I am off to Madrid for the first time (and first time to mainland Spain) with a group of friends in march, 3 nights in an air bb next to Plaza Mayor. I'm more of a daytime person and a culture-vulture, so trips to Prado, the other art museums and lunch in Retiro park, plus some shopping, mooching and general sightseeing with take up our days. I will do my own research and plan my days out.

However, I've heard Madrid is all about the night-times, with lots of people staying out late, partying, lots of great places to eat. I'm not that great at planning or scoping out evenings - bars, clubs, restaurants etc and wondered if anyone had any suggestions. I like the sound of eating in the covered markets, and maybe a flamenco show. Anyone recommend a good 'authentic' one, and also a couple of cool little bars or where to get the best vegetarian tapas?

Many thanks

J

If Kimhe is around, he will speak to the best flamenco.

There will always be some veggie tapas everywhere. Whether they prepare them in animal fat is another matter.

Although there are some strict veggie places in Madrid, we have gone there. But usually in Spain veggie dishes mean less ham.

Around Plaza Mayor are bars/restaurants what they call cuevas which sometimes offer entertainment

Also near the Plaza Mayor is one our favorite stores Casa Hernnaz which makes hemp products since the 1800's including espadrilles.

I'm not by any means a connoisseur of flamenco, but a couple of weeks ago saw the show at Villa Rosa on Kimhe's recommendation and enjoyed it thoroughly. It's an old and traditional tablao right on Plaza Santa Ana, a short walk from the Puerto del Sol.

Thanks both

Laverendrye, did you have to book that show in advance?

What's on in Madrid:
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer...850104236&z=14

You can also check https://tinyurl.com/yc2xq6fa

<<Laverendrye, did you have to book that show in advance?>>

We booked a couple of days before as it was a Saturday night. The place was nearly full so it would be a good idea to do so.