The Best Arthouse Cinemas In Madrid

Madrid is an ideal destination for film lovers, thanks to an abundance of arthouse cinemas around the city. Here are some of the best to seek out if you’d like to catch an independent movie during your visit to Madrid.

1. Cine Doré

Building, Cinema, Movie Theater

The cinema of the national film archives (Filmoteca Española), Cine Doré, dating back to 1912, always has a fabulous selection of new and old movies. Being in this theatre feels like a step back in time. The cinema’s facade is one of Madrid’s few pieces of Art Deco architecture. All films are shown in the original, with Spanish subtitles when necessary.

2. La Academia del Cine

Cinema, School

La Academia del Cine created the famous Goya Awards, the Spanish version of the Oscars. This cinema shows mini-seasons of themed films: for example, Vietnamese cinema, or cinema and psychology.

3. Cineteca

Part of Madrid’s cultural center Matadero, Cineteca is dedicated to showing documentary and non-fiction films. There’s also a cafe serving healthy and natural food, and an outdoor terrace space with a projector.

Cineteca, Plaza de Legazpi, 8, 28045 Madrid +34 915 17 98 17

Cineteca, Madrid | © Nicolas Vigier/Flickr

4. Artistic Metropol

Cinema, Movie Theater

This micro-cinema claims to be Madrid’s first cinema specializing in independent films, especially fantasy and horror films. Artistic Metropol, too, tends to have show films grouped by theme, as well as movie marathons, workshops and courses.

5. Sala Berlanga

Cinema, Theater

Named after the famous Spanish director Luis García Berlanga, this cinema not only shows films, but also participates in the arts in other ways, such as hosting concerts, live theater and exhibitions. Sala Berlanga is a good venue to catch a documentary, or a movie nominated for the Goya Award.

6. Cine Estudio

Movie Theater

Cine Estudio is a small cinema located inside the Círculo de Bellas Artes cultural center dedicated to showing artistic and independent films. Bargain hunters should check out their special passes allowing you to see five films for only €18. This small theatre is closed during August.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.