Hotels near Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol is Spain's geographic centre - a brass plaque (the Kilometre Zero stone) in front of the Casa de Correos marks the point from which all Spanish radial roads are measured. The square hosts the famous bear-and-strawberry-tree statue (the city's heraldic symbol since 1212), the equestrian Carlos III, and Madrid's clock tower whose 12 chimes start the New Year's Eve tradition of eating 12 grapes.

Free, always open. Sol is Madrid's busiest pedestrian junction - the meeting point for political rallies, demonstrations, and tourist briefings. Calle Preciados (north) and Calle Carretas (south) lead to the major shopping streets. The Tio Pepe sherry sign on the southeast corner has been an icon since 1935.

Pro Tip: Step on the Kilometre Zero plaque (in front of the Casa de Correos) for the obligatory tourist photo. From Sol, walk Calle Mayor west to the Royal Palace (15 min), or south down Calle de Carretas to Tirso de Molina.