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Madrid Districts
Chamberí • Salamanca • Malasaña • Chamartín • Lavapies • La Latina • Chueca
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Barrio Salamanca in Madrid is an authentic slice of Spanish life in the capital. It’s an area filled with popular green spaces like Retiro Park and hidden gems like The Secret Garden which has a number of creative workshops to attend.
The crisscrossing wide boulevards here are lined with traditional buildings and broken up by local markets hidden off the main roads. For example, La Paz Market is very unique with an excellent selection of small meat, fish and vegetable stalls. Inside you can sit and eat and the small bars or even order online once you know the area. Similarly Torrijos Market is another great market that is ideal if you are looking for a quick tapas. Additionally, there is alo El Corte Ingles, a large supermarket on Serrano street that serves fresh groceries.
The Salamanca neighborhood is also known for its gourmet restaurants, Jorge Juan street which especially alonghas recently been renovated to include many excellent restaurants and is now popular at all hours of the day with satisfied diners. Finally, the barrio of Salamanaca in Madrid is also known for its boutique shopping with international brands like Gucci, Channel, and Bimba y Lola along Serrano high-street.
Culture.
Salamanca in Madrid is filled with classical Spanish buildings and is a great place to walk around and see the traditional architecture on display.
Casa de América – The palace itself has some wonderful architecture but on the inside, you can visit their free exhibitions and concerts as well as film screenings and a restaurant.
Fernán Gómez Cultural Center – An expo theatre that showcases different creative exhibits throughout the year. There are a couple stages that hosts live performances and musical performances.
National Archeology Museum – A spectacular museum housing beautiful artifacts from throughout history. There sculptures and displays belonging to the Egyptian and Persian empires. The Roman section is especially informative and extensive. Note that there is free entry on Saturdays from 14:30 and Sunday mornings.
Famous streets & plazas.
Calle Serrano – When people think of shopping in Madrid, Serrano street is what they think of. Fashionable designer goods, top international boutiques, and cozy cafes. El Corte Inglés, which is a department store chain also has a large outlet mall on this street where you can get homeware, jewelry, clothes, and a few groceries.
Colón Square – This large famous plaza is a great place to start if you’re looking to discover Salamanca. At Home Club, we have several apartments that overlook Colon that are perfect if you want a good central location.
Calle Velázquez – Running parallel to, and with a similar concept to Serrano street; expect even more up-town stores and shopping. A local tip: the Salamanca area of Madrid is well known for its quality leatherworks. So if you’re looking for a good pair of smart shoes then it’s worth checking out.
WiZink Center – Here there is a large stadium that hosts a large variety of events including basketball, but is especially home to many music concerts throughout the year.
Restaurants.
Ramses – €€ – Easy to find next to the ‘Puerta de Alcala’. It’s best to get a table outside so you can enjoy your food and drinks as the people pass by at this iconic intersection. Inside on the first floor you can experience the open kitchen, cocktail bar, and modern decoration.
La Paloma – €€ – Book a reservation here if you’re looking for the best quality Spanish food in a restaurant with bright, colorful decor. The fanciful food is artistic in its presentation which is matched only by its taste. You can’t go wrong with any of the vegetable or seafood options.
Amazónico – €€€ – Decorated in a classy modern jungle theme – this the Asian-fusion food here is of the highest quality. Contact our team and they will be more than happy to help you book a reservation.
Ramón Frexia – €€€ – With spectacular design both inside and out this is a dining experience that is one to remember. Further hints to this prestige is the two Michelin star review which highlights how the restaurant expertly navigates the line between traditional and cutting edge culinary delights.
Casa Dani – € – This is a small takeaway bar located inside Mercado de la Paz but it is worth it because it sells slices of the best tortilla in the city if you´re looking for a quick snack. However it also has a rotating menu of daily delights.
Pastamore – € – If you´re looking for something more casual then this is a very popular Italian restaurant. We definitely suggest you try either the vegetarian pizza or the burrata which taste both authentic and delicious.
Nightlife / Bars.
This area of Madrid is also known for its elegant nightlife with many chill but sophisticated bars and clubs.
The Shaker Bar – A wonderful cocktail bar with tasty drinks and a cozy place to spend an evening with a friend alongside their great list of gins and beers.
Dry Martini Bar – A grand interior with drinks that match the quality, alongside knowledgeable bartenders to serve whatever you want.
Clandestino Speakeasy – This unusual bar inspired by the secret 1920 speakeasies has a run-down chaotic interior. But don´t let the shabby interior design fool you, the huge bar stocks plenty of excellent cocktails. Keeping with the clandestine theme photos are prohibited and a password is needed for the hidden entrance found inside the neighboring Bistrot Bar.
The Kave – A super unique venue. Make sure to call as you also need an exclusive invitation/password to gain access. Inside their is live music and an exceptionally cool atmosphere.
Looking to rent an apartment in Madrid. We have many apartments in this neighborhood which you can check out here. Contact our team for more information.
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By Tyler Wood.
