To get the most out of a day or evening in Madrid it’s best to know where to go. Whether it is a day of shopping or museum going, a night of dancing and drinking, or eating and entertainment, knowing what Madrid neighborhood is right for what is a must. Here we’ve highlighted what each Madrid barrio offers by day and night.
Atocha:
By Day: Feast your eyes on incredible art. The Reina Sofia draws a cultured crowd and is only a stone’s throw away from the Metro. Also, make sure to stop by the Atocha train station and visit the Indoor Botanical Gardens. There you will find an unexpected tropical paradise. Inaugurated in 1992 and covering 4,000 square meters, the indoor botanical garden has about 260 different species and close to 7,000 plants.
By Night: If you’re in the Atocha area, stop by La Casa Encendida. This multi-functional cultural space regularly features everything from exhibitions to live music.
Chueca
By Day: Check out one of the many specialty shops or hip-friendly bars and restaurants that have made this a hot spot for the gay community.
By Night: Fine disco dancing and creative dining are just two types of activities you’ll find in this vibrant and colorful neighborhood.
Huertas
By Day: Old map stores and lots of little boutiques is what you’ll find walking the streets of Huertas. Ojala is one of many gems sporting signature Spanish designs in the area.
By Night: If you’re looking for a more grown-up kind of party head over to this side of La Gran Via. Here you can catch live music, flamenco and even find a caipiriña in the middle of one of the oldest parts of Madrid.
La Latina
By Day and Night: For the best tapas in town make your way to La Latina. Here, you’ll find tons of tabernas and restaurants serving up their take on the classics. Some hot spots are Juana la Loca and La Musa.
Lavapiés
By Day: Lavapiés is a little melting pot near the center of Madrid. If you are in the mood for something with a bit more spice, some foreign flavor perhaps, indulge in a menu del día from one of the local restaurants or check out the hookah bars. Around this neighborhood are many small galleries showcasing local artists.
By Night Laid back bars and a wide variety of music venues can be found in what can easily be called one of the most diverse parts of town.
Malasaña
By Day: If you’re shopping for a one-of-a-kind item, head towards Malasaña. Recently, up and coming artists have helped develop this area to support all things locally made.
By Night When you’re ready for a late night you´ll find plenty of bars to keep you out until sunrise.
Salamanca
By Day: Whether you’ve got money to burn, or simply have expensive taste, you’ll enjoy the shops and spas in Salamanca. Luxury brands and one of kind boutiques can be found all along streets like Serrano and Calle Jose Ortega y Gasset.
By Night: Where fine dining and fashion meet. Check out some of the tastiest eateries in the area.
Sol
By Day: Take a stroll through the most visited neighborhood of Madrid. Take your picture by El Oso y el Madroño (the bear and the strawberry) marvel at the opera house and finish at the Palacio Real.
By Night The heart of Madrid there are many sports bars, places to dance and close to the Plaza Mayor you’ll find the oldest restaurant in the world!
