Plaza de Santa Ana in Madrid: terraces, the Teatro Español and where to eat around
The Plaza de Santa Ana is the liveliest square in the Barrio de las Letras (Literary Quarter), ten minutes' walk from the Puerta del Sol. It was opened in 1810 under Joseph Bonaparte, on the site of a demolished convent, and remains a place for tapas, beers and evenings out: free access at any hour, with terraces along the sides. Allow 30 minutes for a break, a whole evening if you dine in the nearby streets.
Highlights
The square and its terraces
Terraces fill the sides of the square, with the statues of Calderón de la Barca and Federico García Lorca. Terrace prices are higher than in the nearby streets: one drink is enough to enjoy the setting.
The Teatro Español
On the east side of the square, it is one of Madrid's oldest theatres, heir to the 16th-century Corral del Príncipe. Look at the programme if you want an evening of theatre in Spanish.
The square at night
Atmosphere is strongest at nightfall, with the bars of calle de Echegaray and calle de las Huertas. The Cervecería Alemana, open since 1904, is a historic address on the square.
The Hotel ME Reina Victoria
Its dome and old façade close the corner of the square; the hotel's rooftop terrace is known for its view over the square.
Practical info
Tips
- Free access. The square can be noisy in the evening and at weekends: if you stay in the area, ask for a room on the courtyard side. Terrace prices are higher than in the taverns of the nearby streets. Watch your belongings at busy times. For eating around, see the Literary Quarter and Madrid's most beautiful squares.
How to get there
Plaza de Santa Ana, 28012 Madrid. Sol metro (lines 1, 2, 3) or Antón Martín (line 1), 5 to 10 minutes' walk.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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