Gran Vía, Spanish for "Great Way", is the city’s main road and was Madrid’s central commercial area. It winds right through the city center and on both sides shops and stores offer their goods in elaborately dressed shop windows. Boutiques, department stores and restaurants line the Gran Via for many blocks, with the odd movie theatre appearing every now and then.

If you are interested in architecture, you’ll be sure to marvel at the sights when walking down Gran Vía. The facades of the houses show off all kinds of styles ranging from the Neo Baroque to the Art Nouveau styles. Halfway along one comes across the gigantic Telefónica building, as well as the impressive Metropolis, which are both worthwhile having a look at. At one end of this magnificent street is Plaza España, at the other, the famous Paseo Prado and the Prado Museum. The Plaza de la Cibeles is also found here.

A Spanish Language Course in Madrid will give you the chance to experience the city's fascinating commercial district.