Madrid is a popular city that is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and stunning architecture. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay in Madrid during your visit. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the best areas to stay, based on their unique characteristics.
Whether you are looking for luxury accommodation, a lively nightlife scene, or a more tranquil experience, Madrid has something to offer everyone. By choosing to stay in the right area, you can make the most out of your trip.
So, let’s find the best neighbourhoods and hotels for every budget & travel type!
The districts of Madrid
Madrid is divided into a number of different districts, each with its own distinct character and charm.
The best districts in Madrid to stay at as a tourist are district 1, 3, 4 and 7.
Here, you’ll find a lot of top attractions that you can reach by foot, a good vibe and lots of shops, bars & restaurants.
Other interesting and up-and-coming districts are district 2, 5, 6 and 9
These areas are slightly more distant from the city centre, but they offer distinct advantages: a more authentic experience, lower costs, and lots to explore.
- Centro
- Arganzuela
- Retiro
- Salamanca
- Chamartín
- Tetuán
- Chamberí
- Fuencarral-El Pardo
- Moncloa-Aravaca
- Latina
- Carabanchel
- Usera
- Puente de Vallecas
- Moratalaz
- Ciudad Lineal
- Hortaleza
- Villaverde
- Villa de Vallecas
- Vicálvaro
- San Blas-Canillejas
- Barajas
District 1: Centro - The best area to stay in Madrid for tourists
Centro is an excellent choice for tourists as it is very central and has easy access to many of the city’s main attractions. It has an electrifying vibe with its bustling streets full of people, markets, and shops. Its nightlife is fantastic, with many bars and restaurants offering delicious Spanish cuisine. Safety is generally not a concern, just use your common sense. For tourists, it is great to have landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral, and the Puerta del Sol close by.
- Home to many famous landmarks such as Puerta del Sol, Gran Via, and Plaza Mayor
- Excellent transport links to other parts of the city, as well as to the airport
- Plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafés
- The district has a lively nightlife scene, especially in the Malasaña, La Latina & Chueca area.
- It is a pedestrian-friendly area, with many streets and areas being car-free.
- Large crowds of tourists
- It can be quite noisy due to the many bars and nightlife
- The district can be quite pricey, especially in terms of accommodation and food/drink prices. But you can find a good place to stay for every budget.
The best neighbourhoods to stay in Madrid Centro
Madrid is a patchwork of diverse neighbourhoods. When choosing where to stay in Centro, it’s about finding an area that suits you.
Each neighbourhood has its unique vibe, architecture, food, cultural vibes, and historical significance.
There are plenty of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury. It is always recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and get the best price.
Some interesting neighbourhoods in Centro are:
- Las Letras
- Chueca
- Malasaña
- La Latina
- Lavapiés
So, what is the best neighbourhood in Madrid Centro for you?
Every neighbourhood in Centro offers numerous advantages, particularly for first-time visitors. With the ability to easily reach attractions on foot, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of all the action.
Let’s have a look at what the barrios of Madrid have to offer.
1. Las Letras - Best area in Madrid to mix culture with a night out
Las Letras is a vibrant neighbourhood located in the heart of Madrid Centro. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafés that offer a variety of traditional Spanish cuisine. The vibe is energetic and cosmopolitan, with a mix of tourists and locals filling the streets.
One of the main attractions of the neighbourhood is its cultural heritage, as it was once home to some of the most famous Spanish writers such as Cervantes and Lope de Vega. Today, visitors can explore the literary history of the area by visiting museums and cultural centres.
> The Plaza de Santa Ana is the bustling heart of the Las Letras neighbourhood. Dotted with cosy pubs and restaurants, it draws a crowd of locals and visitors alike. You can find the Teatro Español here, it’s still a popular destination for theater-goers, showcasing a diverse range of plays and performances throughout the year.
> Plaza del Angel is another cosy square in Las Letras. Ideal to rest and people-watch while enjoying a cup of coffee or a bite to eat.
> Nightlife in Las Letras is also noteworthy, with several clubs and bars that stay open until the early hours of the morning.
> Las Letras neighbourhood in Madrid is considered a safe area. The streets are well-lit, and there are usually many people around. It is generally a safe neighbourhood with a low crime rate, but you should always stay vigilant.
> However, one downside of the neighbourhood is that it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
Nonetheless, Las Letras remains a popular destination for those seeking an authentic Madrid experience. The ideal spot for tourists & first-time visitors.
Where to stay in Barrio de Las Letras?
2. Chueca - Best neighbourhood for Bohemian vibes & diversity
Chueca is ideal for tourists looking for an enjoyable and lively atmosphere. The neighbourhood is known for its diversity, eclectic shops, bars, cafés and restaurants. It’s a great place to explore on foot, as you can easily reach popular tourist attractions.
> It has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous venues that stay open late into the night. Chueca is renowned for its LGBT scene, serving as a central gathering place for the local community. This district has a rich history of fostering acceptance and support for the LGBT community, highlighted by its annual Pride Parade that attracts thousands of attendees from across the globe.
> The Plaza de Chueca is the centre of this neighbourhood and you can find a lot of trendy bars and restaurants here.
> Also, the proximity to Paseo de Recoletos is a plus. This famous boulevard is known for its beautiful art and architecture. It stretches from Plaza de Cibeles to Plaza de Colón, and is surrounded by many famous landmarks including the National Library, the Church of San Manuel and San Benito, and the Palace of Linares.
> Chueca is generally considered a safe neighbourhood. Visitors and residents can feel confident walking around the area during the day or at night. However, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.
> While there is no doubt that Chueca is an excellent neighbourhood to stay in for tourists, it may not be suitable for everyone. The area can be quite noisy at night, and it’s not the place for peace and quiet.
In essence, Chueca is an exceptional choice for tourists. It situates you right in the heart of everything, and the vibe is relaxed.
Where to stay in Chueca?
3. Malasaña - Best area to stay in Madrid for nightlife & street art
Malasaña is an authentic neighbourhood in Centro. The vibe of Malasaña is relaxed, artistic, and creative, with plenty of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants to discover. One of the main attractions in Malasaña is the street art that is seen on almost every corner. Visitors will have the opportunity to wander around and soak up the artistic culture of the neighbourhood.
> Plaza Dos de Mayo is a hub of cultural and social activity and serves as a meeting point for artists, musicians, and locals. The square is surrounded by bars and restaurants, making it a popular spot for nightlife and socializing. It also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts, book fairs, and art exhibitions.
> You’re close by numerous cultural attractions like museums, theaters, and parks. Its central location also provides easy access to other parts of the city, with well-connected metro and bus stations nearby.
> Additionally, Malasana is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering visitors a chance to discover authentic Spanish cuisine and international flavors
> The nightlife in Malasaña is lively and diverse. It caters to all kinds of tastes, with music styles ranging from indie pop to electronic dance music.
> Malasana neighborhood in Madrid is considered a safe place. While tourists should still exercise normal safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoiding dark alleys at night.
> One downside of staying in Malasaña is that it can be a bit loud and rowdy at night, so if you’re sensitive to noise, it may not be the best neighbourhood for you.
Nonetheless, Malasaña is perfect for those who are looking for a fun and exciting place to stay in Madrid Centro. It provides tourists with easy access to top attractions and a bustling nightlife scene.
Where to stay in Malasaña?
4. La Latina - Best neighbourhood for a lively night scene & tapas bars
La Latina is a charming and historic neighbourhood that is popular because of its vibrant atmosphere, lively nightlife, and a wide variety of bars and restaurants that serve traditional Spanish cuisine.
> Puerta de Toledo, Museo de San Isidoro and Plaza de los Carros are among its main attractions.
>Plaza de los Carros is one of the most visited places in the La Latina neighborhood. This square bears a rich historical significance dating back to the Middle Ages when it was used as a marketplace for carts, hence the name “Square of the Carts”. Today, the Plaza is filled with lively outdoor terraces and traditional Spanish tapas bars. The square is also well-known for hosting numerous cultural events and festivities throughout the year.
> La Latina is considered one of the safest neighbourhoods in Madrid. With its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful orange tree-lined streets, and charming squares. Visitors should still take the usual safety precautions, like keeping an eye on their stuff and avoiding sketchy alleys at night.
> One negative aspect of La Latina is that it can get crowded and noisy, especially during peak hours and weekends.
Overall, La Latina offers a unique Spanish experience to tourists and is a great neighbourhood to stay in while exploring Madrid.
Where to stay in La Latina?
5. Lavapiés - Most ethnic area of Centro
Lavapiés is a great neighbourhood to stay at for several reasons. It’s known for its multicultural vibe and bohemian atmosphere, making it one of the most diverse areas of the city.
> Some of the main attractions in Lavapiés include the iconic Lavapiés Square and La Tabacalera – a famous cultural and art centre.
> The neighbourhood is also home to some of the best vintage shops, ethnic cuisine restaurants, and live music venues. You can also find the famous flea market – El Rastro – here, that is open every Sunday.
