Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza

Thoughtful planning helps every trip to Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza run smoothly. The season and time of day can change the mood completely, as the courtyard basks in morning quiet or the stands fill with late spring energy. Most visitors arrive by walking along the scenic river, taking a tram, or catching a local taxi, all easy options from the heart of the city. Tickets sell quickly during festival weeks, while off-peak visits allow for a more relaxed pace. Accessibility has improved, but tight stairs and cobblestone passages remain historic features.

• Best time to visit: Spring, especially during Feria de Abril, or early mornings for quieter tours
• How to get there: On foot from the city center; nearby tram and bus stops; taxis readily available
• Accessibility: Some ramps and elevators, but certain bullring sections have steps and uneven ground; strollers and wheelchairs may find areas challenging
• Average visit duration: 60–90 minutes for a typical tour; events and shows longer

The Plaza unfolds like a living museum, grand yet quietly intimate in some corners. Visitors can wander from sun-bleached sand, up through shaded stone archways, to the airy stands overlooking the ring. Every area tells a story. Some come for the bustling energy during a festival, while others prefer peaceful afternoons spent studying intricate tiles or watching the city move beyond the walls. Behind-the-scenes tours reveal the tradition and preparation required for every event held here.

• Key sights or features: The circular sand ring, the Baroque entryway, and the royal box
• Unique experiences: Guided tours offered in English and Spanish; access to the bullfighting museum and historic chapel hidden under the stands
• Photo-worthy locations: Against whitewashed walls and blue trim, under archways with the golden ring as backdrop, or views from the sun to the shady ‘sombra’ seating
• Cultural or historical facts: Construction started in 1761; among the oldest bullrings in Spain; houses rare bullfighting memorabilia and artwork reflecting Andalusian tradition