Hi, all

I'm planning a trip to Madrid this autumn and I was wondering which are tourist traps that I should avoid? And also are there shay neighbourhoods that I have to avoid? If someone can give some more information I will appreciate it.

Take a look at Maribel's Guide to Madrid. It should help.

There are no tourist traps you should avoid. I don't believe in the concept, there are attractions that appeal to some people and not others, but if you are interested in going to something, you should go even if someone else would label it a "tourist trap". What does that even mean? You can assess what something is and decide if you want to go or not, I can't think of anything that lies about what it is (in Madrid or any other city where people talk about "tourist traps").

I don't know what the word "Shay" means, but I can guess from the context. As a tourist, I can't imagine how you would end up in a bad neighborhood, so I'll say no, there is no area I would say someone should avoid in central Madrid where a tourist would likely be.

Botin's

What "tourist traps" to avoid? Any place adorned with racks of post cards lining the sidewalk and stores selling Toledo swords or cheap Flamenco dresses.

In Madrid I think there are very less tourist traps that you should avoid. As we know Madrid is the best place for tourists in the summers. There are some of the bars that you can avoid. In some of them quality will not be very good.

Sidewalk tables in Plaza Mayor

Maribel's Dining Guide To Madrid needs to be updated because it recommends restaurants that are already permanently closed such as Cubik, Orixe, Pandelujo, Arola Gastro ...

What Revulgo said about Plaza Mayor.

There are unfortunately a lot of pickpockets and scamsters in Madrid who prey on tourists around the famous sites & in the train station/metro. You can't avoid these places but be aware. This might help you:

https://safearound.com/europe/spain/...#neighborhoods

I would urge you to get a good guidebook. In comparison to the cost of your trip, the cost of a guidebook will be nugatory, and you will have a wealth of information at your fingertips. For that matter, you can consult one at a local library or book store....

I'm REALLY glad I stopped for a glass of wine at a sidewalk table in the Plaza Mayor while In Madrid! Your trip, your call.

I follow these twitter feed some excellent tips to be found.
https://twitter.com/SecretosdeMadri