> The vibe in Lavapiés is lively, artistic, and welcoming to all types of people.
> Lavapiés is generally safe during the day, However, the situation may change slightly at night. Just stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when walking alone.
Overall, Lavapiés is a safe and vibrant neighbourhood that provides an authentic Madrid experience with its unique and diverse community.
Where to stay in Lavapiés
Best budget-friendly hotels in Centro
The Centro area in Madrid is a popular location for budget hotels, and there are plenty of options available that won’t break the bank. The average price per night for a budget-friendly hotel in the Centro area is around €110 to €190. However, prices can vary depending on the time of year and the level of amenities provided by the hotel.
Best boutique hotels in Centro
Finding boutique hotels in Madrid is reasonably simple, as the city is filled with beautifully restored buildings turned into hotels. The average price per night for a good boutique hotel in the Centro of Madrid depends on various factors such as location, amenities, and season, but generally ranges from €100 to €400 euros per night and up.
Best luxury hotels in Centro
The city centre has a great number of high-end accommodation options to choose from. Some of the top luxury hotels in Madrid are located in the Centro district. The average price per night for a luxury hotel in this area ranges from €400 to €600, depending on the property and the season.
However, there are some ultra-luxury hotels that can cost upwards of €1,000 per night. Despite the high prices, these hotels offer exceptional service, amenities, and comfort that are sure to make any stay in Madrid unforgettable.
District 3: Retiro - The best area for a quiet and upscale retreat in a verdant oasis
El Retiro is one of the most peaceful districts in Madrid, and it’s a great place to stay for those who want a more upscale and quieter experience. This district offers a mix of residential areas, beautiful parks, and popular attractions.
> The most famous park in Madrid Centro is the Retiro Park (Parque del buen Retiro), which is a vast and well-maintained park filled with picturesque gardens and monuments, that include the Crystal Palace.
> Some of the most popular attractions in the area include the Prado Museum, which is one of the finest museums in Europe, and the Puerta de Alcalá, a magnificent arch that dates back to the 18th century.
> The neighbourhood itself has a relaxed, Bohemian vibe, with many artists and musicians hanging around the area.
> El Retiro is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, so it’s a common place to go out at night, and most places are fairly safe to walk around.
- Central location with easy access to major attractions, including the Retiro Park, museums, and historic landmarks
- A wide range of restaurants, cafés, and bars offering traditional and international cuisine
- Plenty of shopping opportunities, with both high-end and independent boutiques and stores
- Well-connected to transportation hubs, including the metro and bus lines
- More upscale neighbourhood, good for families
- Verdant oasis to relax
- More expensive than some of the other neighbourhoods in Madrid.
- Can be crowded, particularly during peak tourist season.
Where to stay in Retiro?
District 4: Salamanca - The best upscale area for luxury shopping
Salamanca is an upscale residential district, and it is often referred to as Madrid’s Beverly Hills. It is known for its excellent shopping and fashion boutiques and for being home to many of the city’s most luxurious hotels. It is a safe neighbourhood and offers a quieter atmosphere than Centro. Salamanca has a calm, elegant vibe with many high-end restaurants serving exceptional food.
> Salamanca is a highly sought after district in Madrid due to its prime location and upscale vibe
> Tourists love staying in Salamanca as it is known for its gourmet restaurants and trendy boutiques. Serrano street is famous for its famous luxurious flagship stores
> Some of the main attractions in Salamanca include the National Archaeological Museum, and the beautiful Puerta de Alcala monument on the edge with El Retiro
> Salamanca is also known for its elegant architecture, making it a great place to stroll around and admire the charming buildings
> Safety is not a concern in Salamanca, as it is known to be a safe and well-policed area.
The district is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxurious stay in Madrid. It is slso a good choice if you like high quality shopping and dining
- Salamanca is a safe and clean neighborhood, ideal for families and solo travelers.
- There is plenty to see and do, such as visiting museums, art galleries, and parks.
- The shopping experience is fantastic, with numerous designer boutiques and luxury brand stores to explore.
- Salamanca is well-connected to other parts of Madrid by public transport, making it easy to get around the city.
- The nightlife scene is vibrant, with an array of trendy bars, restaurants and clubs to visit.
- Salamanca is one of the most expensive areas in Madrid, and it may not be suitable for travellers on a tight budget.
- It can be a bit too posh and pretentious for some, and lacking in authentic Spanish culture or charm.
- While public transport is readily available, it can be crowded during peak hours.
