"Puerta del Sol is one of Madrid’s most iconic sites. The semi-circle plaza is dominated by the Casa de Correos, a baroque red-and-white building topped with a bell tower, and by two famous statues: “The Bear and the Strawberry Tree” and “The Equestrian Statue of Carlos III.” Being the main plaza of the city, it is a hub of activity for locals and visitors, with many hotels and plenty of shopping opportunities; in fact, the three most popular shopping streets in Madrid begin at Puerta del Sol: Preciados, Arenal, and del Carmen. The neighborhood is also home to several eye-catching pieces of neoclassical architecture, so be sure to interrupt your purchases to check out the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and the Royal Theatre." - MATADOR_NETWORK