How Long Is Gran via Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

Gran Via is one of the most iconic streets in Madrid, Spain. It is considered as one of the busiest and most famous avenues in the city, full of life and activity at any time of the day.

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, Gran Via is definitely a must-visit location! But have you ever wondered how long Gran Via actually is? In this article, we will answer that question and also give you some interesting facts about this beautiful avenue.

What Is Gran Via?

Gran Via is a lively street located in the heart of Madrid. It starts at Calle de Alcalá and ends at Plaza de España.

The street was built between 1910 and 1930 and has since become one of Madrid’s most popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. The avenue is famous for its stunning architecture, theaters, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

How Long Is Gran Via?

Gran Via stretches over 1.3 kilometers or 0.8 miles from end to end. This makes it one of the longest streets in Madrid’s city center. Walking along Gran Via can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your pace.

Interesting Facts About Gran Via

  • Gran Via was originally called Avenida de Rusia (Avenue of Russia) because it was supposed to be a project financed by Russian capital.
  • The street was renamed as Gran Vía (Great Way) because it was considered a grandiose project.
  • The buildings on Gran Via are mostly from the early 20th century and represent various architectural styles such as Art Deco and Art Nouveau.
  • The famous Spanish architect Antonio Palacios designed some of the buildings on Gran Via including Edificio Telefónica (Telefónica Building) which used to be the tallest building in Europe at the time of its construction.
  • Gran Via is home to some of Madrid’s most famous theaters such as Teatro Lope de Vega and Teatro Coliseum.
  • One of the most photographed spots on Gran Via is the Schweppes sign located on Edificio Carrión (Carrión Building).

Conclusion

Gran Via is a beautiful and vibrant street that has become an icon of Madrid. It stretches over 1.3 kilometers and offers endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or experiencing Madrid’s nightlife, Gran Via has something for everyone. So, next time you’re in Madrid, make sure to take a stroll down this magnificent avenue and soak up all the energy and beauty it has to offer!