Plaza de Neptuno in Madrid is one of the main landmarks along Paseo del Prado and the starting point for all three Madrid City Tour sightseeing bus routes: Route 1: Historic Madrid, Route 2: Modern Madrid and Route 3: Madrid Today. Hop on at this stop to begin a panoramic tour of the capital’s main monuments, squares and neighbourhoods.
What is Plaza de Neptuno?
Plaza de Neptuno is the popular name given to Plaza de Cánovas del Castillo, which is dominated by one of Madrid’s most famous monumental fountains. Its central figure depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, holding a trident while riding a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two sea horses.
The fountain formed part of the project to renovate the former Salón del Prado during the reign of Charles III. It was commissioned from the sculptor Juan Pascual de Mena and completed by several other artists following his death. The work was finished in 1786, and the monument was moved to the centre of its current location in the late 19th century.
Where is Plaza de Neptuno?
Plaza de Neptuno in Madrid is located in Plaza de Cánovas del Castillo, in the heart of Paseo del Prado. It lies between Plaza de Cibeles and Glorieta del Emperador Carlos V, in an area closely associated with the city’s art, culture and history.
Nearby attractions include the Prado National Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, the Spanish Congress of Deputies, the Literary Quarter and some of Madrid’s best-known historic hotels.
How can you get to Plaza de Neptuno?
You can easily reach Plaza de Neptuno with Madrid City Tour, as this stop is the starting point for all three sightseeing bus routes. Route 1: Historic Madrid, Route 2: Modern Madrid and Route 3: Madrid Today all depart from here, allowing you to explore different areas and attractions across the capital.
Thanks to the hop-on hop-off system, you can begin your journey at Neptuno, get off at any stops you would like to visit and hop back on later to continue the route.
What can you do in Plaza de Neptuno?
The location of Plaza de Neptuno allows you to combine art, nature, architecture and cultural entertainment in a single visit. You can begin by admiring the details of the Neptune Fountain before walking along Paseo del Prado, with its gardens, fountains and historic buildings. Nearby you will find the Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, as well as the Literary Quarter and the Royal Botanical Garden. You can also continue your walk towards El Retiro Park or check the cultural programmes at Teatro de la Zarzuela and Círculo de Bellas Artes.
What can you see near Plaza de Neptuno?
The Plaza de Neptuno stop is an excellent starting point for visiting some of the main cultural and natural attractions in central Madrid.
- Teatro de la Zarzuela: Located behind the Spanish Congress of Deputies, it is the first and only theatre specifically dedicated to Spanish lyric theatre. It opened in 1856 and offers a programme focused on zarzuela, Spanish opera and other musical genres.
- El Retiro Park: One of Madrid’s largest green spaces. You can reach the park by walking along Calle Felipe IV or Calle Alfonso XII and visit landmarks such as the Great Pond, the Crystal Palace and the Statue Walk.
- Royal Botanical Garden: Located next to the Prado Museum, it contains collections of plants from different regions around the world. Its location was chosen as part of Charles III’s project to create a major complex dedicated to the natural sciences in this area of Madrid.
- Círculo de Bellas Artes: Founded in 1880, it is one of the most important private cultural centres in Europe. It organises exhibitions, conferences, artistic activities and film screenings. Its rooftop terrace offers panoramic views over central Madrid and the buildings lining Gran Vía.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Plaza de Cibeles from Plaza de Neptuno?
The walking distance between Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Neptuno is approximately 520 metres. The walk along Paseo del Prado usually takes between 6 and 8 minutes, although this may vary depending on your pace and the traffic lights along the route.
What is the history of the Neptune Fountain in Madrid?
The Neptune Fountain was created in the 18th century as part of the Salón del Prado project promoted by Charles III. Designed by Juan Pascual de Mena, it depicts the god Neptune riding a chariot pulled by sea horses and was moved to its current location in the late 19th century.
Which football team celebrates its victories in Plaza de Neptuno?
Atlético de Madrid traditionally celebrates its trophies and major sporting achievements around the Neptune Fountain. The club’s red-and-white supporters gather in the square, while Real Madrid celebrates its victories in the nearby Plaza de Cibeles.
How far is Atocha station from Plaza de Neptuno?
Madrid Atocha station is approximately 1.8 kilometres on foot from Plaza de Neptuno. The walk usually takes around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on which station exit you use. There are also direct city bus connections that allow you to complete the journey in just a few minutes.
