Daniel from Madrid
Plaza de Daoíz y Velarde Madrid
Neighbourhood feeling
Plaza Daoíz y Velarde is a refreshing site where you can escape from the surrounding car hassle that is characteristic of Madrid. It's a car-free and pro pedestrian square. This location has many different purposes: it has terraces & restaurants; locals walking their dogs, sitting & relaxing on the benches, a playground, a fountain and a municipal sports center.
This place is versatile -- so many things take place here. I've seen everything from 500 karate kids attending competitions to elders chatting on benches, parents having drinks while kids are playing around... In summer, the people refresh themselves at the fountain, while neighbours are walking dogs.
I think it's a good place to get a feeling of how locals live their lives. If possible, better come between 17:00-23:00. It's a great location to enjoy its terraces, as you have much to see from your chair and you can choose between sushi or good tapas at Alquitara.
The building in the middle is now a popular municipal sports center, but before it used to be the old barracks of the soldiers who fought against Napoleon on May 2nd. Its architecture has been well-maintained; you can walk around it through its outdoor corridors full of roses. You may see the train rails and the kid playground at the end, unfortunately here was the location of 11M, the Al Queda train bombs. The building was used to aid many victims and received a memorial plaque.
The cycle of life can't be stopped by anybody. Madrid thrives!
About this spot
Plaza de Daoíz y Velarde
- 24 hour daily
€
no-price
Our Madrid Guide
Find your way with 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Join as a Spotter?
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid
Museo Lázaro Galdiano
Madrid, heir to art palace
"Museo Lázaro Galdiano" in Madrid comprises almost 5,000 pieces on display. Here you'll find well-known names and pieces. Free entrance for the last hour.
by
Andrea
Roberts
Delish Vegan Donuts
Madrid’s donut heaven
Delish Vegan Doughnuts Madrid makes donuts so popular they sell out every day! All their 12 varieties look sinful, like you need confession afterwards.
by
Andrea
Roberts
Rosaleda del Retiro
A rose is a rose is a rose
The Rosaleda del Retiro gardens in Madrid has such a happy atmosphere - I challenge anyone not to be charmed by its flowery abundance in May & June...
by
Andrea
Roberts
Club Alma Sensai
Chic divine
"Club Alma Sensai" in Madrid is a private club for women but also open to a few good men. It is a concept in exclusive leisure, fun and elegance...
by
María José
Morr
La Mejor Tarta de Chocolate del Mundo
Chocolate!
"La Mejor Tarta de Chocolate del Mundo" in Madrid doesn't just make the best chocolate cake in the world because the names says so. It's not joking around.
by
María José
Morr
Taberna La Daniela
The authentic Cocido Madrileño
"Taberna La Daniela" serves Madrid's typical meal, the cocido madrileño. For many locals, it's a tradition to come eat here at least once a year!
by
Daniel
Ramirez-Escudero
Cafe Berlin
Dance for real
"Cafe Berlin" in Madrid is a legendary club that has concerts and music until the early hours in the morning! It is a mix of cinema, theater & 20s bar...
by
Daniel
Ramirez-Escudero
Terraza Atenas
Refreshing green "coliseum"
"Terraza Atenas" in Madrid is right next to the Palacio Real, the river Manzanares & Viaducto de Segovia. It's an outdoor bar with just the right hipness.
by
Daniel
Ramirez-Escudero
El Capricho Extremeño
Spanish tostas, street food
"El Capricho Extremeño" is a minuscule take-away in Madrid with excellent food and a great atmosphere. You should definitely go around 13:30 on a Sunday...
by
Daniel
Ramirez-Escudero
Plaza de los Carros
The heart of La Latina
"Plaza de los Carros" in La Latina, Madrid is a great meeting point with a beautiful fountain and lots of sun. Come and enjoy the quiet surroundings...
by
Daniel
Ramirez-Escudero
Santa Rita Brasería
A great meal
"Santa Rita Brasería" in Madrid is a restaurant with character: it's exquisite and cosy at the same time. I love their menus and their smoked specialties.
by
María José
Morr
Heading to Madrid?
266 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 266 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Madrid
Get to know our other Spotters from Madrid
As featured on:
