plaza de España travel guide

Plaza de España, or 'Spain Square', is a large square and popular tourist destination in Madrid, known for its iconic statue of Miguel de Cervantes. The square's construction began in 1910, following an architectural competition held by the city.

The winning project was a design by architects Rafael Martínez Zapatero and Pedro Muguruza, which included the square's notable features such as the Cervantes monument and the adjoining skyscrapers, the Edificio España and the Torre de Madrid.

The Cervantes monument was completed in 1928, just in time for the 300th anniversary of the publication of the second part of Don Quixote. The Edificio España and the Torre de Madrid, built in the 1950s, were once among the tallest buildings in the city.

Plaza de España is also known for hosting important events in Madrid's history, including the proclamation of the Second Spanish Republic in 1931. Today, it remains a vibrant hub of cultural and social activity in the heart of Madrid.

Plaza de España is particularly renowned for its monumental fountain dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes, the legendary Spanish writer. This homage to Cervantes includes bronze statues of his most famous characters, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The characters are depicted in a contemplative pose, bringing the literary world of Cervantes to life in a unique and immersive way.

The Plaza is also home to two of Madrid's most iconic skyscrapers, Edificio España and Torre de Madrid. These two architectural marvels offer a stark contrast to the historical context of the Plaza, creating a fascinating blend of old and new. The square is also fringed by a lush semi-circular garden, filled with vibrant flowers and tall trees, providing a serene oasis amidst the bustling city.

Additionally, the Plaza de España is the starting point of the famous Gran Vía, one of Madrid’s main shopping and entertainment thoroughfares. This unique combination of history, modernity, and nature, along with its strategic location, make Plaza de España a must-visit destination in Madrid.

Discover plaza de España, a prime feature of Madrid, in the vibrant Madrid. Plaza de España is situated at Plaza de España, 28008 Madrid, Spain, just a short distance from Monumento Cervantes and Temple of Debod, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of plaza de España, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Madrid, a city in Spain rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Madrid to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of plaza de España. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Madrid travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Plaza de España is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Madrid, Spain. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Madrid, Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is approximately 9.1 miles (14.6 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach plaza de España by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Madrid, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach plaza de España, which is located 0.6 miles (1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Plaza de España, 28008 Madrid, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at plaza de España!

The best time to explore Plaza de España, a bustling hub of Madrid, is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). These seasons offer mild weather, making it comfortable to stroll around the plaza and soak in its architectural splendor. Moreover, the spring is marked by the blooming of flowers, adding a dash of color to your photos. The summer months (June-August) are also appealing, but can be quite hot for some visitors. If you prefer a calmer experience, avoid weekends and public holidays as the plaza is particularly crowded during these times. Additionally, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon allows you to avoid peak tourist hours. For those interested in cultural events, the Madrid Book Fair, held annually in the spring, is a must-visit. The fair takes place at the nearby Parque del Retiro but also extends to Plaza de España, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local literature and culture during your visit.

To truly enjoy your visit to plaza de España, joining a guided tour of this renowned public square in Madrid is highly recommended. As one of Spain's most iconic attractions, plaza de España draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Madrid, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to plaza de España starting at just 21 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore plaza de España, perfectly planned travel packages to Madrid make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Madrid, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring plaza de España.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic public square in Spain.

Upon arriving at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Madrid.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Madrid.

Choosing the right accommodation near plaza de España from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Madrid can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from plaza de España, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond plaza de España, Madrid boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to establishment, the top attractions in Madrid offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Madrid is El Retiro Park, located at Retiro, 28009 Madrid, Spain. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Plaza Mayor is worth seeing when you're in Madrid. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Pl. Mayor, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium completes any trip to Madrid. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Av. De Concha Espina, 1, Chamartín, 28036 Madrid, Spain, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Madrid below to discover even more incredible places to explore.