Wandering around Madrid

There are many theories about the name of the capital of Spain, even though almost no one doubts it were the Arabians who chose it, and one of the most probable ones is that ´Magerit´ - as it were called – represented the city´s subterranean waters.

Classic, opposed to modern Barcelona, Madrid is the least provincial city out of all Spanish cities, and its inhabitants are a mix of people who arrived from many different places. Maybe that is why we feel so comfortable amongst the Spanish population.

The aim this month is to mix the classic with the different, and suggest walks that involve both touristic spots and a more personal impression of Madrid. It is a personal selection, short, and open. Still, an invitation for those who wish to discover the charms of the city.


Malasaña
A classic for the Spanish nights, especially after the dictatorship and in the beginning of ´La Movida´ (cultural movement whose leader was Almodóvar). It s there that I have drunk one of the best pints of Guiness , and also where you can eat well in a place called Mastropiero, after a walk around Pez street.

Chueca
Next to Malasaña, in Fuencarral street. A neighborhood famous for being gay-friendly. With great taste and variety, modern and... everything except from sober. It is worth the visit to Casa de Vinos – also known as El Comunista (in Augusto Figueroa street), and right after it, Libertad 8, on the same street (famous for its songwritting and nostalgia).

Lavapiés
The least touristic of the districts, therefore the most multi-cultural one. There you can find food from all over the globe, especially Arabian and Asian. You can also find one of the world´s best beers in La Mancha en Madrid, books and vinyls in Bajo el Volcán, and a bit of flamenco in  Candela. And, of course, the Guernica (on Sundays, and late in the afternoon, the entrance in the Reina Sofía museum is free of charge). For those who love movies, look for Cine Dore, and if you still have some spare time, try to watch one of the great shows in Teatro del Barrio.

San Bernardo
Between Malasaña and Princesa. The Taberna del Limón, no doubt. In front of Cuartel de Conde Duque and Museo de Arte Moderno (totally worth the visit). Eat in La Chalana, where you can only find a table before 1:30 pm.

Chamberí
A classical in Madrid. Go around Ponzano street, where pubs are great for their originality and flavors. I would say Sala de Despiece is one of the best ones around. 

La Latina
On Sundays, go to El Rastro (famous street fair), which is as typical as the city´s pubs in Cascorro square, and Los Caracoles. The centennial tavern Almendro 13 is priceless! Other great spots you might like are Sala Galileo, Clamores, El Templo del Gato, and the new cultural center called Matadero.


These were only a few personal tips in order to find a different Madrid, intimate and off the beaten path. There is a lot to discover, and this is probably one of the best places to the curious travelers, who do not own a map. Just so you know, summers are terribly hot, and winters can get quite cold. So prefer going in spring so you can walk through its amzing parks (especially El Retiro – where there is this impressive book fair in May), or during the fall, with its gray and brown colors, great option for nostalgic visitors.