Las Ventas Bullring: Tickets and Tours

Plaza de Toros de Las Venta — more commonly known as Las Ventas Bullring — is one of the most recognized arenas in the world. With a history that stretches back almost a century, the venue has hosted thousands of the most exhilarating matches in the world of bullfighting.

Going on a Las Ventas Bullring tour is a must for anyone interested in the sport, as well as those who want to dive deeper into Spanish culture through the ages.

Here's all you need to know about Las Ventas Bullring, one of the most exciting attractions in Madrid.

How much do Las Ventas Bullring tickets cost?

If you're hoping to catch a bullfight, Las Ventas Bullring tickets vary tremendously in price depending on a number of factors. These variants include the row number of your seat, as well as whether you’re located in the sun or shade. Typically, the further you sit from the ring, the cheaper the ticket, while seats closer to the front cost more, however, you’ll gain a less obstructed view.

The Las Ventas Bullring admission fee is also significantly cheaper for tickets in the sun than those in the shade, which are more sought-after.

Las Ventas Bullring tickets

The arena is split into 10 sections for each bullfight, each of which has its own pricing. Children under the age of 4 can access the venue for free as long as they share a seat with a guardian.

• Zone 1: €14.50 - €214.50
• Zone 2: €14.50 - €196.90
• Zone 3: €12.50 - €154
• Zones 4 - 7: €9.50 - €88
• Zone 8: €12.50 - €154
• Zone 9 and 10: €14.50 - €214.50

Audio-guided Las Ventas Bullring tour

Alternatively, many visitors choose a Las Ventas Bullring tour over attending a bullfight. There are different pricing options, the most budget-friendly of which is an audio-guided tour.

• Audio-guided tour: €16
• Youth (13-18 years): €13
• Students: €13
• Seniors (65+): €13
• Children (5-12 years): €7
• People with disabilities: €7
• Infants (under 5 years): Free

Guided Las Ventas Bullring group tours

• General: €14 per person
• Scholars and students: €12 per person
• Seniors: €12 per person

Private Las Ventas Bullring tour

If you’d prefer the personalization of an in-person tour, choose this private excursion, suitable for groups of up to 14 guests, and charged per traveler.

• 1 adult: €80
• 2 adults: €40
• 3-4 people: €35
• 5- 6 people: €30
• 7-8 people: €25
• 9-14 people: €20

Should you book in advance?

Las Ventas Bullring is a popular attraction, both for tours and bullfights, which means that no matter the type of visit, you should always book your tickets in advance. In the case of a bullfight, you’ll be able to secure passes for a seat of your choosing at a prime location in the arena.

Alternatively, those who choose a tour of the site can benefit from guaranteed placement on an excursion at a time and date that suits their itinerary. Booking ahead of time also ensures that you'll skip any long queues at the ticket office, saving you time on your travels.

What are the best Las Ventas Bullring tours?

Audio-guided Las Ventas Bullring and museum tour

The most popular way to explore this highlight of Madrid is by purchasing an audio-guided Las Ventas Bullring tour. This allows you to stroll through the venue at your own pace and you’ll benefit from a multitude of different language options, making this type of experience suitable for many travelers. Learn the history behind this unconventional sport via the ring, stands and the Royal Box.

Alongside the stadium itself, you’ll also gain access to the museum dedicated to the arena where you can discover a myriad costumes worn by celebrated matadors, as well as masterpieces by the Spanish artist Francisco Goya showcasing his love for bullfighting.

Skip-the-line Las Ventas Bullring tour

On this private Las Ventas Bullring guided tour, you’ll gain more insight into the building’s history and have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with your guide. They’ll be able to answer any burning questions you may have as you wander through the site.

As well as a tour, you’ll also enjoy a bullfighting demonstration where you’ll learn the routines and practices of an experienced matador. And, you’ll even have the chance to don a cape yourself for the ultimate experience.

What will you see inside?

Las Ventas Bullring was built in the first half of the 20th century and is the largest of all bullfighting rings in Spain, accommodating over 23,000 spectators. Alongside being the largest of its kind in Spain, Las Ventas is the third-largest bullfighting stadium in the world.

The stadium was built in a Neo-Mudéjar style by the Spanish architect, José Espeliús, and events have been held throughout the bullfighting season — March to October — since its inauguration.

The arena is identified by its detailed ceramic tiles that line its exterior. Bullfighting is a risky sport and deaths are common among matadors. However, since Las Ventas was founded, only five deaths have occurred on-site.

The most important event in the bullfighting calendar is the San Isidro Festival, which is held annually between mid-May and mid-June, during which those with Las Ventas Bullring tickets can catch an exciting bullfight every day.

When not in use for bullfights, the stadium is transformed into an arena at which international superstars, including the Beatles, have been known to perform.

How to get there?

The easiest way to reach Las Ventas Bullring is via subway Lines 2 or 5. You’ll depart at Ventas Station, which is just a 3-minute walk from the venue. Alternatively, you can reach the stadium via a multitude of bus routes, including Lines 12, 21, 38, 53, 106, 110 and 146.

Madrid’s network of public transportation is extensive and reliable, meaning that wherever you’re based in the city, you’ll find it easy to navigate its streets to locate the venue.

What are the opening times?

Opening hours of Las Ventas Bullring vary depending on whether there are any fights scheduled. Those who wish to participate in a tour of the facility can do so between 10 AM and 7 PM from April to October. The venue closes an hour earlier from November to March at 6 PM. If you choose to visit for a tour on the day of a bullfight, the last entry is at 2:30 PM.

Those attending a bullfight will find that these usually begin at 6:30 PM.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Las Ventas Bullring is an accessible destination, meaning that everyone can experience the long-standing history and culture of Spanish customs at the venue.

When is the best time to visit the Las Ventas Bullring?

The best time to visit Las Ventas Bullring if you're interested in seeing a bullfight is from March to October, with the most prestigious fights happening in May and June during the San Isidro Festival.

If you're interested in just a tour, the best time to avoid crowds would be in the off-season (late October to February). However, it's better to avoid mid-winter when temperatures drop.

Which other attractions can be visited in Madrid?

• Royal Palace
• Bernabeu Stadium
• Civitas Metropolitano
• Temple of Debod

Travel tips

• For bullfights, there's no strict dress code, but smart-casual wear is recommended.
• Since the arena is open-air, wear sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen on sunny days, and consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
• If attending a bullfight, it's advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes early. This will give you time to find your seat and soak in the atmosphere.
• Wear comfortable shoes on your tour as you'll be on your feet for most of it.