top of page

My Top 5 Favourite Neighbourhoods in Madrid (After a Year of La Capi Living)

Updated: Mar 20, 2024



De Madrid al Cielo (From Madrid to the Sky) 


Widely praised for its rich culture, vibrant atmosphere, and historical significance, Madrid is often described as “the European dream” - thanks to its lifestyle and beauty. This classy Spanish capital is home to world-renowned museums, Michelin star restaurants, exquisite architecture, chic bars/cafes, and sun-drenched days exceeding 300 annually. Hence, it's no surprise that when Forbes released Time Out's Top 10 Cities in the World for 2024, Madrid secured the 5th best spot.


But in the second biggest city in the European Union with 3.5 million inhabitants (in its 21 districts!), it might be overwhelming to know which neighbourhood to choose and thrive in. In this post, I'll share my personal top 5 favourite neighbourhoods in Madrid after a year of extensive exploration and wanderings throughout the city. Hopefully, this post can help you make a well-informed decision when you´re looking for a great barrio to live in La Capi. 


#1 Retiro



Retiro is home to the iconic Parque del Retiro - one of the largest parks in Madrid and in Spain. I put this in #1 because (you guessed it right!) it's where my barrio's at. I've been living in this district for a year now and I come to appreciate it more daily. This district offers its residents high quality of life as they get easy access to cozy cafes, trendy boutiques, vast green parks, serene lakes - providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. NGL, I sometimes forget that I'm living in a big city as it has small village feels.


Pros: Relaxed neighborhood | Strong sense of community | Family-friendly | Safe | Near the city center


Cons: Rents are more expensive than other neighborhoods in the city | Limited Night Life Activities


#2 Salamanca



Known for its affluent and upscale atmosphere, with elegant boulevards, gorgeous architecture, and luxury boutiques, residents in the Salamanca neighbourhood - without a doubt - enjoy a more sophisticated lifestyle than all the rest of the city. This district is a food haven - with a plethora of gourmet restaurants, tapas bars, and trendy cafes offering a diverse culinary experience. Any cuisine you want and need - may it be Spanish, Asian, South American, Indian, African - can be found here. 1 year in, I´m still manifesting to live in this district someday, soon! 


Pros: One of the safest neighbourhoods in Madrid | Low crime rates | Culinary heaven | Near Parque del Retiro | Near the city center


Cons: Rents are one of the most expensive in the city | Very High Cost of Living | Challenge in parking


#3 Chamberí



The combination of historic charm, cultural richness, vibrant markets, and close proximity to green spaces make Chamberi a highly desirable place to live in Madrid. Boutique shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants are dotted within Chamberi´s tree-lined streets. This neighbourhood offers a peaceful ambiance away from the bustling city center. You will love living here if you´re into brunches and luxury cinemas. My boyfriend and I definitely love having date nights at Palafox Luxury Cinema.


Pros: Active nightlife | Great restaurants and bars | Safe neighborhood 


Cons: Rents are more expsensive than other neighborhoods in the city | High Cost of Living  | Challenge in parking | Can get crowded and rowdy


#4 Castellana



Home to several cultural attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks, Castellana boasts luxurious amenities, including high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, elegant cafes, and high-rise modern buildings. Residents can enjoy a sophisticated lifestyle with access to premium services and facilities with safety, guaranteed. One of the most enjoyable walks I ever have in the city is strolling along Paseo de Castellana. It makes me feel that, once again, I´m back in my old concrete jungle city of Dubai. 


Pros: One of the safest neighbourhoods in Madrid | Modern buildings & facilities | Lovely small parks 


Cons: Rents are one of the most expensive in the city | Can be noisy & crowded during peak times | Limited Nightlife Options


#5 Argüelles



This neighbourhood, by far, is truly one of my favourites. Too bad it´s a bit far from where I live so I can´t go there a lot. Argüelles is home to several cultural attractions, including Templo de Debod - a beautiful ancient Egyptian temple, Parque del Oeste and the gardens surrounding Palacio Real, thus providing its residents with so much options for shopping, outdoor recreation and relaxation. All in all, I like how this neighbourhood is filled with lively bars, malls, and trendy stores. It makes me feel as if I´m in a small city of a big city - if you know what I mean. 


Pros: Boasts a diverse culinary scene | University area | Modern and clean / Has lots of trendy stores


Cons: Can get crowded & rowdy | Challenge in parking | Can get noisy 


In conclusion, choosing the right neighbourhood in Madrid can be a daunting task given the city's vast offerings and diverse landscapes. However, after exploring various districts and immersing myself in their unique atmospheres, I've come to appreciate the distinct charms of each one.


Now, where would you rather live? 

323 views2 comments

2 Comments


juliekaran20
Mar 13, 2024

Love this!

Like
Mig Karen Ramirez
Mig Karen Ramirez
Mar 13, 2024
Replying to

Thank you for the love and support, beautiful @juliekaran20 🌻

Like

If you found my content interesting,
feel free to find me on socials below! ❤️️

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • TikTok
bottom of page