Malasaña
A trendy old neighborhood north of Gran Vía and the birthplace of “La Movida Madrileña,” packed with vintage shops, independent cafés and bars.
Malasaña lies north of Gran Vía and west of Fuencarral Street. In the 1980s it was the birthplace of La Movida, the countercultural wave that swept Madrid, and it still retains the spirit of punk, indie music and small creative shops. The heart of the neighborhood is Plaza del Dos de Mayo, which commemorates the artillery officers Daoíz and Velarde, who fought the French troops in 1808. Nearby streets such as Espíritu Santo, Velarde and Manuela Malasaña are lined with vintage clothing shops, vinyl record stores, independent bookshops, specialty coffee shops and murals. Near the Palacio de Montellano you will also find an old-style pharmacy with a tiled sign. Daytime is best for strolling and taking photos. In the evening the square’s terraces fill with young people, and at night the small bars and live music venues are at their liveliest. Take the metro to Tribunal, Noviciado or Bilbao, or walk about 10 minutes from Callao on Gran Vía. Malasaña is separated from Chueca only by Fuencarral Street, so you can easily visit both.
Opening hours
All day; stores approx. 11:00–21:00
Nearby sights
- Chueca
- Gran Vía
- Plaza de España
- Monastery of Las Descalzas Reales
- Puerta del Sol
- Chocolatería San Ginés
- Plaza Mayor
- Mercado de San Miguel