Madrid lies dead-centre in the middle of Spain – and the Puerta del Sol lies dead-centre in the middle of Madrid. It's here that Spain's map-makers and road-builders placed their starting-mark, to be used for counting distances around the country. But the Puerta del Sol isn't just about geography and maps – there are other reasons why this square is considered the focal point of the country. Meetings, celebrations and marches are naturally drawn here. Over the last few years, it has been the rallying point for Spanish protests over the global recession and Euro-crisis.And for many centuries, it was here that couriers from across Spain – and its vast empire – would come to spread and gather news. Today the Puerta del Sol can appear a somewhat unassuming sliver of a plaza, one which doesn't even have a gate ('puerta' means gate or door in Spanish, and it was removed centuries back). It does, however, have a clutch of symbols which make it more important than appearances might suggest. The kilómetro cero plaque, marking the country's centre, is just in front of the old Post Office building, which now houses the office of the Spanish President.The heraldic symbol of Madrid – a bear leaning against a madroño (strawberry tree) – is here too, cast in bronze. Its odd pairing relates to the city's ancient past, when the Romans called the area around Madrid Ursaria, the land of the bears. Some reckon the fruit of the madroño was a favourite of the bears, because it often ferments on the tree. From that point of view, Madrid's bear-and-tree herald can also be seen as a symbol of the capital's love of a good-time.Yet another good-time icon found here is the neon Tío Pepe sign, hoisted high above the square, a long-standing advert for a famous brand of sherry (installed in the 1930s). the Puerta del Sol really comes to life at night, as the clubs and bars in the side streets throng with people. So if you're looking for a spot of entertainment in the capital, and a friend says "I'll meet you at the Bear," the omens are good that you'll be in for a great evening.
Puerta del Sol Tours and Activities
Visit Puerta del Sol
Attractions
See all 20 activitiesOpens in new tabParque Warner from Madrid Full Day Trip
Tours & day trips
See all 671 activitiesOpens in new tabDay Tour to Toledo, Segovia & optional visit to Avila. 3 cities in 1 day
Private & custom tours
See all 191 activitiesOpens in new tabMadrid: Private City Tour by Eco Tuk Tuk
Shows & concerts
See all 33 activitiesOpens in new tabMadrid: Live Flamenco Show with Food and Drinks Options
Spa & wellness
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabMadrid: Discover best plans recommended by local people
Popular places to visit
El Oso y el Madrono
Learn about the local history of Madrid when you spend time at El Oso y el Madrono. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and entertainment choices in this culturally rich area.
Preciados Street
During your visit to Madrid, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Preciados Street. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.
Plaza de Canalejas
Learn about the local history of Madrid when you spend time at Plaza de Canalejas. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Joy Madrid
Enjoy a show at Joy Madrid, a theatre with a story to tell in Madrid. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this vibrant area.
Convent de las Descalzas Reales
Marble statues, woven tapestries and the tomb of its founder are among the highlights of a fascinating convent and museum, where Franciscan nuns still live.
Statue of Carlos III
Learn about the local history of Madrid when you take a trip to Statue of Carlos III. Discover the entertainment choices and shops in this culturally rich area.
Top Puerta del Sol Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Puerta del Sol
- Holidays and getaways similar to Puerta del Sol
- Are there hotels near Puerta del Sol?
- Hotels near popular Madrid Attractions
- What kind of hotels are in Puerta del Sol?
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Gran Via
- Plaza Mayor
- Parque Warner Madrid
- Prado Museum
- El Retiro Park
- Madrid Zoo Aquarium
- WiZink Center
- Cívitas Metropolitan Stadium
- Plaza de España - Princesa
- U.S. Embassy
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
- Paseo de la Castellana
- Plaza de Cibeles
- Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
- Palacio Vistalegre