There’s nothing like a big city at night.  Neighborhoods take on a whole new atmosphere as the cafés and restaurants open and then change again as nightclubs and bars begin to spill their patrons out and onto the street. There is a certain energy that comes with the transitions, you can feel the streets awaken, calm and finally sit at peace.

Madrid is a surprisingly artistic city, and not just in visual arts.  Sure there are a number of excellent art museums, but the city is also home to an incredible variety of Alternative Arts- from performing to expressive and visual.  A few neighborhoods are well known in the alternative art scene and even play host to underground art clubs.

IF YOU GO: Madrid has modern infrastructure and still maintains its charming neighborhoods. A very welcoming city, despite its size Madrid plays host to many different types of people and cultures.   Apartments in Madrid are a great way to spend a week and get to know the neighborhoods and communities.

To see more of our favorite photos from around the world check out our travel photo page. Let us know your favorites and we’ll include them in our photo of the day series.

Photo Credit: Flickr user PromoMadrid under a creative commons license.