Madrid is one of Europe's most visited cities, with notable hotspots like the Royal Palace and the Gran Via drawing millions of tourists annually. However, beyond the grand palaces, historical museums, and bustling plazas is a version of Madrid filled with understated beauty waiting to be discovered.
In this article, we'll dive into Madrid's hidden corners, so conquer the road less traveled by getting in touch with our local guides. With a personalized tour, you'll be able to take on Madrid from a local's perspective and discover its heart.
The Literary Quarter
Triplecaña, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
First up, the magnificent literary quarter, home to Spain's most influential voices. Throughout the country's Golden Age of literature, this barrio housed greats like Miguel de Cervantes, who wrote Don Quixote, and his neighbor and sometimes rival, Lope De Vega. Known locally as the Barrio De Las Letras, it's a slice of Madrid rich with modern and traditional art. Each street, like the Calle de las Huertas, embraces the city's past and present with pops of art beside gold-etched quotes.
Thanks to its proximity to Madrid's famous triangle of art, it's the perfect pit stop during a long day of touring the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Reina Sofia museums. Tapas are in plentiful supply, and the locally beloved Casa Alberto is a 19th-century gem that’s ideal for a post-tour drink.
La Violeta
ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Spain is famous for its aged ham, warm churros and thick hot chocolate, but few know about its love affair with violets. No shop celebrates that more than La Violeta, Madrid's premiere violet sweets and confectionery shop. Each creation highlights the slightly flowery taste of the violet, with the shape and color to match, all wrapped in a delightful purple bow. The perfect souvenir.
Biting into a flower-shaped candy coated in sugar is an experience most visitors miss while taking in the city, so ask your guide about the traditional sweet shop. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the enchanting setting and variety. However, La Violeta is relatively small, so it can sometimes be packed. Therefore, it's best to schedule your visit during off-peak hours so you can pack away as many violet themed chocolates and candies as possible.
Quinta De Los Molinos
Américo Toledano, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Madrid has no shortage of green spaces, with spots like El Retiro Park and the Royal Botanical Gardens attracting thousands of nature lovers daily. However, if you're looking for a park off the beaten path, head to Quinta de Los Molinos, a space just a stone's throw away from the bustling Atlético Madrid stadium. It's filled with walking areas and clusters of olive, eucalyptus, and pine trees, but the almond trees often steal the show.
Suppose you're lucky enough to be in the city in February or March. If that’s the case, you'll witness the pink and white flowers of the blooming almond tree, not to mention the sweet aromas that fill the park as you take in the romantic atmosphere. Then, head to the La Quinta De Los Molinos mansion for an educational tour where you’ll hear the park's exciting story.
Malasana
If the literary quarter is for the art & history buff, Malasana is for the thrill-seeking traveler ready to discover Madrid's wilder side. What used to be an old neighborhood filled with traditional bars and buildings has been reinvented several times, transforming itself into a hipster hub. The street art is fantastic. Bright, quirky images make for the perfect backdrop to any photo, and the nightlife is legendary, true to Madrid's party reputation.
Thanks to Madrid's gastronomy boom, there's no shortage of restaurants serving traditional Spanish dishes as well as modern twists and culinary inventions. You can even set up a tour of Malasana's food culture, taking long art-filled walks in between each stop. If you're looking for a piece of Malasana to take home, head towards the bookstores and record shops, each a monument to the neighborhood's humble origins.
The Royal Tapestry Factory
If you're looking for a unique slice of Spain that will last a lifetime, head to the Royal Tapestry Factory, a monument to Spain's dedication to artisanal craftsmanship. Commissioned by the Spanish Crown in 1721, this factory is part museum, part art studio, and part retail shop, manufacturing high-end tapestries, and rugs. A tour through the conserved building reveals a culture of manual artistry that's been in practice for over three centuries.
Thanks to the handmade process, no two tapestries or rugs are alike, so you'll walk away with a one-of-a-kind piece. You could choose from the wide selection of pre-made rugs, or create one with a local weaver. Beyond the beautiful woven art, the factory has taken careful steps to preserve the nation's history with weaving by continuing the tradition while introducing modern designs.
Lavapies Barrio
Nemo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Up next is Madrid's melting pot, the Lavapies barrio. Once known as a sleepy, neglected ward, Lavapies has reinvented itself thanks to the diverse residents breathing new life into the area. Today it's a hub where cultures from around the world meet and mix the best of their food, art, music, design, and dress. The narrow, steep streets are reminiscent of Lisbon's Alfama District, with vibrant murals lining the storied buildings.
Along the way, you'll find novel spots like the La Gatoteca, or cat café, where rescued cats lounge around the modern coffee shop. It's easy to find Lavapies, as it's only a ten-minute walk from the Plaza Mayor or Puerta del Sol, but once you're there, it can be a bit of a maze. For a seamless trip, link up with a local travel expert who can show you the ins and outs of the neighborhood.
La Cebada Market
One of the best things about touring a city like Madrid is its charming corners of communal history, like the La Cebada Market. Also known as the Mercado de la Cebada, this local treasure has served the community for over 140 years, undergoing several changes. The festive colors outside hint at the variety you'll find. They also point to the market's roots in supplying fresh fruits and vegetables.
Though it's not as flashy as the Mercado De San Miguel, you can find a wide array of take-home gifts, such as clothing and art thanks to a 2013 renovation. To truly experience the market's energy, wait until the weekend, when Madrilenos flock here for grocery shopping and a hearty meal at the food court.
Conclusion
Go off the beaten path and soak in Madrid's best-kept secrets with a GoWithGuide adventure. To create the perfect itinerary that combines the city's greatest hits with its little-known gems, contact one of our knowledgeable guides and get the best of both worlds.