What to do in Lavapies and nearby Atocha. Lavapies has traditionally been one of Madrid's poorest districts. But in recent years the cheaper rent in this part of town has brought in a younger, trendier crowd that has complemented the existing immigrant community, creating one of Madrid's most diverse neighborhoods.
See also: 100 Things to Do in Madrid
1. Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
Image: Los Mininos
Madrid's premier modern art gallery and home to La Guernica, Picasso's most famous work
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2. Coffee at Cafeteria Barbieri
Image: Damian Corrigan
A hundred-year old bar, where classical music accompanies a good menu of drinks, including a fine selection of teas (and of course, plenty of coffee).
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3. Visit a Moroccan Teashop
Can't make it to Morocco on this trip? Check out one of the many Moroccan teashops in Lavapies and sample their famous mint tea, or how about a shisha (hookah pipe)?
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4. Drinks on Calle Ave Maria
Image: Damian Corrigan
The bars on c/Ave Maria are small but inviting. Whether it's the music bar of Taberna El Aguja, the intriguing former barber's shop La Peluqueria or the sophistication of Inquilina, there'll be something that takes your fancy.
If you run out of bars and want some more, check out c/Argumosa.
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5. See a Show at El Juglar
Image: Damian Corrigan
El Juglar is an intimate performance venue popular with the Bohemian types of Madrid, with flamenco, DJs and other shows on throughout the week.
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6. Curry in Lavapies
Image: Damian Corrigan
Most Spanish have an aversion to spicy food, so all the authentic Indian restaurants have been relegated to a corner of town that most can avoid. The restaurants are basic beyond belief - just some plastic tables outside a hole in the wall, but the food is top notch.
There are restaurants on c/Lavapies and c/Ave Maria.
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7. Casa Encendida
Image: Los Mininos
Film, theatre, dance and music seasons; art, environmental and solidarity exhibitions; seminars, lectures and in-house projects greet a visitor to Casa Encendida.
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8. Bocadillo de Calamares at El Brillante
Image: Damian Corrigan
The fried squid sandwich is revered in Madrid, and the ultimate temple to this dish is El Brillante. The place may not look like much but nowhere will you get a fresher Bocadillo de Calamares.
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9. Atocha Train Station
Image: Damian Corrigan
Yes, it's a train station, but it's a little more than that too. There's a tropical garden in the center, complete with tortoises!
There is also a moving tribute to those killed in the terrorist attacks of March 2004.
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10. Gaudeamus Cafe Rooftop Bar
Look out over southern Madrid from this rooftop bar.
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