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..
4.5Plaza 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
