Things To Do
in Madrid
Madrid is a coastal town located in the province of Surigao del Sur in the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and enjoy water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Madrid offers a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Fort Santiago, a historical fortification. Enjoy a short walk around the walled city to soak in the colonial architecture.
Have lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Filipino dishes. Visit San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for its stunning baroque architecture.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of Manila Bay. Take a leisurely walk along the bay to enjoy the sunset.
Kick off the day at Rizal Park to learn about the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Stroll through the gardens and take photographs of the monument.
Visit the National Museum of the Philippines for a dose of culture and history. Grab a delicious bite at nearby street food stalls.
Experience local nightlife by visiting nearby bars and music venues. Enjoy live music while trying out Filipino cocktails.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Warm, tropical climate year-round.
- Friendly and hospitable locals.
- Affordability of living and travel compared to many Western countries.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services found in larger cities.
- May experience issues with infrastructure and transportation.
- Occasional natural disasters such as typhoons.
- Job opportunities may be limited compared to urban centers.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Madrid
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of Mount Iglit-Baco National Park, known for its stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and peaceful surroundings.
Enjoy a relaxing day at the beaches of Puerto Galera, famous for its clear waters, vibrant marine life, and opportunities for water sports.
Experience the rich underwater biodiversity by snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Sabang Beach.
Join guided island-hopping tours that take you to nearby beautiful islands, offering sightseeing, swimming, and picnicking opportunities.
Take your mountain bike and explore the rugged terrains and scenic views around Madrid, perfect for adventure seekers.
Set up camp in designated areas of local parks for a night under the stars, surrounded by nature.
Capture the beauty of Madrid’s landscapes and wildlife with photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Tours
Uncover the best of Madrid with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Madrid
Visit one of these nice places.
Unfortunately, there is no information available for specific locations in Madrid, Philippines for the best views and photo opportunities.
Food in Madrid
Madrid Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy deep-fried pork belly, often served with a side of atchara (pickled papaya) and dipping sauce. Best enjoyed at local carinderias or eateries like Lucy's Lechon.
Must-Try!
A rich and savory oxtail stew in a thick peanut-based sauce, usually accompanied by bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Visit Nanay's Kare-Kare for an authentic taste.
A delightful dessert featuring shaved ice, sweetened fruits, yam, and leche flan, topped with ube (purple yam) ice cream. Quench your sweet cravings at Razon's and Mang Inasal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Madrid better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market offering fresh seafood, exotic tropical fruits, and local delicacies like banana cue (caramelized banana skewers) and bibingka (rice cake).
Stroll through this vibrant street market where you can savor grilled seafood, pork barbecue, and an array of native kakanin (rice cakes). Don't miss out on fishball and kikiam from the various vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Madrid, a friendly handshake is common. Friends may greet each other with a hug or a kiss on the cheek, so be attentive to the level of familiarity.
When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating. Also, do not start eating until everyone is seated. If offered food or drink, it is considerate to at least take a small amount.
Showing respect towards elders is an important cultural norm. Use appropriate titles and greetings, and be attentive to their needs and preferences during gatherings or conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Madrid with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Madrid
Ensure a smooth experience
In Madrid, Philippines, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a small tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory. However, many restaurants include a service charge in the bill, which may reduce the necessity for an additional tip. Tipping for taxi drivers and hotel staff is also customary, but like in other places, the amount is at the discretion of the person tipping.
Payment methods in Madrid, Philippines include cash and electronic payments. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting local markets or smaller vendors, where card payment may not be available. Mobile payment options are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Madrid.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Madrid, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and numerous cultural events and festivals.
Best time to visit the Philippines, with pleasant weather and lower risk of rain, making it ideal for beach activities and island hopping.
Expect hot and dry weather in Madrid, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Expect occasional typhoons and heavy rainfall in the Philippines during this period, which may cause travel disruptions and limit outdoor activities.
Madrid experiences cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a good time to explore the city's cultural attractions and enjoy local cuisine.
In the Philippines, this period is characterized by frequent typhoons and heavy rain, so outdoor activities may be limited and travel disruptions may occur.
Madrid experiences cold temperatures and occasional snow, but it's a great time to enjoy winter activities and festive celebrations.
In the Philippines, this season brings cooler and drier weather, making it suitable for exploring cities and cultural sites without the heat and humidity.
Madrid at Night
Hiking in Madrid
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning crater lake and picturesque views. Offers a challenging trek and stunning landscapes.
Famous for its sea of clouds and diverse flora and fauna. It's the third highest peak in the Philippines and provides a breathtaking hiking experience.
An extinct volcano offering several trails with varying difficulty levels. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
A national park located in Bulacan, providing various hiking trails amidst rich biodiversity and historical significance with its caves and waterfalls.
Known for the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor), it has trails that lead to stunning views and historical landmarks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Madrid through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Madrid by plane.
The main international airport serving Manila, the capital of the Philippines, located approximately 1,600 kilometers from Madrid.
An international airport located in the Clark Freeport Zone, about 1,640 kilometers from Madrid.
An international airport serving Cebu, located about 1,730 kilometers from Madrid.
An international airport serving Davao City, located approximately 1,810 kilometers from Madrid.
An international airport located in Zamboanga City, around 1,950 kilometers away from Madrid.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cebuano is the most spoken language and represents a significant portion of the demographic in Madrid.
Tagalog speakers form a substantial community in Madrid, reflecting the broader linguistic diversity of the Philippines.
Ilocano is another demographic group, particularly among those who have migrated from the northern regions of the Philippines.
The Visayan people, with their various dialects, also make up an integral part of the community.
There are various other indigenous groups from different parts of the Philippines, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Madrid.
The Soul of Madrid
Discover the essence of Madrid through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A fast-paced sport that is highly popular in Madrid, with many local leagues and teams participating in regional competitions.
The most popular sport in Madrid, with a passionate fan base and various local clubs, as well as youth leagues.
A widely played sport in schools and communities, often enjoyed on both recreational and competitive levels.
A popular racquet sport that is played both recreationally and competitively, with local tournaments held regularly.
An increasingly popular activity, with many residents participating in local marathons and fun runs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Madrid.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes often feature meat, several eateries in Madrid offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations, including vegetable-based stews, tofu dishes, and inventive pasta creations.
Some restaurants are mindful of gluten-free diners, providing options like fresh seafood, fruit-based desserts, and gluten-free versions of local delicacies. It is advisable to inquire with the staff to ensure a suitable meal.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Madrid with these cultural adventures.
