Frontman performing under blue stage lighting

Caja Mágica

Caja Mágica Madrid: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Madrid’s Iconic Venue

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Caja Mágica, or the “Magic Box,” is one of Madrid’s most celebrated modern venues, representing a unique blend of architectural innovation and vibrant urban culture. Since opening in 2009, Caja Mágica has become a pivotal site for international sporting events, concerts, festivals, and major esports tournaments. Designed by architect Dominique Perrault, its striking metallic mesh façade and retractable roofs have made it an architectural landmark, while its dynamic programming ensures there is always something happening for sports fans, music lovers, and cultural explorers alike (Miesarch; thestadiumbusiness.com; Madrid.es).

This comprehensive guide details Caja Mágica’s visiting hours, ticketing and accessibility information, travel tips, nearby attractions, and insights into its architecture and development. Whether you’re attending the Mutua Madrid Open, a major music festival, an esports event, or simply want to witness one of Madrid’s architectural marvels, this article will help you plan a seamless visit.

Introduction
Historical Background and Expansion
Architectural Vision and Design
Structural Features and Innovations
Urban Integration and Environmental Context
Social and Cultural Impact
Major Events and Activities
Visiting Caja Mágica: Hours, Tickets & Travel
Facilities and Visitor Experience
Practical Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Conclusion
References

Historical Background and Expansion

Origins and Development

Caja Mágica was conceived in the early 2000s as part of Madrid’s bid for the 2016 Olympic Games. The city aimed to create a state-of-the-art, multifunctional sports complex that could serve as a catalyst for urban renewal in the southern San Fermín district. Construction began in 2002 on a previously underdeveloped 16.5-hectare site adjacent to the Linear Park of the Manzanares River (Madrid.es).

The venue was completed in 2009, coinciding with the relocation of the Mutua Madrid Open from Madrid Arena to Caja Mágica, significantly boosting the tournament’s international profile (Miesarch; TennisNerd).

Expansion and Recent Developments

To accommodate growing demand, a major expansion is underway. By 2025, a new stadium seating up to 10,000 will be added, increasing total capacity to nearly 26,000. This €18 million project, led once again by Dominique Perrault, will allow the Mutua Madrid Open to host more simultaneous high-profile matches and elevate Madrid’s status as a global destination for sports and entertainment (thestadiumbusiness.com; Madrid.es).

Architectural Vision and Design

Dominique Perrault’s design philosophy for Caja Mágica centers on flexibility, transparency, and environmental integration. The complex’s cubic form, wrapped in a semi-transparent metallic mesh, floats above the landscape and is punctuated by three main courts under retractable roofs. This adaptability enables seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor configurations, accommodating everything from tennis matches to concerts and esports tournaments (Miesarch; thetennistourist.com).

The use of steel, glass, and wood creates a sense of openness and modernity, while the building’s reflective surfaces harmonize with the surrounding parkland. The entire complex covers over 100,000 square meters, with facilities for tennis, padel, swimming, and events of all scales (Miesarch).

Structural Features and Innovations

Manolo Santana Stadium: Central court, 12,500 seats, main venue for the Mutua Madrid Open.
Arantxa Sánchez Vicario Stadium: Second-largest, approximately 2,900 seats.
Estadio 3: Around 1,900 seats.
Additional Facilities: 16 outdoor courts, 6 practice courts, Madrid Tennis Federation headquarters, press center, swimming pool, restaurants, and more (mysportstourist.com).

Each main court features a retractable roof, ensuring uninterrupted play and allowing the venue to host events year-round regardless of weather (thetennistourist.com).

Urban Integration and Environmental Context

Caja Mágica stands at the heart of the Linear Park of the Manzanares River, about 7 km south of Madrid’s city center (mysportstourist.com). The complex is woven into the urban fabric through landscaped plazas, pedestrian paths, and open spaces that invite both visitors and local residents. Sustainability features include energy-efficient lighting, natural ventilation, and easy access via public transport (Metro Line 3 and multiple bus routes), reducing the venue’s environmental impact (mysportstourist.com).

Caja Mágica has significantly influenced Madrid’s cultural and sporting landscape. As host of the annual Mutua Madrid Open and other major events, it attracts tens of thousands of visitors, supporting local tourism and business. The venue has also catalyzed investment and revitalization in the San Fermín district, enhancing Madrid’s reputation as a modern, cosmopolitan city (thetennistourist.com; mysportstourist.com).

