You can embrace Madrid's terraza culture almost any month of the year, and La Plaza de Olavide is the perfect spot to start. Spain delivers when it comes to a good climate; sitting outside and enjoying it is one of the many things that make living here so appealing.
Olavide is a round square that features lovely planting, plenty of benches, a cooling fountain and several playgrounds for children, with all the usual slides, swings and climbing frames. It is leafy, pedestrianised and completely circled by bars and restaurants with large popular terrazas.
It can be easy to spend a lot of money when you are on holiday, so I think cheap and cheerful places where you can spend a few hours without spending a fortune are always welcome. Classic sharing menus, such as a large mixed salad and a whole potato omelette, are a good deal. Add some "tinto con casera" (red wine and white lemonade) to the mix, and you'll be all set for lunchtime like a local in Spain's capital!
Find your way with 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
It’s a TARDIS-like Aladdin’s cave of colour and creativity for anyone, but also a great place to find some peculiarly Spanish items...
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The Spanish owner, David, honed his knowledge in Japan of this tasty curry, which is served with rice and crunchy panko-covered meat, seafood or veg.
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Housed in Nuevos Ministerios, this museum has an ambitious aim - to raise awareness of how architecture impacts the quality of our lives.
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This little Korean place, has a exquisitely concise menu - 6 different dumplings, steamed or fried, plus a couple of specials and sides and that’s it.
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The largest piece represents the Liberty Gate; three large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are 'the trees of dreams.'
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FMCMP in Madrid is a quiet, elegant space that still feels fresh. It is a fantastic museum and I can't think of a better place to spend an hour!
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It’s really cosy but airy at the same time - there’s room enough between the variety of seating arrangements for one not to feel boxed in.
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The monument, named “Recuerdo Vivo” (living memory) honours all 1429 victims of terrorism in Madrid and was installed in 2023.
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This hidden gem, located in the Malasaña neighborhood, is a testament to the art of mixology and offers an experience that transcends the ordinary.
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Le Secret du Marias in Madrid is a gorgeous perfumery with niche scents, Spanish brands and workshops. Learn about how fragrance are made!
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This fantastic wine shop, Vino y Compañía is the place to discover the wonderful variety and quality of wine on offer in Spain. Come with an open mind!
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266 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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