Bars

In this chapter, we shall show the different atmospheres of each of the areas of Madrid. In other words, this is a guide for the tourist that is looking for a bit of that Madrid-style nightlife, although it may be difficult to choose because of the variety the city has to offer.

Moreover, the visitor might realize that the main establishments, because of their history and tradition, also form part of the culture of Madrid.

Years ago, the norm was to go out for a glass of wine or vermouth, accompanied by the unrenounceable "gift" of the house so that the drink did not land in an empty stomach. Today, tapas, or small hors d'ouvres typical in bars, are not limited to olives or a simple snack, and in many places, eating tapas can replace quite heartily a meal at a table with tablecloth.

Lately, a beer has been replacing wine. In fact, the beer bars, which also preserve the very Madrid-like tapa tradition, have seen great growth.

The integration of other cultures in this city has also become present in this sector, bringing into existence a wide range of bars and taverns from different regions and styles, making it possible to find Irish taverns with all different kinds of beer, Hawaiian taverns with spectacular cocktails, Caribbean bars, where you can taste classic mojitos and daquiris moving to the rhythms of salsa, on any street.

If you want to go in the daytime, do not miss such typical bars and taverns like:

It is impossible to make a list of the selection of bars due to their vast quantity and variety. For this reason, what we offer is a list of the different zones specified by the type of atmosphere and type of customers that frequent it. From here on, it is the personal choice of each one to determine the most adecuate type of bar.

Alonso Martínez-Bilbao Area:

Neighborhood with a range of atmospheres and styles. It is easy to find from the most elegant bar to the most alternative one.

While in Bilbao you can find the concentration of the youngest crowd, on Alonso Martinez, you find all types of people and nobody feels out of place.

Argüelles-Moncloa Area:

This is, perhaps, one of the preferred neighborhoods for youths. Bars that serve the famous 'Minis' (liter cups in which any alcoholic combination can be added) abound.
Like in the other many neighborhoods, here you can see for yourself that the fiesta does not stay exclusively inside the bars, but also goes to the streets.

Bernabéu Area:

In the immediate area surrounding Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, you can find many locales representative of Madrid nightlife. Bars with drinks and shots (chupitos) alternate with dance clubs. All of this, along with an environment that is a little more select than the other areas, can make the night last into dawn.

Chueca Area:

This has turned into one of the principal centers of Madrid's 'atmosphere', although the access and fun is limited certain groups.

Ciudad Universitaria Area:

Neighborhood where you find the atmosphere frequented by Madrid's university students. In these locales all types of students from others provinces and other countries, mixing different cultures and traditions. Spanish as well as international types can be found.

Huertas-Santa Ana Area:

Area running between Puerta del Sol and Plaza de Santa Ana. You will find an infinite number of small bars to have a drink and listen to music.
This is one of the areas most commonly frequented by foreigners to meet and enjoy Madrid's nightlife.

Lavapiés Area:

It is characteristic for its restaurants and tapas bars. You will find the purest style of the city.

Malasaña-San Bernardo Area:

Malasaña is the classic neighborhood of excellence where the nightlife of Madrid was born and cultivated. There is a great range of styles and we can find a large number of bars with live performances.
Famous Spanish groups that came out in the 1980s started their musical careers in these places.

Salamanca Area:

Despite the fact that it is not a typical area for going out, young people often come here for their last drinks in the innumerable peaceful terraces and locales.

Sol-Plaza Mayor Area:

This is an area of constant movement. Thousands of tourists frequent it and gather in its bars, restaurants and locales, making this area one of the most cosmopolitan.
One of its great charms is that we can enjoy restaurants that conserve the traditional style of Madrid.

Terraces (outside bars):

This is perhaps a symbol adopted by the culture of Madrid, and in general, has spread to all other Spanish geographic locations because of the good weather that accompanies the country much of the year.
These places are of great importance in the summer months. Terraces exist throughout the capital, but especially in the Castellana y Rosales neighborhood.

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