How to See a Bull Fight in Spain

Bullfighting is one of the oldest and most controversial sports in Spain. The dashing figure of the toreador and the spectacle of a heaving bull charging around the ring, truly embraces the spirit of Spain. Whether you love it or hate it, bullfighting is not going away and can only be fully understood by seeing it yourself.

Things You'll Need

  • Cushion
  • Hat and sunglasses
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Instructions

    • 1

      Go at the right time. Bullfights take place from April to September or October but in July and August there are often very few, if any, because the summer heat drives many of the locals out of the cities.

    • 2

      Choose a region. Seville, Madrid and Pamplona are probably the most famous places to see a bullfight but these take place throughout the country. Find listings online (see resources) to check where the bullfights are taking place.

    • 3

      Find the "plaza de toros". Most fairly large Spanish cities have a large circular stadium that is used for bullfights. Some of these are very old and should also be visited for the architectural experience. Look on city maps or in guidebooks for the bullring that will usually include the word "toro" in the title.

    • 4

      Buy your ticket. Tickets are available from the ticket offices at the bullring itself but buy in advance if it is a particularly popular or highly publicized fight. In some cities, you can purchase online (see resources) or over the phone if you speak good enough Spanish.

    • 5

      Prepare yourself by wearing sunscreen and sunglasses to combat the Spanish sun, especially in the south of the country. Take a small cushion in with you, as seats in the bullring are famously uncomfortable. Cold water is also a good idea as many bullrings do not sell refreshments and those that do are very expensive.