It’s not a coincidence that Madrid is one of the capitals across Europe that is known for its buzzing nightlife. From traditional taverns to full-blown nightclubs, the options for a night out in the city are endless for every type of party-goer. We’ve curated the best to make your decision much easier for you.
Taverns
If you’re looking for a traditional touch to your Madrid experience, you’ve got hit up one of their taverns that has been around for years on end.
La Cruzada
Running since 1827, La Cruzada claims to be the oldest tavern in Madrid. It even boasts a cup on display presumably used by Alfonso XII when he popped over for a drink back in the day, to speak for its tradition. Come along for some high-quality tapas, only to be washed down with a glass of champagne.
Los Galayos
While having been transformed into a restaurant, Los Galayos retains the traditional elements of its origins even till today. Unplastered walls and a display of an old suit of armours and shields will set you right back in time. During the summer months, the terrace is transformed with a stunning decór of grape vines, giving you a truly authentic experience whilst dining. With some of the most premium gin and tonic, including onces you’ve probably never tried, it’s best to ask the waitstaff for recommendations to fit your preferred tastes.
Flamenco Tablaos
No matter your social preference for a night out, a trip to Madrid is never complete without catching a live flamenco show.
Casa Patas
The perfect blend of traditional Spanish cuisine and art, Casa Patas is a one-of-its-kind establishment with two rooms specifically dedicated to each. Serving exquisite food in its tavern-restaurant and hosting top quality performances in its flamenco tablao, there is no question why it has been recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for its preservation of authenticity. Feel free to move about within the space as you wish to experience the best of both worlds.
Tablao La Quimera
No microphones, sound technology, or flashy effects. Only voice, guitars, clapping, and dancing. Staying true to the roots of flamenco, the artists at Tablao La Quimera put up a show every night of the week with only their heart and soul, entirely surrendering to the craft of the art form. As the director, Peter Brook, puts forth: “Just someone who performs and someone else who watches.” For an unassuming showcase of improvisation, pure emotions and inspiration, this is the place to go for your flamenco experience in Madrid.
Cocktail Bars
Getting dressed for a chic, elegant night out in the streets of Madrid may be the film-style glitz and glamour European experience you’re after - head down to a cocktail bar while you’re at it.
1862 Dry Bar
It’s hard to miss this classy affair in the midst of the unrefined streets of Malasaña, a district teeming with hipster, bohemian urbanities. With its minimalist early 20th-century-inspired interior, the 1862 Dry Bar is unpretentious in its sophistication. Serving more than 150 brands on its shelves and an ever-expanding cocktail list, you’d be better off being guided by the staff at hand for recommendations. And, the best part - it’s dog-friendly.
Museo Chicote
As Madrid’s first cocktail bar, Museo Chicote has an immensely glamorous past as a beloved hangout spot for illustrious figures from the film, music, and literary industries. With the likes of Frank Sinatra, Bette Davis, Grace Kelly, Ernest Hemingway, and more having graced its presence, the bar holds onto its legendary charm but is far from becoming outdated. The music is by far the highlight of Museo Chicote. From funk to electro-soul to hip-hop, some of the city’s best DJs hit the floor as you sip on some delicious cocktails.
Nightclubs
If you’re looking for a solid wild night all the way up into the early morning hours of the next day, we’ve got the best nightclubs lined up just for you.
Teatro Kapital
Spread out across 7 floors, each a world of its own, Teatro Kapital is Madrid’s biggest nightclub meeting every taste in music and preference for a night out. With house music on the main dance floor, first floor private reservations, an in-house karaoke on the second, some R&B and funk on the third floor’s ‘The Apartment’, the fourth floor cocktail bar, reggaéton on the fifth, a lounge for some mojitos on the sixth, and the exclusive terrace and pizzeria on the top floor, there is everything you could possibly imagine, all in one venue. Make sure you’re well-dressed to avoid rejections at the door!
Fabrik
Conveniently located at the outskirts of Madrid, be prepared for the loudest night of your life at Fabrik, the absolute clubber’s club with a capacity of 4000. Amongst the top 100 clubs across the globe, and rightfully so, you can understand why with its large-scale lighting technology, not one but two massive dance floors, insane surround sound system, exquisite graphics on 6 projection screens, and ice machines for smoke effects. Get ready for one of the biggest techno, house, and trance party nights you’ll ever catch.
