A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Madrid vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Music, and Nightlife

Should you visit Madrid or Washington?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Madrid and Washington can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Madrid

Madrid is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Madrid and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Madrid or Washington?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Washington than Madrid. While Madrid is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Madrid is known for its music, shopping, and big city activities. Madrid is popular for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Madrid different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington and Madrid. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Madrid or Washington?

Washington is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Madrid or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for theatre. However, Madrid is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Madrid is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Madrid or Washington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Madrid and Washington.

Many restaurants in Madrid have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Madrid and Washington.

The nightlife in Madrid has something for everybody. 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.

Washington offers plenty to do in the evening. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Music?

Madrid is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

Madrid is known as a music capital 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.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Madrid is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Madrid is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Madrid or Washington?

Madrid is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Madrid. 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Madrid does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Washington. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Madrid does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Families?

Both Madrid and Washington are superb to visit with kids.

Madrid is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Couples?

Both Madrid and Washington are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Madrid is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Madrid is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Students?

For students, both Madrid and Washington are amazing places to visit.

Madrid is a very popular city for students. 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Is Madrid or Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Madrid and Washington both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

Madrid has a great public transit system. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Is Madrid or Washington a more walkable city?

Madrid and Washington are amazing when it comes to 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.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Madrid Worth Visiting? and Is Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Madrid?

How long in Madrid or Washington?

Both Madrid and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Madrid. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Madrid, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Madrid. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Washington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Washington than Madrid. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Washington that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than Washington 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.

One day in Madrid or Washington?

When visiting Madrid, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Washington. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Madrid or Washington?

When visiting Madrid, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Washington is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Madrid or Washington?

Madrid, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Madrid or Washington?

Madrid is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the diverse big city of Washington. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Madrid and Washington, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Madrid much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Madrid is in Europe and Washington is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Madrid would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Madrid and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington than you might in Madrid.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Madrid Expensive? and Is Washington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Madrid or Washington?

Madrid has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Madrid and Washington, 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.