Whatever article guiding you through Madrid’s Malasaña you manage to find, all of them seem to be using and reusing the word “hip”. Well, as much as we tried, we are not going to be different, as that’s exactly what Malasaña is – hip, trendy, and alternative neighbourhood in the Spanish capital!
The groovy vibe in Malasaña
Malasaña neighbourhood is part of the central district of Madrid. Named after one of the victims during the uprising against the troops of France during the Peninsular War, and a sight of the post-Franco cultural wave of the 1980s, Malasaña keeps its’ rebellious spirit and offers an alternative and lively scene both day and night.
The cultural life there is so alive, you need to check the calendar and get ready!
Malasaña is a melting pot of cultures and trends, which is why the neighbourhood is home to cute traditional colorful buildings as well as grungy modern street art, historical squares, and museums as well as trendy spots for shopping and eating.
What to do in the neighbourhood
- Learn the story and history of Madrid in Museo de Historia de Madrid… for free!
The Museo de Historia de Madrid, at the edge of Malasańa | Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Wellington | Vogue - Treat yourself with a shopping spree. Stroll along Calle Fuencarral towards Gran Via stopping at the unique shops on the way, where Mercado de San Ildefonso is the oldest market there. The indie Mercado de Fuencarral – four floors of trendy stores by young independent designers. Calle Augusto Figueroa will be your best bet on a mission for shoes, while the search for some alternative gifts will be a success on Plaza San Ildefonso.
- Take in the sunlight and relax at Parque del Buen Retiro.
- Have an afternoon drink at one of the outdoor cafés (terazzas) in one of the main spots in the city – Plaza Dos de Mayo.
- Visit the cultural center of Madrid – Centro Cultural Conde Duque – former military barracks turned into a space for exhibitions and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Explore national heritage sites, such as the baroque church Iglesia de San Antonio de los Alemanes.
- Explore the exclusive Palacio de Liria – XVIIIth century neoclassical palace, housing an original art collection, possible for visits only on Fridays.
- Go on a tour in search of the best street art, organized by Madrid Street Art Project.
Street art in Malasaña | Photo by r2hox | flickr - Explore the mix of cuisines, styles, and trends in the numerous bars and restaurants.
- Head to the bar Tupperware, where groovy experience awaits with the bar’s quirky interior and artsy façade.
- The best spot for vermouth from the tap with some pinchos (small snacks) – La Ardosa.
- Stop Madrid is the place for the most traditional tapas. As classic as it gets!
- How does free tapas sound? El Tigre serves plenty of those with each drink ordered.
- Gin & Tonic fans will be glad to find themselves in 1862 Dry Bar, as it serves the best cocktails.
- Dance the night away in the electronic pop music club Ocho y Medio or La Vía Láctea playing some old school goodies.
Tupperware bar in Malasaña | Photo by Eloisa Ozonas | flickr
Constantly moving, improving and breathing, as if a living organism, Madrid’s Malasaña can be considered one of the jewels of the city. Care to see (feel) it? Get off at Metro Tribunal and find yourself in the creative, bustling with life Malasaña!