Major Events and Activities

Annual Sporting Events

Mutua Madrid Open

The Mutua Madrid Open is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the ATP and WTA circuits. Usually held in late April and early May, it draws the world’s top tennis players and enthusiastic fans. Central court capacity is 12,442, with additional courts seating thousands more (Official Caja Mágica site).

Other Sporting Events

Caja Mágica has hosted the Davis Cup, World Men’s Handball Championship, European Volleyball League, ACB Basketball, World Padel Tour, and more (Madrid Tourism Official; Real Madrid Official).

Major Music Festivals and Concerts

Tomavistas Festival: Tomavistas (May 29–31, 2025) showcases indie and alternative acts, with a focus on sustainability and crowd comfort (La Península).
KALORAMA Madrid: KALORAMA Festival (June 2025) features international artists in an intimate yet energetic setting.
Festival Río Babel: Río Babel (July 4–5, 2025) offers an eclectic mix of genres and global performers (Madrid Official Events).
Other Notable Events: Lenny Kravitz (inaugural concert), MTV Europe Music Awards 2010, Mad Cool and Download Festivals (Official Caja Mágica; MTV Official).

Esports and Entertainment

LEC Summer Finals: The League of Legends European Championship (LEC) Summer Finals come to Caja Mágica in September 2025.
Call of Duty League Major: First Call of Duty League Major of 2025, January 30–February 2, 2025.
Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2024: Junior Eurovision 2024 further demonstrates Caja Mágica’s versatility.

Business, Corporate, and Cultural Events

Modular spaces and advanced facilities make Caja Mágica a top choice for conferences, expos, and television productions (Madrid Film Office).

Visiting Caja Mágica: Hours, Tickets & Travel

Visiting Hours

Caja Mágica operates primarily as an event venue; visiting hours depend on the scheduled event. For tournaments and festivals, doors typically open 1–2 hours before event start. For general visits, check the official website for details.

Tickets

Event Tickets: Purchase via official event websites or authorized partners (Official Mutua Madrid Open Tickets).
Guided Tours: Occasionally available—book in advance online or via Madrid tourism sites.
General Admission: Not available outside events or special tours.

Accessibility

Caja Mágica is fully accessible:

Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms
Reserved parking for people with reduced mobility
Designated seating for wheelchair users
Assistance services available upon request (official accessibility page)

Getting There

Metro: Line 3 to San Fermín-Orcasur, then a 10-minute walk.
Bus: Lines 23, 78, 123, 180, T32.
Taxi: 10–15 minutes from central Madrid, €12–15 (Rome2Rio).
Car: Limited parking; public transport is recommended.

Facilities and Visitor Experience

11 indoor and 16 outdoor tennis courts
Multi-purpose spaces: gyms, spas, restaurants, and event areas
Ample parking (500+ spaces north, 800+ south)
Gift shops, diverse catering, and relaxation zones
Clean, modern facilities and first aid stations

Practical Tips

Purchase tickets early for major events.
Arrive early to explore the venue and avoid queues.
Prepare for weather—some courts are outdoors.
Use public transport to avoid parking issues.
Check event guidelines for security and entry requirements.
Bring ID and required documentation for minors if attending family events.

Nearby Attractions

Usera District: Known for multicultural dining and local markets.
Linear Park of the Manzanares River: Green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas.
Madrid City Center: Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and more accessible by Metro.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Caja Mágica’s opening hours?
A: Hours vary based on event; check the official website or event pages.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Via official event or venue websites and authorized ticketing partners.

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and designated facilities for people with disabilities.

Q: Can I visit outside events?
A: Access is generally event-based; guided tours are occasionally available.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited; public transport is recommended.

Visuals and Media

Exterior: Metallic mesh façade ([Caja Mágica Madrid exterior view with metallic mesh facade])
Interior: Manolo Santana Stadium during tennis ([Manolo Santana Stadium filled with spectators at Caja Mágica])
Aerial: View of complex and surrounding park ([Aerial view of Caja Mágica tennis complex and surrounding park])

See the official website gallery for more.

Conclusion

Caja Mágica stands as a testament to Madrid’s commitment to architectural excellence, urban renewal, and cultural vibrancy. From world-class tennis to major music festivals and esports, the venue offers an inclusive and dynamic experience for all visitors. As it continues to expand and evolve, Caja Mágica remains a highlight of Madrid’s contemporary landscape.