Plaza de Cibeles

Madrid's most photographed fountain — the goddess Cybele riding a lion-drawn chariot, ringed by four of the city's grandest buildings including the wedding-cake Palacio de Cibeles. The traditional spot where Real Madrid fans celebrate every trophy, whether the mayor's office likes it or not.

The Palacio de Cibeles, Madrid's old post office turned city hall and cultural centre, has a free public rooftop viewing gallery (CentroCentro) with one of the best panoramic views over the city for a fraction of what a rooftop bar charges. The fountain itself dates to 1782 and is best seen lit up at night, when the surrounding palace facades are floodlit too. It sits exactly halfway between Puerta de Alcalá and Gran Vía, a natural stop on foot between the two.