Chocolatería San Ginés Madrid
Madrid's legendary 1894 cafe, famous for its crispy churros and thick, velvety hot chocolate. A timeless culinary icon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tourists, more local vibe
Chocolatería San Ginés Madrid
Best Time
Fewer tourists, more local vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Madrid's legendary 1894 cafe, famous for its crispy churros and thick, velvety hot chocolate. A timeless culinary icon.
"The most famous churros in the world, a Madrid must-try for over a century!"
⏰ Go during off-peak hours
Avoid long queues by visiting early morning or late at night. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
🍫 Embrace the rich chocolate
The chocolate is thick and intense, meant for dipping churros. It's a unique Spanish experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Classic Churros con Chocolate
Main counter
Crispy, golden churros served with a thick, velvety hot chocolate for dipping. A timeless Spanish treat.
Porras
Menu item
Thicker, fluffier fried dough, a heartier alternative to churros, perfect for a substantial snack.
Historic Ambiance
Interior seating
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved cafe, a Madrid landmark since 1894.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Experience
Understand the Churro Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ Go during off-peak hours
Avoid long queues by visiting early morning or late at night. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
🍫 Embrace the rich chocolate
The chocolate is thick and intense, meant for dipping churros. It's a unique Spanish experience!
📏 Understand Spanish churros
They're thinner and less sweet than American versions, often without cinnamon sugar.
☕ Try the 'chocolate a la taza'
This is the traditional thick hot chocolate. Some find it too much, but it's the authentic way to enjoy it.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏰ Go during off-peak hours
Avoid long queues by visiting early morning or late at night. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
🍫 Embrace the rich chocolate
The chocolate is thick and intense, meant for dipping churros. It's a unique Spanish experience!
📏 Understand Spanish churros
They're thinner and less sweet than American versions, often without cinnamon sugar.
☕ Try the 'chocolate a la taza'
This is the traditional thick hot chocolate. Some find it too much, but it's the authentic way to enjoy it.
💰 Consider takeaway
If it's too crowded, grab a takeaway box of churros and chocolate to enjoy elsewhere.
🧊 Try the Granizado
The 'limonada granizado' is a refreshing icy lemonade, a great option on a warm day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chocolatería San Ginés is a beloved Madrid institution, celebrated for its iconic churros and rich hot chocolate. Visitors rave about the authentic taste and historic ambiance, though some find it overly crowded and touristy. Despite the queues, many agree the experience and the quality of the chocolate are worth it.
"What an epic experience to be watching so many people from around the world enjoying chocolate dipped churros at this historic site for so many months and finally arriving in Madrid and having the opportunity to experience it ourselves! It definitely did not disappoint. In fact it was even better than we imagined! The churros are slightly salty and crispy without being oily and the chocolate is not too sweet and very rich and lucious. It's a perfect combination! The staff are all very warm and friendly. We had an opportunity to sit down stairs and the atmosphere was very charming! We have another 4 days and I have a feeling this was just the first of several visits! 😉
We went back another night when there das a huge line up. Although it took an hour to get in, everything was organized and orderly and it actually felt pretty quick when chatting with friends and anticipating the fresh crispy churros and plump fluffy porras! We got in by midnight and had another wonderful experience! Thanks for the memories!"
DR. ALVIN TUNG
"Chocolatería San Ginés is Madrid's iconic, historic café, famous since 1894 for serving rich hot chocolate with crispy churros in a traditional setting near Puerta del Sol, beloved by locals and tourists alike for its secret recipes and late-night availability, becoming a must-visit spot for authentic Spanish treats.
The main draw is the traditional chocolate con churros, a thick, velvety hot chocolate perfect for dipping crispy fried dough.
Founded in 1894, it boasts a classic ambiance with marble tables, historical photos, and a long legacy."
A.U Alisan
"Let‘s be honest: the churros don‘t taste good. They are not fresh enough and too hard. I also tried the big PORRAS that amazed me by their size. However it is nothing else than a fatty, bigger, and a bit softer churro that looks like something common to every man and some happy women. Nevertheless, the hot chocolate is amazing and the best I‘ve tried so far. You won‘t regret this drink. It has an very strong chocolate taste but not too sweet. It‘s the perfect alternative for people who don‘t drink hot vine at Christmas markets. Another good point is that it is open 24/7, which makes it the perfect spot for late-night chocolate dates, after-party rendez-vous, and hopefully not cheating women. The hot chocolate warms your heart and makes you happy. You stop thinking about Trump and the current geopolitical situation but enjoy the moment in beautiful Madrid."
