Best bars and restaurants for afternoon drinks in Madrid
Tardeo has established itself as one of the favourite ways to enjoy leisure time in Madrid. This trend, which involves going out at midday or in the afternoon to have a drink, enjoy tapas and socialise, has gained popularity due to its ability to combine good food, drinks, a relaxed atmosphere and, above all, the chance to enjoy the city in natural light. In Madrid, tardeo knows no seasons or ages: it brings together everyone from young people to professionals who want to unwind without staying out late.
In this guide, we reveal the best bars and restaurants for tardeo in Madrid. Whether you’re looking for terraces with views, traditional bars, signature cocktail bars or outdoor spaces, you’ll find your next favourite spot here.
Classic bars for afternoon drinks in Madrid
Madrid still has traditional taverns that are ideal places for afternoon drinks.
El Anciano Rey de los Vinos, opposite the Almudena Cathedral, is one of them. Open since 1909, it offers vermouth on tap, traditional wines and traditional tapas such as croquettes and tripe. Its location opposite the Royal Palace makes it a must for those who want to soak up the most authentic Madrid.
Another classic is El Viajero, in La Latina. It occupies a three-storey building with a legendary rooftop terrace from which you can see the Basilica of San Francisco el Grande. Its lively atmosphere and casual menu make it perfect for lingering over the afternoon with beers, mojitos and good vibes. It is one of the most iconic places for afternoon drinks in Madrid.
And if you’re looking for the essence of a Madrid tavern, don’t miss Casa Alberto (since 1827), near the Barrio de las Letras neighbourhood. Oxtail, vermouth and walls steeped in history for an afternoon with character.
Cafés with views in Madrid for the afternoon
If there’s one thing that makes an afternoon even better, it’s enjoying it with a great view. In the area around the Royal Palace, the Terraza del Campo del Moro stands out, located within the historic gardens of the same name. This peaceful space with well-tended vegetation offers coffee, soft drinks and snacks to enjoy with unbeatable views of the rear façade of the Palace.
Also nearby, Café del Río offers one of the best panoramic views of the city: from its terrace you can see the skyline of historic Madrid, including the Cathedral and the Palace. Ideal for a coffee at sunset or a glass of wine with friends.
If you prefer to see the city centre from above, two of the best rooftop bars in Madrid are the Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes and the Hotel Riu Plaza España. At both, the 360º views, combined with a good drink or coffee, make for a memorable afternoon.
Or if you want to enjoy a great atmosphere in a classic setting with the best cuisine, Café de la Galería at the Royal Palace is a must-see.
Best bars for afternoon drinks in Madrid
Among the bars that are setting the trend for afternoon drinks in 2025, there are several that are not to be missed:
- Florida Retiro and its La Galería space combine nature, music and gastronomy. It is perfect for afternoons of tapas, drinks and a great atmosphere in the heart of El Retiro Park.
- Gilda Haus (Malasaña) brings sophistication to the afternoon with its cinema-inspired décor, Basque banderillas and cocktails such as the ‘Gildatini’.
- Llama Inn, in Chueca/Salesas, is the new temple of contemporary Peruvian cuisine. With a continuous menu and signature cocktails, it offers a cosmopolitan and tasty afternoon.
These bars stand out for:
- Carefully crafted menus
- Creative cocktails
- An atmosphere that evolves from relaxed to lively
Places for outdoor evening entertainment in Madrid
The good weather invites you to go out, and Madrid is full of terraces where you can enjoy the afternoon outdoors.
- Terraza Atenas, at the foot of the Segovia Viaduct and next to the Royal Palace, is a classic spot for good weather. Surrounded by green areas, it is perfect for unwinding in the middle of the city.
- Café del Rey, near Príncipe Pío, recreates an urban beach club with sand and hammocks. Ideal for a different kind of afternoon, with mojitos or sangrias.
- In the Retiro, Florida Retiro and its main terrace offer sun, music and good food surrounded by nature.
They all offer that winning combination of fresh air, views and the perfect atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Bars for afternoon drinks with a relaxed atmosphere in Madrid
Not everyone is looking for noise and parties. Madrid also has bars that are ideal for a quiet and elegant afternoon.
Cuenllas Wine Bar (Salesas) is perfect for wine lovers. It offers selected wines, cheeses, cold cuts and cold tapas in a sophisticated and quiet setting.
La Caníbal (Lavapiés) is a craft beer bar with Galician products and natural wines. Informal atmosphere, shared tables and attention to the product: ideal for leisurely conversation.
And if you prefer a classic, traditional bar, La Venencia (Calle Echegaray) maintains its essence as an unpretentious sherry tavern. No photos, no tips: just quality wine and authenticity. The tardeo here is pure, unhurried and steeped in history.
The tardeo in Madrid is much more than a trend: it is a way of experiencing the city during the day, without rushing, enjoying the atmosphere, good food and conversation. From terraces overlooking the Royal Palace to discreet wine bars in Salesas, Madrid has an option for every style of tardeo.
Whether you prefer a vermouth in a century-old tavern, a coffee with views of the skyline or a drink on a modern rooftop, the capital is full of places to savour every sunset. Don’t wait for night to fall: go out for tardeo and discover why Madrid shines especially brightly at those hours when the city stops and leisure becomes a habit.