Madrid in April: a brilliant month for making plans in the city

Fancy heading off to Madrid in April but don’t want to do the typical things that all the travel guides talk about?

Brilliant, because here you’ll find exactly that: different plans, honest advice and the reality of what it’s like to spend a few spring days in the Spanish capital. Right then, keep reading and we’ll tell you why Madrid in April is a top-notch choice.

What the weather in Madrid is really like in April

Look, the weather in Madrid in April is… unpredictable! You can have sunny days, perfect for sitting down to have a drink on a terrace and going for a stroll, and then find yourself with others where showers predominate. That said, temperatures rarely drop below 11°C and almost never exceed 25°C.

For most of the month, you’ll come across partially cloudy skies. Also some rainy days, but don’t worry, none of this will ruin your trip—a small umbrella is enough. On the other hand, choosing Madrid in April is a good call because the days just keep getting longer. At the beginning of the month there are 12 hours of daylight, but by the end we already have almost 14.

So, what do you need to bring—besides the small brolly? Whatever you want, as long as it’s comfortable. The only essential is footwear that allows you to walk the streets of Madrid without your feet hating you afterwards. It wouldn’t hurt to come with sun cream and sunglasses. They’re not mandatory, but just so you know, the Madrid sun is strong even in spring.

The best events in Madrid in April

April in Madrid comes loaded with events you shouldn’t miss. Get ready, because one of the most anticipated is the Stock Feria Outlet Madrid, the country’s most epic discount festival that lands every year at the Pabellón de Cristal in Casa de Campo in the middle of the month. Here you can get genuine bargains with discounts of up to 80% on top brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, The North Face, Nike, Vans and Adidas.

If you’re into literature, April brings you the incredible Noche de los Libros (Night of Books), a cultural event with debates, workshops, children’s activities and literary routes throughout Madrid, all completely free.

Are you a fan of markets? Well, get your pen and paper out, because April is the perfect month to stroll through the best in the city. You can’t miss the Mercado de las Ranas, in the heart of the Barrio de las Letras, which sets up a super lively market that has everything.

Want more of a fair atmosphere? Then head to the Mercado de la Prosperidad, which in mid-April dresses up as an Andalusian fair with a gourmet tapas route, flamenco photo booth and free concerts.

Plus, if you’re a vintage style lover, on the second weekend of each month the Mercado de Motores opens its doors at the Railway Museum. There you’ll be amazed wandering through original stalls surrounded by historic trains, live music and all kinds of food trucks.

To top it off, you have the Design Festival, a genuine revolution in contemporary design that turns the capital into the cradle of style and creativity.

Oh! And nobody leaves Madrid in April without trying the famous Ruta de Cocido Madrileño (Madrid Stew Route), a perfect excuse to discover the best stews in the city.

Plans you shouldn't miss in April

It’s clear that in April there are famous events like Holy Week and the Madrid Marathon, but how about going for something less well-known?

April is the ideal time to discover secret corners and alternative events, like the Lost&Found vintage market in Conde Duque or enjoy the emerging cultural atmosphere in La Tabacalera, a self-managed space full of urban art and independent exhibitions.

Additionally, in April you’ll come across loads of concerts, shows and the best plays in Madrid in small venues in Malasaña such as La Chocita del Loro or Teatro Lara.

And yes, El Retiro is great and if you’ve never been, you have to explore it, but how about exploring Madrid Río, doing some guided street art routes through Lavapiés or peeking at the lesser-known rooftops of the city like the one at Círculo de Bellas Artes or the terrace of La Casa Encendida? Perfect for watching the Madrid sunset without the typical crowds.

Hidden corners that don't appear on Instagram

Madrid has wonderful places that aren’t so photogenic, but are genuine treasures. El Jardín del Príncipe de Anglona—hidden in the La Latina neighbourhood—is a secret and peaceful place to sit and read or rest. You can also visit Quinta de los Molinos, a little-known but beautiful park in spring, especially when the almond trees bloom.

And if you like discovering authentic neighbourhoods, take a stroll through Usera, known as Madrid’s Chinatown and full of restaurants, Asian shops and with a very pleasant atmosphere.

Is it really worth visiting Madrid in April?

Yes, yes, a thousand times yes. The city in April has a spring-like quality that makes a perfect combo with loads of plans; because the weather in Madrid in April gives you longer days, pleasant temperatures and the opportunity to enjoy the capital without the typical crowds of the high season. It’s the ideal time to get lost in its streets, discover lesser-known corners and make plenty of great outdoor plans.

But for your getaway to be truly perfect, you need accommodation that’s up to scratch. And that’s where we come in! With Waourentals, you’ll not only have a place to sleep, but a space designed to make your experience in Madrid comfortable, central and without complications. We have everything from small studios to the most spacious apartments.

What are you waiting for? Book now with Waourentals and make Madrid in April your best trip of the year!