- The dining options are mainly geared towards high-end restaurants, and it may be difficult to find affordable options.
Where to stay in Salamanca?
District 7: Chamberí - The best area to stay in Madrid for families
Chamberí is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay at in Madrid due to its charming and traditional ambience. It is a relatively peaceful area that is surrounded by trendy restaurants, cute cafés, bars, and vintage shops, giving it a unique character.
> The neighbourhood is home to the famous Museo Sorolla, which houses the artwork of Spanish painter Joaquin Sorolla. Other notable sights in this neighbourhood include the well-manicured gardens of the Canal de Isabel II, the vibrant Mercado de Chamberí, and the narrow but delightful Plaza de Olavide.
>In addition to its attractions, Chamberi is considered quite safe, even at night. The streets are well-lit and there is police presence making it a secure location for both tourists and residents.
This residential neighbourhood is a perfect blend of culture and quiet city life. It’s ideal for families or people who like the peaceful uptown atmosphere.
- A central location with easy access to public transportation like metro and buses
- A quiet, residential area with tree-lined streets and beautiful architecture
- Plenty of local shops, bars, cafés, and restaurants to explore
- Proximity to many of Madrid’s top museums and attractions like Museo Sorolla
- A strong sense of community and the feeling of living like a true Madrileño
- Prices for accommodation and amenities are higher than average, due to its sought-after location
- Limited nightlife options compared to other areas in Madrid
- Tourist crowds during peak season may make the area feel busy
Where to stay in Chamberí?
Where to stay in Madrid: explore more neighbourhoods
There are a number of other districts in Madrid that are worth exploring as a tourist and that might be a good option for your accommodation. There is something for everyone in Madrid’s various neighbourhoods, and tourists would do well to explore beyond the more well-known areas.
District 6 : Tetuán - The best area to stay in Madrid on a budget
The up-and-coming district of Tetuán is also worth a visit, as it’s known for its affordable prices and burgeoning food scene. It is generally known to be a peaceful and quiet area, with a calm residential atmosphere that offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. However, it also has some lively areas with a bustling commercial area. While there may be some streets with a more Bohemian vibe or graffiti, the district is generally considered safe and friendly.
> Tourists are attracted to this district due to its affordable accommodation and convenient location, which makes it easy to explore the city.
> Tetuán is a great district to stay in for tourists on a budget due to its affordable accommodation and its easy access to other popular neighborhoods in Madrid.
> Its main attractions include Plaza de Castilla, on the edge with Chamartin district. It’s a large open square with fantastic views of the city and the iconic Puerta de Europa towers. Additionally, Plaza de la Remonta is a vibrant square bustling with activity.
> Other notable attractions include the lively Mercado de Maravillas, a bustling marketplace with a wide variety of food, and Parque Rodríguez Sahagún, a peaceful park perfect for enjoying a relaxing afternoon.
However, despite its many positives, some tourists may view the district as lacking in charm and personality compared to other neighbourhoods in Madrid. Some areas can be a bit rough around the edges, and visitors should exercise caution when exploring at night. However, overall, Tetuán is generally considered to be safe.
- Relatively close proximity to the city centre
- Affordable accommodation prices
- Overall peaceful and quiet neighbourhood
- Access to various public transportation options
- Local markets and restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets.
- The cost of living is relatively affordable, especially compared to more central areas of the city.
- Tetuán is not known for its nightlife, and there are relatively few bars and clubs in the district.
- The area is not particularly tourist-friendly, with fewer attractions and landmarks than other parts of Madrid.
- Some parts of Tetuán may feel slightly run-down or neglected.
- There may be some noise pollution from the busy traffic that passes through the district.
Where to stay in Tetuán?
District 9: Moncloa-Aravaca - The best area to relax out of the hustle and bustle of the centre.
The Moncloa-Aravaca district is located on the western part of the city, and it’s a great place for tourists to stay, as it offers a unique blend of urban living and tranquil surroundings.
> The district is known for its beautiful parks, such as the Casa de Campo, which is one of the largest green areas in Madrid, and the Western Park.
> Additionally, Moncloa-Aravaca is home to many cultural and historical attractions, including the Moncloa Palace, the American Museum and the Temple of Debod.
> You can also find many restaurants, bars, and shops here.
> The area is also home to several universities, including the Complutense University of Madrid and the Polytechnic University of Madrid, making it a popular location for students.
> It is generally considered a safe area to visit and live in. It is a well-established residential and commercial zone, which has a low crime rate compared to other parts of the city.
