We will have only one evening in Madrid and have never been there before. We will be staying near Barajas Airport. What area of Madrid would be convenient and relatively easy to get to? We would like to go somewhere safe (just read the thread about muggings in Madrid) that has tapas bars or restaurants and nightlife. Thanks for your help!

Hi Dorianb,

Any specific reason why you are staying near the airport? The city itself is very close to the airport, maybe 20 minutes.

If you only have 1 night I suggest Plaza Santa Ana and Plaza Mayor for tapas and drinks.

What time of the year are you going?

cruiseluv, we are going next Sat! We are staying near the airport because we are leaving the next morning for home. We are not visiting Madrid at all on this trip, but will be flying in that last evening from Barcelona.

Too bad you can't fly earlier in the day from Barca. Madrid is a fantastic city and IMO, it would be better to stay in the city and travel in the morning to the airport. In any event, as you probably know, the night is always young in Spain, so take a cab or whatever from your hotel and go enjoy Madrid.

Have a good trip!

I aagree totallly with cruiseluv the city is very near the airport. You can easily stay there be real fast spending little in a taxi.