MADRID´S TOURISM NEWS (From Madrid to the world)

 

May 2026 F1® Arcade: immersive entertainment and dining on Paseo de la Castellana The capital has gained a year-round home for Formula 1 thrills. This immersive entertainment concept combines racing simulators with other experiences inspired by the sport. More than 65 of these state-of-the-art machines form the centrepiece of the venue, complemented by a menu designed for sharing. [+] Quinta de los Molinos Park celebrates its first hundred years This urban garden in the San Blas-Canillejas district, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC) in 2025, now marks 100 years since its creation. Its almond trees in bloom are among Madrid’s most spectacular natural sights. Running until 17 May, an exhibition at the site’s Casa del Reloj traces the history of this agricultural estate turned public park. [+] Los Gabrieles reopens: a legendary tavern in the Literary Quarter Dubbed the “Sistine Chapel of Andalusian tiles”, this historic taberna has been brought back to life after two decades. Its celebrated ceramic collection has been restored and expanded with new contemporary pieces. The tavern’s various spaces offer traditional recipes from Madrid and Andalusia, alongside a selection of Spanish and international wines and live music. [+] The capital showcases its gastronomic wealth with the map Madrid: Good Enough to Eat The city’s Tourism Division and the Madrid Academy of Gastronomy have produced this bilingual guide, uncovering the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the capital’s districts through a selection of 15 must-visit eateries. The new map highlights one of Madrid’s greatest draws and encourages visitors to explore beyond the city centre. [+] Madrid Film Office reveals the impact of feature film and series production in the capital The audiovisual office of Madrid City Council’s Tourism Division has commissioned a study analysing the sector’s footprint. Research shows that the 173 feature films and 242 series shot in Madrid between 2021 and 2024 generated a total production impact of over €1.54 billion for the city. [+] Madrid Convention Bureau holds its general assembly and unveils its 2026 action plan The municipal department for meetings tourism will step up promotion of the capital in established markets such as the United States, Europe and Latin America through a 22.5% increase in its budget. Its focus will be on attracting events that deliver economic value, knowledge and prestige, whilst promoting the legacy and positive impact of conferences. [+] Madrid raises its profile at two Virtuoso forums in the Asian market As part of its strategy to position the capital as a preferred destination for high-impact international visitors, the Tourism Division took part in two events organised by the luxury travel agency network in Indonesia this April: the Virtuoso Greater China Forum and the Virtuoso Northeast & Southeast Asia Forum. [+] San Isidro festivities This year, the celebrations honouring Madrid’s patron saint invite everyone to don traditional chulapo and chulapa garb and experience the festival through its culture and heritage. Running until 17 May, the programme features plenty of music, with major acts taking to the stages at Plaza Mayor, Las Vistillas Gardens, San Isidro Park and Matadero Madrid, plus food, crafts and fashion events. [+] Madrid Book Fair The iconic book fair returns to El Retiro Park from 29 May to 14 June. For its 85th edition, the event takes humour as its central theme, championing reading and laughter as two forms of resistance. An essential meeting point for readers, authors, publishers and bookshops, the fair will feature a lively cultural programme, presentations and book signings. [+] Madrid Food Fest This is the first edition of this food festival, which will take place on 23 and 24 May at the Railway Museum. It’s a fine dining event offering the chance to sample iconic creations from more than a dozen chefs boasting Michelin stars and Repsol suns, served up as street food. The programme will include an artisan produce market, cookery demonstrations and live music. [+] esMADRIDmagazine May Concerts, exhibitions and highlights such as the San Isidro festivities and PHotoESPAÑA lead this month’s cultural calendar in the capital’s tourism magazine. The issue offers tips on becoming Madrid’s most authentic chulapo or chulapa, a selection of the best restaurants around Las Ventas, and a feature on the films and series starring the iconic bullring, which graces this month’s cover. [+] Madrid strengthens its appeal to international tourists during the first quarter of 2026 The Spanish capital welcomed a total of 2.5 million visitors and 5.4 million overnight stays between January and March. Some 56.3% of those arriving in the city, and 63.9% of overnight stays, were attributed to travellers from abroad. Mexico and Brazil are the fastest-growing source markets, driven by improved air connectivity following the launch of new routes serving Querétaro and Fortaleza. [+] Lavapiés: a melting pot of cultures and cradle of Madrid’s castizo traditionalism Multiculturalism and castizo tradition fuse in this neighbourhood of contrasts. Its narrow, steep streets recall its medieval origins, while the unique corrala apartment blocks remain as hallmarks of historic Madrid—the city that inspired zarzuelas like El barberillo de Lavapiés. The area hides unique cultural gems such as the Reina Sofía Museum and Teatro Circo Price, alongside rich and varied dining options with exotic cuisine, wine bars and taverns. [+] Celebrated Chinese writer Sanmao’s route through Spain. Madrid, Part 1. Voyage (China) [+]