This shopping area is massive, with an extensive selection of shops offering major global brand names. There are also many cafes and restaurants scattered throughout, making it easy to take a break and grab a bite to eat. However, we recommend avoiding weekends and peak times, as it can get incredibly busy, with people walking in all directions, making it difficult to navigate. Additionally, there are some old, magnificent architectural buildings interspersed between the shops, adding to the charm of the area.See more..
4.0Puerta del Sol(10.9k reviews) - A must, as it is the center of the old town. Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
Considered by many to be the "hub" of the city, this large urban plaza contains many statues and monuments.See more..
4.0Estacion de Atocha(6.362 reviews) - A multi-tiered complex Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
The revamped Atocha consists of the old and new stations. We used the very busy new station which is used for all rail routes including high-speed and long distance. Signage and directions could be better - it’s a maze for first timers. The Madrid Metro stops here. Besides trains, the old station has offices, shopping, a leisure complex that includes a tropical garden of 400 species and over 7,000 plants.See more..
4.5Paseo del Prado(4.365 reviews) - Two enlightening and enchanting strolls each way along this cultural mile. Points of Interest & Landmarks
This is very much the cultural hub of the city. It is a long tree lined boulevard stretching foom Cibeles to Atocha and as well as many fine examples of architecture it contains the "big three" museums and galleries as well as some less well known. There are also fountains and statues to various artistic figures including Goya.Well worth not just one but two or three strolls as you will spot something new each time.See more..
4.5Puerta de Alcala(4.027 reviews) - Impressive Gate to the Old City Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
When you come out of the North-Western corner of the Retiro Parc, in the Independence Square, Calle de Alcala curves graciously around this massive, neoclassical five arch triumphal gateway. I was unsure why this monument left such a lasting impression with me and after reading about it further, I learned that in fact, it is considered as the first modern post-Roman triumphal arch built in Europe, older than the similar Arc de Triomphe in Paris and Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Somehow, its presence and greatness tells the story of its uniqueness and historical value.See more..
4.5Real Sitio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial(3.369 reviews) - Do it yourself! Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals
Stopped to visit Escorial whilst driving between Toledo and Segovia. Originally booked conducted tour in English through "Tiquets.com" who charged us £52.30 for 2. Chose this as they said the guide would meet us at the entrance and we would skip any queue. The night before, we were furious to receive an email from Tiquets saying there were insufficient numbers to make up an English tour, so they had cancelled it, refunded our money, leaving us high and dry, or so we thought. This turned out to be good news in the end as we decided to do it ourselves. We arrived at the Escorial about 11:00 on a Tuesday morning. Parked on the free parking area on Calle Calleja Larga and walked 300 yards to entrance. There were no crowds. We walked straight in and bought 2 English conducted tour tickets for 20 euro (senior citizen rate), which started at 11:30. The tour lasted 2 hours and took us all around the main building. It was fantastic. The only potential problem with doing it this way would be if there was a queue but I suppose the earlier you get there, the better it is.See more..
4.5Plaza de Santa Ana(2.791 reviews) - One of Madrid's most vibrant nightlife areas Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks
Tapas bars and clubs line this scenic plaza, making it one of Madrid's most popular nightlife hotspots.See more..
4.0Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas(2.619 reviews)from $85.65 - Informative and Interactive Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Arenas & Stadiums
4.5Royal Palace of Aranjuez(2.327 reviews) - Excellent Visit Points of Interest & Landmarks • Gardens
We booked easily via the Patrimonio website and chose the first visit slot of 10am as we were staying at the NH hotel just opposite. By being the first people in on the day, there were no crowds ahead of us, so it enabled us to see everything easily. It was not a guided tour, but each room had an information board in Spanish and English to read. There were some magnificent rooms, our favourites being the ornate Arab room and the amazing porcelain room.See more..
4.5Valley of the Fallen(1.660 reviews) - Impressive Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
The Valley of the Fallen is a Spanish monumental complex built between 1940 and 1958 and located in the valley of Cuelgamuros, in the municipality of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, in the Community of Madrid. It is located in the Sierra de Guadarrama, 9.5 km north of the monastery of El Escorial.See more..
4.5Calle Mayor(1.022 reviews) - A PLACE TO MEANDER Points of Interest & Landmarks
The main street of the town is great for wandering, eating, people watching or buying a trinket or two. It boasts Spain’s longest porticoed street. It is historically tied to the Jewish barrio. Of interest to locals and tourists alike is the home where the great author Cervantes was born. You will spend appreciable time here. It intersects with the Plaza de Cervantes. Look up too to the many second floor balconies.See more..
