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One of the least touristy areas of Madrid, La Latina is a great place to witness true Spanish culture. Although still pretty close to more expensive areas like Operá this barrio is a little more affordable.

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The cobbled streets are full of tapas bars particularly Calle de Cava Baja which is famous for the best tapas in the city. La Latina/ AustriasĪ small, traditional barrio La Latina is perfect for eating out. Not many students/young people live in these areas as their proximity to the Palace etc has pushed up the price. Much more relaxed than the noisy Malasaña/Chueca but still very central these areas are only a 10 minute walk away from Sol and the Plaza Mayor. The main theatre in Madrid is also here with world class drama and opera being performed throughout the year. The royal palace is here surrounded by gorgeous gardens and cafes with terraces to sit out in the sun. This is the historic heart of Madrid where many of the oldest and most beautiful buildings are to be found.

Not many students or young people manage to find accommodation in these areas due to the price. Unfortunately, though, their proximity to Retiro Park and the Paseo del Prado with its world famous Prado Museum means that these barrios are some of the most expensive in Madrid. There are still plenty of restaurants and bars (Madrid's most famous jazz bar Café Central is here) but the atmosphere is calmer than Malasaña/Chueca. These areas have more of a traditional/historic vibe. Las Cortes/ Letras/ Las Huertas/ Paseo del Prado The Glorieta de Bilbao is a huge roundabout where several main streets converge if you follow Calle Fuencarral downwards you'll be in Malasaña and then Sol in no time. Rooms are generally quite cheap especially around Alonso Martínez.

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Great transport links are also another plus with a cercanías stop as well as metro. There are some lovely squares here with plenty of places to eat and shop. This is a great spot to live due to its central location and relaxed atmosphere. This barrio links the more edgy Chueca with the more upmarket Chamberí and Salamanca. Chueca is the city's gay barrio - but don't let that put you off! Sure there are plenty of gay bars etc but the atmosphere is distinctly inclusive with a pretty chilled vibe in the day time and everyone ready to party the night away! Flats here can vary in price (and quality) quite a bit as they're mainly occupied by students and other young people. Brilliant independent shops can be found here and there's quite an arty/alternative vibe. Malasaña defiantly holds on to the Movida Madrileña spirit of the 80s and is full of trendy bars and clubs. Madrid's self-proclaimed 'alternative' barrios Malasaña and Chueca are not for those who like peace and quiet.

These are famously popular areas for young people/students to find a flat. Despite its central location though I wouldn't really recommend living in this barrio too loud and too busy! 2. Fantastically well connected all the shops/restaurants/bars/cinemas you could want are within walking distance and being right in the centre it's tricky to get lost. This is not a quiet neighbourhood though the noise is generally traffic related rather than due to clubs/music. This is the very heart of the city Gran Vía is the Spanish equivalent of Oxford street and is often packed with traffic and people. I won't be going into any great detail as to the price of rooms in certain areas as this can vary but I'll give you a heads up as to the most expensive/cheap areas.Ībove is a map of central Madrid with the barrios clearly marked. In my time abroad I lived in 3 different flats in 3 different barrios so have quite a bit of first hand experience. In this post I'm going to list the various central barrios or neighbourhoods and give a short summary of their main characteristics which hopefully will help you choose where to start your flat search! Puerta de Toledo/ Lavapies/ El RastroĬhoosing a place to live in Madrid on your year abroad can get confusing what with all the different areas of the city on offer.