Usera is a residential district on the south bank of the Manzanares, just across the river from central Madrid. Home to about 140,000 people, it has become the city’s Chinatown since the 2000s, when thousands of Chinese families settled here. Today it is one of the best places in Madrid to eat regional Chinese food.
Why visit Usera
For food: hand-pulled noodles, dim sum, hot pot and Chinese supermarkets, in a real neighbourhood far from the tourist crowds. Add riverside walks and good metro links to the centre.
Top things to do in Usera
Madrid’s Chinatown
The streets around Calle Marcelo Usera and Plaza Elíptica are lined with Chinese restaurants, bakeries, tea shops and supermarkets. Go hungry and order to share.
Chinese New Year
In January or February, depending on the lunar calendar, Usera hosts Madrid’s main Chinese New Year celebrations, with parades, dragon dances and food stalls.
The Manzanares and Madrid Río
Walk or cycle along the river: across the bridges lies Madrid Río, the riverside park, and the Matadero cultural centre.
Pradolongo park
A large park with a lake, lawns and sports areas, popular with local families.
Best time to visit Usera
All year. Chinese New Year is the busiest and most colourful time; spring and autumn are perfect for walking by the river.
Getting to and around Usera
Metro line 6 stops at Plaza Elíptica and line 3 at Usera and Almendrales, a few minutes from Sol. From the airport, allow about 40 minutes by metro with a change.
What to eat in Usera
Hand-pulled noodles, dumplings (jiaozi), hot pot, Sichuan dishes, xiaolongbao and Chinese pastries, plus classic Madrid bars for a caña and tapas.
Usera FAQ
Is Usera worth visiting?
Yes, especially for food lovers: it offers some of the most authentic Chinese cooking in Spain.
How far is Usera from the centre of Madrid?
About 3 km south of Puerta del Sol, around 10–15 minutes by metro.