4.5Plaza de Cervantes(748 reviews) - A SPOT TO CHILL Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
Set between Calle Mayor and the Tower of Santa Maria is the largest plaza in Alcala de Henares, a hub of activity all day long. It has flowers, a bandstand and benches to people watch. A fine statue of Cervantes is the fitting focus of the place.See more..
4.5Casa del Labrador(335 reviews) - Magnificent Points of Interest & Landmarks
Ironically this is the second banana to the Aranjuez palace when this is the real main event. It is as the title indicates "magnificent". Almost every room is not merely lavishly decorated, but exhibiting exquisite craftsmanship and good taste. Simply put, for the size of the structure this may very well be the most beautiful building in the world. And thank the king whose taste guided the decoration. As I often say, the best judge of how great a place is is whether I would like to return. In this case, I wanted to go on the very next tour and only did not do it because we had to get to the main palace, then Il Defonso La Granja and then Segovia before the night fell. Next time we go I plan on going on at least two tours, maybe three. If that doesn't give you an idea of how good it is, I don't know what will. If you go to Madrid, see Toledo, this and Segovia, in that order.See more..
4.5Monasterio de Santa Maria de El Paular(305 reviews) - Amazing construction and ornamentation Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks
Located about a mile west of town, the monastery was founded in the 14th century and is still inhabited by Benedictine monks. Tours daily at noon, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., conducted in Spanish only. Show up at main gate and wait in line near store. An architectural jewel, well worth a look inside, showcasing architecture and décor from the 14th through the 18th century. Take a look at the Sheraton hotel next door, part of the original construction, and the nearby stone Puente de Perdon.See more..
An amazingly historic & beautiful little pueblo nested on the banks of a bend on the río lozoya, with mountains skirting the view to the north. Stayed in the lovely little place called Hotel La Beltraneja, which was smack up against the old walled city castle.See more..
4.5Palacio Laredo(128 reviews) - Deceitful History Points of Interest & Landmarks
This monument looks like a remain from the Moorish conquest of the majority of Iberia, but upon examining its history, you'll be astoonished that it was built in the 19th Century, more than 700 years since the Moors were defeated in Alcalá! I thought it was a mosque because its architecture is that of a mosque, besides you can see Arabic scripture on the arcades and facades of the building, even you can observe a minaret-like cylindrical ancillary structure next to it!See more..
Ideal place for pictures that we noticed when we left the Royal Palace on our way to other parks, it was on our right side. We crossed the street to take photos. It is beautiful and located in a big and wide square. Luckily empty because everyone was in the parks.See more..
3.5Fuente de Hercules y Anteo(102 reviews) - Visiting the city of Áranjuez. Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
Fuente de Hércules y Anteo. In front of the “Royal Palace you have the “Jardin del Parterre”, a nice garden who has the fountain of Hercules and Anteo on the end and bordering on the river Tajo. The fountain is the most spectacular part of the park, and when you return on you steps towards the Palace, on your right you will have a small bridge who leads you into the “Jardin de la Isla” on the right side of the Palace, also a need park to visit with some fountains and a small but very beautiful waterfall on the right when crossing the small bridge and heading towards the toilets. After this visit, comeback to the small bridge and leave the park straight ahead and doing so you arrive on the “Plaza das Parejas” or the Couples Square. Aranjuez maybe not that great, but it is a need place to visit.See more..
3.5Torre Del Reloj(97 reviews) - A tower without a church for a church without a tower in Chinchon Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
In Chinchon they say they have a tower without a church and a church without a tower. It adjoined an old church that had been destroyed during the Revolutionary War. It was the tower of the oldest church in the city, it is known that it was built as early as the 14th century It is very well preserved and there is a viewpoint next to it with a very beautiful view of the Main Square and the castle. A very pleasant environment.See more..
I'm glad I was lucky to be the last costumer before closing. It seems most things close at 14 oclock in Alcala, maybe for a ciesta. So I got there and talked to a woman behind a wooden door that spins. You do not get to see her, you only hear her voice. You tell her what package of almonds you want and put the money and she will spin it and get the money and give you your box. Pretty cool. And of course they were delicious!See more..
