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

Should you visit Nottingham or Madrid?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Madrid 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a authentic, dynamic, and livable city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See Nottingham travel costs.

Madrid

Madrid is a cultural, diverse, and compact city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Madrid travel costs.

Nottingham and Madrid: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less active music scene
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 for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Madrid?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Madrid than Nottingham, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Madrid is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also home to The Prado Museum. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine.

How is Nottingham different from Madrid?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Madrid

Both Nottingham and Madrid have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

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 Nottingham or Madrid? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Nottingham or Madrid Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is well known for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Madrid is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Nottingham or Madrid Better for Music?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is very popular for live music. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its live music scene.

Madrid is a world class music destination. 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.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Madrid?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is very popular for shopping. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Madrid is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Is Nottingham or Madrid Better for Families?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Nottingham or Madrid Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Madrid frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.


Is Nottingham or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is well known for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Madrid Better for Students?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is very popular for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.

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

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is very popular for its public transit. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Madrid has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

Public transit in Nottingham can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.


Is Nottingham or Madrid a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Madrid

Madrid is very popular for its walkability. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Madrid on foot is easy. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Madrid or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Madrid?

In either Nottingham or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Madrid than Nottingham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.

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

Couples should spend more time in Madrid than Nottingham. 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 Nottingham 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.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Madrid? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Madrid 2-5

One day in Nottingham or Madrid?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nottingham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Nottingham or Madrid?

Nottingham 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.

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.


Five days in Nottingham or Madrid?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. 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, 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.

A week in Nottingham or Madrid?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Nottingham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Madrid or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Nottingham Prices
    UK Prices
    Madrid Prices
    Spain Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nottingham £143
    Madrid £141

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £143, while the average daily cost in Madrid is £141. 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 Nottingham and Madrid in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Madrid £68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Madrid £136
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Madrid

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham 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.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Madrid


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Madrid Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Madrid £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $296
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $225
  • Private Transfer from Derby to Manchester Airport (MAN): $210
  • East Midlands Airport (EMA) to Loughborough - Round Trip Transfer: $167
  • East Midlands Airport (EMA) to Nottingham - Round-Trip Transfer: $127
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $110
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $87
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough - Arrival Transfer: $84
  • East Midlands Airport(EMA) to Nottingham-Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Transfer: $63

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    £23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid

Also for Madrid, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Madrid Airport MAD Round-Trip Transfer in Private Van: $180
  • Private One-Way Transfer to OR from Madrid Airport with private pick up: $69
  • Alcobendas Private Transfer To Madrid Barajas Airport: $29
  • Arrival Private Transfer Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid City by Van: $82
  • Arrival Private Transfer by Business Car from MAD Airport to Madrid: $61
  • Arrival Transfer from Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City by Van: $90
  • Arrival Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Private Car: $84
  • Arrival Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Private Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer from Madrid MAD Airport to Madrid by Luxury Car: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer from Madrid to MAD Airport by Van: $79
  • Departure Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Luxury Van: $96

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Madrid?

Prices for flights to both Madrid and Nottingham 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £62
    Madrid £52

Typical Food Prices in Madrid

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:


  • Coffee
    £1.75
  • Ice Cream
    £2.62
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    £14
  • Croissant
    £1.31
  • Lunch at Airport (for 2)
    £14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid

For Madrid, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Corral de la Moreria Madrid Flamenco Show with Optional Dinner: $60
  • Local Flamenco Show with dinner at El Cortijo: $60
  • Zarzuela Opera and Dinner at La Castafiore Restaurant in Madrid: $66
  • Madrid Old Town Tour & Flamenco Show with Optional Dinner: $71
  • Chocolate & Churros Cooking Class in Madrid : $72
  • Madrid's Authentic Culture & Food Tour by Food Lover Tour: $78
  • 10 Tapas Cooking Class Experience in Madrid with Sangria: $82
  • Paella and Tapas Cooking Workshop in Madrid: $84
  • Madrid Spanish Omelet Cooking Class and Bottomless Wine brunch: $90
  • Spanish Cooking Class Paella Tapas and Sangria in Madrid: $102
  • Flamenco Show at Tablao La Carmela with Tapas Dinner: $106
  • Madrid Small Group Tapas Tour at 4 Venues -Lunch or Dinner: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Madrid £29

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Little John's Big Tour of Nottingham: $29
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Adventure in Nottingham: $239
  • Abseil Experience - Millersdale Derbyshire Peak District: $48
  • Daily Nottingham City Centre Walking Tour (10:30am): $19
  • Great British Classic Car Driving Experience : $74
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $184
  • Maid Marian and Robin Hood Quest Experience in Nottingham: $7.16
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $323
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $20
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $177
  • City Walking Tour & Exploration Game: $35
  • Private City Walking Tour: $168

Tours and Activities in Madrid

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.

  • Self Guided Walking City Tour in Madrid: $1.18
  • Walking Tour of Madrid Moderno, Madrid de los Bourbons : $1.80
  • Madrid Monumental Tour Retreat, Prado and Cibeles: $2.39
  • Tour "Barrio de las Letras" Spanish Golden Age: $2.87
  • Madrid Walking Tour from Puerta del Sol to Retiro Park: $3.59
  • Madrid Historical Walking Tour: $3.59
  • Self Guided Tours Madrid With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.59
  • Madrid - Medieval to Modern Walking Tour (English): $3.61
  • Madrid Mountains Free Walking Tour: $3.61
  • Madrid Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.85
  • Guided Tour of Madrid of the Austrias and the Historic Center: $4.80
  • Madrid City Highlights Walking Tour: $4.81

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Madrid £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • DropWorks Rum Tour - Largest Premium Rum Distillery in Europe!: $34
  • Revival Rum Distillery Tour: Tasting and Bottle Included: $105
  • Private Half Day Stamford Pub Tour: $158
  • Nottingham Private Historic Pub Tour with Drinks: $218

Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:


  • Beer
    £4.37
  • Drinks and Tapas (for 2)
    £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:

  • Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
  • Madrid Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entrance: $12
  • Pub Crawl Madrid by Mad Party Crew: $20
  • Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $30
  • Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
  • Wine Tasting in Madrid Experience: $55
  • Toledo Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Optional 3 Monuments: $58
  • Madrid Royal Palace Small Group Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $71
  • New Year Eve Madrid Pub Crawl: $83
  • Toledo Full Day with Winery Visit, Tapas & Wine Tasting : $83
  • Spanish Wine Tasting : $90
  • Madrid Ultimate Spanish Cuisine Food & Wine Tour : $95


When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Madrid, we can see that Nottingham 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Madrid?

Madrid has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham 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.