Madrileños know Chueca as the LGBTQ+ area of Madrid, and with that it has also become known as one of the most vibrant areas in the city. If you’re looking for a piece of pride season all year round, this is the place to be! The LGBTQ+ community has revamped what once was one of the most rundown areas of town. Here we have listed some of our favourites things to do in Chueca.

The Vibrant Streets

Just like it’s neighbour, Malasaña, Chueca is also home to the most colourful street art that Madrid has to offer. For instance, painters adorn vintage shop shutters here with art. This means Rainbows fill the streets even when it’s not pride season!

Have a drink in one of Chueca’s many bars

El Tigre

If you haven’t heard of El Tigre, we’re sure you’ve been living under a rock. This is one of the most popular bars in the city and it will probably always be filled with students and people who love a fun but cheap night. Order one drink and prepare to be shocked at the amount of free tapas that will follow, and all this tapas is free! The bar is always insanely busy, but you will definitely get the most out of your money if you’re lucky enough to find a spot. You’d be crazy to miss out on large beers and sangria for just 5€!

Truco

Located right next to Chueca’s metro station, Truco is a small bar that is always rammed with groups of fun, young people. It is a popular lesbian spot in the neighbourhood, but also welcomes other groups of people just looking for a fun night out, especially with the occasional drag performances which will leave your wig snatched. The music here is also a main attraction as it plays hits from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, so you are guaranteed a great night here!

Areia

This bar is an absolute must for anyone who loves cocktails. The extravagant menu has more than 80 cocktails to choose from! This bar’s exotic décor also attracts lots of people since it has swing benches and cosy chill out sofas making it the perfect location for a relaxed with friends. The music is also something that draws in customers, with playlists that vary from alternative dance hits to old 90’s classics. You will love an evening in this great bar!

Local Cuisine in delicious cafés and restaurants

Along with the huge variety of bars, Chueca also has some of the best restaurants in town. There are so many delicious places to choose from, but these have to be our absolute favourites:

Diurno

This restaurant is one of the most popular of Chueca’s bustling streets. Its minimalist décor and relaxed ambiance draw in people from all around the globe. During the day it serves fresh sandwiches and great coffee and at night it converts into an upbeat and lively bar that serves delicious cocktails and great food.

Cereal Hunters Cafe

It should be known that Chueca can also be a great spot for the mornings as well as during the night. If you’re looking for a breakfast spot that has a touch of home (especially for the Americans out there), then this is the place to go. It has a wide variety of cereals from around the world which entices many people. This is why we recommend going when it opens so you can at least grab a seat!

Entre Santos

Known for its insane cocktails and unique interior aesthetic, Entre Santos is also a great place for dinner in Chueca. The food is fresh, high quality and delivered with excellent service. It also has a lively atmosphere late into the night so you may choose to stay for an after-dinner cocktail! It has been a definite recommendation from us and the students.

Cripeka

Situated on the outskirts of Chueca, you can find this cute little café near the Alonso Martinez metro station. Even though it may be small, the menu offers a number of different choices. From homemade breakfasts and healthy bites to natural juices, you’re sure to find something to take your fancy!

Chueca’s great sights

Being the extravagant and colourful neighbourhood that it is, Chueca is also home to some of Madrid’s greatest art and historical attractions.

Museo del Romanticismo

This amazing museum explores what it was like to live in Romantic Spain, with paintings, furniture and antiques from the 19^th Century and has pieces by notable artists from that era such as Goya, Alenza and Esquivel. If you’re an art lover, then we would definitely recommend here!

Madrid History Museum

This museum, located on the bustling street of Calle Fuencarral, is not only impressive to look at on the outside, but also contains an impressive collection of paintings and other important memorabilia that represent the rich history of Madrid. This is definitely worth paying a visit if you are a history buff!

Dance the night away, too!

I know we already talked about the great bars to visit in Chueca, but we need a whole new section to talk about the great night clubs! Chueca is home to some of the best clubs in the city but we think that these three are great for all types of interests.

Black and White

This gay club is one of the best nights out in the city with great music and cheap drinks. However, the thing that will guarantee a good time is the variety of drag shows. No Rupaul’s Drag Race queens here, but still the most amazing performers that know how to put on a show and turn the party. Black and White is a staple of the Chueca nightlife scene and continues to produce a buzzing and welcoming environment.

Teatro Barceló

One of the most exclusive night clubs in the city, without a doubt. This vibrant venue is normally home to various celebrities enjoying a night out. It has commonly been described as ‘the best nightclub in Madrid’ due to its crowds and world-renowned DJs. Although the prices may be a little higher than elsewhere, it’s always nice to treat yourself from time to time.

Studio 54

This cosy club gets its inspiration from New York City and the opulence of Manhattan. That being said, it has some of the cheapest drink deals in town and you will always find it full of people looking to have a good time!

There’s so much to do in this one little area of Madrid, and we hate to cut it short! There are still so many places that you can visit in Chueca but we are happy to recommend you the best that there is to offer!

If you’re a student looking for student accommodation in Madrid, or elsewhere, for your international studies, don’t hesitate to visit our site and start your adventure!