You can find dozens of cultural centers throughout Madrid, but we've highlighted the three most prominent.

La Casa Encendida

La Casa Encendida describes itself as open, dynamic, vanguard and environmentally conscious, just to name a few. It stands at the forefront of cutting-edge/ bohemian Madrid culture, logically located on the edge of the city's most alternative and artsy district, Lavapiés. You can take advantage of a wide range of activities here, from courses and workshops to performing arts, concerts, film series and art exhibits. Access to the library is free and there is also enormous rooftop terrace where DJs spin on summer Sunday nights.

Address: Ronda de Valencia, 2
Tel: (+34) 902 43 03 22 / (+34) 91 602 46 41
Metro stops: Embajadores (line 3), Atocha (line 1)
Bus lines: C, 27, 34, 36, 41
Neighborhood: Lavapies
Open: Mon-Sun, 10am-10pm
Closed: August 15, Holy Thursday & Good Friday, Dec 31, Jan 1 & 6
Admission: Entrance is free but prices vary depending on the film, workshop, exhibit, etc.

Círculo de Bellas Artes

The Círculo de Bellas Artes ("Circle of Fine Arts") is one of Madrid's oldest cultural centers, primely located between Puerta del Sol and Plaza de Cibeles on calle Alcalá. The historic building houses a plethora of different spaces: Cine Estudio (a small movie theater), a library, a large café with outdoor seating for those who want to see and be seen, and various spaces for art exhibits and special events.

Address: Calle Alcalá, 42
Tel: 91 360 54 00
Metro stops: Sevilla (line 2), Banco España (line 2), Sol (line 1, 2 or 3)
Bus lines: 2, 5, 9, 14, 15, 20, 27, 45, 46, 51, 52, 53, 147, 146, 150
Neighborhood: Puerta del Sol / Huertas
Exhibits: 11-2pm & 5pm-9pm (Tues-Sat) 11am-2pm (Sundays)
Cafeteria: 9am-1am (Fri and Sat until 3am)
Library: 9am-10pm
Admission: 1€. Prices for films, exhibits, performances and workshops vary.

Centro Cultural Conde Duque

Conde Duque is run by Madrid's City Government and all exhibits here are free. The size of this enormous building can be explained by its history: originally designed to be military barracks, it is one of the finest examples of typical Madrid architecture from the early 18th century. The structure takes up an entire block and is centered around a spacious courtyard where you can enjoy summer concerts.

Address: Calle Conde Duque 9-11
Tel: (+34) 91 588 58 61/ (+34) 91 588 59 28
Metro stops: Plaza España (line 3 or 10), Ventura Rodriguez (line 3), Noviciado (line 2), San Bernardo (line 2 or 4)
Bus lines: 1, 2, 21, 44, 74, 133, 138, 147, 202, Circular
Neighborhood: Malasaña
Open: Tues-Sat 10am-9pm
Sundays & holidays: 11am -2:30pm; Jan 6 from 11am-3pm
Closed: Mondays, Dec 31, Juan 1
Free admission

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