Malasaña and Lavapiés

What it is

Malasaña is the old counter-cultural quarter, now full of small bars and record shops. Lavapiés is the most mixed neighbourhood in the city and where you eat well for very little.

Getting there

Metro Tribunal for Malasaña, Lavapiés for Lavapiés.

When to go

Evenings. Both are residential by day.

On a student budget

This is where student budgets survive Madrid. A menú del día in Lavapiés at lunchtime — three courses with bread and a drink — runs around €10–13 and is the cheapest proper meal in the city.

Prices and times last checked August 19, 2026. Treat figures as indicative.