The best open space in Madrid, full of life, history little gift shops, bars, restaurants and culture. One cannot be in Madrid and not visit this marvelous place. The oldest restaurant in the Guiness Books of Records is just a few minutes away-Botin. Walk around during the day to explore all it has to offer or walk at night as the Plaza Mayor is illuminated in all its majestic expression. I have been coming here since I was a child and it still amazes me every time I enter through one of its four entrances. Parking is easily found underneath the plaza; parking is tight so I recommend you either practice first or rent a small car. Places to see in its surroundings; Mercado de San Miguel, Botin, El Madroño, Dulces Paco (heaven!)Plaza Major is located in the heart and the center of Madrid Old Town, The rectangular Plaza was built in the 16th century and witnessed many renovation works along its long history. In the center of the square rises a statue of Philip IIlI on his horse. On one side of the square you can see the façade Casa de la Panaderia (Bakery House) with its painted murals. The square has ten entrances and it is off limit for car traffic. Today, Casa Major hosts the Christmas tree and some seasonal open air markets are organized there. More than 270 balconies overlook the square. Some of them belong to residential apartment and some for office spaces. many cafes and restaurants occupy the ground floor. Sometimes the feeling you get here reminds you of St, Marco Square in Venice. Visiting Plaza major is a must when you are in Madrid. From here you can start exploring old Madrid.The best open space in Madrid, full of life, history little gift shops, bars, restaurants and culture. One cannot be in Madrid and not visit this marvelous place. The oldest restaurant in the Guiness Books of Records is just a few minutes away-Botin. Walk around during the day to explore all it has to offer or walk at night as the Plaza Mayor is illuminated in all its majestic expression. I have been coming here since I was a child and it still amazes me every time I enter through one of its four entrances. Parking is easily found underneath the plaza; parking is tight so I recommend you either practice first or rent a small car. Places to see in its surroundings; Mercado de San Miguel, Botin, El Madroño, Dulces Paco (heaven!)Wonderful square in the middle of the city with lots of restaurants. There were a few people dressed up in costumes waiting for tourists but it's not as bad as an other cities and it didn't seem that it's a problem for the locals either. The whole place is very clean and when I visited in late September it wasn't all too crowded eitherPlaza Mayor is a large public outdoor space the heart of Madrid. This Square was built during the reign of Phillip III in 1580-1619. The Plaza Mayor is a space for tourists and locals to shop walk around eat and just enjoy the outdoors. In the middle of the square there is a statue of Phillip III sitting on a horse. There is also elite of tables and chairs to sit at and eat or just enjoy the outdoors. I had the opportunity to experience Plaza Mayor and enjoyed my experience here. I would recommend if you are in Madrid to check it out for your set. You don't have to spend a lot of time at less you want too.