Address: Calle de Valencia
Metro: Lavapies (2 minute walk)
Lavapies is the most bohemian and multicultural neighborhood of Madrid. Lavapies was the ancient Jewish quarter of Madrid, and in the last decade it has been rejuvenated thanks to the arrival of young creative urbanites, artists, and people from all continents. They all contribute to make Lavapies a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood. Walking around its streets you will find a colorful mix of Arab tea shops, Indian restaurants, Chinese stores, avant-garde galleries, independent theaters, artsy cafés, and trendy bars owned by famous singers or writers.
The apartment has the most convenient location for those who want to enjoy the many cultural events that Madrid offers because of its proximity to the Reina Sofia Museum (5 minutes away walking), the Prado Museum (7 minutes away), the Casa Encendida (an art center hosting exhibits by young artists, 1 minute away), and the newly-built Valle Inclan Theatre (National Drama Center, 1 minute away).
Lavapies has very lively night scene, with many bars and cafés catering to alternative types, although recently it has become quite a fashionable place. In the summer, Calle Argumosa is lined with terrazas filled to the brim with people dining and enjoying drinks al fresco. Lavapies also offers a wealth of ethnic restaurants where you can eat authentic Indian, Middle Eastern, and Chinese food served by waiters who hardly speak any Spanish.
Lavapies is teeming with creativity. Everywhere you will find independent cultural events of the widest variety in its multiple art centers and galleries. In fact, many of its bars and cafés host art exhibits, performances by fledging artists, and live concerts.
The apartment is on Calle Valencia, which starts off from Ronda de Valencia and ends at Plaza de Lavapies. The apartment is a short 10-minute walk from Sol, La Latina, and the Rastro (Madrid's huge sunday flea market).