Madrid, Spain Report of what it's like to live there - 11/20/25
Personal Youth Experiences from Madrid, Spain
Background:
1. Where are you from and/or what other countries have you lived in?
I am from the United States. I have lived in Mexico, Guatemala, Paraguay, and Ecuador.
2. Which age range are you: (13-15 or 16+)?
I am 16.
3. How long have you lived in this city?
I am here with my diplomat dad and I have lived here for less than a year.
Housing, Food, Pets:
1. What is your housing like (house or flat, in a compound, in city or suburbs, etc.)?
We live in an apartment in the city. It is very big and nice. It is close to shops and restaurants.
2. How’s the food? Do you like the local dishes, and can you find other kinds easily?
There are tons of restaurants in Madrid. You can find food from all over the world. You can find many ingredients for cooking as well. We enjoy going out to restaurants and finding new options to try.
3. Where do you usually eat out or order from? (favorite restaurants, delivery apps, or go-to takeout spots)
We go to a different restaurant every time we eat out. There are so many options.
4. Do you have pets? If yes, what’s it like having a pet in this country—any unique pros or cons?
Yes, we have a dog. People love dogs here and they can run free in the park. People are really friendly with dogs. Our veterinarian is really good. You do have to get a passport and insurance for your pet.
Daily Life:
1. Do young people get together outside home or school? If so, where do they usually hang out? (parks, playgrounds, malls, sports, outdoor stuff, etc.)
I meet my friends at coffee shops and restaurants. Madrid is very safe and has great public transportation so it is easy to meet up. After school at ASM (American School of Madrid), a lot of kids hang out at the mall.
2. How’s the Wi-Fi/internet where you live? Super fast, just okay, or always cutting out?
The Wi-Fi is fast and consistent.
3. Is it important to know the local language?
I do speak Spanish and it does help. A lot of people speak English.
4. Are there cultural expectations or rules about what you can wear, and if so, what are they?
It is a bit more conservative and formal than the U.S.
5. What types of things are there to do in your free time?
I go to restaurants, go running in the park, hang out with my friends, go to museums and shows, etc. My family likes to travel outside of the city as well. It is very busy here because there is so much to do.
Transportation:
1. What are the main ways that you get around to school, to your friends' homes, or to other activities?
I use the metro and the bus the most. If you are under 14, you can get a card to travel for free. If you are under 26, you can get an unlimited travel card for ten euros a month.
2. How long does it normally take to get places? (school, friends’ houses, hangout spots) Does it change with traffic, weather, or holidays?
It takes between 10 and 40 minutes.
3. At what age can you get a driver's license there? Are driving courses available?
There are driving courses but you don't really need to drive. I'm not sure about this.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. Can you find work if you want to (babysitting, dogwalking, local jobs?)
I babysit and dogwalk. It is hard to find jobs on the local economy.
2. Are there good volunteer opportunities, and is it easy to get involved?
Yes, there are lots of volunteer opportunities.
Schools:
1. Do you go to a local school or an international school? What’s it like there?
I go to the international school, American School of Madrid.
2. What kind of curriculum(s) does your school have? (American, British, IB, AP, etc.)
It is the IB program.
3. Does your school offer learning support or help for special needs?
Yes, they do. They have lots of support.
4. How does your school welcome new students? (Any events, buddy systems, or cool programs?)
They have an orientation, buddies, and special programs.
5. Is college counseling available at your school, and if so, are students finding it helpful?
Yes, the college counseling is really helpful. They also have a lot of college fairs.
6. What sports and after-school activities are available? (Clubs, music, theater, etc.)
There are a lot of sports and after-school clubs. Most kids do a few clubs. They have music lessons, Model UN, debate club, soccer, volleyball, and a lot of other activities.
Expat Life:
1. Is this a good city for expat kids? Why or why not?
It is a great city. There are a lot of expat kids and people are very nice.
2. Have you noticed or experienced issues with prejudice (ethnic, racial, gender, religious)? How are LGBTQIA+ teens treated here?
People in Madrid are very open and non-judgemental. It is a good place for all types of people.
3. Is it easy to make friends with locals here? Have you done so in school? Where else?
Yes, I have local friends. People are very friendly.
4. What fun things are there to do around here? Any cool spots, hidden gems, or trips you’d recommend?
There are lots of old cities and monasteries and hikes. So much to do here.
Words of Wisdom:
1. What do you wish you had known about this city/country before moving here?
It is about what you would expect. It is an easy place to live.
