
Visiting Madrid for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Make the most of your first stop in the Spanish capital with our must-dos.
Flamenco is nothing if not passionate. Expect stomping, clapping, frenzied guitar strumming, and, of course, dancing. Take a lesson—or just take in a performance—at Cafe de Chinitas, one of Madrid’s celebrated flamenco spaces. Upgrade with dinner and sangria to make the evening a truly special occasion.
Immerse yourself in Spanish culture, and attend a live flamenco show at Cafe de Chinitas. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, especially if you’ll be there on a weekend.
To make a day of exploring Central Madrid, tour the Royal Palace of Madrid and Sabatini Gardens, head over to Cafe de Chinitas for a show, then go out to a late dinner, Madrileño-style, at a tapas restaurant on Calle Cava Baja. Or, opt for a package that includes a flamenco lesson or dinner and drinks at the café.
Flamenco—included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list—is a must-see for dance enthusiasts and travelers interested in Spanish arts.
For dinner, Cafe de Chinitas serves traditional Spanish tapas, along with wine and sangria.
To easiest way to reach Cafe de Chinitas is by metro. Take line 2 to Santo Domingo station, or line 3 or 10 to Plaza de España. You’ll find the café at Calle de Torija, 7—just a few blocks from either metro stop and the Sabatini Gardens.
Cafe de Chinitas typically offers shows twice daily, Monday through Saturday at 8:30pm and 10:30pm. Book your tickets in advance for a popular weekend show, or attend a performance earlier in the week.
Whether the performance inspired you or you’re just looking to try something new, don’t miss the chance for a 1-hour flamenco lesson at Cafe de Chinitas. You’ll walk away knowing how to do the key dance movements. Bonus: lessons typically include admission to a show.