To visit Plaza de España in Madrid, hop on our Madrid City Tour sightseeing bus. Travel along Route 1: Historic Madrid and discover this stop, along with many other fascinating places in the Spanish capital.
What is Plaza de España?
Plaza de España is one of the main meeting points between historic Madrid and some of the city’s liveliest shopping and cultural areas. Its development began in the 1920s on the former grounds of the Casa del Príncipe Pío. Today, it is a large pedestrian area with green spaces, seating areas, fountains and paths providing easy access to some of central Madrid’s main tourist attractions.
At its centre stands the monument to Miguel de Cervantes, accompanied by the popular figures of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The square is surrounded by two buildings that form part of Madrid’s distinctive skyline: Torre de Madrid and Edificio España.
Where is Plaza de España?
Plaza de España in Madrid is located in the Centro district, at the end of Gran Vía and next to the beginning of Calle Princesa. It also connects with Cuesta de San Vicente, Calle Bailén and Calle Ferraz, making it easy to reach other attractions such as the Temple of Debod and Plaza de Oriente.
It is also the starting point for several walking routes leading towards Madrid Río, Casa de Campo and other notable areas of the city.
How can you get to Plaza de España?
The Madrid City Tour stop is located in Plaza de España, on the corner of Calle San Leonardo, and is one of the most convenient ways to travel around Madrid. You can hop on and off at any stop along the route and explore the city at your own pace. You can also enjoy panoramic views from the upper deck while travelling between stops and learn more about Madrid along the way.
You can also get there by public transport via Plaza de España station, served by Madrid Metro lines 2, 3 and 10. Numerous city bus routes also stop in the square or on nearby streets.
What can you see near Plaza de España?
The Plaza de España stop is within walking distance of several cultural landmarks, monuments and green spaces in central Madrid.
- Lope de Vega Theatre: Located on Gran Vía, just a few minutes’ walk from Plaza de España, the Lope de Vega Theatre is one of Madrid’s main musical theatre venues and an important part of the avenue’s cultural and entertainment scene.
- Teatro Real: Teatro Real is located in Plaza de Oriente, opposite the Royal Palace. From Plaza de España, you can walk there along Calle Bailén or through the Sabatini Gardens and the area surrounding the palace. It is one of Spain’s leading opera houses and one of Madrid’s most important cultural buildings.
- Parque del Oeste: Parque del Oeste is one of Madrid’s main green spaces. It stretches west of Plaza de España and offers extensive gardens, paths, viewpoints and areas to relax.
- Sabatini Gardens: The Sabatini Gardens are located beside the northern façade of the Royal Palace, a short distance from Plaza de España. They feature a geometric design composed of hedges, fountains, sculptures and pathways.
Frequently asked questions
Who built Plaza de España in Madrid?
The square was developed in several stages during the 20th century. Its monument to Cervantes was designed by Rafael Martínez Zapatero and Pedro Muguruza, with sculptures by Lorenzo Coullaut Valera.
How much does ice skating in Plaza de España, Madrid, cost?
The price changes each Christmas. During the 2025–2026 season, general admission cost €9.50.
Which lines serve Plaza de España in Madrid?
Madrid Metro lines 2, 3 and 10 serve Plaza de España station. Several city bus routes also stop nearby.
What is the market in Plaza de España, Madrid, called?
The Christmas market is called La Navideña and usually takes place between late November and early January.
