Although our mild weather makes going out at night quite pleasant all year round, the too hot days in July and August make going out at night almost the only time where walking the streets is possible. And among all the things we can do apart from sitting by the river, paying a visit to the Alameda de Hércules is one of the best options.

This once degradated area of the city has become the centre of the city’s alternative and innovative endless list of bars, restaurants and pubs, where it is possible to have a traditional tapas dinner or attending a concert of indie groups. You can get a special cocktail (pay attention to caipirinhas and mojitos) or listen to the ultimate house and dance hits.

A woman outside one of the modern bars, by simplifica / flickr

There is even a handful of gay bars, from the most trendy which offer unusual interior designs and free wifi access to the traditional bear clubs.

The Alameda de Hercules is situated in the north area of the city centre, at a 10 minutes walk from the Plaza Nueva. You’ll easily recognise it when you see the centuries-old columns you can see in the picture by Juan G. Hurtado above.