The WiZink Center, also known to many visitors as Movistar Arena Madrid, is one of Spain’s leading multi-purpose venues. Located in the Salamanca district, it hosts everything from international concerts and sporting competitions to family events and major entertainment tours. With capacities upwards of 15,000 depending on configuration, the arena attracts large crowds and operates strict security procedures — especially when it comes to bags.
Arriving at the WiZink Center
Thanks to its central position, the arena is easily accessible by metro (Goya, O’Donnell and Manuel Becerra), bus routes and taxis. The streets around the venue get busy long before doors open, particularly on nights when big acts are performing. This means your arrival experience is much smoother if you travel light and avoid oversized bags that slow down security screening.
WiZink Center bag policy
The venue follows a clear and consistently enforced set of rules regarding the size and type of bags allowed. While event organisers may occasionally apply additional restrictions, the general guidelines include:
- Small bags only: Handbags, compact daypacks and small cross-body bags are typically permitted, provided they are easy to open and inspect during security checks.
- No large bags or suitcases: Backpacks, large rucksacks, holdalls and all types of suitcases are not allowed into the arena under any circumstances.
- No on-site luggage storage: The WiZink Center does not operate a cloakroom for big bags or personal luggage. If you arrive with items larger than the permitted small-bag limit, you may be turned away at the entrance.
- Mandatory inspections: All bags are subject to security screening to ensure the safety of all visitors. This may include visual checks, opening all compartments, and scanning when required.
- Event-specific rules: Certain artists and sporting events occasionally enforce stricter “no bag” policies, so it is always worth double-checking your ticket information.
For popular concerts and headline events, expect thorough bag inspections, longer queues and a generally more cautious approach from security staff. Planning to carry as little as possible will make your arrival far easier.
What kind of bag should you bring?
To avoid any issues at the gate, the most suitable bag types include:
- A small cross-body bag for essentials like wallet, phone, tickets and medication.
- A compact, soft-shell daypack — but only if it stays well within the “small bag” limits.
- No hard-shell or bulky bags, as these may be refused even if modest in size.
- If attending a standing concert, choose a bag that you don’t mind wearing for long periods.
If you are unsure whether your bag meets the requirements, it’s safest to leave it behind and carry only essentials.
No storage at the venue — plan ahead
The absence of a cloakroom or any type of luggage facility at the WiZink Center makes forward planning essential, particularly for travellers arriving from Madrid Atocha, Chamartín, the airport or from accommodation after checking out. Turning up with a suitcase will almost always result in being refused entry until the bag is stored elsewhere.
For many visitors, especially those travelling from another city or catching a concert shortly after arriving in Madrid, using luggage storage in the city centre before heading to the venue is the easiest option.
Using a nearby stashpoint before your event
Stasher offers a number of storage locations around WiZink Center. These stashpoints are shown as being within walking distance of the arena and allow you to drop off larger bags ahead of time. All bookings and payments are made online via stasher.com. Some locations may charge different rates depending on bag size, so it’s worth reviewing pricing when you book.
Additional visitor tips
- Arrive early — security queues can stretch across the plaza during major events.
- Check event-specific rules on your ticket, as stricter bag policies occasionally apply.
- If you plan to explore Madrid beforehand, store your luggage in advance to avoid rushing.
- Public transport is best — the area around the arena becomes very congested on show nights.
The WiZink Center operates a strict small-bag-only policy, with no on-site storage available for backpacks, suitcases or large items. Whether you’re visiting for a concert, sporting event or family show, travelling light will make your arrival much quicker and smoother. For peace of mind, travellers can store their luggage securely in Madrid before heading to the arena, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish.
