Malasana is a charming neighbourhood in Madrid known for its hip and trendy shops, museums and pubs along with a thriving nightlife. With numerous boutiques and cafes throughout the neighbourhood, it's no wonder why it's so popular with young people looking to have fun. Plus, it's easy to enjoy the local history and culture, thanks to the abundance of historical buildings and museums throughout the neighbourhood.

When you visit Malasana, you'll find fun for the whole family with museums and restaurants that kids and adults alike can enjoy. Of course, the nightlife is a popular choice for couples and young people looking to find more thrilling adventures at clubs and pubs. Most visitors spend about 3 to 4 hours in the neighbourhood, but there's easily enough things to do here to turn your visit into an all-day affair. You may even want to focus your entire holiday around this neighbourhood.

Malasana in Madrid - one of the highlights of 10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Madrid and 13 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Madrid (Read all about Madrid here)

What are the highlights of Malasana in Madrid?

You'll never have to look far to find fun things to do in Malasana. Plaza de Espana is one of the most popular attractions and functions as a popular public square. Within, you'll find the iconic monument that depicts Miguel de Cervantes, a writer known for the famed characters Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, who are also featured in the monument. Additionally, you won't want to miss out on the Iglesia de San Antonio de Los Alemanes, a massive church with intricate artwork on its interior ceiling.

Museums are a popular attraction in Malasana, with the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art being one of the best. Located in a former army barracks building, this museum showcases several impressive works of art, including paintings, photos and drawings focused on both abstraction and realism.

Where to eat and drink in Malasana in Madrid?

When you're looking for something to eat or drink in Malasana, you won't have to look far. This neighbourhood has some of the best tapas in town with tapas bars like Casa Julio offering gourmet croquetas in a variety of flavours. Sampling all 7 signature options won't cost you more than a few euros, so it's perfect for travellers looking for budget-friendly places to eat.

Malasana will have plenty of local Madrid cuisine, but you may get a craving for something different. Fortunately, you can find regional cuisine showing off all sorts of Spanish flavours right in this neighbourhood. Basque tapas, also known as pintxos, are available at Orio, while Galician seafood is prepared fresh at Los Montes de Galicia.

photo by Nicolas Vigier (CC0 1.0) modified

What else is good to know about Malasana in Madrid?

Before you head to Malasana, there are a few factors you should keep in mind. You'll want to explore most of this neighbourhood on foot to take in the sheer array of colours on the streets. Even the lamp posts are covered in stickers, showing off a colourful vibrancy that complements the immense amount of street art along building walls. Plus, you'll be able to take in the refreshing fragrances of brewed coffee from local cafes as well as burgers and tapas cooked in local restaurants and street vendor spots.

When visiting Malasana, you'll find yourself close to several other notable attractions as well. The Centro district is located directly to the south, where you'll find iconic spots like Plaza Mayor and the Palacio Real de Madrid. This neighbourhood also grants easy access to Teatro Real right by the Opera Metro station.

photo by Nicolas Vigier (CC0 1.0) modified

Malasana in Madrid

Location: Madrid, Spain

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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