This district has a lot to offer visitors, and it is well-connected to the centre if you want to be in the lively area of the city.
- A great choice for those looking for a more peaceful and relaxed base from which to explore Madrid
- Easy access to many popular tourist attractions
- Well-connected by public transportation, including multiple subway lines and buses
- Large selection of restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance
- Close proximity to parks, including the popular Casa de Campo
- Wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and hostels
- It is not as centrally located as other areas of Madrid. While the district is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transport, it may take longer to reach some of the major tourist attractions
- Some areas of the district may feel more residential and quiet, which may not be ideal for those looking for a more bustling and lively atmosphere
Where to stay in Moncloa-Aravaca?
District 2: Arganzuela - the best district to soak up Madrid's cultural and historic charm away from the tourist crowd
The Arganzuela district is an up-and-coming area with modern buildings and trendy cafés. Nestled south of Madrid’s bustling city centre, this hidden gem offers an authentic experience, away from the tourists that flock to the popular attractions. With its prime location south of Centro and across the Manzanares River from Parque del Retiro, Arganzuela strikes the perfect balance between convenience and tranquillity.
> It is an excellent area for tourists to stay for several reasons. The district has a vibrant and diverse atmosphere that offers a rich cultural experience with plenty of art galleries, museums, and restaurants to explore.
> It is conveniently located near the city centre and many popular tourist attractions, making it easy to explore the city.
> Visitors can check out popular attractions like the Matadero Cultural Centre, the Madrid Rio Park, and the Planetarium, all located within the district.
> The Atocha train station is a major transportation hub located in the Arganzuela district. It is the largest railway station in the city and it has an amazing botanical garden inside. It spans over 4,000 square meters and hosts a wide variety of plants from all around the world. So, it’s definitly worth a visit.
> Arganzuela is considered one of the safest districts in the city, making it an excellent option for travellers.
Overall, the area has a relaxed and friendly vibe, making it a great choice for tourists.
- Great location, easily accessible to central Madrid via public transportation
- Offers a mix of modern and traditional neighbourhoods
- Plenty of green spaces, including the Madrid Rio park
- Diverse range of restaurants and bars
- Home to popular attractions like the Matadero Madrid cultural centre
- Can be noisy around the Atocha train station, due to the train tracks
- Some areas can be quite busy and touristy
- Limited shopping options
- Not as historic or charming as other neighbourhoods in Madrid
- Fairly spread out, which can make getting around on foot more challenging.
Where to stay in Arganzuela?
District 5: Chamartin - The area where modern meets traditional
Chamartin is a popular district in Madrid that is ideal for tourists who don’t want to stay in the city centre, but yet close by. Chamartin is considered as the financial district of Madrid. It is one of the most important business and financial areas in the city, as it houses numerous national and international corporations.
> It is also home to various luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and exclusive shops, making it a popular choice for business executives and for travellers alike.
> With its convenient location and excellent transport links, it is no wonder why Chamartin continues to be a prime location.
>The district’s main attraction is the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to the famous Real Madrid Football Club.
> Other notable landmarks include the Kio Towers and the new Four Towers Business Area and the Musuem of Natural Sciences. But there are also green spaces as the Berlin Park, to relax.
> As with any district in a big city, there are some negative points, such as the high price point of its accommodations and its limited nightlife.
However, Chamartin is generally considered a safe district, making it an excellent choice for families and travelers who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
- The Chamartin District is well-connected to the city centre and other areas of Madrid, thanks to its excellent public transportation options.
- It offers an interesting blend of modern and traditional architecture, making it a great place for those who love to explore urban landscapes
- The district is home to many luxury shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it an ideal destination for those who like to indulge in fine dining and high-end shopping
- It tends to be more expensive than other parts of Madrid, which could deter budget-conscious travellers
- There may be a lack of variety when it comes to local cuisine, as there are more international restaurants in the area
- The Chamartin District is not as walkable as some other neighbourhoods in Madrid, as it is more spread out and has wider streets
Where to stay in Chamartin?
What areas to avoid in Madrid?
Madrid is widely regarded as a secure and welcoming destination for travellers. Just like in any city, there are certain areas that may not be as recommended for tourists to explore, or where it is advisable to exercise extra caution, especially at night. Even in Centro, some parts of the generally safe Lavapiés, La Latina and Malasaña neighbourhoods, are known to be a bit more sketchy after dark.
