Average 20 °C / 68 °F highs; 11 °C / 52 °F lows. Some late-month rain.
What to eat in Madrid in October: Seasonal delicacies
October in Madrid means fewer crowds, golden parks, and crisp air ideal for museum-hopping or long walks. Cultural life picks up after summer: from Suma Flamenca to Architecture Week, you’ll find art and music in full swing. Layer up for cool nights and expect mostly sunny days. Don’t miss outdoor terraces before the chill sets in.
1.Madrid’s Day (Oct 12) means closures and a military parade—avoid Paseo de la Castellana that morning.
2.Wear layers: days are warmish, but nights get chilly. A light scarf goes a long way.
3.Reserve Architecture Week tours by mid-September—slots vanish fast for iconic sites.
4.Free museum hours (like Prado’s 6–8 pm slot) fill up; queue by 5:30 to enter.
5.Vermúc is a daytime ritual in Madrid. Try it at noon with olives and a tapa in Chamberí.
6.Segovia day trips: book AVE tickets a few days ahead for best timing.
5.Bring cash for El Rastro and smaller tapas joints; not all accept cards.
6.Autumn sunsets are golden by 7:15 pm—time rooftop visits accordingly.
7.Sunday evenings are quiet—plan for a movie, flamenco show, or early dinner.
8.Madrid Rio and Retiro parks shine in fall—pack a thermos and picnic like a local.
Yes—mild weather, fewer tourists, and rich cultural events make it ideal for sightseeing and festivals.
Layers. Expect warm days and cool nights. Bring a scarf, light jacket, and comfortable shoes.
Some are, with reduced hours. Always check official websites; major museums like Prado often stay open.
Yes. Popular tablao shows and weekend performances sell out fast—reserve early online.
Generally yes, especially in central areas. Use usual precautions and avoid poorly lit streets late.
Yes. Retiro Park, Quinta de los Molinos, and El Capricho display great color mid-October.
Many are. La Latina remains lively on Sunday afternoons, especially during Tapapiés.
If you plan 5+ rides daily, get a Tourist Travel Pass. Otherwise, a 10-trip Metro card is cheaper.
Try it at Malacatín or La Bola. Most restaurants only serve it at lunch and by reservation.
Yes—every Sunday. October mornings are cooler and better for browsing comfortably.
This hearty chickpea stew returns to menus in cool weather. Served in stages: soup first, then meats and veg.
Where to eat: Malacatín, Calle de la Ruda 5
Boletus edulis pops up in fall. Try it grilled, with egg, or folded into risotto. Best in tapas spots focused on seasonal fare.
Where to eat: Mercado de San Miguel
Marzipan-based sweets with pine nuts or candied fruit, tied to All Saints’ Day (Nov 1). Found in bakeries late October.
Where to eat: Pastelería Mallorca, Calle Serrano 6
Roasted chestnuts and creamy chestnut cakes mark October. Try them at cafés or seasonal market stalls.
Where to eat: La Duquesita, Calle de Fernando VI 2
