Malasaña district of Madrid: a Tourist Guide of Madrid's Hippest Nightspot

Madrid's Malasaña district is always full of action and there are plenty of things to see, do and take pleasure in here. Nightclubs, modern restaurants and traditional markets sit alongside vintage stores and book shops. It is a working-class locality which lies to the west of the famous gay district of Chueca. Though there are many convenient metro stations in the district, the Noviciado station is at the heart of it. Since social life is the most important feature of the district, there are plenty of restaurants and cafés here, including the bohemian La Paca, La Ida and Lolina cafés. Vintage clothing and the works of young, local designers can be found in different independent stores and weekend craft markets. The Templo de Susu is an exclusive, retro clothing shop well worth checking out. Adjacent to the Noviciado metro station is a cool American bookshop and bar.

Attractions of the Malasaña district in Madrid

Malasaña, Madrid, is rich in cultural heritage. The Conde Duque cultural centre is an old military barracks that has been converted into an art gallery, auditorium and theatre. The National Museum of Romanticism explores and displays the Spanish Romantic Era with astonishing faithfulness. The Royal Tapestry Factory is another top attraction for visitors in this district. The Palacio de Liria is a neoclassical palace and the residence of the Dukes of Alba. It includes certain areas that are open to the public and houses many famous paintings, engravings and sculptures.

Comendadoras Square is nearby the headquarters of Conde Duque and the Plaza of Spain. Situated here is the namesake Comendadoras Convent of Santiago, a nunnery of the Military Order of Santiago. The building features a beautiful dome and pillared chambers in the middle. The most outstanding feature is undeniably its church, while the outdoor areas are shaped in a semicircle. The portico entrance has three arches flanked by two towers and there is a sculpture of Santiago Matamoros in the upper niche.

The Plaza del Dos de Mayo is a square located at the heart of the Malasaña neighbourhood in Madrid. This square is where the Spanish uprising took place against the troops of Napoleon on the second of May, 1808, sparking the Spanish War of Independence. In the middle of the plaza there is a monument created by Antonio Sola to honour Captains Daoíz and Velarde for their valour. The lively Plaza del Dos de Mayo is also well known for its nightlife and is a great place to party with your friends until the early hours of the morning. Though some bars close at midnight, there are many places that are open until 03:00.

Trendy bars and nightclubs

There are a vast number of bars in the Malasaña district. The most celebrated nightlife venue here is said to be La Vía Láctea, a pulsating and grungy remnant of La Movida Madrileña where the walls are adorned with graffiti. This nightclub is popular with an informal crowd that ranges from veteran 1980s rockers to youngsters looking for an alternative taste. The club is divided into four areas and the music here is mostly pop and rock.

El Penta, Nasti, the Nueva Visión, the Siroco, Tupperware, the Taboo, La Vaca Austera and El Barco are some other popular nightclubs in Malasaña. Pubs line the streets, pumping out all kinds of music and drawing in diverse crowds. Whatever your musical taste, Malasaña will have the perfect place for you to let loose and unwind. 

Theaters in Malasaña

If you’d like to take in some of Spain’s cutting-edge performance art, including drama and Flamenco dancing, there are several options in this Madrid district. 

The Teatro Lara is an Italian-inspired, grand theater first built in 1880. Going inside simply to see the architecture is worth the trip in and of itself. Some of the finest dramatic actors and singers grace this stage in regular performances. For an authentic Spanish experience, head to the Teatro Flamenco, the only theater in the world dedicated to the Spanish art of Flamenco dancing. See traditional dances from world-renowned dance companies in the heart of the Spanish capital. 

Museums in Malasaña

No trip to Madrid would be complete without visiting the Madrid History Museum in the Malasaña district. Learn about how Madrid came to be the capital of Spain and see artifacts from crucial moments in Spanish history. Take a walk to the Museum of Romanticism to view paintings by Spanish Romantic greats in a setting that rivals many galleries and museums all across Europe. 

Malasaña is one of many historic and culturally significant neighborhoods in Madrid. Get more information on where to stay in this vibrant neighborhood at NH Hotels, which has several options to stay in this area, including the Hotel NH Collection Gran Via, the Avani Alonso Martinez, and the Hotel NH Collection Madrid Suecia. 

Planning your trip to Madrid? Check out our best city center hotels in Madrid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do the locals go to experience live music and fine drinks in Malasaña?

Malasaña is full of local bars and clubs that often feature live music, sometimes until 3 in the morning. The Taboo, La Vaca Austera, and El Barco are some examples of locally favored nightclubs. 

Where should I stay near the Malasaña? 

Minor Hotels Europe & Americas offers several inner-city Madrid hotels and places to stay for all kinds of tourists. You’ll find options near this area, such as Hotel NH Collection Madrid Gran Vía or Avani Alonso Martínez. Also, the public transportation system in Madrid is reliable and will be able to take you where you want to go.

Where can I shop in the Malasaña District in Madrid? 

There are many retro and vintage shops all within easy walking distance of the Noviciado metro station, the heart of the district.

Author: Alberto del Ser

Guest Relations at NH Collection Madrid Suecia

Hello! My name is Alberto del Ser. I have been working at NH for over 5 years, and currently, I work as a Guest Relations at the NH Collection Madrid Suecia hotel. As a Guest Relations, my goal is to uncover the charms of Madrid, from its iconic monuments to its most hidden corners. Malasaña, nestled in the heart of Madrid, is a bohemian and alternative neighborhood brimming with energy. Its streets are lined with vintage shops, charming cafes, tapas bars, and a vibrant nightlife, making it a unique place to explore. Whether you’re into traditional taverns or live music and international DJs, Malasaña has something for everyone. It’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable night out!