We have have 24 glorious hours to spend in this stunner of a city! We have been a few times before but not for MANY years - which neighborhood should we stay in which is oozing with Spanish charm, lovely restaurants, walkable and not too loud/touristy?
Posted by
Hudson Valley
2267 posts
I love Madrid—so much that I'm cooking up plans to move there in a few years. But I'm afraid it might not be the city you're describing in your wish list there.
Lovely restaurants are the easy part. But it's not a particularly charming town. 'Walkable' and 'not too loud/touristy' are pretty much mutually exclusive there.
Posted by
Barcelona + Sweden
4180 posts
Lavapiés is probably the most "happening" part of town, a reflection of a young, urban, and multi-ethnic Spain.
If you're look for more "traditionally" Spanish charm, like bullfights and flamenco, I'd take the first train to Cordoba.
Posted by
Philly
247 posts
yes if you want walkable and charming (old town), it is going to be louder and touristy unfortunately. and I was there shoulder season - end of March. I had a blast though, and loved the city, esp. because I had friends to show me around.
the Chueca/Malasana and La Latina neighborhoods are buzzing with activity and restaurants and are walkable. of course there is other areas, but these three seem to have the fun vibe and hipster crowds.
awaiting feedback from any Madrilenos!
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks everyone! I live in NYC so I want something not as touristy as Times Square but closer to Greenwich Village/West Village vibe but I think I may have enough info :).
Posted by
Hudson Valley
2267 posts
ekerins- That brief is way easier to fill. Just stay north of Gran Via and South of Plaza Mayor. (more hotel options with the former)