Other noteworthy sites in Madrid old town include the Plaza Mayor that dates to the seventeenth century , the Puerta del Sol which is famous for its shops, and the Mercado de San Miguel which is filled with a bounty of fresh Spanish foods. Madrid old town is good area of Madrid to book a hotel as many of the Madrid's most popular sights are a short walk away. While touring this historic part of the old town, travelers should be sure to visit buildings such as the Basilica Pontificia (a renowned Baroque church), the Palacio de Santa Cruz (an historic court prison), and the Real Academia de Bellas Artes (an art gallery containing works by the likes of Raphael and Titian).

Travelers should also include a walk down the Gran Via, a major thoroughfare in the old part of town that includes many historic buildings that are home to museums, galleries, restaurants, shops and cafes