La Latina Hotels
in Madrid
La Latina
La Latina is halfway between Lavapies andOld Madrid It has the pretty 19th century townhouses with picturesque views and quaint streets of historic Madrid without the grubbiness. It is the haunt of 30 something year old Spaniards getting ready to settle down but not quite prepared to pack up and move to the suburbs. Between chic bars, great food and beautiful squares, you wont want to leave either. While you are here do not miss the secret garden named after the Prince of Anglona. Four meters above street level, it feels far away from the busy rush and traffic of the city centre. Lined with trees and rose bushes it feels like you have stumbled on someones private garden. Just next to the garden is Plaza de la Paja or Straw Square, so called because once upon a time there was a weekly outdoor market here and straw was important to feed the mules who drew the carts. The square still has a historic feel due to the convent of San Andres, dating from the 17th century, nuns still reside within it and have masses daily. When you get tired of praying, relax in one of the squares many cafes, if its summer order yourself a cafe con hielo (coffee with ice) and sip away the afternoon.
See
Get a glimpse of the old Christian wall, a rare sight in modern Madrid. Very few well preserved examples still exist. This street was full of inns (Posadas) in the 17th century; these were later turned into bars and restaurants. In number 30, Cava Baja you can see part of the old wall. Now known as Casa Lucas this old inn now serves cutting edge tapas such as corn mousse with shrimp and garlic. There is also a small piece of the wall in number 10 on the same street. And if you are on a wall hunting trail you will find more around the corner on Almendras Street number 17 and up towards the famous Plaza Mayor in the Square of the closed door, Plaza de la Puerta Cerrada number 4 and 6.
Eat and drink
San Miguel market is a good example of haphazard architecture gone right. Originally an open air market in medieval times it was replaced by a convent which became run down and eventually flattened by good old Napoleon. Later on its original roots were revived and a dash of Parisian architecture added in for good measure. It became thus known as san Miguel market, paying homage to the convent in the name. The prices put off the locals but if you can afford the extra it is a sure bet for all tastes offering everything from fresh fruit smoothies to delicious tapas.
Its open Monday to Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m to midnight and Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m to 2.a.m. The nearest metro stops are Sol (lines 1, 2 and 3) and Opera (2 and 5)
Culture
The town council had the fantastic idea of turning the only swimming pool in the city centre into an even bigger swimming pool and gym complex. They knocked the pool and low and behold were short on cash. The plot sat empty for a few years until the neighbours decided to reclaim their right to it and put on all sorts of family friendly fun. From concerts featuring local musicians to summer cinema projected on a wall painted white, the neighbourly vibe has managed to resuscitate a vacant space. Plaza de la Cebada is now facing the threat of being sold to private property developers to build yet another shopping centre, so come along and support this democratic oasis in the city centre.
For details on their miscellaneous array of events check out their website.. The nearest metro stop is La Latina on line 5.
Nightlife
If you feel like a quiet evening of conversation, do not come to Berlin Cabaret. If you feel like dancing and seeing the most amazing shows by professional performers and drag queens, this is your place. With all the 80s hits you can possibly pack into one night, come early to avoid the queue. By the way early in Spain means around 2 am.
Shop
El Rastro; this famous market is must-see. With everything from second hand knick-knacks to valuable antique collectibles, this bargain hunters paradise is the perfect place to spend your Weekend Break break. The main street of the market has a bloody history, its name, Ribera de Curtidores, means tanners bank and it was where leather was made in the 17th century. It also has an interesting monument in the Plaza de Cascorro (Cascorro Square) to a man called Eloy Gonzalo who went on a suicide mission on behalf of Spain in the battle of Cascorro in Cuba in the late 19th century. His statue was put up by King Alfonso in the early 20th century to commemorate his patriotic deed. The only photo of this local hero hangs in the little bar on the corner, it’s also a good place to watch football while munching on squid rings, calamares or snails, caracoles.
The market itself takes place every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. The earlier you go the less touristy it is, at 2pm it turns into an elbowing competition with so many people looking for a bargain. Wandering away from the main street is a good way to see more antiques and knick knacks that you can really haggle for. There’s also some great second hand bookshops and a fantastic sandwich takeaway called El Capricho Extremeno where they have toppings of everything from octopus to typical Spanish jamon, afterwards you’ll feel ready for some more bargaining.
El Rastro takes place every Sunday from 9 a.m to 2 p.m and is accessible via metro stops La Latina and Puerta de Toledo on line 5.
