Las Ventas Andanada Seats: Upper Level Views
The Andanada seats at Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas are the highest and most affordable seating category, offering panoramic views of the arena for €25–€45 depending on sun or shade. These upper-tier seats appeal to budget travellers who want a complete view of the bullring without paying Tendido or Grada prices.
This matters because Las Ventas is a steep, multi-tiered structure built in 1931, and the Andanada section sits at the very top of its 23,798-seat capacity. That elevated height creates a unique perspective that many visitors love — but it also means you must understand the trade-offs before booking, including stair access, distance, and sun exposure.
In this guide you’ll learn what Andanada views look like, how prices compare to other sections, which rows offer the best value, and when we recommend choosing Andanada over lower tiers. You’ll also find two comparison tables and practical guidance for first-time visitors.
What Exactly Are Andanada Seats at Las Ventas?
Andanada is the uppermost tier of seating at Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas — higher than Grada and significantly higher than Tendido. According to venue layout data, Andanada begins above the Grada overhang and forms the final ring of the bullring’s bowl-shaped structure.
Direct definition:
- Andanada = Upper level / highest balcony
- Price range: €25–€45
- Best feature: Panoramic view of the entire arena
- Main trade-off: Steep stair access and vertical height
Andanada is divided into:
- Sun (Sol) – cheapest, exposed to heat
- Shade (Sombra) – limited availability, priced slightly higher
- Sol y Sombra – mixed exposure depending on the time of day
If you’re comparing event dates, check the Madrid bullfighting schedule to understand seasonal sun angles.
→ Book your seats here: Reserve Tickets
How Much Do Andanada Seats Cost?
Andanada is the most budget-friendly option in Las Ventas. Prices depend on the sun/shade distinction:
- Sun (Sol): €25–€35
- Sol y Sombra: €30–€40
- Shade (Sombra): €35–€45
During high-demand events such as San Isidro (15 May–15 June), prices can reach the upper end of these ranges due to increased demand.
Comparison with other seating categories:
| Section | Price Range (€) | Height Level | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andanada | €25–€45 | Highest | Basic |
| Grada | €45–€75 | Upper-mid | Moderate |
| Tendido | €70–€120 | Lower bowl | High |
| Barrera | €140–€180+ | Front row | Premium |
We recommend Andanada when price is the main priority and you prefer wide-angle views of the entire bullring.
→ Check Ticket Availability
What Are the Views Like From the Upper Level?
Andanada views are wide, complete, and elevated, allowing you to see the entire choreography of the bullfight from above. While you don’t get the close-up detail of matador movements, you see patterns, formations, and arena geometry more clearly than lower sections.
From Andanada you can expect:
- A full view of the ring, including all entrances and staging areas
- A strong sense of the crowd atmosphere (sound rises naturally)
- A clear overview of each tercio and faena sequence
- Long-distance perspective rather than detail-oriented action
People who like stadium-style seating often enjoy Andanada. Photographers also appreciate the high angle.
Who should choose Andanada?
- Solo travellers
- Young visitors
- Students
- Visitors wanting the lowest price
- Those who like aerial-style views
Who should not choose Andanada?
- Visitors with mobility concerns
- Families with toddlers
- Anyone sensitive to heat in Sol sections
For more seating comparisons, you can refer to guidance in our bullfighting tickets Madrid overview.
→ Reserve Seats Now
Sun vs Shade in Andanada: What’s the Difference?
Sun vs shade matters more in Andanada than in any other section because the heat intensity increases with altitude. Sol seats in Andanada can feel extremely hot during spring and early summer, while Sombra remains comfortable.
Key differences:
| Andanada Type | Conditions | Best For | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sol (Sun) | Full sun exposure, warm, brightest light | Budget travellers | Only in cooler months |
| Sol y Sombra | Sun at start, shade later | Visitors seeking compromise | Reasonable option |
| Sombra (Shade) | Cooler, shaded entire time | Comfort seekers | Best overall |
If you plan to visit between May and September, choose Sombra for both comfort and visibility.
