Madrid Bars & Cocktail Lounges

Whatever Barcelona or San Sebastian might claim, Madrid remains the most vibrant and lively city in Spain. Prado, Reina Sofia and other museums and sights aside, it's the late-night nightlife in the bars, cafes, restaurants and terraces around the city that visitors find most compelling. And the people: handsome Latino men and gorgeous pouting women who are both sexy, friendly and happy to talk to people like you.

Bar Cock

• C/de la Reina 16
• Madrid,
• Telephone: 00 34 91 532 2826

Once you’ve stopped giggling at the name (and wondering if it’s hard to get in etc), you’ll find some of the best cocktails in the whole city served in very relaxed surroundings. There are more happening bars, but this one seems to attract a pleasant mix of Madrid’s hip crowd out to have a quietly good time.

Del Diego

• C/de la Reina 12
• Madrid,
• Telephone: (00 34 91) 523 3106

If Madrid’s weighty history is beginning to wear you down, dive into this fun-loving bar for some light refreshment. Bright and breezy inside, it’s the perfect spot to chill with a younger crowd and try out the bartender’s skill (and a few cocktails). Who knows where the night will end?

Circulo De Bellas Artes

• Marques de Casa Riera 2
• Madrid,
• Telephone: 91 531 85 03

Arty classic on Calle Alcala that you may have to pay to venture into. Self-conscious tourists check out the Castillian intellectuals carrying copies of Cervantes and it’s all very high brow and grand. We suggest you order a brandy, enjoy the 1920s décor and let the posers seek you out instead.

El Almendro 13

• C/Almendro 13 (Metro La Latina)
• Madrid,
• Telephone: 913 65 42 52

It is an institution in the Latin district that combines an historic Madrid feel with tasteful modernisation. A young and hip clientele mix with the seasoned veterans, favouring the crafty new wines to tired old beer. But the house sherry is still popular with both sets and the tapas is the best in town.

El Parnasillo

C/San Andrés 33 Madrid, Telephone: 91 447 00 79

Landmark café in fashionable Malasaña with classical décor and a cool artsy crowd. Friendly regulars debate painting and politics over mojitos and caipirinhas and discuss the relative merits of Real Madrid.
Great bar with a turn-of-the-century atmosphere. The walls are covered with a series of impressionist paintings of women and mirrors. They're also good at quickly learning (and remembering) your preferences and making drinks exactly as you ask. The patrons are mostly regulars who enjoy this bar and have been going for years...