Recently Madrid has become one of the most active and innovative capitals in Europe. From art exhibitions to nightlife, right now it is the place to be. It is full of young people and has become the centre for the global gay community, thanks to new laws on civil rights and same-sex marriages. Finding accommodation is not a problem and is affordable. Public transport is good and efficient. The underground system is one of the best in Europe, on a par with those in Paris and London. Traffic runs smoothly most of the day, but can be a problem in the rush hours. Madrid is a wonderful city to live in, whether for a few months or several years.

Arguelles-Moncloa
Arguelles-Moncloa

Moving north from Plaza De Espana, you will find Calle de la Princesa, a street that will take you t...

Chamberi, Nuevos Ministerios
Chamberi, Nuevos Ministerios

This area, situated north of the centre, is a middle-income zone. The architecture is functional and...

Chueca
Chueca

Situated north of the most famous street in Madrid, the Gran Via, that runs from Plaza de la Cibeles...

Cuatro Caminos
Cuatro Caminos

Many students chose Cuatro Caminos as the place to live. This is because it is close to the two impo...

Goya
Goya

Near Salamanca and Retiro, Goya is second only to Salamanca for elegance and opulence. Inhabitated m...

La Latina
La Latina

Close to the wonderful Plaza Mayor this district is the real ancient centre of Madrid. Here you will...

Lavapies
Lavapies

Situated between Plaza Tirso de Molina and Plaza Lavapies (both have underground stations), and La L...

Malasana
Malasana

Once one of the most dangerous districts in Madrid, it has had a recent renaissance. Many new bars,...

Opera, Palacio Real
Opera, Palacio Real

This area is situated at the end of the important Calle Arenal, one of Madrid's main shopping street...

Pacifico-Atocha
Pacifico-Atocha

This area is situated close to the Retiro park. Sadly famous for the recent terrorist attack of the...

Retiro
Retiro

El Parque Del Retiro is one of the two big parks in Madrid, along with the Casa Del Campo. Very clos...

Salamanca
Salamanca

This is Madrid's upper-income heartland. Full of elegant apartments, and even more elegant shops, it...

Sol, Santa Ana, Huertas
Sol, Santa Ana, Huertas

Puerta Del Sol is the centre of Madrid. No visit to the Spanish capital is complete without a walk i...