"Plaza Mayor", successor of a former "Plaza del Arrabal", is the result of the will of three Spanish Kings, beginning with Felipe II at the end of the sixteenth century and continued by his successors Felipe III and Carlos II. Its proximity with the famous Puerta del Sol provoked a rivalry between both landmarks in Madrid. During the second half... More

I thought this was a little over-rated. Can be lively in the evening, especially on a Friday. A bit of a den of thieves as many major squares in Europe are. If you do stop, watch your belongings carefully. There are better places to relax in Madrid, such as El Retiro

The Plaza Mayor in hustling and bustling with activity. It is such a fun and beautiful place. There are many great restaurants where one can sit and watch people of the world go by. The street entertainers are some of the best we ever see. A perfect place to take photos. Just off the Plaza is El Rincon De Madrid....the... More

A great square with amazing restaurants. This is probably the most touristy place in Madrid and this is reflected in the prices that you pay but the service is always amazing and the atmosphere makes it worth it. There is usually flamenco dancers and acts performing in the square and it is a very kid friendly place. Definitely worth a... More

Just the place to enjoy a drink and a snack and soak up the atmosphere and the sun. At night 'tho after about 11:30, it's very sad to see the square surrounded by homeless.

One of the first things to visit in Madrid for a taste of the architecture and street life of the place. The plaza is big and lively with a lot of performers and hucksters at work for the many tourists that pass through the place. What I liked about this square was the preservation of traditional stores and their signs,... More

Myself and some friends visited this square in August. It was hot and it was nice to sit down at on of the numerous cafes and enjoy some sangria, whilst watching the world go by.

This square reminded me of Italy. Tons of cafe's and lots of history. The square used to be a market place and also host bullfights.

Great place to go and sit, drink some wine and people-watch. There are street vendors, artist, and throngs of visitors. Relaxing in a crazy, busy sort of fashion. There are many shops around the plaza if that is what you like, too.