4.5Plaza de las Bernardas(89 reviews) - THE TOWN'S MOST INTIMATE PLAZA Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
Maybe this plaza must play second fiddle to the Plaza de Cervantes but it is the most intimate and grand plaza in the historic core. It is relatively small. It has a nice statue of Catharine of Aragon and nice trees. Sit down and let life pass you by. It is far enough from the crowds along Calle Mayor to be very quiet.See more..
Some twelve minute walk away from the main site of Complutum, this house was just as interesting. It was a youth college, a place for the upper class to send their young boys to be schooled in the arts. There are several mosaics in situ, apparently having been removed, coated and replaced to minimize damage to exposure. The fish mosaic is itself very good but it was also a learning tool. The complex is open air but under a large roof. I enjoyed seeing a swimming pool incorporated within the house. There was no admission charge. The site dates from the late 3rd c AD.See more..
4.0Torre de Santa Maria(84 reviews) - Landmark of the Plaza Cervantes Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers
Impressive 34 meter tower dominates the central square of Alcala de Henares, Plaza Cervantes. We did not climb 104 steps but enjoyed the view from the hustling and bustling plaza. The stork nest makes it very atmospheric. See more..
3.0Plaza Mayor(78 reviews) - A unique square with a lot to do, see, and eat Points of Interest & Landmarks
Built in the late 1500s in central Madrid, this beautiful square was originally built as an open-air ballroom (yep) by Spain's monarch of the times. The facades are decorated in brick and white, and the whole square is perfectly symmetrical. During the year different festivals and markets are held int he square. The colonnade under one side is featured in a Depeche Mode album, Songs of Faith and Devotion, if I remember right. Under the columns and all around are restaurants and shops. Honestly, stay off the restaurants as they are pure tourist traps. A great time to visit this square is december, when the whole space (and it's a big space) is a giant open-air Christmas market, where you can find traditional Christmas tree ornaments and lights, as well as nativity scenes to suit every taste and budget (including Spain's infamous "caganers", the figurine of a man pooing, which you're suppose to tuck away hidden in your nativity).See more..
4.0Murallas de la Ciudad(77 reviews) - The beauty beyond the city walls Points of Interest & Landmarks
We approached these old but fascinating walls. No signage or idea of what to expect, but to our surprise we found this beautiful old city which boasts the Alacalá univeristy, several churches, little shops and restaurants. Definitely worth a visitSee more..
4.0Casa Del Principe(73 reviews) - Easy day trip with amazing photo opportunities Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Gardens
This is an easy train ride. The walk up the hill was long. No matter we took lots of photos. The castle is beautifully situated on the hill side. It is huge! We enjoyed walking around and the history. On the way back we stopped for snacks in the town. Wonderful day See more..
One of the most peaceful and cozy places with an excellent location and view of the town and the river. Just at the entrance of the town and 20 minutes walking from the main square is a must see place during your stay in here. Recommended to visit in spring.See more..
3.5Castillo de la Coracera(64 reviews) - Castle restoration Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
After years of neglect it is finally getting it due and being restored for all to enjoy, it offers a great view of the city and with added history of the area it will look amazing in years to come, spend a short time discovering the history of past owners which will give you a better insight and turn this into a more memorable experience. Who doesn't love old castlesSee more..
Perhaps there are many main squares that are more impressive but this is a little gem with a secret. It's irregular shape makes it extremely attractive although when I was there it was slightly spoiled by cars parked in it. There are several reutableresttaurant ther although I didn't try them.But the secret is the tunnel of Zacztín that goes under the square and is well worth visiting.See more..
4.5Mirador de la Iglesia(56 reviews) - Very good views of Chinchon Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts
A place with a beautiful view of the Chinchon skyline. Here you have a tower on one side, a church on the other and great views of the city and its main square and castle. A few minutes from the Main Square and has benches to sit and rest.See more..
4.5Monasterio Cisterciense de San Bernardo(56 reviews) - Visiting Alcalá de Henares. Wednesday: 12:15 PM - 2:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals
The Monastery/Convent of San Bernardo is located next to the “Palacio Arzobispal” who is on the end of the “Calle de Santiago”. Unfortunately it was also closed on the moment of our visit, so we just can show you some pictures from the outside, who shows you the place in front of the convent and you also have garden surrounding with two statues in it, you have to see this as an amplification of the “Palacio Arzobispal”. Which makes of this convent also an interesting place to visit in Alcalá de Henares.See more..
