Bullfighting DVDs: Historic Corridas for Sale
The best bullfighting DVDs for international visitors include recordings of José Tomás in Barcelona (2007), Enrique Ponce in Valencia (2019), and historic classics featuring Antonio Ordóñez and El Juli. These DVDs offer authentic insight into bullfighting technique, tradition, and performance quality—perfect preparation before purchasing tickets to a live corrida at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas.
Watching legendary corridas before attending the real thing helps you understand the structure of the faena, why the crowd reacts at key moments, and what defines a great torero. Visitors who watch historic recordings typically enjoy the live event more because they recognise techniques, movements, and pacing described in modern commentary. This preparation is particularly valuable for travellers during major dates like the San Isidro Fair, when technical performances are at their highest level.
In this guide, you’ll find the best bullfighting DVDs to buy, what each recording teaches you, where to purchase DVDs in Madrid, how to choose seating at Las Ventas based on what you’ve learned, and how to secure tickets with instant confirmation. You’ll also see comparison tables, DVD buying tips, recommended viewing order, and direct access to booking your seats through madridbullfighting.com.
Which Bullfighting DVDs Should You Watch Before a Live Corrida?
The most valuable DVDs for newcomers are those featuring top toreros known for clarity of technique, clean execution, and crowd-recognised excellence. These recordings make it easier to follow a live event inside the 23,798-seat Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas.
Essential DVD List for First-Time Visitors
1. José Tomás — Barcelona 2007
A legendary performance often cited by aficionados as one of the greatest modern corridas ever filmed. Ideal for learning the quiet, artistic style of modern toreo.
2. Enrique Ponce — Valencia 2019 (Fallas)
Demonstrates precision, control, and textbook technique—excellent for learning structure.
3. Antonio Ordóñez — Ronda Classics
Historic reference material showing how traditional technique evolved.
4. El Juli — Madrid Highlights
Dynamic, modern, powerful style; great for understanding timing and crowd interaction.
You can compare upcoming real events through the Madrid bullfighting schedule.
Why These DVDs Matter Before Buying Tickets
According to the official Las Ventas programming board, modern corridas feature toreros like Roca Rey, Talavante, Emilio de Justo, and Tomás Rufo—whose movements directly mirror the structure demonstrated in these DVDs. Watching them first helps you understand:
- What a strong entrance looks like
- How a faena builds
- Why certain passes earn applause
- How the matador earns trophies
Travellers who watch at least one or two DVDs before attending overwhelmingly report better comprehension during the live event, especially when seated in shadow sections 8–10 (€85–€140).
→ Book your seats anytime through the interactive map on the main site.
Where to Buy Bullfighting DVDs in Madrid
Historic corrida DVDs are easiest to find at specialty stores near Las Ventas and major retail chains around the city.
Best DVD Shops in Madrid
1. Librería Rodríguez (Calle Conde de Peñalver)
Largest selection of bullfight DVDs in the city.
2. Las Ventas Official Shop
Located by the arena; sells classic corridas, documentaries, and modern highlights.
3. El Corte Inglés, Callao
Carries a reliable selection of both modern and classic recordings.
4. Casa del Libro, Gran Vía
Occasionally stocks rare titles and limited runs.
Typical prices range between €12–€25 for standard editions and €30–€60 for special collector’s editions.
→ For trip planning, see the full bullfighting tickets guide.
What Each DVD Teaches You About the Corrida
Here is a breakdown of what you’ll learn from the most commonly purchased titles.
José Tomás — Barcelona 2007
Teaches:
- Pure minimalist technique
- Emotional tension
- Why crowds respond to stillness and bravery
- Muleta placement and timing
Enrique Ponce — Fallas 2019
Teaches:
- Classical precision
- Perfect line, rhythm, and placement
- How toreros manipulate terrain
- How to read the bull’s behaviour
Antonio Ordóñez Historical Footage
Teaches:
- Pre-modern technique
- The development of modern faena structure
- Crowd ritual and expectation
El Juli — Madrid Highlights
Teaches:
- Modern power and control
- Why locals admire technical mastery
- Strategic placement
→ When you understand these techniques, you’ll appreciate premium shadow seats even more.
Comparison Table: Which DVD Helps Which Type of Viewer?
| DVD Title | Best For | What You Learn | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| José Tomás — Barcelona 2007 | Artistic viewers | Minimalism & emotion | €15–€25 |
| Enrique Ponce — Fallas 2019 | Technical learners | Structure & precision | €15–€20 |
| Antonio Ordóñez Classics | History lovers | Evolution of toreo | €12–€18 |
| El Juli — Madrid | Modern fans | Power & timing | €15–€25 |
→ Once you’ve watched a few recordings, you can choose your seating at Las Ventas far more confidently.
How Your DVD Knowledge Helps You Choose Seats at Las Ventas
Understanding what happens in a corrida helps you pick seats based on what you want to observe.
If You Want Clear Technical Views
Choose Tendido Sombra (Sections 8–10).
Prices: €80–€180 depending on event.
If You Want a Budget Overview
Choose Tendido Sol (Sections 4–7).
Prices: €35–€75.
If You Want High-Angle Analysis
Choose Andanada Sombra.
Prices: €40–€65.
Regular season corridas start at 7:00 PM from March to June and 6:00 PM in September–October, as confirmed by the official Las Ventas schedule.
→ View availability using the booking widget below.
DVD Buying Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Buy at least one technical DVD before your trip
- Watch modern toreros if attending San Isidro
- Avoid extremely old recordings unless you enjoy historical study
- Match seat choice to what you want to analyse
- Bring your DVD knowledge to the arena—locals will appreciate your understanding
According to Madrid tourism data, over 15,000 international travellers book seats through madridbullfighting.com each year.
DVD Viewing Pairing Guide (Based on Your Ticket Type)
| Ticket Type | Best DVD Combo | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Shadow (€100–€180) | Ponce + José Tomás | Perfect for faena analysis |
| Mid-Range (€55–€90) | José Tomás + El Juli | Covers classic + modern |
| Budget Sun (€30–€55) | Hemingway documentary only | Light pre-event intro |
→ Seats in shadow areas sell out 3–4 weeks early.
Reserve Tickets (Instant Confirmation)
Frequently Asked Questions About Bullfighting DVDs and Tickets
Are bullfighting DVDs still worth buying in 2026?
Yes. Although much material exists online, physical DVDs offer higher-quality footage, reliable commentary, and curated selections featuring top toreros. They are especially useful for travellers preparing to attend a live corrida at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas. Recordings featuring José Tomás, Ponce, or El Juli provide textbook examples of faena structure, which significantly enhances what you’ll see from seats in Sections 8–10. Many visitors find that watching DVDs beforehand enriches the live experience.
Where can I find English-subtitled bullfighting DVDs?
Librería Rodríguez and the official Las Ventas shop usually carry English-friendly editions or documentaries with bilingual narration. Casa del Libro on Gran Vía sometimes stocks imported versions with subtitles. If you prefer modern recordings of top toreros performing in Madrid, the Las Ventas shop often sells DVDs tied to recent seasons. Because availability fluctuates, it’s best to shop early during your trip. Once you’re ready, you can book your seats with instant confirmation through our platform.
Do DVDs help me choose better seats at Las Ventas?
Absolutely. DVDs teach you exactly where the matador positions himself, how the bull moves across the ring, and where the most technical work takes place. This helps you select sections like Tendido 8, 9, or 10 on the shadow side if you want a clear view of the faena. Ticket prices for these areas range from €85–€150 during regular season. Many visitors who study these recordings enjoy greater understanding and choose their seats more confidently.
How early should I buy tickets for a corrida if I’m preparing with DVDs?
If you’re attending during the San Isidro Fair (15 May–15 June), purchase tickets 4–6 weeks ahead, as shadow seats sell out quickly. Regular season events usually allow more flexibility, but we still recommend booking 2–3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred view. High-demand dates featuring top toreros like Roca Rey fill even faster. Booking online gives you instant confirmation and access to the interactive seating map.
Can I buy DVDs directly at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas?
Yes, the official Las Ventas shop typically stocks a curated selection of historic corridas, documentaries, and modern performances. Prices range from €12–€25 for standard editions. Availability depends on the programming cycle, with more stock during San Isidro and major festivals. Buying from the venue ensures authenticity and accurate production quality. After purchasing DVDs, you can head straight to the booking area to select your seats with instant confirmation.
Ready to Experience Las Ventas?
Bullfighting DVDs are one of the most effective ways to prepare for a live corrida in Madrid. They give you context, sharpen your eye for technique, and help you recognise the artistry behind each pass. They also make it easier to choose the right seats based on what kind of performance you want to analyse.
Here are the three key takeaways most travellers rely on:
- Watching at least one technical DVD dramatically improves your understanding of the faena
- The best seats for DVD-informed visitors are shadow sections 8–10 (€80–€180)
- Booking online gives you seat selection, instant confirmation, and English-speaking support
If you’re ready to attend a real corrida at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, secure your seats now with the booking tool below.
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For more than 25 years, we have helped promote Madrid to thousands of travelers, as the initiative includes both the promotion of bullfighting and the cultural appeal of the city to visitors.
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