If you're heading to DCODE and staying in central Madrid, you'll definitely want to check out the nearby food scene. From traditional tapas to bustling markets, there's something for every palate.
What type of food can you find near DCODE?
While DCODE is out at the university campus, our hostels are right in the thick of Madrid's culinary action. Step out of Inter Plaza Mayor or Inter Puerta del Sol, and you're immediately hit by the sounds and smells of the city's food scene. You’ve got it all: the clatter of tapas bars serving salty jamón, the comforting aroma of a proper 'menú del día', and even contemporary spots for when you crave something different. It’s a real mix.
For those who enjoy international cuisine, the area also offers a variety of options. You can find everything from Italian trattorias serving fresh pasta to Japanese sushi bars and even Middle Eastern restaurants offering delicious falafel and shawarma. Madrid is a melting pot of flavors, and the city centre is a great place to explore this diversity. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty Spanish stew or a light Mediterranean salad, you'll find it all within walking distance.
Is Mercado de San Miguel worth visiting?
Guests ask us this every week at reception. The Mercado de San Miguel is a stunning iron-and-glass structure, just a five-minute walk from Inter Plaza Mayor, and its food stalls are a feast for the eyes. Think glistening piles of olives, freshly shucked oysters tasting of the sea, and croquettes with a perfect golden crunch. We're honest with our guests: it gets packed and the prices reflect its popularity. It’s an intense sensory hit. But for that one perfect tapa, it's often worth diving in.
If you’re looking for specific recommendations, try the seafood stalls for their fresh prawns or razor clams, or grab a glass of vermouth to pair with a small plate of manchego cheese. Prices for tapas here range from €3 to €8, depending on what you choose. Keep in mind that weekends are especially busy, so visiting on a weekday afternoon might be a better option if you want to avoid the crowds.
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting Mercado de San Antón in the Chueca neighborhood. While smaller, it offers a similar variety of high-quality food and is less crowded. Here, you can enjoy tapas on the rooftop terrace, accompanied by a glass of wine or a refreshing tinto de verano. It’s a great alternative if you want a market experience without the hustle and bustle of San Miguel.
Where to grab a quick bite before the festival?
Need to grab something fast before catching the metro to DCODE? We get it. The area around Puerta del Sol is perfect for that. You can grab a classic 'bocadillo de calamares' from one of the little bars tucked into the arches of Plaza Mayor—crispy, salty, and satisfyingly simple. Or pop into a bakery for a hefty slice of Galician empanada, with its savoury tuna or meat filling encased in flaky pastry. Real food, fast.
For those in a rush, there are also plenty of takeaway options. 'Museo del Jamón', a chain with several locations near Sol, offers affordable sandwiches starting at just €1.50. Alternatively, try '100 Montaditos', where you can pick from a menu of small sandwiches and snacks, with many items priced under €2. These spots are ideal for grabbing something portable to eat on your way to the festival.
If you have a little more time, consider stopping by 'El Brillante', a historic bar near Atocha station famous for its calamari sandwiches. Slightly pricier than other spots, with sandwiches costing around €5, the quality and generous portions make it worth the extra euros. Pair it with a cold beer or a soda, and you’ll be ready to tackle the festival.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options in the centre?
Yes, Madrid's plant-based scene is exploding, and we're right in the middle of it. A short walk from our doors takes you into the La Latina neighbourhood, where places like 'Viva Burger' are crafting incredible 100% vegan creations that are a universe away from a boring salad. Even the most traditional tapas bars are getting creative, and we can point you to spots like 'Taberna El Sur' where you can find veggie-friendly versions of classics. You won't be stuck with just 'pimientos de Padrón'.
Another excellent option is 'B13', a vegan eatery near Gran Vía that serves hearty dishes like vegan burgers, Spanish omelettes, and even plant-based versions of traditional stews. Prices here are reasonable, with most main dishes costing between €8 and €12. For dessert, head to 'Freedom Cakes', a vegan bakery offering indulgent treats like cupcakes and brownies. Both spots are within a 15-minute walk from Puerta del Sol.
For a more upscale experience, check out 'Rayén Vegano', a cozy vegan restaurant in the Huertas neighborhood. Their seasonal menu features creative dishes like pumpkin ravioli and mushroom risotto, with mains priced around €15. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, as this spot is popular among locals and tourists alike.
That first bite of a crispy, hot calamari sandwich in Plaza Mayor... That's a core Madrid memory right there.
What to do after a good meal?
Once you're fueled up, the best part is just wandering. From our hostels, you can spill out into the historic centre and let the city's energy carry you. Let the afternoon light filter through the arches of Plaza Mayor, or if you have a bit more time, make your way to the Temple of Debod for a truly epic sunset view before you dive into the festival atmosphere. It’s the perfect pre-show ritual.
If you’re in the mood for something more active, consider taking a short walk to the Royal Palace and its surrounding gardens. The Sabatini Gardens are particularly peaceful and offer a great spot to relax before heading to the festival. Alternatively, for a more modern vibe, explore the Malasaña neighbourhood, known for its trendy cafes and street art. It’s a great place to grab a coffee or a craft beer while soaking in the local culture.
For those who enjoy shopping, the Gran Vía area is a must-visit. Known as Madrid's Broadway, this bustling street is lined with shops, theatres, and restaurants. Whether you're looking for a last-minute festival outfit or just want to window shop, Gran Vía offers plenty of options to keep you entertained.
How to get to DCODE from the city centre?
DCODE Festival takes place at the Complutense University campus, which is easily accessible from central Madrid. The quickest way to get there is by taking Metro Line 6 (the circular line) to Ciudad Universitaria station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the festival entrance. The metro ride from Puerta del Sol takes approximately 20 minutes and costs €1.50 for a single ticket. If you’re traveling in a group, consider purchasing a 10-ride ticket for €12.20, which can be shared among multiple people.
Alternatively, buses 82 and 132 also stop near the university campus. These are a good option if you prefer to avoid the metro crowds. Both buses depart from Moncloa, a major transport hub that’s just a short metro ride from the city centre. Bus tickets cost €1.50 per ride, and the journey takes about 25 minutes.
If you’re planning to stay out late after the festival, keep in mind that the metro closes at 1:30 AM. Night buses, known as 'búhos', operate from Moncloa and can take you back to the city centre. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are readily available, with fares to the city centre typically ranging from €10 to €15.
More at interhostales.es: Inter Plaza Mayor · Inter Puerta del Sol · frequently asked questions
Further reading: Mercado de San Miguel · Temple of Debod
Keep reading: Where to try calamari sandwiches near Sol · Where to Eat Churros Near Plaza Mayor · Where to Try Madrid Dishes Near Embajadores · Where to Eat Near Puerta del Sol: Tapas and More · Where to Try Cocido Madrileño Near Plaza Mayor