Calle de Fuencarral - Landmark Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Tell me: What’s this place all about? Blink and you might miss Calle de Fuencarral, a narrow pedestrian street off Gran Via. Street performers entertain as shoppers pop in and out of stores—mostly international chains with a few local boutiques thrown in for good measure. What’s it like being there? Most folks—all tourists—are here to people-watch. If you keep strolling away from Gran Via, you'll discover a growing number of cafes and bars. Don't be surprised if you hear birds chirping from their cages on the residential balconies above. How easy is it to find, or to get around? You can't get lost along this long and narrow shopping street, although the side streets are also worth a peek. The road is almost entirely flat—no cobblestones here. Still, save those high heels for the fancier Calle Serrano. If we want to add a little shopping into our people-watching expedition, where should we look? This street has something for every budget. Stroll past on your way to Puerta del Sol from the colorful Chueca neighborhood." - Ramsey Qubein