Círculo de Bellas Artes rooftop: views, hours and tickets

Updated on October 5, 2026

The Círculo de Bellas Artes rooftop overlooks the junction of Calle de Alcalá and Gran Vía in central Madrid. Come to make sense of the city from above: the Metrópolis façade in the foreground, the Telefónica tower and views towards Cibeles. Antonio Palacios's building, opened in 1926, houses a cultural institution; rooftop admission is separate from exhibition tickets. You can visit for the views without booking a restaurant table.

Highlights

Gran Vía from above

The Telefónica tower is a landmark among the buildings lining Gran Vía. Late in the day, wait for the city lights to come on: the view changes without your needing to leave the terrace.

The Círculo's architecture

Before taking the lift, notice the building's monumental design and its façade on Alcalá. The viewpoint complements a visit to this house of the arts; it does not automatically include all its cultural activities.

A rooftop break

The bar and restaurant occupy part of the roof. A rooftop admission ticket does not guarantee a seat there: a restaurant reservation and a viewpoint ticket serve different purposes.

Practical info

Tips

Prices checked in October 2026: standard admission €6, reduced admission €5, with free entry subject to category and supporting documentation. Check eligibility through the official ticket office. Combined rooftop and current exhibition admission costs €7 at the standard rate, subject to the stated conditions and exclusions. Between 14:00 and 16:00 and from 21:00, tickets are sold only at reception; online purchase is available at other times. Drinks are not included. Read closure notices before buying, particularly for private events.

How to get there

Círculo de Bellas Artes, Calle de Alcalá, 42, 28014 Madrid. Metro Banco de España (line: 2) or Sevilla (line: 2). Enter the building at Calle del Marqués de Casa Riera, 2; the rooftop lift is reached through the lobby.