The Spanish capital city has it all—boho-chic neighborhoods filled with cute boutiques and crowded cafés; streets home to blockbuster landmarks, museums, and high-end restaurants; and leafy, tree-lined local barrios. Since the city center is relatively compact, it’s easy to get around on foot or via the user-friendly metro system. From the attraction-filled tourist hubs to the local hangouts, here are the neighborhoods you can’t miss when visiting Madrid.
Every tourist should make sure to visit the city center, which is home to big-name attractions like the central squares Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, plus the Royal Palace (one of the largest in Europe) and Almudena Cathedral. Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, which includes three of the capital’s most famous art museums (the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza is also located in this historic city center.
Don’t miss meandering along the famous Calle Mayor and the bustling Gran Vía, lined with gorgeous art deco architecture, shops, and theaters, and consider a walking tour to learn more about the area’s history and culture.
Insider tip: Hang on to your valuables here, as pickpockets often prey on tourists.
An easy walk up Calle Fuencarral from Gran Vía, Malasaña is the neighborhood that was once home to the countercultural Movida movement in the 1980s, when creatives flocked to Madrid to enjoy their newfound freedoms post-dictatorship. Today, the area still retains its alternative roots, home to punk bars, rock clubs, street art, record stores, and vintage clothing shops that line Calle Velarde. Find out where all the locals hang out with an insider tour of the neighborhood.
Known for its lively restaurants, bars, and cafés, Chueca is a party neighborhood where everyone is welcome, especially the queer community. From funky boutiques to trendy eateries and underground clubs, Chueca is, simply put—fun! Be sure to hit the neighborhood’s food markets, such as the Mercado de San Antón (and head to the rooftop bar in the summer). A tour of Chueca can offer insight into all of the hidden gems in this area.
Years back, Madrid’s Manzanares River was flanked by busy expressways—think constant traffic, noise, and fumes. Then, massive works moved the traffic underground, turning Madrid Río into a stunning park and pathway, home to trees, playgrounds, bridges, skate parks, and even a “beach,” where you can splash around fountains and soak in the sun during the city’s warmer months.
Along with walking the 2,220-acre (820-hectare) riverside area, you could also explore by e-bike, on rollerblades, or by scooter. The surrounding area is local, so brush up on your Spanish if you plan to check out the neighborhood.
Boasting the city’s most enchanting park, the Retiro, and the famous Alcala Gate (Puerta de Alcalá), Salamanca is a sophisticated neighborhood primarily frequented by locals. If you’re on the hunt for fancy restaurants and high-end shops, this is your spot. Make sure to stop at Platea food market and shop along the city’s Golden Mile, Calle Serrano. The Archeology Museum is also worth a visit, with highlights including replicas of the prehistoric Altamira Cave paintings.
Related: Must-See Museums in Madrid
Yup, the rumors are true: Madrid is home to its very own Egyptian temple, Templo de Debod. The attraction was actually a gift from Egypt, where the temple was disassembled, piece-by-piece, sent to Spain, and reassembled in the Arguelles neighborhood in a lovely setting. Visit the temple at sunset for stunning views of Madrid and beyond, and walk around the surrounding park and nearby Oeste and Casa de Campo parks for a full outing.
A short walk away from Puerta del Sol square, La Latina is old Madrid—think tiny tapas bars, crowded restaurants, and weaving cobblestone streets full of both locals and visitors. The area plays host to the iconic El Rastro market every Sunday morning, selling all sorts of souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, accessories, household items, and more. It’s also the place to go to enjoy tapas, beer, and wine, especially on Sunday afternoons and evenings, at many of the neighborhood’s mom-and-pop bars.