Malasaña neighbourhood, Madrid
1 / 5
Barrio Malasaña, Joan Pujol Square - by Zarateman (CC0)
Description
Malasaña is one of Madrid's hip neighbourhoods, located just north of Gran Vía, between the Chueca and Argüelles neighbourhoods. It is known for its nightlife and its counterculture with many clubs, musical venues, second-hand bookstores and independent designer stores although it is slowly gentrifying. The name of Malasaña comes from a 15-year-old girl (Manuela Malasaña) who was executed by the French following the uprising in 1808. Architecturally it is rather uniform with a few highlights including the Palacio de Liria, the Convento de las Comendadoras de Santiago with the Plaza in front of it, and the Plaza del Dos de Mayo.
Access & Transport
There are 7 metro stations serving the area: Noviciado (2) in the center and then clockwise from the southeast corner: Gran Via (1, 5), Plaza de España (3, 10), Ventura Rodríguez (3), Ventura Rodríguez (3, 4, 6), San Bernardo (2, 4) and Bilbao (1, 4).
Instructions & Recommendations
Given this is one of the best places for alternative nightlife, if that is of interest, we would recommend a visit of the neighbourhood during the day and a separate experience at or after dinner time. This activity is best combined with a visit of Plaza de España & Gran Vía and Western Park & Temple of Debod.
Environmental & Social
Very urban environment with a few green spaces. Not overly commercial, with many independent stores, and culturally diverse.
Conclusion
The Malasaña neighbourhood provides visitors with a distinct experience to the wealthier or historical parts of town although that is slowly eroding as gentrification takes hold. We would recommend the area mostly to urban explorers who enjoy the more countercultural parts of large cities and to those looking for good nightlife options.
Key positive
Independent boutiques and street art
Some trendy bars and night clubs
Key negative
Few noteworthy buildings or monuments
Some people may feel uncomfortable in some of the neighbourhoods at night
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but best for adults and teenagers. Accessible
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo