🏰 Los Austrias in Madrid: 12 must-see places in the old royal quarter
Strolling through the *Los Austrias* quarter means diving into the heart of old Madrid, where the history of the Habsburgs is still written on every stone. Between cobbled streets, arcaded squares, and baroque façades, this historic center reveals the elegance of the past with the energy of the present. Here, terraces come alive, church bells resonate, and you can almost glimpse the shadows of the kings who shaped the capital.
In this article, I offer you a complete guide to discover the 12 must-see places of *Los Austrias* in Madrid: royal palaces, majestic cathedrals, iconic squares, traditional markets, and hidden monasteries. You will also find my practical extras: a selection of authentic restaurants and cafés, as well as highly rated accommodations right in the heart of the neighborhood to extend your Madrid immersion.
📑 Table of Contents
📜 History of the Los Austrias quarter in Madrid: from the Habsburgs to the royal palaces
Nestled between the Puerta del Sol, the Royal Palace, and the La Latina district, the *Los Austrias* quarter is the historic heart of Madrid. It takes its name from the Habsburg dynasty (known in Spanish as Austrias), which reigned over Spain in the 16th and 17th centuries. It was under Philip II, in 1561, that the city was chosen as the permanent capital of the kingdom. This decision deeply transformed a medieval town into a bustling royal city.
Very quickly, the population exploded, the elites flocked in, and the urban fabric was organized around the Court. The king commissioned architect Juan Bautista de Toledo — also known for his work on El Escorial — to structure the city. The goal: to modernize the streets, widen the axes, create squares, and above all, erect religious and civic buildings capable of representing imperial grandeur. This wave of development continued under Philip III and Philip IV, with the construction of monumental squares, baroque churches, and richly decorated convents. Madrid then became the showcase of Spanish power.
This new city center was equipped with several successive walls, including the *Cerca de Felipe IV*, built in 1625, which surrounded the entire quarter. Remains of this wall are still visible today, notably near the Ronda de Segovia. The district also became a major religious hub, nicknamed at the time the “convent city”: dozens of convents and monasteries were established here, often financed by the Madrid nobility or directly commissioned by the kings.
Architecturally, the dominant style is one of great sobriety: straight lines, little ornamentation, ochre brick façades, granite frames — a style inspired by Italian Mannerism but adapted to Castilian austerity. This style can be seen in monuments such as the Casa de la Panadería or the Casa de la Carnicería on Plaza Mayor. The latter, emblematic of the quarter, was designed by Diego Sillero at the end of the 16th century, then rebuilt after several fires by Juan Gómez de Mora and Juan de Villanueva, giving the square its uniform rectangular shape with three stories.
But *Los Austrias* is also a precious collection of lesser-known treasures. In its winding streets you can find Renaissance palaces such as the Casa de Cisneros (1537) or the Torre de los Lujanes, built as early as the 14th century in a Gothic-Mudejar style. Numerous baroque churches adorn the neighborhood, such as the Parroquia de San Ginés, one of the oldest churches in Madrid, or the Basílica de San Miguel, with its bold elliptical layout. The Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales, founded in 1559 by Joanna of Austria, houses Flemish tapestries, relics, and works by masters such as Pereda and Coello.
This built heritage remains largely intact, despite later redevelopments. The district has preserved its network of narrow streets, its tangle of convents, palaces, and squares, and its unique architectural harmony. Even more recent buildings — offices, ministries, or residences — have often respected the original physiognomy, preserving the soul of this Habsburg Madrid.
Thus, the *Los Austrias* quarter is not just a collection of historical buildings: it is a living palimpsest, where every stone, façade, and square carries the imprint of imperial grandeur and the vibrant history of the Spanish capital.
🌟 What to see in Los Austrias? The 12 must-see places of old Madrid
Behind every cobbled street of the *Los Austrias* quarter in Madrid lie treasures that tell the story of the Spanish monarchy. Between royal splendor, religious fervor, and Madrid’s traditions, this old Madrid reveals its majestic palaces, lively squares, hidden convents, and lesser-known monuments. All these places invite you to travel back in time and explore a unique side of the capital.
👉 To prepare for this unforgettable walk through Madrid’s historic heart, I’ve created a styled map that brings together the 12 must-sees of *Los Austrias*. It highlights the main monuments and buildings of the royal quarter, offering a clear and inspiring visual overview to plan your visit and appreciate Madrid’s iconic gems.
1 🕰️ Plaza Mayor – The living theatre of old Madrid
In the heart of the *Los Austrias* quarter, Plaza Mayor unfolds its geometric elegance in a timeless atmosphere. Built in the early 17th century under Philip III, this rectangular, arcade-lined square is dominated by the superb Casa de la Panadería, whose allegorical frescoes captivate the eye. At its center stands the equestrian statue of King Philip III—an icon of the square—sculpted by Juan de Bolonia and Pietro Tacca. Around it, red façades with green shutters, wrought-iron balconies, and monumental arches create a setting worthy of a historical novel. This is where great markets, bullfights, royal festivities—and even Inquisition trials—were once held.
✨ To explore this majestic square in detail, check out my full article: Plaza Mayor Madrid: history, must-see monuments, atmosphere and great places to eat
🎯 must-do: sit at a terrace and savor a bocadillo de calamares (fried calamari sandwich), an emblematic specialty served in the square’s bars for generations. At midday, enjoy the constant buzz—musicians, street artists, passersby from all over the world—and in the evening, let yourself be enchanted by the golden light caressing the façades under the lampposts. It’s the perfect place to experience authentic Madrid, between imperial past and vibrant local life.
2 👑 Palacio Real – The imposing residence of the kings of Spain
A symbol of Spanish monarchical power, Madrid’s Palacio Real impresses at first sight with its baroque majesty. Built from 1738 on the ruins of the old Alcázar destroyed by fire, it was inspired by Europe’s great palaces, notably the Louvre. Its solemn granite-and-limestone façade frames a vast ceremonial courtyard, and its 3,418 rooms—a record in Western Europe—house unsuspected treasures: the Throne Room with ceilings painted by Giambattista Tiepolo, the Royal Armoury, the chapel with its relics, collections of tapestries and porcelain, and even King Charles IV’s Stradivarius violins. Although the royal family no longer resides here, the palace remains an official, sumptuous, and vibrant venue.
🎯 must-do: watch the changing of the guard, a ceremony set to the cadenced steps of soldiers in period uniforms, held every Wednesday and Saturday morning in Plaza de la Armería (weather and holidays permitting). It’s a free spectacle that attracts both the curious and history enthusiasts. Afterwards, don’t miss the guided tour of the palace interior to experience an 18th-century royal court, or head to the Sabatini Gardens to linger in a green and stately setting.
3 ⛪ Almudena Cathedral – Between sky and sacred stone
Facing the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral rises in majesty—a bold blend of architectural styles that reflects the long gestation of the monument (over a century of construction, completed in 1993). Outside, the neoclassical style harmonizes perfectly with the neighboring royal façade; inside, you are enveloped in a neo-Gothic universe enhanced by modern frescoes and a colorful ceiling whose vibrancy is surprising. Don’t miss the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, richly decorated, as well as the museum tracing Madrid’s religious history.
🎯 must-do: climb the stairs or take the elevator up to the cathedral dome, which offers a 360° panoramic view over the city—from the Royal Palace to the Sierra. Up there, your breath catches: Madrid stretches out at your feet, mixing old rooftops, bell towers, and fresh gusts of air. A heavenly experience not to be missed.
4 🎶 Teatro Real – Lyrical elegance in the heart of Madrid
Facing Plaza de Oriente, the Teatro Real stands as one of Europe’s most prestigious opera houses. Inaugurated in 1850 under the reign of Isabella II, this neoclassical building houses a remarkable Italian-style auditorium with some of the finest acoustics in the world. Over time it served in turn as a royal theatre, a military concert hall, and even a warehouse, before being fully renovated in the 1990s to regain its lyrical vocation. Today, it hosts major opera, ballet, and classical music productions, with a demanding international program. The façade on Plaza de Isabel II is sober and elegant, while the rear of the building, facing the Royal Palace, follows the lines of the historic quarter.
✨ Want to dive behind the scenes of the royal opera? Check out my full article: Teatro Real Madrid: visitor guide, history, salons, and performances
✨ Thinking of attending a grand opera in Madrid? Read my complete guide: Shows and operas in Madrid: guide to the Teatro Real and the major theatres
🎯 must-do: even if you’re not attending an opera, don’t miss the guided tour of the theatre, which takes you backstage, through the gilded foyers, the royal salons, and the majestic main hall with its spectacular chandelier. For a truly exceptional moment, book an evening performance: discover Los Austrias by day, then step into this temple of lyric art at nightfall to experience Madrid at its most noble and enchanting.
5 🏰 Plaza de la Villa – The discreet jewel box of medieval Madrid
Nestled in the quiet lanes of Los Austrias, Plaza de la Villa is a haven of intimacy where time seems to have stood still. Here you’ll find three emblematic buildings: the Casa de la Villa, a former 17th-century town hall and prison, with two distinct portals for its civic and penitentiary functions; the Casa de Cisneros, a Plateresque masterpiece built in 1537, with its ornate façade and aerial passage restored in the early 20th century; and the legendary Torre de los Lujanes, a 15th-century Gothic-Mudéjar tower, famous for having held King Francis I prisoner after the Battle of Pavia. At the center, the statue of Vice Admiral Álvaro de Bazán stands on a pedestal, paying tribute to one of the heroes of the Spanish navy.
🎯 must-do: stroll slowly over the cobblestones polished by the centuries, look up at the sculpted coats of arms and twin windows, and sit at a nearby terrace to enjoy a coffee while watching the play of light and shadow over the ancient stone. Capture the peaceful atmosphere of this spot, little frequented by crowds, where history and tranquility blend harmoniously.
6 🎭 Plaza de Oriente – Royal sculptures and imperial elegance
Between the Royal Palace and the Teatro Real, Plaza de Oriente is one of Madrid’s most refined landscaped jewels. Laid out in the 19th century under Isabella II, it surprises with its elegant symmetry: trimmed hedges, geometric parterres, and fountains frame a space open to History. At its center rises the monumental equestrian statue of Philip IV, a bronze masterpiece designed by Pietro Tacca on calculations by Galileo, depicting the king rearing on his hind legs—a feat of sculptural balance. All around, the famous Paseo de las Estatuas displays stone effigies of former Spanish kings, originally intended to adorn the roof of the Royal Palace.
🎯 must-do: after contemplating the statues of Spain’s kings and the majestic equestrian figure of Philip IV, slip into the more intimate atmosphere of Plaza de Ramales, just behind the cathedral. This sunny little square has a few quiet terraces—perfect for a coffee or a caña while admiring the old façades and the elegant column dedicated to Velázquez. It’s the perfect place to recharge, away from the tourist bustle yet still immersed in the historic ambiance of old Madrid.
7 🌿 Jardines de Sabatini – Geometric calm at the foot of the palace
Discreet yet sumptuous, the Jardines de Sabatini stretch along the northern façade of the Royal Palace, on the site of the former stables designed by Francesco Sabatini in the 18th century. Although created later, in the 1930s, these gardens have retained a classical elegance with their French-style layout: sculpted hedges, symmetrical pools, royal statues salvaged from the palace balustrades, and murmuring fountains. Their orderly sobriety harmoniously contrasts with the baroque monumentality of the Royal Palace. It is a breathing space within the dense architecture of Los Austrias—an expanse of light, stone, and greenery at the very heart of History.
🎯 must-do: come at sunset, when the low light turns the hedges into elegant plays of shadow and the palace façade takes on a golden hue. Climb the monumental staircase at the north end of the park for an unbeatable panoramic view over the gardens, the palace, and, in the distance, the Casa de Campo. In summer, open-air concerts held in this royal setting add an unforgettable cultural touch. It’s the ideal spot for photographers, lovers of calm, or anyone who simply wants to savor Madrid differently.
8 🔔 Real Monasterio de la Encarnación – Sacred silence at the heart of the monarchy
Located between Plaza de Oriente and Calle de Bailén, the Real Monasterio de la Encarnación is one of Madrid’s oldest and most emblematic royal convents. Founded in 1611 by Margaret of Austria, wife of King Philip III, it was intended to house a community of Discalced Augustinian nuns. The building, austere on the outside, blends Habsburg architecture with Castilian baroque style. Inside, it holds true treasures: frescoes, sculptures, religious paintings from the Golden Age, and above all a chapel of perfect proportions. The monastery also houses an impressive collection of relics, some displayed in exquisite silver reliquaries.
🎯 must-do: join a guided tour to discover the cloister with its Tuscan columns, the state rooms where the nobility came to meditate, and the sacristy adorned with sublime works of art. The highlight is the chapel, with its soft lighting and gilded altarpieces—a true immersion in the spiritual Spain of the 17th century. In winter or summer, it’s a cool, calm, and deeply soothing place—perfect for a cultural break amid the bustle of the historic center.
9 ⛪ Basílica de San Miguel – The baroque pearl tucked between the lanes
Behind the majestic silhouette of the Royal Palace, just steps from Calle Mayor, hides a lesser-known gem: the Pontifical Basilica of San Miguel. Built in the 18th century to plans by Santiago Bonavía and Teodoro Ardemans, this church is one of the rare examples of Italian Baroque in Madrid. Its curved façade, full of movement, draws the eye and contrasts with the rigid geometry of the surrounding buildings. Inside, frescoes, gilding, and sculptures create a theatrical, almost Roman atmosphere. It is also the seat of Opus Dei in Madrid, which gives it a singular religious importance in the Spanish capital.
🎯 must-do: step in during a sacred music concert—often free—to enjoy the exceptional acoustics beneath the richly decorated dome. Take time to admire the main altar and its gilded wood sculptures, as well as the artworks discreetly placed in the side chapels. It’s an ideal spot for a meditative, art-filled pause, far from the crowds, in the heart of the Los Austrias quarter.
10 🏛 Palacio del Senado – The discreet elegance of legislative power
Both discreet and majestic, the Palacio del Senado embodies the solemnity of Spanish democracy. A former religious college turned into the upper chamber of Parliament in the 19th century, this neoclassical building preserves a hushed, almost confidential atmosphere. Its emblematic rotunda and spectacular library—home to thousands of volumes—give it a unique charm. Although the interior is only accessible by reservation, a simple walk around the building is enough to admire its sober yet imposing architecture.
But the true secret of this place lies just in front: Plaza de la Marina Española, a green setting framed by trimmed hedges and dotted with benches in the shade of trees. At its center, the Monumento a Cánovas del Castillo, a leading 19th-century statesman, stands proudly. Its sculpted pedestal and allegorical figures tell a chapter of Spain’s constitutional history. It’s a perfect spot for a contemplative break, far from the tourist bustle, in the heart of institutional Madrid.
🎯 must-do: Take advantage of a free guided tour, offered on certain days by reservation, to discover the plenary hall, the historic salons, and the contemporary art galleries. It’s a unique opportunity to enter an official building still in use and better understand how the Spanish parliament works.
11 🌉 Viaducto de Segovia – A panoramic bridge above history
With its great concrete arches soaring above Calle de Segovia, the Viaducto de Segovia is both a feat of engineering and a spectacular viewpoint. Built in the 19th century and rebuilt in the 1930s, this emblematic bridge links the royal quarter to the Vistillas hill, offering a unique panorama over the south of Madrid, with the dome of San Francisco el Grande on the horizon.
Over 100 meters long, it long carried a dramatic reputation due to its tragic history, before being secured and rehabilitated for strolling. Today, it is above all a romantic, contemplative crossing.
🎯 must-do: Stop in the middle of the bridge to enjoy a breathtaking view over Madrid’s rooftops. Right next door, stroll through the Jardines de Las Vistillas, often enlivened by musicians or flamenco dancers at day’s end.
12 🥘 Mercado de San Miguel – The foodie temple of old Madrid
Beneath its splendid iron-and-glass structure, the Mercado de San Miguel is much more than a covered market: it is a true architectural and culinary jewel of the Los Austrias quarter. Inaugurated in 1916, it is one of the last surviving iron markets in the capital, now a modern hall where Spanish gastronomy is celebrated at the very heart of the city’s heritage. Between the gleaming counters, fresh produce, oysters shucked to order, and small plates reimagined by renowned chefs, each stall tells of a region of Spain, a craft, an emotion.
🎯 must-do: Enjoy a selection of tapas while standing at an jamón ibérico bar, paired with a glass of local vermouth or well-chilled cava. And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave without trying the tartaletas or reinvented churros. The lively atmosphere—tourists and Madrileños side by side—gives the place a unique energy, best experienced at aperitivo time!
🍽️ Restaurants and specialties in Los Austrias: where to eat in Madrid’s royal quarter?
After wandering the old lanes and admiring the architectural gems of the quarter, nothing beats a gourmet break to keep the experience going. In Los Austrias, gastronomy is a matter of passion, tradition… and sometimes unexpected surprises! Here, terraces sit in the shade of palaces, ancestral recipes blend with contemporary flavors, and every spot tells a piece of Madrid’s history.
In this section, you’ll find my selection of must-visit restaurants and cafés located right in the heart of the neighborhood. Whether you’re after a historic establishment whose walls are steeped in memories, a modern vegetarian table, a tasty halal-friendly address, or an emblematic place to share tapas with locals—you’ll find plenty here to delight your palate while staying true to the soul of Los Austrias.
Take a seat, open the menu… and let Madrid treat you.
🔥 Sobrino de Botín – The world’s oldest restaurant, a table at the heart of history
Nestled at the foot of Calle de Cuchilleros, a stone’s throw from Plaza Mayor, this legendary inn founded in 1725 is much more than a simple restaurant: it’s a living slice of Madrid’s heritage. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botín charms with its history-soaked atmosphere and original wood-fired oven, still in service. In this centuries-old oven, the house’s two emblematic dishes slowly roast: cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) and cordero lechal (milk-fed lamb), served piping hot on heavy earthenware plates.
Step through the door and you enter another century. Patinated stone walls, vaulted cellar, wooden beams, and soft lighting… every corner seems to whisper memories of Hemingway, Goya, or Graham Greene, loyal patrons of the place. Dining here is more than a meal: it’s a deep dive into the taste, tradition, and soul of eternal Spain.
🔥 Sobrino de Botín
🍫 Chocolatería San Ginés – Churros and hot chocolate, Madrid-style since 1894
Tucked into a little cobbled lane between Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, just steps from the Teatro Real, this house founded in 1894 is a haven of sweetness known worldwide. You don’t just come here for hot chocolate: you come to live a century-old Madrid tradition. The churros con chocolate are the stuff of legend—thin and crispy, dipped into a thick, rich, velvety dark chocolate that you savor slowly with a spoon.
The Belle Époque décor, with antique mirrors and walls lined with artists’ portraits, gives the place a warm, timeless atmosphere. Open from morning until late at night, Chocolatería San Ginés attracts early birds and night owls alike, families and artists. A stop here is a delicious journey through yesterday’s and today’s Madrid—with a cup of happiness in your hands.
🍫 Chocolatería San Ginés
🍷 Casa Ciriaco – A Madrid tavern in all its splendor
On Calle Mayor, a short walk from Plaza de la Villa and the Palacio Real, Casa Ciriaco is a true institution of popular, flavorful Madrid. Open since 1897, this centenary tavern welcomes you into an authentic décor of pastel-yellow walls, period chandeliers, dark woodwork, and checkered tablecloths. Here, everything breathes tradition and the Madrid spirit.
The house specialty? The famous pollo en pepitoria (chicken simmered in an almond-and-egg sauce), a typical recipe now found only in places with real heart. But you also come for callos a la madrileña, braised meats, or homemade croquettes—all paired with a glass of vino tinto. A former haunt of journalists, bullfighters, and writers, Casa Ciriaco remains a place of living memory… and excellent cuisine.
🍷 Casa Ciriaco
🥗 Yerbabuena – The hidden vegetarian garden of Los Austrias
Nestled on a quiet little street near Plaza de la Villa and Calle Mayor, Yerbabuena is a true haven for lovers of wholesome, flavorful cooking. This vegetarian restaurant—with colorful walls and a bohemian vibe—radiates freshness, good cheer… and fragrant herbs. Soft lighting, fresh flowers, gentle music: everything invites a serene, gourmet pause in the heart of old Madrid.
On the menu? Inventive, generous, 100% vegetarian (and often vegan) plates such as seasonal vegetable lasagna, avocado-and-black-bean burritos, or fresh-fruit detox juices. There’s no trade-off between pleasure and balance: every dish is a small sensory journey. A perfect place to recharge between visits, in a peaceful setting away from the bustle.
🥗 Yerbabuena
🥙 Sol de Beirut – A hint of the Orient in the royal lanes
Steps from the Palacio Real and the Teatro Real, Sol de Beirut opens the doors of Lebanon… without leaving Madrid. In a warm setting of ochre walls, hanging lanterns, and oriental mosaics, this family restaurant takes you on a journey through the generous flavors of the Levant. The welcome matches the house: sincere, friendly, and imbued with hospitality.
Crispy falafel, silky hummus, kibbeh, fatayers, colorful mezze to share, or hot classics like shawarma or grilled kafta—everything is homemade with fresh ingredients and deftly balanced spices. The vegetarian options are particularly rich, and desserts such as mouhalabieh or baklava end the meal on a sweet note. A generous, transporting culinary stop—perfect for a flavor-filled pause after a morning of royal sightseeing.
🥙 Sol de Beirut
🏨 Hotels in Los Austrias: where to stay in old Madrid near the Royal Palace
Spending the night in Los Austrias means extending the unique experience of a historic and majestic Madrid. This neighborhood, cradle of the Spanish Habsburgs, is full of hotels brimming with character, nestled in carefully renovated old buildings. Between cobbled streets, wrought-iron balconies, views of royal squares, and immediate access to the city’s most beautiful monuments, staying here means experiencing Madrid in a different way.
In this section, you’ll find a handpicked selection of accommodations—from refined boutique hotels to elegant apartments—all just a few minutes’ walk from landmarks like Plaza Mayor, the Palacio Real, or the Almudena Cathedral. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, you’ll find comfortable, well-rated addresses here, ideally connected to the transport network to explore the whole capital.
🛏️ Petit Palace Posada del Peine – Madrid’s oldest hotel, modern comfort in a historic setting
Located just steps from Plaza Mayor, on a lively street in the historic center, Petit Palace Posada del Peine is much more than a simple hotel: it’s a Madrid legend. Founded in 1610, it is considered the oldest hotel in the city still in operation. Today fully renovated, it combines the charm of its period architecture with the services of a modern urban hotel.
The rooms are comfortable, featuring king-size beds, hydromassage showers, and sometimes even private terraces overlooking the rooftops of old Madrid. The property offers free bicycles, welcomes pets, and provides services perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples. Its ideal location, just 3 minutes from Sol station, makes it a perfect base to explore Los Austrias on foot.
Petit Palace Posada del Peine
🛏️ Petit Palace Plaza Mayor – Stunning view of history, in the heart of the action
Set in an elegant historic building facing Plaza Mayor, this charming hotel offers a unique experience for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Los Austrias. From the moment you step inside, Petit Palace Plaza Mayor captivates with its subtle blend of contemporary design and authentic Madrid character.
The rooms are bright and well soundproofed, and some even have a balcony with direct views of Plaza Mayor. The hotel also offers free bicycles, a generous buffet breakfast with vegetarian and vegan options, as well as family services (cribs, strollers to borrow…). Just a 4-minute walk from Sol station, and at the heart of landmarks like the Royal Palace or Mercado San Miguel, it’s an ideal starting point to experience Madrid on foot.
Petit Palace Plaza Mayor
🌟 Ocean Drive Madrid – Urban elegance and a rooftop with Royal Palace views
Located on the majestic Plaza de Isabel II, right opposite the Teatro Real, Ocean Drive Madrid is one of the most refined addresses in the historic center. This design hotel from the OD Hotels group seduces with its contemporary aesthetic, its spectacular rooftop with panoramic pool, and its chic yet relaxed vibe.
The rooms, sleek and bright, are designed for comfort: premium bedding, smart controls, spacious bathrooms… Some offer breathtaking views of the Royal Palace or Plaza de Oriente. The property also features a trendy Mediterranean restaurant, coworking spaces, and regularly hosts cultural events or DJ sets at the bar. Just 2 minutes from Ópera station, it offers a strategic location to discover Los Austrias in style and tranquility.
Ocean Drive Madrid
🏛️ Hotel Ópera – Classic charm and balconies over the rooftops of history
A few steps from the Teatro Real and the majestic Plaza de Oriente, Hotel Ópera is a favorite address for travelers seeking comfort, a central location, and a touch of soul. Set in an elegant 19th-century building, it offers spacious rooms with classic décor, some with private terraces and views of the Royal Palace.
The hotel’s singular highlight? A lyrical restaurant where servers perform opera arias during dinner—a unique experience in Madrid! The property also has a small wellness area, a cozy piano bar, and well-equipped meeting rooms. Its immediate proximity to Ópera station makes it an ideal starting point to explore the whole Los Austrias quarter—on foot and to the sound of music.
Hotel Ópera
🏰 Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá – Royal luxury a stone’s throw from the Palace
Housed in a 19th-century palace that belonged to the Dukes of Granada de Ega, this luxurious 5-star hotel immerses you in an elegant world inspired by the work of Velázquez, whose paintings adorn the common areas. Just meters from the Royal Palace and the Teatro Real, it offers an ideal base to explore Madrid’s historic heart.
The rooms combine classic refinement with contemporary comfort, and some overlook a private Andalusian garden—a true haven of peace. The rooftop with panoramic city pool, the Thai Room spa, and three gourmet restaurants make every stay unforgettable. An ideal choice for an exceptional trip to Los Austrias.
Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá
🧭 How to get to the Los Austrias district in Madrid?
Even if your accommodation is outside the Los Austrias district, don’t worry: reaching this Madrid gem is simple, quick, and often picturesque. Whether you come by metro, suburban train, or bus, many options allow you to arrive right at the foot of palaces, lively squares, and centuries-old alleys. Here’s how to reach the must-see places of this neighborhood with ease.
🚇 Getting to the district by metro or train
The Los Austrias district is served by several strategic stations that make access very easy, whether you arrive by metro or by Cercanías train. Sol and Príncipe Pío stations, true transport hubs, let you arrive directly in the heart of the district or at its western edges. Ópera is ideal for reaching the Teatro Real or the Plaza de Oriente, while Plaza de España offers pleasant access to the Jardines de Sabatini and the Real Monasterio de la Encarnación. Thanks to this network, you can start your visit on foot as soon as you step off the train or metro, with no need for further transfers.
🚌 Getting to the district by bus
Madrid’s buses offer a pleasant alternative for reaching Los Austrias while enjoying the city above ground. Several lines cross or border the district, but two routes are particularly useful: line M3, which runs along Calle Mayor through the very center of the district up to the Viaducto de Segovia, and line 3, which follows the majestic Calle de Bailén to the surroundings of the Palacio Real and the Almudena Cathedral. Ideal for those who want to combine comfort with panoramic views.
ℹ️ Los Austrias district Madrid: Access info
🚇 Metro
Sol (lines 1, 2, 3)Ópera (lines 2, 5 and R)
Plaza de España (lines 3, 10)
Príncipe Pío (lines 6, 10 and R)
🚆 Cercanías
Sol (C-3, C-4)Príncipe Pío (C-1, C-7, C-10)
🚍 Bus
Lines 3 and M3Stops: Plaza Mayor, Mayor-Siete de Julio, Plaza de la Villa, Palacio Real, Plaza de España
🚲 BiciMAD bikes
Mayor, Plaza de San Miguel, Doctor Letamendi 3, Viaducto de Segovia, Plaza Ramales, Palacio de Oriente, San Quintín🗺️ Interactive map of the Los Austrias district in Madrid
To help you visualize and organize your visit, I have created an interactive map that brings together all the elements mentioned in this article:
📍 All the emblematic places featured in the article (monuments, squares, bridges, monasteries…)
🍴 Recommended restaurants to taste the neighborhood’s specialties
🛌 Selected nearby hotels, well-rated and accessible
🚇 The nearest metro stations (Sol, Ópera, Príncipe Pío…)
🚍 Useful bus lines, including M3 which crosses Calle Mayor
🚆 Cercanías RENFE stations such as Sol or Príncipe Pío
🚲 BiciMAD bike stations for cycling around
📌 Transport lines overlaid for easier orientation
A practical tool to plan your visit and explore the district freely.
For the best on-site experience, open the interactive map in full screen. You’ll be able to enable geolocation, follow your position in real time, and easily navigate between points of interest and transport.
🔗 Open the interactive map in full screen on MapHub
🏰 Conclusion: A journey into Madrid’s royal soul
Strolling through the Los Austrias district is like opening a living book of history, art, and traditions, where every cobbled street, every baroque façade, and every shaded square whispers a chapter of the capital’s glorious past. Between royal monuments, legendary markets, peaceful gardens, and lively terraces, this neighborhood offers you a total immersion into authentic Madrid — the city of kings, artists… and today’s madrileños.
Whether you come for half a day or decide to stay for longer, Los Austrias welcomes you with charm and character. And if you wish to go further, let yourself be guided by our itineraries, interactive maps, restaurant tips, and accommodation ideas to keep exploring Madrid… like a true enthusiast.
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Explore iconic neighborhoods
Complete guide to Madrid’s must-see neighborhoods
A selection of the most famous: the historic center of Los Austrias, the vibrant Gran Vía, bohemian Lavapiés, chic Barrio de Salamanca, and many more.
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