If you’re spending your Erasmus in Madrid, this is hands down the best time to be here. As the weather gets warmer, the city fills up with festivals, food markets, concerts, and cultural experiences that are perfect to enjoy with friends.
Whether you’re looking for big events or something more low-key, here’s your guide to what’s happening in Madrid over the next few months.
What’s On: Events You Don’t Want to Miss
Madrid’s event calendar is packed, and many of these are ideal for students; they are social, affordable, and easy to access.
- From May 13 to September 13, PhotoEspaña takes over the city. You’ll find exhibitions everywhere from major museums to smaller galleries, making it perfect for a casual cultural day in between classes.
- Between May 14 and July 5, the musical The Time in Between is showing at Teatro Calderón. A great option if you’re looking for a different kind of night out.
- Around May 15, the San Isidro Festival brings the whole city together. Expect live music, traditional dress, street parties, and lots of local food, one of the most authentic Madrid experiences you can have.
- On May 23 and 24, head to the Madrid Railway Museum for the Madrid Food Fest. It’s a relaxed, social event with food trucks and music, ideal for going with friends.
- From May 30 to June 15, the Madrid Book Fair takes place in Retiro Park. Even if you’re not a big reader, it’s a great excuse to spend a sunny afternoon in one of Madrid’s best green spaces.
- From July 8 to 11, Mad Cool Festival is one of the biggest highlights of the summer. If you’re into live music, this is definitely worth checking out.
- Later in the year, from September 11 to 13, the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix will bring a completely different kind of energy to the city.
A Different Plan: Discover Madrid’s Literary Side
Not everything has to be a big event. If you’re looking for something more unique (and budget-friendly), Madrid also offers cultural experiences that are worth your time.
One standout is the guided tour of the historic printing house where Don Quixote was first printed.
Organised by the Community of Madrid and the Instituto Cervantes, this experience gives you a glimpse into Madrid’s past in a way that feels interactive rather than academic.
Located on Atocha Street, the space has been recreated to reflect the 17th century. Writers like Lope de Vega, Tirso de Molina, and Francisco de Quevedo were known to visit this area, making it an important cultural spot.
Practical Info
- Duration: Around 1 hour
- When:
- Tuesdays at 18:30
- Sundays at 12:00
(Available April–June & September–November)
- Price: €5 (plus small booking fee)
- Tickets: Available online via the Cervantes Society
Madrid during spring and summer is all about balance—studying, exploring, and making the most of your time abroad. From festivals with friends to discovering hidden cultural spots, there’s always something happening.
Make sure to plan ahead, try new things, and enjoy everything the city has to offer while you’re here.
Theater & Film: What to Watch in Madrid
Madrid’s cultural scene goes far beyond museums and festivals if you’re looking for something different to do during the week or at the weekend, the theater and cinema offer affordable and engaging options—perfect to enjoy with friends or as a more relaxed plan.
Live Performances at Teatros del Canal
This season, Teatros del Canal hosts a variety of performances that combine creativity, humor, and storytelling.
One of the highlights is Paüra, a show that uses the language of clowning to explore fear through humor, poetry, and live music. It offers a more artistic and expressive experience, ideal if you want to try something different from traditional theater.
Alongside this, The Summit presents a mix of comedy and mystery. Set in a remote mountain chalet, the story follows six performers whose purpose remains unclear, creating an intriguing and slightly absurd atmosphere throughout the performance.
Both shows are relatively affordable, making them accessible options for students who want to experience Madrid’s theater scene without overspending.
A Cinematic Experience at Cineteca Madrid
For film enthusiasts, Cineteca Madrid in Legazpi is hosting a special series celebrating the 75th anniversary of Cahiers du Cinéma.
This program focuses on films created by young critics who later became influential directors, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of cinema. It’s an ideal plan if you’re interested in film beyond mainstream releases or simply want a low-cost cultural activity.
With ticket prices starting from just €3.50, it’s also one of the most budget-friendly options available.
Practical Information
Paura
- Dates: May 2–4 at 18:30, May 5 at 12:00
- Price: €15
The Summit
- Dates: May 4 at 20:00, May 5 at 17:30
- Price: from €9
Film Series at Cineteca Madrid
- Dates: May 1 at 19:00, May 2–5 at 20:00
- Price: from €3.50
Whether you’re looking to explore Madrid’s creative scene or just want a different kind of evening plan, theater and film offer a great balance between culture, entertainment, and affordability during your time in the city.