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayBrisbane $31Madrid $36
Typical Food Prices in Brisbane
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Brisbane:
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Hamburger Lunch$5.28
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Cup of Coffee$1.98
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Chinese Food Lunch$8.26
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Ice cream$3.63
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Japanese Meal$14
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Smoothie$4.29
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Japanese Soup$7.60
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Coffee & Muffin$4.62
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Morning Mint Tea$2.31
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Veggie Burger & Chips$9.25
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Bread$1.72
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brisbane
For Brisbane, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Vertigo Dinner: Dining on the edge!: $165
Typical Food Prices in Madrid
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:
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Coffee$2.14
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Ice Cream$3.21
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Kebabs (for 2)$17
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Croissant$1.61
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Lunch at Airport (for 2)$17
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid
For Madrid, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Paella and Sangria Workshop with Dinner and Drinks: $43
- Tapas Crawl Food Tour with 6 Tapas and 4 Drinks: $53
- San Miguel Market and Street Food Tour: $53
- Tapas Dinner Party Food Tour with Guide: $53
- Drunken Tapas Food Tour with Dinner in Madrid: $53
- Tipsy Tapas Food Tour with Drinks and Food: $53
- Madrid Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour with Dinner: $53
- Madrid Tapas Dinner Party with Guide: $54
- Traditional Paella & Sangría Workshop & Spanish Dinner in Madrid: $54
- The Authentic Morning Madrid's Food Tour: $59
- Opera and Zarzuela Show and Dinner: $61
- Madrid San Miguel Market and City Center Street Food Tour: $63
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Brisbane $24Madrid $36
Typical Entertainment Prices in Brisbane
For Brisbane, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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Concert Tickets$13
Tours and Activities in Brisbane
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Brisbane.
- 1hr Animal Tour: $43
- 2hr Animal Tour: $73
- 3-Hour Walking Tour in Brisbane: $56
- 45-Minute Behind-the-Tanks Tour on North Stradbroke Island: $32
- 90min Brisbane River Cruise/Tour: $35
- Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass: $85
- All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise Brisbane: $131
- Barefoot Luxury Mount Tamborine Winery Tour from Brisbane: $178
- Bellthorpe Rainforest Private Tour: $132
- Brisbane : Must See Attractions Private Walking Tour: $87
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens Audio Tour FREE Ticket: $15
- Brisbane City Highlights Sightseeing Tour: $116
Tours and Activities in Madrid
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.
- Madrid Photo Tour with Pro Photographer Lifestyle and Portrait: $82
- Madrid Tour and Guided Visit Royal Palace: $76
- Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace Morning Guided Tour: $71
- Skip the Line Guided Tour Royal Palace Madrid: $72
- Toledo with Cathedral from Madrid Full Day Tour: $134
- Ávila & Segovia Day Tour from Madrid: $163
- 1 Hour Private Tuk tuk Tour in Madrid: $98
- 1 hour tour in Madrid in Tuk Tuk through the best of the city: $137
- 1-Hour Private Flamenco Class in Madrid Experience: $45
- 2 Hour Madrid Walking Tour : $4.37
- 2-Hour Tour of the Madrid of Mysteries: $14
- 2-Hour Walking Tour on the History of Islamic Medieval the origins: $38
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBrisbane $51Madrid $21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brisbane
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Brisbane:
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Evening at the Bar$9.91
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Sixpack of Beer$9.25
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Guiness Beer$5.61
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Sixpack of Beer$8.58
Sample the Local Flavors in Brisbane
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Brisbane:
- XXXX Brewery Tour: $24
- XXXX Beer Brewery Tour & Beer Tasting: $24
- City Winery Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $50
- Artisinal Wine Tasting and Local 2-Course Meal: $50
- River Cruise Brewery Tour with Drinks: $65
- Wine tasting tour to Tamborine Mountain: $104
- Half Day Gold Coast Brewery Tour: $107
- Tamborine Wine & Distillery Tour + 2 Course Lunch: $126
- Brisbane Brewery Full Day Tour with Lunch: $131
- Mount Tamborine Wine Tasting Tour from Brisbane or the Gold Coast: $132
- From Mount Tamborine Wine Tour with Gourmet Lunch: $132
- Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour: $134
Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:
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Beer$5.36
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Drinks and Tapas (for 2)$14
Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:
- Pub Crawl with Tapas and VIP Club Entry: $9.69
- Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
- Pub crawl & Party Tour Madrid: $14
- Guided Pub Crawl Madrid Experience and Club Entry: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid Running since 2005 Bar Exploration: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid: $19
- Wine Tasting near Plaza Mayor: $22
- Wine Tasting Experience with 4 Spanish Wines: $26
- Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
- Wine Tasting Experience: $50
- Wine Tasting in Madrid Experience: $50
When comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Madrid, we can see that Madrid is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Brisbane is in Pacific and Madrid is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Brisbane Expensive? and Is Madrid Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Madrid?
Madrid has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Brisbane. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane and Madrid, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.