San Isidro Bullfighting Press Passes: Media Accreditation Guide
San Isidro bullfighting press passes are limited-access media accreditations that allow approved journalists, photographers, and content creators to cover corridas at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas during the San Isidro Fair (15 May–15 June 2026). They are not public tickets, cannot be purchased like standard seats, and require formal approval from organisers—often weeks in advance.
For visitors planning their first bullfight in Madrid, this matters because press passes are frequently misunderstood as “VIP tickets.” They are not. If your goal is to attend, enjoy, and photograph the spectacle as a spectator, the fastest and most reliable option is booking official tickets with seat selection and instant confirmation rather than chasing uncertain accreditation.
In this guide, you’ll learn who actually qualifies for press passes, how the accreditation process works, realistic timelines, and—most importantly—what to book instead if you want guaranteed access to San Isidro dates in 2026. You’ll also see clear price comparisons, seating recommendations, and booking tips that remove the guesswork.
What Are San Isidro Press Passes—and Who Qualifies?
San Isidro press passes are professional media credentials issued to recognised outlets covering bullfighting as news or cultural reporting. Approval is controlled by the organisers at Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas in coordination with regional authorities.
Who qualifies (direct answer):
- Accredited journalists from established newspapers, TV, radio, or wire services
- Professional photographers with published bullfighting portfolios
- Documentarians commissioned by recognised platforms
Who does not qualify:
- Tourists, bloggers without press backing, and casual photographers
- Social media creators without prior approval or assignment letters
- Anyone seeking “better seats” or backstage access
According to the official criteria, applications must include an assignment letter, samples of previous coverage, and proof of publication reach. Decisions are final and capacity is capped per corrida.
Our recommendation: If you’re travelling on fixed dates, do not rely on accreditation. Book a guaranteed seat instead.
How the Accreditation Process Works (Step by Step)
The accreditation process takes 3–6 weeks and is not guaranteed. Even approved media are assigned locations based on availability.
Typical steps:
- Submit an application with credentials and assignment letter
- Wait for approval (or rejection) by the organising committee
- Receive designated access (press box, photo pit, or restricted areas)
- Collect credentials in Madrid with passport verification
Key constraints:
- Access varies by event and day
- Photo positions rotate; you may not shoot every corrida
- No seat choice and no companions allowed
For most visitors, this uncertainty conflicts with travel plans. That’s why many first-time attendees choose official tickets with shade-side seating and arrive stress-free.
Press Pass vs Ticket: Which Should You Choose?
Tickets are the right choice for 99% of visitors. Here’s a clear comparison to help you decide.
| Feature | Press Pass | Official Ticket |
|---|---|---|
| Guaranteed entry | No | Yes |
| Seat selection | No | Yes (interactive map) |
| Processing time | 3–6 weeks | Instant |
| Companion allowed | No | Yes |
| Price | Free (if approved) | €25–€180 |
| Best for | Working media | Visitors & first-timers |
We recommend official tickets if your goal is to experience San Isidro comfortably and on your schedule.
→ Reserve tickets (instant confirmation)
How Much Do San Isidro Tickets Cost in 2026?
San Isidro ticket prices range from €35 to €180 depending on seat location, shade, and date. Premium corridas with top toreros sell out first.
Typical prices:
- Andanada (upper ring): €35–€55
- Tendido Sol (sun): €40–€70
- Tendido Sombra (shade): €85–€140
- Barrera/Contrabarrera: €150–€180
Prices increase for weekends and star line-ups. According to historical sales data, prime dates sell out 4–6 weeks in advance.
For a full calendar overview, see the Madrid bullfighting schedule 2026.
Shadow vs Sun Seats: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Yes—shade seats are worth the extra cost for San Isidro afternoons. Corridas typically start at 7:00 PM, and Madrid’s spring sun can be intense.
| Criteria | Sun (Sol) | Shade (Sombra) |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Hot | Cooler |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Comfort | Basic | High |
| Best for | Budget travellers | First-timers |
Our pick for first-timers: Tendido 8–10 in the shade, mid-rows for balanced views.
For seat layouts and angles, read our bullfighting tickets Madrid guide.
Can You Photograph the Bullfight Without a Press Pass?
Yes, from your seat—within limits. Spectators may take photos for personal use with smartphones or small cameras.
What’s allowed:
- Phones and compact cameras
- Non-commercial use
What’s restricted:
- Large lenses and tripods
- Commercial publication without permission
- Movement during the corrida
If photography is your priority, choose lower rows with clear sightlines rather than chasing accreditation you may not receive.
How to Book Tickets the Smart Way (Avoid Sold-Out Dates)
Booking online is faster and cheaper than the box office. You’ll receive instant confirmation and can choose exact seats.
Best practices:
- Book 4–6 weeks ahead for San Isidro
- Prioritise shade for comfort
- Choose aisle seats for easier entry/exit
- Avoid last-minute box office queues (45–60 minutes)
You can select your exact seats using the interactive map on the home page.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Isidro Bullfighting Press Passes
Do press passes guarantee entry to every San Isidro corrida?
No. Approval grants access only to specific dates and areas assigned by organisers. Capacity is limited, and access can change daily. If you need certainty, official tickets are the only guaranteed option. Book worry-free with instant confirmation.
Can bloggers or YouTubers get accredited?
Rarely. Without an assignment letter from a recognised outlet and prior bullfighting coverage, applications are usually rejected. Most creators attend as spectators with tickets.
When should I apply for accreditation?
Applications typically open 6–8 weeks before the fair. Submitting late significantly reduces approval chances, especially for high-demand dates.
Are press areas better than spectator seats?
Not for comfort. Press boxes prioritise coverage, not views or shade. Spectator seats—especially in sombra—offer a better experience.
Is it ethical or controversial to attend?
Bullfighting is regulated and legal in Madrid. If you’re unsure, attending one corrida from a shaded seat allows you to observe respectfully and decide for yourself.
What’s the easiest way to attend if my dates are fixed?
Book official tickets online. You’ll avoid uncertainty, queues, and last-minute stress. Book worry-free with instant confirmation.
Ready to Experience Las Ventas?
Here’s what to remember:
- Press passes are for working media only and not a reliable option for visitors.
- Official tickets guarantee entry, seat choice, and comfort.
- Shade seats sell out first, especially during San Isidro 2026.
With instant confirmation, best price guarantee, and expert support, you can secure your place at the world’s most famous bullring without hassle. Questions? Our team speaks English, French, German, and Italian.
Madrid Bullfighting was created 25 years ago out of the need to bring Spain’s bullfighting tradition closer to international visitors coming to Madrid, making ticket purchasing easier and providing clear, reliable information in their own language. This program was originally launched by the Community of Madrid.
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.
The program offers recommendations and guides to cultural activities considered of interest by the Community of Madrid, including visits, shows, and traditional experiences. Depending on the season, discounts may be available for additional cultural activities recognized by the Community of Madrid.