Everyone’s Connoisseur
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chocolatería San Ginés is centrally located at Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, 28013 Madrid, Spain. It's easily accessible by public transport. The nearest metro stations are Sol (Lines 1, 2, 3) and Ópera (Lines 2, 5, R), both within a short walking distance. Many bus routes also stop nearby.
Yes, it's very close to key landmarks like Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, making it a perfect stop during your sightseeing. +1
If your hotel is in the city center, walking is often the most convenient way to reach Chocolatería San Ginés, allowing you to soak in the Madrid atmosphere.
From Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), you can take the Metro (Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios, then change to Line 10 to Plaza de España, and finally Line 3 to Sol) or an airport express bus to the city center, followed by a short walk or metro ride.
Street parking in this central Madrid area is very limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi/ride-sharing service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required. Chocolatería San Ginés operates as a cafe, and you typically order at the counter or are seated by staff. However, be prepared for queues, especially during peak hours.
Chocolatería San Ginés is famously open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it a perfect spot for any time of day or night. +1
There is no entrance fee. You pay for what you order, such as churros, porras, and hot chocolate.
Wait times can vary significantly. During peak hours, especially on weekends, you might wait 30 minutes or more. Weekday mornings or late nights are usually much quicker. +1
Reservations are generally not accepted, as it's a walk-in establishment. The best strategy is to go during off-peak hours or be patient with the queue.
🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience
The undisputed star is the 'churros con chocolate' – crispy fried dough sticks served with a rich, thick hot chocolate for dipping. Porras, a thicker version of churros, are also a popular choice. +1
Churros are thinner and often have a slightly crispier texture, while porras are thicker, fluffier, and have a softer interior. Both are delicious when dipped in chocolate!
The hot chocolate is traditionally very rich and thick, with a deep cocoa flavor. It's less sweet than many modern interpretations and is meant to be paired with the churros.
Beyond churros and chocolate, they offer coffee, teas, juices, and some pastries. They also have a 'limonada granizado' (frozen lemonade) which is refreshing.
The cafe retains its historic charm with traditional decor, tiled walls, and a classic ambiance. It can get very busy and noisy, but it's part of the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic churros and chocolate, the historic interior with its tiled walls, and the bustling counter. The exterior signage is also a classic shot.
Yes, taking photos is generally allowed, but be mindful of other patrons and staff. Avoid blocking pathways or being intrusive.
Early mornings or late nights offer softer lighting and fewer people, making for cleaner shots. However, the lively atmosphere during the day can also make for dynamic photos.
Close-ups of the churros being dipped into the thick chocolate are very popular. Shots of the counter staff preparing orders also capture the energy. +1
Absolutely! If you get your churros to-go, find a nice spot nearby, perhaps in a plaza, to photograph your delicious treat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid long waits. The portions of chocolate are generous, so one order might be enough to share among younger children. While the hot chocolate is rich, it's generally not overly sweet, making it palatable for most kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: While the cafe is popular, the prices are generally fair for the quality and experience. Sharing an order of churros and chocolate is a great way to save money and still enjoy the iconic treat. Look for deals or consider it a worthwhile splurge for a quintessential Madrid taste.
🌙 Night Owls & Late-Night Snackers
Night owl tip: The atmosphere late at night can be more relaxed, with fewer crowds than during the day. It's a fantastic way to experience a local tradition at an unconventional hour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Chocolatería San Ginés
Its enduring popularity is a testament to the quality and authenticity of its offerings. The fact that it operates 24/7 further cements its status as a reliable culinary landmark, catering to early risers, late-night snackers, and everyone in between. Many visitors note the historical ambiance as a key part of the experience, making it feel like a step back in time.
While some Redditors debate whether it's a 'tourist trap,' the consensus often leans towards its genuine quality and historical significance. It's a place where you can taste a piece of Madrid's culinary heritage, even if it means navigating a crowd.
Navigating the Churros Experience
Many visitors are surprised by the consistency and richness of the chocolate. While some find it overwhelmingly thick, most agree it's a delicious and authentic pairing. The churros themselves are fried to a perfect crispness, offering a delightful contrast to the smooth chocolate. Porras, a thicker, fluffier version, are also available and equally satisfying.
When ordering, don't be shy about asking for extra chocolate if you feel your portion isn't enough – it's a common practice! Some travelers also enjoy trying other items like coffee or the refreshing 'limonada granizado' on warmer days.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit