Plaza de Oriente Madrid
A majestic rectangular plaza in Madrid, famed for its equestrian statue of Philip IV and stunning views of the Royal Palace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Plaza de Oriente Madrid
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic rectangular plaza in Madrid, famed for its equestrian statue of Philip IV and stunning views of the Royal Palace.
"The heart of Madrid's royal history, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape."
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Rush
Madrid is best explored on foot. Take your time to wander through Plaza de Oriente and its surroundings.
👑 Royal Palace Adjacent
Combine your visit with the Royal Palace for a full historical experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Statue of Philip IV
Center of the Plaza
The iconic bronze equestrian statue of King Philip IV, a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture.
Royal Palace Views
North side of the Plaza
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Royal Palace of Madrid, a stunning architectural marvel.
Sabatini Gardens
Adjacent to the Royal Palace
Explore the elegant Sabatini Gardens, offering beautiful landscaping and city vistas.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Plaza de Oriente
Navigating the Plaza and Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Rush
Madrid is best explored on foot. Take your time to wander through Plaza de Oriente and its surroundings.
👑 Royal Palace Adjacent
Combine your visit with the Royal Palace for a full historical experience.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the palace and the equestrian statue, especially during golden hour.
🌳 Garden Escape
Don't miss the adjacent Sabatini Gardens for a tranquil break and beautiful views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Rush
Madrid is best explored on foot. Take your time to wander through Plaza de Oriente and its surroundings.
👑 Royal Palace Adjacent
Combine your visit with the Royal Palace for a full historical experience.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the palace and the equestrian statue, especially during golden hour.
🌳 Garden Escape
Don't miss the adjacent Sabatini Gardens for a tranquil break and beautiful views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Plaza de Oriente for its stunning architecture, the iconic equestrian statue, and its proximity to the Royal Palace. The adjacent gardens offer beautiful green spaces for relaxation and picturesque views. Some find it can get crowded, and dining options directly in the plaza are scarce.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de Oriente is centrally located and easily accessible. You can take the Metro to Ópera station (Lines 2, 5, R) which is a short walk away. Many bus routes also stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from other central areas like Puerta del Sol and Gran Vía. +1
Absolutely! Plaza de Oriente is a key point in many walking tours of Madrid. It's a short stroll from the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and the historic city center.
From Madrid Airport (MAD), you can take the Metro (Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios, then change to Line 10 to Plaza de España, and walk), an airport express bus to Atocha or Cibeles, or a taxi/ride-share service directly to the plaza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza de Oriente is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As an open public space, Plaza de Oriente is accessible 24/7. However, surrounding attractions like the Royal Palace have specific operating hours.
You do not need to book tickets for Plaza de Oriente itself, as it's a public plaza. If you plan to visit the adjacent Royal Palace, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to save time.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the center of the plaza, capturing the equestrian statue of Philip IV with the Royal Palace as a backdrop. The gardens also offer lovely perspectives.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the most beautiful light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow on the architecture.
Drone usage in public spaces like Plaza de Oriente is generally restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check current local drone laws before attempting to fly.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Plaza de Oriente features the impressive equestrian statue of Philip IV, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the Royal Palace. It's a great place to relax, people-watch, and admire the architecture.
While there aren't many dining options directly within the plaza itself, there are numerous cafes and restaurants surrounding the area, particularly near the Royal Palace and in the adjacent streets.
Yes, Plaza de Oriente is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Its wide pathways, manicured gardens, and surrounding historical buildings make it a very pleasant place to walk and take in the atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a visit with the Royal Palace (check for family-friendly tour options or focus on visually engaging rooms) and a picnic in the nearby Campo del Moro gardens. The gardens offer more space for kids to explore and are often a hit with their peacocks. Remember to bring snacks and water, as direct dining options within the plaza are limited.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own snacks and water. Instead of eating at restaurants with palace views, explore nearby streets for more affordable tapas bars and local eateries. Walking to the plaza from other central Madrid locations also saves on transportation costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Palace and Its Grandeur
Visiting the palace is a must-do for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Many visitors recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the stories and details within its walls. The sheer scale and intricate decoration of the palace are often highlighted in reviews, making it a significant draw for tourists.
Pro-tip: Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season. The palace's grandeur extends to its exterior, offering magnificent views from various vantage points, including Plaza de Oriente and the Campo del Moro gardens.
Exploring the Gardens of Plaza de Oriente
The Campo del Moro gardens, on the other hand, are more informal and expansive, featuring winding paths, lush greenery, peacocks, and charming gazebos. These gardens offer a unique perspective of the Royal Palace from below, a view that many travelers find particularly stunning and often overlooked.
Both garden areas are perfect for a leisurely walk, a moment of quiet reflection, or simply enjoying the natural beauty that complements the historical architecture. They are free to access and offer a refreshing contrast to the bustling city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit