Madrid FAQ

How do you get to Cibeles?

Plaza de Cibeles lies at the junction of some of Madrid's most iconic thoroughfares: Calle de Alcalá, Paseo de Recoletos and Paseo del Prado, making it one of the capital's most recognisable intersections.

At its heart stands Cibeles Fountain, which depicts the Roman goddess of earth and fertility. Beyond its artistic value, the square has become a traditional gathering spot for Real Madrid fans to celebrate their victories.

Just metres from the fountain rises Cibeles Palace—the former Communications Palace—one of Madrid's most emblematic buildings. Designed by Antonio Palacios and Joaquín Otamendi, it opened in 1909 as the headquarters of the Post and Telegraph Office, and since 2007, has served as Madrid City Hall.

Inside, the palace houses cultural spaces such as CentroCentro, the Glass Gallery and the 360º Mirador Madrid viewpoint, along with a tourist information point and the Landscape of Light Interpretation Centre, dedicated to the UNESCO-recognised district. Plaza de Cibeles is home to other extraordinary buildings such as Marqués de Linares Palace which houses the Casa de América cultural centre, the Bank of Spain—with its imposing classical façade and valuable art collection—and Buenavista Palace, now the Army Headquarters, which adds a touch of historic gravitas to the ensemble.

Thanks to its central location, the iconic square offers excellent public transport connections—Metro, urban and night buses, Cercanías trains and bike stations—making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city:

Metro: the nearest station is Banco de España (Line 2), just a few steps from the square.
Local bus: Numerous lines pass through or stop in the area—001, 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 14, 15, 20, 27, 34, 37, 45, 51, 52, 53, 74, 146, 150, 203, C03 and E1—as well as night buses N2 through to N9, which run all night long.
Cercanías: Madrid-Recoletos station, just a short walk away, connects with several regional lines.
Bicycle: BiciMAD has stations at Plaza de Cibeles and Bank of Spain (No. 48 Calle de Alcalá).