4.5Teatro Salón Cervantes(50 reviews) - An antique and beautiful theater Points of Interest & Landmarks
This small and charming theater is located in the historic center of Alcalá, with characteristic architecture (galleries and lounge with red velvet chairs). In high season the schedule is very rich, with great variety and quality.See more..
Mucha historia tiene esta Ermita, es muy austero el interior, con un bonito altar. Hay tumbas visigodas y un bar justo al ladoSee more..
4.0Casa de Oficios y Caballeros(41 reviews) - Striking complex of royal buildings Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
Although you cannot enter these buildings, you should walk the incredible arcades. If you get the sun right, you'll get some amazing photos with light and shade. The arcades seem to go on forever! On a hot summer day, you sure need the shade.See more..
Very interesting renaissance library built by King Philip II. Located in the El Escorial complex, photography inside is prohibited. However, the visit is worth it. The frescoes on the ceiling are exceptional, and there are many preserved medieval books.See more..
4.5Hospitalillo de San jose(35 reviews) - Nice stop for a cup of tea Points of Interest & Landmarks
This is an interesting and quaint little place with a nice quiet garden area in the middle.We stopped for a cup of tea and enjoyed the quiet surroundings.See more..
4.5Castillo de Soto de Vinuelas(34 reviews) - Great for corporate or personal events Points of Interest & Landmarks
Went to this place as part of a leadership dinner. The place is in the middle of nowhere and we had coaches to take us there. About 30 minutes from central Madrid so not too far. The fort like structure is well hidden and shows up only at the end of the winding path. Once there, you can feel the richness and the aura of the place. We had a set menu served on our table. The service was efficient and spotless. And the food was great. Definitely recommend this place for large get togethers. See more..
4.5Espectaculo de Fuegos y Luces(33 reviews) - Espectacular fin de fiesta Points of Interest & Landmarks Nos habían recomendado el espectáculo pirotécnico que cierra las fiestas de Tres Cantos, pero no hemos ido hasta este año y, la verdad, es que sentimos no haber ido antes. Los fuegos son espectaculares y al combinación con la música es genial. Dura una media hora y es un espectáculo de luz, color y sonido fantástico. No son las fallas de Valencia, pero para una ciudad pequeña son impresionantes.See more..
Iglesia expetacular importante k muchas catedrales de ciudades no puedes márchate sin antes hacer una visitaSee more..
4.0Hospital de Antezana(31 reviews) - One of the first charity hospitals Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
This is where Saint Ignatius of Loyala got his first job as a cook. He would get the water for the kitchen from the well you see in the picture. He was 20 at the time and studying to be a priest.The benefactor of the hospital gave up part of her house in order for the hospital to operate and lived in the rest of the house which still conserves some of the original arab calligraphy. At that time it had 12 hospital beds. It now has 24 for old folks.See more..
This is a beautiful chapel with eucharistic exposition. It is opened during the day. The monstrance is fantastic! It has an amazing dome and it is a great place to pray. See more..
4.0Parque Tierno Galvan(29 reviews) - A peaceful place in Madrid Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks
Most people do not know this park and that's where the secret of its beauty is: it's rarely dirty, few people around and silence is king here. A lot of people use this park for peaceful long walks, meditation or a picnic with friends. Really worth trying it.See more..
3.5Casa de los Infantes(29 reviews) - Back in time Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
Well maintained, convenient walking area, enjoyable ancient building and construction details. Recommended for a stroll at any time of the day.See more..
What a great place, the entrance welcomes you with an impressive stone viaduct to set the scene. Many small houses with steep paths and small walkways, alleyways, to benefit take walking shoes. Plenty of quaint restaurants and views, well worth a visit.See more..
This is a historical train station built in 1921. It is a Neomudejar style building with tiles and red brick. The Aranjuez station was the first one built in Spain, the train Madrid/Aranjuez. See more..
El sitio es precioso y si tienes la suerte de poder ir entre semana lo tienes solo para ti!!! Mi sitio preferido para ir de picnic en Madrid!!!See more..
4.0Arco de Zacatin(25 reviews) - A mysterious tunnel! Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
This tunnel passes under the beautiful ancient Plaza Mayor of Colmenar de Oreja an attractive village much less well known than it's famous neighbour, Chinchon. After walking under the square you find yourself in a lovely little garden with an interesting public laundry. From there you can make your way along a very pleasant and easy track to a hermitage with wonderful views of the Vega region of Madrid. Going back to the village you acan also visit the fascinating Museum of the local artist Ulpiano Checa.See more..
