Madrid has many different neighbourhoods, and the best way to get to know them is by visiting their bars. Two areas are Malasaña and Lavapiés. There are the refined boulevards of Salamanca and the LGBT soul of Chueca. But probably the most representative (and historic) is La Latina. The Plaza de la Paja, the Calle del Conde or the crowded Puerta de Moros are full of sidewalk tables that invite you to take a break and gather strength with a beer. And along the way we can find small Renaissance palaces, Gothic churches, medieval streets, and near-secret convent gardens. There are even remains of the city’s ancient walls hidden away behind some doors.