Book apartments for rent Chamberi Madrid​

History of Chamberí

Chamberí is one of Madrid’s most traditional and elegant districts, with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Its name is believed to come from the French town of Chambéry, linked to the Napoleonic troops who occupied Madrid during the Peninsular War. For centuries, the area was rural land north of the city, but it began to urbanise during the reign of Queen Isabel II, becoming a prestigious residential neighbourhood for the Madrid bourgeoisie.

Throughout the 20th century, Chamberí flourished as a hub of intellectual and cultural life, home to theatres, educational institutions and cafés frequented by writers, artists and politicians. Today, the district retains its stately charm, with striking examples of modernist and neo-Mudéjar architecture, and is considered one of the areas with the highest quality of life in the capital.

Nowadays, Chamberí is known for its peaceful yet sophisticated atmosphere, vibrant cultural scene and outstanding gastronomy. The district boasts over 450 restaurants and bars, ranging from traditional Spanish taverns to contemporary fine dining, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers in Madrid.

Monuments and Historical Sites

History lovers will find plenty to explore in the refined district of Chamberí. One of its most iconic landmarks is the old Chamberí metro station, designed by architect Antonio Palacios and opened in 1919. Now part of the 'Andén 0' museum, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the early days of Madrid's underground system.

Nearby stands the striking Church of Santa Teresa and Santa Isabel, a 19th-century neo-Gothic building presiding over Chamberí Square. Another notable historic site is the Conde-Duque barracks, located just outside the district and dating back to the 18th century, now transformed into a vibrant cultural centre.

Strolling through Chamberí reveals a wealth of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture, including elegant modernist buildings along Paseo de Eduardo Dato and the distinctive neo-Mudéjar façades that characterise many of the local streets. The district is also home to the Geominero Museum, housed in a remarkable neo-Romanesque building and featuring one of Spain’s finest geological collections—a hidden gem even for many locals.

How to get to Chamberí in Madrid?

Getting to Chamberí is straightforward thanks to its excellent public transport connections. The metro is one of the most convenient options, with key stations including Iglesia (Line 1), Alonso Cano (Line 7), Quevedo (Line 2), Canal (Lines 2 and 7) and Ríos Rosas (Line 1). Other nearby stations like Gregorio Marañón (Lines 7 and 10) and Islas Filipinas (Line 7) also offer easy access to the area.

Several EMT bus routes also serve Chamberí, such as lines 3, 12, 16, 61, 149, and the Circular, connecting it with many other parts of Madrid. If you're arriving by Cercanías commuter train, Nuevos Ministerios station (lines C1, C2, C3, C4, C7, C8, and C10) is the closest, and from there you can either walk or take the metro. Chamberí is also a great district to explore on foot or by bike, with multiple BiciMAD stations located throughout the neighbourhood.