Photography & Culture

The Destination

Welcome to Madrid—where bold colors, late nights, and everyday drama turn the city into your stage.

Madrid is a city made for visual storytelling. Royal palaces tower over lively plazas, flamenco rhythms echo through alleyways, and political murals splash across crumbling stone walls. On a typical afternoon, you might photograph reflections in the Crystal Palace, catch motion blur on Gran Vía, or frame street performers in front of centuries-old cathedrals. With its mix of grandeur and grit, Madrid is the perfect place to sharpen your skills behind the lens.

When you’re not out shooting, you’ll dive into everything this city has to offer. Photograph a plate of crispy croquetas before you eat it, walk Retiro Park at golden hour, or ride a glass elevator to see Picasso’s Guernica at the Reina Sofía. Try tortilla española at a late-night tapas bar or chase shadows through one of the city’s open-air flea markets. Inspiration is everywhere—from rooftop views to churros dipped in melted chocolate at midnight.

As Spain’s capital, Madrid blends centuries of tradition with nonstop creative energy. Its museums are world-class, its streets never sleep, and its textures—stone, tile, light, and color—give you endless ways to explore photography with depth, confidence, and style.

Cultural Awareness

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. No matter where you choose to study abroad with CIEE, our staff will be on hand throughout your program to provide advice, resources, and support.