- Time zone
- Central European Time (CET), UTC/GMT +1 hours.
- Electricity
- The electric standard in Spain is 230 V at 50 Hz, using Type C and F plugs (standard European two-round-pin).
- Currency
- The local currency is the Euro (€). Currency exchange is widely available, and rates are often better in banks or exchange offices than at airports.
- Credit cards
- Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops. Smaller vendors may only accept cash, so carrying some Euros is recommended.
- Public Transportation
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Madrid has an extensive public transport system including metro, buses, and light rail. Tickets can be purchased at stations, ticket machines, or via official apps (e.g., Metro de Madrid, EMT). Reloadable cards such as the Tarjeta Multi are cost-effective for multiple journeys. Visit the regional transport authority’s site for detailed maps, fare information, and travel planning tools.
- Taxi and Ride-Hailing
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Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or via apps such as Uber, Cabify, or FREE NOW.
- Business hours
- Government and public offices: typically Mon–Fri, 9:00 am–2:00 pm & 4:30 pm–6:30 pm.
Shops: usually open Mon–Sat, 10:00 am–9:00 pm, with many closed on Sundays or operating reduced hours.
- Telephone and internet access
- Wi-Fi is available on campus (eduroam for affiliated users), and event Wi-Fi details will be provided before the Forum. Prepaid SIM cards are available from major providers such as Movistar, Orange, and Vodafone. Spain is part of the EU/EEA “Roam Like at Home” agreement, so EU/EEA visitors can use mobile phones at the same costs as at home. Visitors from outside the EU should check roaming charges with their providers.
- Water supply
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Safe to drink across Madrid, including at the venue.
- Climate
- Madrid in late March enjoys pleasant spring weather. Typical daytime highs are 15–20 °C, with cooler mornings and evenings. A light jacket or sweater is advisable, and a small umbrella may be useful in case of spring showers.
- Language
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The official language is Spanish (Castilian). English is widely spoken in academic and professional settings.
- For kids
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Madrid offers a wealth of family-friendly activities—beautiful parks like Retiro and Casa de Campo, museums, zoos, and amusement parks. For inspiration and ideas, check out this guide to things to do with children in Madrid.
