The oldest bars in Madrid
Bars with history in Madrid: A trip to the bohemian past
What do Hemingway, Ava Gardner, and Lorca have in common? They all sat in the same place you could sit today: at a bar. Locking gives you the peace of mind to do so freely, without luggage. Madrid, a city that thrives on bars and terraces, is home to some of Spain’s oldest taverns, silent witnesses to history and art. If you’re looking for bars with history in Madrid, these spots are a mandatory stop.
More than just establishments, they are a time capsule, with their worn wooden floors, centuries-old tiles, and the aroma of tradition. Would you like to know some of them?
Taberna Antonio Sánchez (1787)
Located on Mesón de Paredes street, it is the oldest tavern in Madrid that has kept its original name. It was a meeting point for bullfighters and artists. Its name comes from its owner, a famous bullfighter who was also the subject of a Goya painting. The head of its fighting bull, “El Señorito,” is still preserved, taxidermied and hung on its walls.
Casa Alberto (1827)
In the heart of the Barrio de las Letras, on Huertas street, we find this tavern with almost 200 years of history. It’s said that Cervantes wrote his work, “Journey to Parnassus,” here. It’s a must-visit spot for its on-tap vermouths and traditional atmosphere.
Bodega de la Ardosa (1892)
A classic in Malasaña, its facade is unmistakable. What started as a wine distributor on Colón, street became one of the most emblematic taverns. Its bar is divided into two, one for the public and one for the waiters, an unusual feature that transports you to another time.
Sitting in one of these historical bars in Madrid is much more than having a beer or a tapa. It’s reliving the 19th-century literary gatherings, imagining the most famous artists in the history of Spain, and, in short, being part of the city’s history.
If you’re interested in continuing to explore the authentic corners of the capital, don’t miss our guide on what to see in the center of Madrid, where you’ll find more charming places.
