Brick, wrought iron, ceramics and azulejos (hand-painted tiles) adorn the walls of this place steeped in history. One of its wings houses the Museo Taurino de Madrid (Madrid's Bullfighting Museum), dedicated to this popular tradition, as well as three exhibition halls dedicated to the city's cultural events: the Antonio Bienvenida Hall, the Antoñete Hall and the Cossío Hall.
Even if you don't enjoy bullfighting, we strongly recommend a visit to Madrid's impressive bullring, one of the most beautiful in Spain. Built in 1929 in the neo-Mudejar style and inaugurated in 1931, this Madrid building, known in Spanish as "La Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas", is emblematic of Iberian traditions. Its cultural heritage and majestic architecture have made it one of Madrid's most important and most visited monuments. Don't hesitate to pay it a visit during your stay in the heart of the Spanish capital!
Unique architecture
The largest bullring in Spain
The bullring has a capacity of almost 80,000 spectators. The arena, known as the "coso" or "ruedo" in Spanish, has a diameter of sixty metres, making it one of the top three largest arenas in Spain. Take advantage of a visit outside the bullfighting season to appreciate the atmosphere of grandeur that emanates from this exceptional Madrid monument. Be sure to check the programme on the official website of the Las Ventas bullring. The latter hosts shows, performances and concerts during the off-season.
Guided tours not to be missed
Guided tours of what is also known as "Madrid's Monumental" are available, led by French-speaking staff. They will take you to the Great Gate (Puerta Grande), the stands (tendidos), the outside terraces and the inside of the bullring, which houses a chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Virgin of La Paloma, the patron saints of Mexico and Madrid respectively, a souvenir shop, an infirmary and two operating theatres.
The history of the monument and the anecdotes provided throughout the visit are rich in knowledge and provide a deeper understanding of Spanish culture through this "bullfighting art". You can also choose to discover the Las Ventas bullring by taking advantage of the audio guide included in the price of the entrance ticket. Several languages are available, including Spanish, English and French, and the explanations are really clear and instructive.
Practical information
📍 Location: Callede Alcalá, 237, 28028 Madrid
👛 Price: Adults: 14.90 euros with audioguide (visit to the outside terraces, stands, museum and inside of the bullring). Students aged 13 to 26 and over 65: €11.90. Children aged 5 to 12: €5.90. Free for children under 5
⏰ Times: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm (last admission with audioguide at 5 pm).
👉 The staff speak English, which makes for a very comfortable visit. What's more, the Las Ventas bullring is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Where to sleep?
⭐ Hotel Regina
With its contemporary, almost futuristic decor, the Regina stands out from other Madrid establishments. Added to this are quality hotel services, indtar a copious and gourmet continental breakfast. The Regina's restaurant, Castizo, serves Mediterranean cuisine prepared with local seasonal ingredients.