Things to do in Villanueva de la Canada

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Top places to visit

1. Gran Via

The Gran Via is a shopping hub and a center for nightlife. Like much of Madrid, the strip celebrates the past while embracing the future: boutique stores and international brands are housed in some of Madrid’s most iconic heritage architecture.
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Gran Via showing night scenes, landscape views and a city

2. Bernabéu Stadium

Real Madrid is one of the most internationally recognized soccer teams and their Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu) is among the sport’s finest. Watching a match at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a lifetime dream for both long-term Madridistas and soccer enthusiasts. Walk on the hallowed turf of the playing field, browse the clubs impressive trophy hall and relive historical moments via multimedia exhibits.
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Cheer on the superstar players of one of the world’s most successful soccer clubs and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the colossal 81,000-capacity stadium.

3. Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol, or “Sun Gate,” is Madrid’s beating heart. It was once at the eastern extremity of the city and the location of a medieval gate decorated with the rising sun, from which it gets its name. Today it’s the city’s main public square, hosting everything from political demonstrations to New Year’s Eve celebrations.
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Puerta del Sol

4. Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor is one of Madrid’s best-known public places. Its cobbled courtyard is surrounded by stylish restaurants, boutiques, bars and cafés. It was a chaotic market back in the 16th century until King Felipe II commissioned a proper public square. The plaza was completed in 1619 under the supervision of architect Juan Gómez de Mora, but would burn down three times before the present version was constructed in 1790.
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Plaza Mayor featuring a monument, an administrative building and a square or plaza

5. El Retiro Park

El Retiro (El Parque de Retiro) is one of Madrid’s favorite parks and occupies nearly 350 acres (140 hectares) of land in the city center. It was once a royal retreat and the site of a large palace, but was opened to the public in the 1860s. There are statues and monuments all throughout the park, as well as two ponds, art galleries and fountains. It’s a popular retreat for Sunday afternoon picnics and you’ll notice street performers plying their trade in the busiest areas.
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El Retiro Park which includes a park

6. Royal Palace of Madrid

The Spanish Royal Palace (Palacio Real) is one of the biggest palaces in Western Europe. The palace is known for its extravagant interior and the staggering collection of furniture, artwork, weapons, armor and accessories found throughout its 3,400 rooms. Construction of the building you see today started in 1738 after the previous royal residence burned down on the same site in 1734. Nowadays the Spanish royal family does not live in the palace.
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Royal Palace featuring château or palace, a city and a park

What to do in Villanueva de la Canada

Popular places to visit

Gran Via showing night scenes, landscape views and a city

Gran Via

Madrid’s famous shopping strip has boutiques and international brands, an exciting nightlife and an impressive display of early 20th-century architecture.

Gran Via
Bernabéu Stadium

Bernabéu Stadium

Cheer on the superstar players of one of the world’s most successful soccer clubs and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the colossal 81,000-capacity stadium.

Bernabéu Stadium
Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol

Stand at the very center of Madrid and feel the buzz as thousands of people meet and greet before a night out, gather for protests, or start out on a tour of the city.

Puerta del Sol
Plaza Mayor featuring a monument, an administrative building and a square or plaza

Plaza Mayor

This square has seen everything from markets and public celebrations to bullfights and executions. Today you’ll find street performers, artists and plenty of shops.

Plaza Mayor
El Retiro Park which includes a park

El Retiro Park

Relax by the pond, walk through landscaped gardens, and admire the elegant statues and buildings in one of Madrid’s biggest and most popular parks.

El Retiro Park
Royal Palace featuring château or palace, a city and a park

Royal Palace of Madrid

Be spellbound by the scale and splendor of the Spanish Royal Family’s former official residence.

Royal Palace of Madrid
Prado Museum featuring interior views and art

Prado Museum

An art museum to rival the Louvre or the British National Gallery, this is the place to see some of the finest art Europe has to offer.

Prado Museum
IFEMA

IFEMA

Few venues for fairs, exhibitions and conferences can compete with IFEMA - Feria de Madrid, Madrid’s trade fair venue, for comfort, amenities and its modern style.

IFEMA
Movistar Arena

Movistar Arena

Catch an event at WiZink Center during your trip to Madrid. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.

Movistar Arena
Madrid

Madrid

Majadahonda

Majadahonda

Photo "Boadilla del Monte" by BY-YOUR-⌘ (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by BY-YOUR-⌘ (CC BY)

Boadilla del Monte

Frequently asked questions

Is Villanueva de la Canada worth visiting?
Villanueva de la Canada offers a unique mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or traditional food, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Villanueva de la Canada?
Aquopolis and Karting Carlos Sainz Centre are two good places to begin your holiday adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Villanueva de la Canada while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Villanueva de la Canada?
Aquopolis is one of the top tourist attractions in Villanueva de la Canada and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Villanueva de la Canada?
Three days will give you enough time to check out some popular city attractions, like Aquopolis, European Space Agency and La Dehesa Golf Club. The average stay in Villanueva de la Canada is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your holiday, Madrid isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Villanueva de la Canada with kids?
Planning what to do in Villanueva de la Canada with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're travelling with toddlers or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly sights to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Villanueva de la Canada for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Villanueva de la Canada for adults including Las Rozas Equestrian Club.
Are there free things to do in Villanueva de la Canada?
In Villanueva de la Canada, Centro Comercial Gran Plaza 2 is a top spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Villanueva de la Canada.