→ Book shade seats: Check Tickets
Is Andanada Comfortable Enough for Most Visitors?
Andanada seats are the simplest in the bullring. Expect:
- Concrete benches
- Limited legroom
- Steep staircase access
- No handrails in some rows
However, the experience is still enjoyable for anyone comfortable with upper-tier venue seating.
Comfort tips:
- Bring a small cushion (locals do this)
- Arrive early to avoid heavy stair traffic
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Keep water handy
- Avoid the very last rows if you’re sensitive to heights
For the best comfort-to-price ratio, choose lower rows of Andanada Sombra.
→ Reserve Seats Now
How Do You Reach the Andanada Sections?
To reach Andanada, you must climb several flights of stairs — Las Ventas, built in 1931, does not have lifts accessing the upper tiers. Entry typically involves:
- Passing through your designated gate
- Following signage marked “Andanada”
- Climbing multiple steep staircases
- Entering the upper walkway before reaching your row
This is not recommended for:
- Wheelchair users
- Visitors using canes or mobility aids
- Groups with elderly travellers
For full accessibility support, see our accessibility guidance article or book lower-tier seating.
→ Check Lower-Level Seating
Are Andanada Seats Good for First-Time Visitors?
Yes — if you value price and panoramic views. Andanada offers an excellent introduction to the scale and energy of a bullfight. It’s especially popular among:
- Students
- Young travellers
- Backpackers
- Groups on tight budgets
- Visitors attending during cooler weather
However, first-time visitors who want to see the matador’s technique up close should consider Tendido Sombra, which is outlined in greater detail on Madrid Bullfighting.
Andanada is best when:
- You want the cheapest ticket
- You enjoy full-arena visibility
- You’re comfortable with height
- You don’t mind climbing stairs
→ Book Your Seats
Frequently Asked Questions About Andanada Seats at Las Ventas
Are Andanada seats safe for people afraid of heights?
Andanada sits at the highest point of the arena and includes steep steps without railings in some areas. Visitors who dislike heights should choose Grada or Tendido instead, which offer lower elevation and more secure footing.
Do Andanada seats offer good visibility of the bullfight?
Yes. While you’re further from the action, you gain a full view of the arena’s geometry and movement. Many visitors enjoy the overall perspective even if fine details are less visible. Book worry-free with instant confirmation.
Is Andanada Sombra worth the extra cost?
Absolutely. Shade dramatically improves comfort, especially from May to September. The difference between sun and shade can exceed 10–15°C on warm days. We recommend Sombra for anyone planning an evening show.
Can families sit in Andanada?
Yes, but consider mobility. The stairs are long and steep. Families with young children or elderly members may prefer Tendido, where access is easier.
How early should I arrive if I have Andanada tickets?
Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to navigate the upper staircases without crowd pressure. The stairways fill quickly, especially during San Isidro. Early arrival also ensures time for photos before the event.
Are cushions available for rent?
Vendors outside sometimes sell or rent small cushions (“cojines”). Bringing your own lightweight cushion is the easiest option for comfort during the 2-hour event.
Is Andanada a good budget option for San Isidro?
Yes. It’s the most affordable way to attend Madrid’s biggest festival, though seats sell out weeks early. Book as soon as dates appear online to secure a good row.
Ready to Experience Las Ventas From the Upper Levels?
Andanada seats offer unbeatable value for travellers who want panoramic bullring views at the lowest price tier. With tickets typically between €25–€45, these upper-level seats provide an exciting vantage point over the entire arena, especially for budget visitors or those attending for the atmosphere rather than close-up detail.
Booking online ensures instant confirmation, clear seat selection, and the ability to choose shade vs sun in advance — something that makes a big difference at this height. Our multilingual support team (English, French, German, Italian) is ready to help you plan the perfect visit.
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