The Puerta del Sol (English: "Gate of the Sun") is a public square in Madrid, one of the best known and busiest places in the city. This is the centre (Km 0) of the radial network of Spanish roads. The square also contains the famous clock whose bells mark the traditional eating of the Twelve Grapes and the beginning of a new year. The New Year's celebration has been broadcast live since 31 December 1962 on major radio and television networks including Atresmedia and RTVE.
The Puerta del Sol originated as one of the gates in the city wall that surrounded Madrid in the 15th century. Outside the wall, medieval suburbs began to grow around the Christian Wall of the 12th century. The name of the gate came from the rising sun which decorated the entry, since the gate was oriented to the east.
Spacks N | Jan 29, 2018
The nucleus of all commercial and touristic activities en Madrid capital. The six major highways that cover the whole regions of Spain originates or count their kilometre distance from Puerta de Sol. There is a 24 hour live here. Major shopping malls close at 22:00h but other smaller shops, bars and restaurants are open all through the night. There is good security here as can police on foot, on horseback, cars stroll the streets up and down. Anyone visiting Madrid without stopping at Puerta del Sol is like he/she never visited Madrid. There is where the action and fun starts and ends.
Eoin Coughlan | Feb 16, 2018
Great architecture, culture, food and people. Friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff at the Hotel Europa where I stayed. Good restaurants about a 3 minute walk away and the shopping district is easily accessible using the Metro. The only downside was the Metro instructions were hard to understand as the English option didn't work on the ticket machines, but that wasn't a major problem.
Sharon Russo | Feb 11, 2018
Wide space in the heart of Madrid. Lots of people during day and night time. Street artists entertain the tourists with funny shows. About attractions: a bear statue with a sort of legend: if touched, it brings you luck. There is also the 0km, the point from which all Spanish streets start. Try to spot it!
Miguel Negron | Feb 16, 2018
Very busy square! Much night life, day life, all the above. Zone zero because the main streets either part ways or will point you back to this location. Very near other monumental places (within walking distance).
Montana Howe | Feb 21, 2018
Large square that's in the middle of vast amounts of shops. There are loads of roads leading that have clothes and make up stores that then lead to other squares with more stores. It was amazing, I know we didn't manage to go down every street but the shopping and sights are absolutely amazing
Anthony D'Ovidio | Apr 15, 2018
For starters, the metro getting there was so easy, I couldn't believe it! As for the place itself was very touristy. You can take that how ever you'd like but it was kind of cool seeing people from different places in Spain and also around the world. One thing I have to say about this place is that you cannot be shy and you have to love to dance. There is so much going on it is hard to wrap your head around. If you are looking for a more Spanish cultural experience, I'd recommend traveling outside of Sol. Just outside Sol there are a lot of shopping spots. I was there for three nights and I could not complain. It was a great time!
Husnain Abbas | Mar 21, 2018
Nice and crowded place but at night its more beautiful. Nice and Beautiful place and surroundings, amazing place. Full of history and culture, amazing food near that place. Very easily accessible by metro. Highly recommend if u like to see the history of Spanish and Roman empire. There are many other attractive places around the corner. I am sure you will love it if u r in Madrid and wants to enjoy some free time.
Kaushal Shastri | May 10, 2018
Lively square bustling with tourist all around the world. Lots of options for shopping, foods, bars, restaurants etc. Very big metro station underground. Very beautiful especially in the night. A must visit place in Madrid. Many streets around the Seward has fantastic food and drink options.
Rajat Basavaraj | Apr 4, 2018
Lively public square with restaurants, pubs, discos, cafes, shopping malls, street artists performing etc. One stop shop for all entertainment needs! But since its a tourist spot, prices are a bit inflated! The streets are Paved and the lighting is beautiful at night! People gather here to just relax chit chat and enjoy the ambience all around. Great place to unwind after a hard days work!
Janvie Manhas | May 6, 2018
The famous Bear and mushroom statue is located here.. There is a huge central place where football team celebrations happen. This place is always crowded so take care of ur purse! There are top notch shopping streets around this Plaza. It is also the starting point for many walking tours (both free and paid) in the city of Madrid. There are also many souvenir shops and food out lets around.. Must visit when in Madrid..
Ryan Johnson | Jun 9, 2018
This a great place to go in Spain, definitely a must. All the shops in close proximity, including food and souvenirs, makes this place easy and fun to walk around. Using google maps you can easily walk to any of the landmarks for here.
Eloy Bustillo | Jul 23, 2018
Very lively Plaza in the center of Madrid. Point zero can be found here. This is the place where all major highways begin in Spain. The strawberry bear statue is here. A famous sign in the city. You can shop, eat, stroll, listen to music and people watch.
Lotte Spaul | Jul 10, 2018
A lively area bustling with tourists and locals alike. There are often street performers working here. The streets surrounding Puerta del Sol are particularly good for shopping - there are numerous souvenir shops selling all sorts of goodies.
harry Singh | Jul 14, 2018
Madrids happening square... lot movement.. buzzing with life.. awsome live street performances especially at night.. street shopping is good .. almost all the walking tours start from the centre.. must visit for tourist. Day n night are totally different..
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