Some streets and areas to be more vigilant:
- Watch out for pickpockets at touristy places. Pay also extra attention on busy metro’s, buses and at the airport
- Calle de la Montera, a known red-light district area
- Area around the Atocha train station
- Area around El Rastro Flea Market
- Gran Via and the quieter, not that well-lit streets around it
- Tirso de Molina, for pickpockets
As long as you use your common sense, you’ll be fine. As a general rule, it’s always best to stick to well-lit and well-populated areas, especially at night, to ensure your safety.
Districts that aren't that attractive for tourists
In addition to the well-known districts we discussed, there are less captivating areas in Madrid that may not appeal to tourists.
Some, such as Carabanchel and Cañada Real, might not be as attractive to tourists. These areas, though rich in local flavour, lack the tourist infrastructure and attractions found in more popular districts. The absence of well-known landmarks, museums, or shopping malls make these districts less enticing for sightseers.
Additionally, safety can be a concern in some districts, particularly at night. Incidents of petty crime or unwelcome attention can be higher in these areas, which can intimidate tourists, especially those travelling alone or unfamiliar with the city.
While these districts are part of Madrid’s diversity, they might not offer the quintessential Madrid experience that most tourists seek.
District 11: Carabanchel
Carabanchel district in Madrid is not necessarily unsafe, but it’s known to have high crime rates compared to other districts in the city.
It’s also considered one of the least attractive areas for tourists due to its lack of cultural sites and historical landmarks. And it’s more difficult to reach.
Additionally, the district is known for its high immigrant population, which may make some people feel uncomfortable or uneasy. While it’s not necessary to completely avoid Carabanchel, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings if they choose to visit this area. It’s advisable not to walk alone in Carabanchel during nighttime, particularly in the park area.
District 12: Usera
The Usera district in Madrid is a working-class neighbourhood located south of the city centre. It is known for its multicultural population, with a large Chinese community living in the area. However, it’s not considered particularly attractive for tourists, as it lacks the popular tourist attractions found in other areas of Madrid. The streets are not as well maintained, and there are fewer restaurants and shops catering to tourists.
Usera, historically, had a higher crime rate compared to some other districts. But it’s important to understand that, much like San Blas, Usera has seen extensive efforts by the local authorities to curb crime and enhance safety. Occasional incidents related to drug trafficking or gang-related crimes can occur, so it’s always prudent for visitors to exercise caution and adhere to basic safety guidelines, particularly during late hours.
However, many inhabitants and frequent visitors to Usera often praise it for its vibrant local culture and community spirit.
District 18: Villa de Vallecas - Cañada Real area
Cañada Real is an area located on the outskirts of Madrid. However, it’s important to note that it is often not considered a traditional neighbourhood due to its unique status as a shanty town. It’s one of the largest informal settlements in Europe.
Although efforts have been made to improve living conditions, it remains one of the poorer areas in Madrid, which is known for its poor living conditions, and higher crime rates.
District 20: San Blas
Situated in the eastern part of Madrid, San Blas is predominantly a residential area. The district is characterized by local residential blocks and lacks the grandeur of the central districts of Madrid. It is often overlooked by tourists due to the absence of major historical sites, renowned museums, or other iconic attractions that Madrid is famous for.
It’s a district where locals live, work, and go about their daily lives, which gives it an authentic neighbourhood feel but doesn’t necessarily cater to the typical tourist’s interests.
Moreover, the district’s location, being a bit removed from the city centre, makes it less accessible for tourists who are largely drawn to the much easier to reach, central districts of the Spanish capital.
This area was once overlooked and neglected. Today, it’s slowly gaining recognition as an up-and-coming neighbourhood. Previously, this area had a higher crime rate, but significant efforts have been made to establish a safer environment. But it is still a work in progress.
While San Blas may not necessarily be considered “unsafe,” visitors should exercise caution and avoid flashing valuables or wandering alone after dark.
Wrapping it up: where to stay in Madrid?
In conclusion, Madrid is a fascinating city with a wide range of districts and neighbourhoods that offer unique experiences to visitors. From the historic and charming streets of Barrio de Las Letras, to the trendy and cosmopolitan atmosphere of Malasaña, each area provides a distinct glimpse into the Spanish culture.
The affluent Salamanca district is perfect for luxury shopping and upscale dining, while La Latina offers a more authentic and laid-back vibe with its outdoor markets and tapas bars. Visitors looking for a more central and tourist-friendly location may prefer the upscale and bustling Gran Vía area.
Ultimately, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Madrid depends on individual preferences and interests. However, one thing is certain – wherever you choose to stay, Madrid is a very cool city with a good vibe and lots of things to discover.
