Horrible shopping street full of nasty chain stores like Zara, Mango, Bershka. The terrible thing about this street is that it's busy, busy, busy and well frequented by pick pockets so you need to be careful. Pay special attention at either end near Montera or towards Callao as there are a lot of pimps, pushers and prostitutes. The supposed glamour of the cheap chain stores doesn't quite cover up the stench of sewerage that emanates from the drains throughout the area.
If you're looking for better shopping go to Fuencarral and avoid Gran Via entirely. This street runs by a lot of the main sights in Madrid.
It is also great for shopping and especially if you enjoy taking walks in the city. The Gran Via is certainly the longest street, with a wealth of shopping, entertainment and bars and restaurants. Work commenced in and completed in , at the time many buildings were knocked down to create the Gran Via which stretches for miles and miles. Really long and beautiful avenue. Great for shopping. I love everything about Madrid and the same goes for Gran Via.
Yes, it is a street, but there is loads to do there. It is a great people watching location and let's face it It's worth spending a few hours on Gran Via. Found myself in Madrid for Christmas. What to do? Will everwhere be closed like back home? Have no fear. Gran Via to the rescue. Loads of people, gorgeous Christmas lights. Crazy bicyclists with their police escort out for a Christmas bike ride, shops open at 11pm on Christmas?
Beyond words. Hey wait a minute, I thought I was in Madrid. Throngs of people but very visible police presence. Atmosphere was amazing. Definitely very touristy but must be experienced. Hey you can even catch a show or walk down to Vodafone Sol and catch a movie.
