Overview
Built between 1910 and 1929 to cut through Madrid's old town, Gran Vía is a 1.3km grand boulevard known as Madrid's 'Broadway.' One ornate early 20th-century Beaux-Arts and Art Deco building after another - the Metrópolis (1911), Círculo de Bellas Artes, the Capitol building - lines the avenue. It's Madrid's premier shopping street and the city's musical and movie hub, with theaters staging hits like The Lion King and Hamilton. The neon Schweppes sign in Plaza del Callao is a Madrid nighttime icon, and the avenue is most beautiful illuminated after dark. Free to walk. Starts at Metro Gran Vía (Lines 1/5).
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours
Travel Tips
Photograph the Metrópolis Building's facade at night for the best shot. The rooftop bar at Círculo de Bellas Artes offers a sweeping Gran Vía view.
Hotels near Gran Vía
Hotels and guesthouses in Madrid, Centro, Madrid
Other attractions in Madrid
Prado Museum
One of the world's great art museums, holding masterpieces by Velazquez, Goya, and El Greco.
Retiro Park
A vast park in the heart of Madrid, prized for its Crystal Palace and tranquil pond.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Europe's largest royal palace — Spain's official royal residence with 3,418 rooms.
Puerta del Sol
Madrid's heart and Spain's geographic 'kilometer zero,' home of the New Year's countdown.
Plaza Mayor
A grand 17th-century rectangular Habsburg square in Madrid's old town.
Mercado de San Miguel
A 1916 iron-and-glass market by Plaza Mayor reborn as Madrid's gourmet hall.
Museo Reina Sofía
Home of Picasso's 'Guernica' and the heart of Spanish modern art.