Gran Vía

Madrid’s Broadway: early-20th-century architecture, musicals and viewpoints.

Gran Vía was cut through the old city between 1910 and 1929, demolishing dozens of blocks to link Calle de Alcalá with Plaza de España. It was the showcase of modernity: the first skyscrapers, cinemas, cafés and department stores.

Today it is an avenue of shops, musical theatres and hotels with rooftop bars. Walking it from Alcalá to Plaza de España takes about 20 minutes.

What to see

Metrópolis building

The black-and-gold dome crowned by a winged Victory at the junction with Alcalá: Madrid’s most famous image.

Telefónica building

Madrid’s first skyscraper (1929). Its Espacio Fundación Telefónica hosts free exhibitions.

Plaza del Callao and the Carrión building

The Carrión building with its Schweppes neon sign, surrounded by big cinemas and musical theatres.

Plaza de España

Redesigned in 2021, with the Edificio España and Torre de Madrid at the end of the avenue.

Tips

• For the classic photo of the Metrópolis, go to the Círculo de Bellas Artes rooftop or the Alcalá pavement.
• Gran Vía musicals have cheaper tickets on weekdays and at matinées.

Hungry nearby? See where to eat in Malasaña & Chueca.

Guidance checked in October 2026. Opening hours, prices and conditions change: always check the official sources.