What to Do if You Get Sick In Madrid

Madrid is a vibrant city full of life — think tapas in sunny plazas, flamenco rhythms echoing down cobblestone streets, and world-famous museums. But even in a place this exciting, getting sick can happen. Maybe it’s a fever, a stomach bug, or just not feeling quite right.

Getting sick in another country can feel overwhelming: new rules, a different language, and not knowing where to go or what to do. But don’t worry — you’re not alone. This guide is here to help you through every step, whether you’re dealing with something minor or something more serious.

We’ll walk you through how to find a doctor in Madrid, what to expect from the healthcare system, how to deal with travel insurance, where to find help in English, and more. You’ll be feeling better — and back to enjoying churros in the sunshine — in no time.

Understanding Madrid’s Healthcare System

Madrid has a very good healthcare system, and the good news is — you can access care as a visitor. There are two types of healthcare options in Spain: public and private.

Public vs. Private: What’s the Difference?

While both public and private healthcare in Madrid are good quality, it’s important to know the difference.

Public healthcare is run by the government. If you’re an EU citizen with an EHIC or GHIC card, many services are covered or low-cost. If you’re from outside the EU, you may still be able to use public services, but you’ll likely need to pay up front.

Private healthcare is faster, and often easier for tourists. You can make an appointment directly, the waiting times are usually shorter, and many doctors speak English. You’ll pay out of pocket (usually between €60–€100), but if you have travel insurance, you can usually claim it back.

Tip: If you’re not sure which to choose, go private if you want quicker service and less confusion.

Emergency Medical Care

In a real emergency, you need help fast. Here’s how to get it.

Essential Emergency Numbers in Madrid

• 112 – The main emergency number in Spain (ambulance, police, or fire). It works from any phone.
• 061 – This is the medical emergency number for ambulance services.

These numbers work 24/7 and are free to call. Operators may speak some English, but try to stay calm and speak clearly.

How to Call an Ambulance

If someone is very sick, injured, or in serious pain, call 112 or 061 right away. You’ll be asked for your location and what’s happening. If you’re unsure what to say, hotel staff or locals can often help translate.

When Should You Go to the Hospital?

Go to a hospital if it’s serious: chest pain, difficulty breathing, serious injuries, or a high fever that won’t go down.

Go to an urgent care clinic for things like infections, fevers, minor injuries, rashes, or stomach issues. They’ll see you faster than a hospital emergency room and can help with most non-life-threatening issues.

Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know

Pharmacies (called farmacias in Spanish) are everywhere in Madrid, and they’re usually the first place to go if you’re feeling mildly unwell.

Pharmacists in Spain are highly trained and can help with:

• Cold and flu symptoms
• Stomach problems
• Minor skin conditions
• Allergy meds
• Pain relief (like paracetamol or ibuprofen)

Need a Pharmacy Late at Night?

Look for a farmacia de guardia — these are rotating 24/7 pharmacies open when others are closed (overnight, Sundays, and holidays). Ask your hotel, use Google Maps, or check local pharmacy windows — they often list the nearest open one.

Can You Get Antibiotics?

In Spain, antibiotics require a doctor’s note. A pharmacist can’t give them without one. If you think you need antibiotics, you’ll need to see a doctor first.

What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance

If you have travel insurance — great news! It can save you a lot of money and hassle.

What You’ll Need to Make a Claim

To get your costs refunded, keep:

• Receipts for doctor visits and prescriptions
• A written diagnosis or medical report
• Your travel insurance details
• Proof of travel (like flight bookings or hotel reservations)

Always check your specific policy — some insurers have preferred clinics or require pre-approval.

Pro tip: Take photos of your paperwork in case you lose anything!

Language Barriers

Not all doctors and pharmacists speak fluent English — especially in public clinics. That can make things confusing when you’re sick.

• “Me siento mal” – I feel sick
• “Tengo fiebre” – I have a fever
• “Me duele aquí” – It hurts here
• “Soy alérgico/a a…” – I’m allergic to…
• “¿Habla inglés?” – Do you speak English?

(Skip the language barrier)

Use Air Doctor to book English-speaking doctors in Madrid. It’s fast, easy, and helps you feel more comfortable.

How to Avoid Getting Sick in Madrid

Prevention is always the best medicine! Here’s how to stay healthy:

• Drink the water – Tap water in Madrid is clean and safe.
• Be sun smart – The sun can be strong, even in spring. Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
• Eat smart – Food is usually very safe, but avoid street food that doesn’t look fresh.
• Wash your hands – Especially after using public transport or visiting busy places.

Common traveler illnesses in Madrid include mild colds, stomach bugs, sunburn, and allergies. A small first-aid kit with basics (pain relief, allergy meds, anti-diarrhea tablets) can be super helpful.

Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-existing Conditions

If you’re pregnant or managing a health condition, it’s important to plan ahead:

• Bring enough medication for your entire trip — and pack it in your hand luggage.
• Keep a summary of your condition, treatment, and any allergies (in English and Spanish if possible).
• Know where the nearest specialist clinic or OB-GYN is located in Madrid.

You can use Air Doctor to book appointments with specialists who speak your language and understand your needs.

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Madrid

This is one of the biggest worries for many travelers: what if you need a doctor but can’t explain your symptoms clearly?

Good news: With Air Doctor, you can easily find and book a local doctor who speaks English — no guesswork, no confusion. You can:

• Book online
• Choose between in-person or virtual visits
• Filter by location or specialty
• Pay upfront or get reimbursed through insurance

Getting Help Beyond Healthcare

If your situation is more serious or you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, your embassy or consulate can help. They may be able to:

• Recommend a trusted doctor or clinic
• Help with language translation
• Assist with lost prescriptions or medications
• Contact your family in an emergency

Save their number in your phone before you travel — just in case.

Recap: What to Do if You Get Sick in Madrid

If you need a quick recap, here it is:

• Don’t panic — help is available, and Madrid has excellent care
• Call 112 or 061 in an emergency
• Visit a pharmacy for minor issues and advice
• Choose private clinics for quicker, tourist-friendly care
• Keep receipts and medical notes for travel insurance claims
• Learn a few helpful Spanish phrases — or book with Air Doctor for English-speaking care
• Stay hydrated, eat smart, and be sun safe
• If needed, contact your embassy for extra help

About the Air Doctor App

With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance while you’re in Madrid (and anywhere else you travel).

Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
• Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
• Video consultations in 90+ countries and 20+ languages
• 24/7 multi-lingual support
• Transparent pricing and reviews
• Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians, GPs, and gynecologists

If you’re looking for reliable, accessible, and global medical assistance, Air Doctor is the perfect choice for you. Download the app before your next trip to ensure peace of mind and access to quality healthcare, wherever your travels take you.

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