Madrid is really two choices: the centre, walkable and lively, or the leafy north and west, where most international schools are. This guide explains the areas our families choose most, what each is like and who it suits.
Three questions before you look at a single flat
Which school?Most international schools sit north and west of the M-30 ring road. Choose the school first and the neighbourhood follows: a 15-minute school run changes family life.
Where is the office?A central office and a school in the suburbs can mean 45 minutes each way at rush hour. Map both before deciding.
City or space?Flats with a lift and a porter in the centre, or houses with gardens and communal pools outside it. Each fits a different family.
The areas our families choose most
Central Madrid
Walkable, lively, flats rather than houses
Salamanca
€€€€
Elegant streets, boutiques and restaurants, classic apartments with high ceilings. Madrid's most sought-after central address.
Best for
Executives and families who want city life on foot
Schools
Some bilingual and private schools; international schools are a drive away
Getting around
Metro lines 2, 4, 5 and 6; very close to Retiro park
Chamberí
€€€
Residential and authentic, with markets, squares and a strong neighbourhood feel. Popular with Spanish families.
Best for
Families who want central living without the tourist bustle
Schools
Good private and state bilingual options nearby
Getting around
Excellent metro coverage; easy access to the business district on Castellana
Retiro and Jerónimos
€€€€
Next to Retiro park and the Prado. Quiet streets with large, bright apartments.
Best for
Families with young children who want a park at the door
Schools
Private schools in the area; international schools by car or school bus
Getting around
Metro lines 2 and 9; Atocha train station close by
Chamartín · El Viso · Hispanoamérica
€€€
Leafy streets, some houses in El Viso, close to the Castellana business district and Chamartín station.
Best for
Professionals working in the north of the city
Schools
Well placed for schools in the north, including the Lycée Français in Conde de Orgaz
Getting around
Metro, Cercanías and Chamartín high-speed trains
North and west
Space, gardens and most international schools
Conde de Orgaz · Arturo Soria
€€€
Houses and low-rise buildings with gardens, still inside the city. Quiet, green and well connected to the airport.
Best for
Families who want a house without leaving Madrid
Schools
Lycée Français and other international schools nearby
Getting around
By car or metro line 4; about 15 minutes to the airport
La Moraleja · Alcobendas · Sanchinarro
€€€–€€€€
From large villas in La Moraleja to newer flats with pools in Sanchinarro and Alcobendas. Business parks close by.
Best for
Families working in the northern business parks or at the airport
A-6 motorway and Cercanías; light rail in parts of Pozuelo
Las Rozas · Majadahonda
€€–€€€
More space for the budget, houses and flats with pools, shopping and sports facilities.
Best for
Larger families who want space and a calmer pace
Schools
British and bilingual schools in the area
Getting around
A-6 and Cercanías; around 30–40 minutes to the centre
Rent level: € more affordable · €€€€ top of the market. Relative guide only.
Good to know before renting in Madrid
The market moves fastGood flats in the centre can go in days. We view and apply quickly on your behalf.
What landlords ask forUsually proof of income or an employment contract, a deposit and sometimes extra guarantees. We prepare the file with you.
Community fees and utilitiesCheck what is included: porter, heating and communal pool can change the real monthly cost.
Register at the town hallEmpadronamiento opens access to schools, healthcare and other procedures. We book it and go with you.
See the neighbourhoods with us, in one day
An orientation day with Amparo: the areas that fit your family, two or three schools and a realistic view of the rental market. +34 685 051 329 · amparo.aracil@enjoyrelocation.com
