International Congress on Infectious Diseases (ICID)

About Madrid

Madrid is the capital and most populous city of Spain. It had a population of over 3.4 million in the city proper in 2025, and a metropolitan area population of approximately 6.8 million. Madrid is the second-largest city in the European Union (EU), after Berlin, and its metropolitan area is the second-largest in the EU, after Paris. The municipality covers an area of 605.77 km2 (233.89 sq mi). Madrid lies on the River Manzanares in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula at about 660 m (2,170 ft) above mean sea level. The capital city of both Spain and the surrounding autonomous community of Madrid, it is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.

Getting There

• Madrid is easily accessible by air through Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, one of Europe's major aviation hubs with direct flights from cities worldwide. From the airport, you can reach the city center via the metro system, which is efficient and affordable, or by taxi and rideshare services available at ground transportation areas. Once in Madrid, the city's extensive public transport network—including metro, buses, and local trains—makes navigating to your accommodation and the congress venue straightforward. The metro is particularly convenient for visitors, with clear signage and frequent service throughout the day. For those preferring flexibility, taxis and rideshare apps operate reliably across Madrid and offer door-to-door convenience.