Plaza de la Paja is a large square in the La Latina neighbourhood of Madrid, which slopes down from Plaza de los Carros to Calle Segovia.
It's on the edge of the oldest part of town called "Madrid de las Austrias", an area that includes La Plaza de la Villa, la Plaza del Oriente and la Plaza Mayor - the heart of the old city. Back in the 13th and 14th centuries, there was a lively market here, selling straw (paja) for the mules that drew the carts (carros) hence the name.
Great restaurants to choose from on the square include, Vida Burger (vegan burgers) and Delic, which has wonderful cakes, cocktails and coffee. Sitting outside is a good option; the trees make it a very pleasant place to be.
Calle Redondilla (bottom of the square to the left) has maybe the oldest standing building in Madrid at Number 10 - it's from the 15th century but remains from the Bronze Age have been discovered in this area. Take a right from there onto Angosta de los Mancebos you'll find yourself on Calle Bailen, with the Viaducto, the Royal Palace and the distant mountains to your right.
Enjoy exploring!
Find your way with 258 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Microteatro por dinero" in Madrid is simple: 15m² - 15-minute plays - 15 spectators. It's a new way to to go the theater. What a thrilling experience!
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Misión Café serves top-tier coffee and flaky pastries in a cozy, modern space — perfect for a quick fix or a slow, dreamy breakfast in Madrid.
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This fantastic wine shop, "Vino y Compañía" is the place to discover the fantastic variety and quality of wine on offer in Spain. Come with an open mind!
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Although it’s a Galician restaurant, they do an excellent paella mixta (chicken and seafood) and arroz negro, flavoured and coloured with squid ink.
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The apartment block this cafe sits under is an ugly beauty and I love it, not least for the exuberant planters that are an integral part of the building.
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I didn’t think Madrid was lacking anything but now I’ve found "Mazál Bagels and Café" I’m wondering how I survived without its bagels all these years!
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What sets this bar apart is its exceptional handling of ingredients, creating dishes that sing with Andalusian flair—a nod to Manu's roots.
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"Mo de Movimiento" in Madrid offers a new take on the restaurant business - sustainable organic ingredients, recycled materials and second opportunities!
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Sala Canal Isabel II in Madrid used to be a water tower: now it's an uber-cool gallery used for media exhibitions. I love it, and not just because...
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258 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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