Transport
La Latina is a stop on metro line 5, Bus routes can be found by here and the Old Madrid Old Madrid It has the pretty 19th century townhouses with picturesque views and quaint streets of historic Madrid without the grubbiness. It is the haunt of 30 something year old Spaniards getting ready to settle down but not quite prepared to pack up and move to the suburbs. Between chic bars, great food and beautiful squares, you wont want to leave either. While you are here do not miss the secret garden named after the Prince of Anglona. Four meters above street level, it feels far away from the busy rush and traffic of the city centre. Lined with trees and rose bushes it feels like you have stumbled on someones private garden. Just next to the garden is Plaza de la Paja or Straw Square, so called because once upon a time there was a weekly outdoor market here and straw was important to feed the mules who drew the carts. The square still has a historic feel due to the convent of San Andres, dating from the 17th century, nuns still reside within it and have masses daily. When you get tired of praying, relax in one of the squares many cafes, if its summer order yourself a cafe con hielo (coffee with ice) and sip away the afternoon.
See
Get a glimpse of the old Christian wall, a rare sight in modern Madrid. Very few well preserved examples still exist. This street was full of inns (Posadas) in the 17th century; these were later turned into bars and restaurants. In number 30, Cava Baja you can see part of the old wall. Now known as Casa Lucas this old inn now serves cutting edge tapas such as corn mousse with shrimp and garlic. There is also a small piece of the wall in number 10 on the same street. And if you are on a wall hunting trail you will find more around the corner on Almendras Street number 17 and up towards the famous Plaza Mayor in the Square of the closed door, Plaza de la Puerta Cerrada number 4 and 6.
Eat and drink
San Miguel market is a good example of haphazard architecture gone right. Originally an open air market in medieval times it was replaced by a convent which became run down and eventually flattened by good old Napoleon. Later on its original roots were revived and a dash of Parisian architecture added in for good measure. It became thus known as san Miguel market, paying homage to the convent in the name. The prices put off the locals but if you can afford the extra it is a sure bet for all tastes offering everything from fresh fruit smoothies to delicious tapas.
Its open Monday to Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m to midnight and Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m to 2.a.m. The nearest metro stops are Sol (lines 1, 2 and 3) and Opera (2 and 5)
Culture
The town council had the fantastic idea of turning the only swimming pool in the city centre into an even bigger swimming pool and gym complex. They knocked the pool and low and behold were short on cash. The plot sat empty for a few years until the neighbours decided to reclaim their right to it and put on all sorts of family friendly fun. From concerts featuring local musicians to summer cinema projected on a wall painted white, the neighbourly vibe has managed to resuscitate a vacant space. Plaza de la Cebada is now facing the threat of being sold to private property developers to build yet another shopping centre, so come along and support this democratic oasis in the city centre.
For details on their miscellaneous array of events check out their website.. The nearest metro stop is La Latina on line 5.
Nightlife
If you feel like a quiet evening of conversation, do not come to Berlin Cabaret. If you feel like dancing and seeing the most amazing shows by professional performers and drag queens, this is your place. With all the 80s hits you can possibly pack into one night, come early to avoid the queue. By the way early in Spain means around 2 am.
Shop
El Rastro; this famous market is must-see. With everything from second hand knick-knacks to valuable antique collectibles, this bargain hunters paradise is the perfect place to spend your Weekend Break break. The main street of the market has a bloody history, its name, Ribera de Curtidores, means tanners bank and it was where leather was made in the 17th century. It also has an interesting monument in the Plaza de Cascorro (Cascorro Square) to a man called Eloy Gonzalo who went on a suicide mission on behalf of Spain in the battle of Cascorro in Cuba in the late 19th century. His statue was put up by King Alfonso in the early 20th century to commemorate his patriotic deed. The only photo of this local hero hangs in the little bar on the corner, it is also a good place to watch football while munching on squid rings, calamares or snails, caracoles.
The market itself takes place every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. The earlier you go the less touristy it is, at 2pm it turns into an elbowing competition with so many people looking for a bargain. Wandering away from the main street is a good way to see more antiques and knick knacks that you can really haggle for. There is also some great second hand bookshops and a fantastic sandwich takeaway called El Capricho Extremeno where they have toppings of everything from octopus to typical Spanish jamon, afterwards you will feel ready for some more bargaining.
El Rastro takes place every Sunday from 9 a.m to 2 p.m and is accessible via metro stops La Latina and Puerta de Toledo on line 5.
Transport
La Latina is a stop on metro line 5, Bus routes can be found by here
La Latina is halfway between Lavapies andOld Madrid It has the pretty 19th century townhouses with picturesque views and quaint streets of historic Madrid without the grubbiness. It is the haunt of 30 something year old Spaniards getting ready to settle down but not quite prepared to pack up and move to the suburbs. Between chic bars, great food and beautiful squares, you wont want to leave either. While you are here do not miss the secret garden named after the Prince of Anglona. Four meters above street level, it feels far away from the busy rush and traffic of the city centre. Lined with trees and rose bushes it feels like you have stumbled on someones private garden. Just next to the garden is Plaza de la Paja or Straw Square, so called because once upon a time there was a weekly outdoor market here and straw was important to feed the mules who drew the carts. The square still has a historic feel due to the convent of San Andres, dating from the 17th century, nuns still reside within it and have masses daily. When you get tired of praying, relax in one of the squares many cafes, if its summer order yourself a cafe con hielo (coffee with ice) and sip away the afternoon.
See
Get a glimpse of the old Christian wall, a rare sight in modern Madrid. Very few well preserved examples still exist. This street was full of inns (Posadas) in the 17th century; these were later turned into bars and restaurants. In number 30, Cava Baja you can see part of the old wall. Now known as Casa Lucas this old inn now serves cutting edge tapas such as corn mousse with shrimp and garlic. There is also a small piece of the wall in number 10 on the same street. And if you are on a wall hunting trail you will find more around the corner on Almendras Street number 17 and up towards the famous Plaza Mayor in the Square of the closed door, Plaza de la Puerta Cerrada number 4 and 6.
Eat and drink
San Miguel market is a good example of haphazard architecture gone right. Originally an open air market in medieval times it was replaced by a convent which became run down and eventually flattened by good old Napoleon. Later on its original roots were revived and a dash of Parisian architecture added in for good measure. It became thus known as san Miguel market, paying homage to the convent in the name. The prices put off the locals but if you can afford the extra it is a sure bet for all tastes offering everything from fresh fruit smoothies to delicious tapas.
Its open Monday to Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m to midnight and Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m to 2.a.m. The nearest metro stops are Sol (lines 1, 2 and 3) and Opera (2 and 5)
Culture
The town council had the fantastic idea of turning the only swimming pool in the city centre into an even bigger swimming pool and gym complex. They knocked the pool and low and behold were short on cash. The plot sat empty for a few years until the neighbours decided to reclaim their right to it and put on all sorts of family friendly fun. From concerts featuring local musicians to summer cinema projected on a wall painted white, the neighbourly vibe has managed to resuscitate a vacant space. Plaza de la Cebada is now facing the threat of being sold to private property developers to build yet another shopping centre, so come along and support this democratic oasis in the city centre.
For details on their miscellaneous array of events check out their website.. The nearest metro stop is La Latina on line 5.
Nightlife
If you feel like a quiet evening of conversation, do not come to Berlin Cabaret. If you feel like dancing and seeing the most amazing shows by professional performers and drag queens, this is your place. With all the 80s hits you can possibly pack into one night, come early to avoid the queue. By the way early in Spain means around 2 am.
Shop
El Rastro; this famous market is must-see. With everything from second hand knick-knacks to valuable antique collectibles, this bargain hunters paradise is the perfect place to spend your Weekend Break break. The main street of the market has a bloody history, its name, Ribera de Curtidores, means tanners bank and it was where leather was made in the 17th century. It also has an interesting monument in the Plaza de Cascorro (Cascorro Square) to a man called Eloy Gonzalo who went on a suicide mission on behalf of Spain in the battle of Cascorro in Cuba in the late 19th century. His statue was put up by King Alfonso in the early 20th century to commemorate his patriotic deed. The only photo of this local hero hangs in the little bar on the corner, it’s also a good place to watch football while munching on squid rings, calamares or snails, caracoles.
The market itself takes place every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. The earlier you go the less touristy it is, at 2pm it turns into an elbowing competition with so many people looking for a bargain. Wandering away from the main street is a good way to see more antiques and knick knacks that you can really haggle for. There’s also some great second hand bookshops and a fantastic sandwich takeaway called El Capricho Extremeno where they have toppings of everything from octopus to typical Spanish jamon, afterwards you’ll feel ready for some more bargaining.
El Rastro takes place every Sunday from 9 a.m to 2 p.m and is accessible via metro stops La Latina and Puerta de Toledo on line 5.
Transport
La Latina is a stop on metro line 5, Bus routes can be found by here and the Old Madrid Old Madrid It has the pretty 19th century townhouses with picturesque views and quaint streets of historic Madrid without the grubbiness. It is the haunt of 30 something year old Spaniards getting ready to settle down but not quite prepared to pack up and move to the suburbs. Between chic bars, great food and beautiful squares, you wont want to leave either. While you are here do not miss the secret garden named after the Prince of Anglona. Four meters above street level, it feels far away from the busy rush and traffic of the city centre. Lined with trees and rose bushes it feels like you have stumbled on someones private garden. Just next to the garden is Plaza de la Paja or Straw Square, so called because once upon a time there was a weekly outdoor market here and straw was important to feed the mules who drew the carts. The square still has a historic feel due to the convent of San Andres, dating from the 17th century, nuns still reside within it and have masses daily. When you get tired of praying, relax in one of the squares many cafes, if its summer order yourself a cafe con hielo (coffee with ice) and sip away the afternoon.
See
Get a glimpse of the old Christian wall, a rare sight in modern Madrid. Very few well preserved examples still exist. This street was full of inns (Posadas) in the 17th century; these were later turned into bars and restaurants. In number 30, Cava Baja you can see part of the old wall. Now known as Casa Lucas this old inn now serves cutting edge tapas such as corn mousse with shrimp and garlic. There is also a small piece of the wall in number 10 on the same street. And if you are on a wall hunting trail you will find more around the corner on Almendras Street number 17 and up towards the famous Plaza Mayor in the Square of the closed door, Plaza de la Puerta Cerrada number 4 and 6.
Eat and drink
San Miguel market is a good example of haphazard architecture gone right. Originally an open air market in medieval times it was replaced by a convent which became run down and eventually flattened by good old Napoleon. Later on its original roots were revived and a dash of Parisian architecture added in for good measure. It became thus known as san Miguel market, paying homage to the convent in the name. The prices put off the locals but if you can afford the extra it is a sure bet for all tastes offering everything from fresh fruit smoothies to delicious tapas.
Its open Monday to Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m to midnight and Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m to 2.a.m. The nearest metro stops are Sol (lines 1, 2 and 3) and Opera (2 and 5)
Culture
The town council had the fantastic idea of turning the only swimming pool in the city centre into an even bigger swimming pool and gym complex. They knocked the pool and low and behold were short on cash. The plot sat empty for a few years until the neighbours decided to reclaim their right to it and put on all sorts of family friendly fun. From concerts featuring local musicians to summer cinema projected on a wall painted white, the neighbourly vibe has managed to resuscitate a vacant space. Plaza de la Cebada is now facing the threat of being sold to private property developers to build yet another shopping centre, so come along and support this democratic oasis in the city centre.
For details on their miscellaneous array of events check out their website.. The nearest metro stop is La Latina on line 5.
Nightlife
If you feel like a quiet evening of conversation, do not come to Berlin Cabaret. If you feel like dancing and seeing the most amazing shows by professional performers and drag queens, this is your place. With all the 80s hits you can possibly pack into one night, come early to avoid the queue. By the way early in Spain means around 2 am.
Shop
El Rastro; this famous market is must-see. With everything from second hand knick-knacks to valuable antique collectibles, this bargain hunters paradise is the perfect place to spend your Weekend Break break. The main street of the market has a bloody history, its name, Ribera de Curtidores, means tanners bank and it was where leather was made in the 17th century. It also has an interesting monument in the Plaza de Cascorro (Cascorro Square) to a man called Eloy Gonzalo who went on a suicide mission on behalf of Spain in the battle of Cascorro in Cuba in the late 19th century. His statue was put up by King Alfonso in the early 20th century to commemorate his patriotic deed. The only photo of this local hero hangs in the little bar on the corner, it is also a good place to watch football while munching on squid rings, calamares or snails, caracoles.
The market itself takes place every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. The earlier you go the less touristy it is, at 2pm it turns into an elbowing competition with so many people looking for a bargain. Wandering away from the main street is a good way to see more antiques and knick knacks that you can really haggle for. There is also some great second hand bookshops and a fantastic sandwich takeaway called El Capricho Extremeno where they have toppings of everything from octopus to typical Spanish jamon, afterwards you will feel ready for some more bargaining.
El Rastro takes place every Sunday from 9 a.m to 2 p.m and is accessible via metro stops La Latina and Puerta de Toledo on line 5.
Transport
La Latina is a stop on metro line 5, Bus routes can be found by here