Gran Vía

The basics

Meaning "Great Road,” Gran Via is a main thoroughfare in Madrid, built to connect Calle de Alcalá to Plaza de España. There are several hotels in the area, as it is well located among the city's cafés, shops, clubs, and popular attractions such as the Prado Museum and Retiro Park. Just about every guided tour of Madrid will stop along the street, with visits to other points of interest such as the Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, and the bullring of Las Ventas. Both group and private tours are available.

Things to know before you go

• The street is a must-see for architecture lovers, shoppers, night owls, and first-time visitors.

• Gran Via is included in most sightseeing tours of Madrid.

• There’s a lot to do on Gran Via, so don’t forget your comfortable walking shoes.

How to get there

Gran Via is easily accessible by public transportation; metro lines 1, 2, 3, and 5 stop along the street at Santo Domingo, Callao, and Gran Via stations.

When to get there

Strolling Gran Via is a very different experience by day and night. While daytime hours are popular for shopping at the designer boutiques along the street, it’s after the sun goes down that the thoroughfare really comes alive.

Things to do on Gran Via

While primarily known as a shopping and bar-hopping street, there’s plenty more to do on Gran Via. Sample cocido madrileño (chickpea-based stew), a Madrid specialty, at one of the area restaurants, catch a film in an art deco movie house, tour the art collection at Convento de las Descalzas Reales, or spend some time people-watching in the always bustling Plaza de España.