Madrid, Spain’s capital and one of Europe’s most populous, cosmopolitan and popular cities, is a real blast whichever way you look at it.

And that’s not just a figure of speech; it has a brutal leisure agenda, a very interesting history, an impressive gastronomy and a nightlife like few others in the world.

And to prove that Madrid is impressive from every perspective, today we’re going to take a look at the best views of Madrid, places where you can enjoy a unique view.

The best views of Madrid during the day

Viewpoints and natural places with the best views of Madrid

Gardens of San Francisco el Grande

Calle Gran Vía de San Francisco, 29

The Parque de San Francisco, although the cats of Madrid will still know it as ‘Dalieda’ because of all the dahlias that were planted there in 2007 and then replaced by rosebushes, has a background image that is hard to forget.

Next to the Basilica of San Francisco, hence its official name, it has a perfect position and orientation for sunsets. A place worth visiting in itself, imagine yourself while the sun goes down, a unique park that will make you see Madrid from a new point of view.

This botanical garden has 4200 square metres, and in late spring and early summer its plants are in full bloom. In addition, they are accompanied by El sueño de San Isidro, a mid-20th century sculpture by Santiago Costa.

 

Cerro del Tío Pío or Parque de las Siete Tetas

Calle de Benjamín Palencia, 2

By Puente de Vallecas is one of the most famous parks and green areas in all of Madrid; Cerro del Tío Pío or the Park of the Seven Tits. It goes without saying that the park has seven hills, hence its nickname.

The park is the perfect place to admire the silhouette of the famous Torrespaña pyramid. It also blends in with the blocks and houses of Madrid, a Madrid that seems to be asleep, but don’t be fooled, it has one of the best views in the whole city. And not only that, you will be connected with nature, admiring a beautiful painting and you can even enjoy a picnic.

Montaña de Príncipe Pío – Príncipie Pío Mountain

Calle Ferraz, 1

A monumental place, where you can enjoy the Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace, as well as a breathtaking sunset. And if you want to enjoy this sunset in a unique way, then take a trip to the famous Temple of Debod.

Two of the largest and most beautiful buildings in the whole of Spain as a backdrop, and next to you, a jewel of Egyptian culture, all in the heart of Madrid, because only here is it possible to experience something like this.

Rooftops and terraces with the best views in Madrid 

Rooftop terrace of the Círculo de Bellas Artes

We are in the heart of Madrid, walking along Gran Vía we will reach one of the most popular rooftops in Madrid. The fame of this rooftop is not invented, it is as true as its impressive location.

Come up and have a drink while you watch the heart of Madrid beat, with the comings and goings of people and cars on Gran Vía. A unique view for the urbanites.

Terrace of El Corte Inglés Callao

We don’t go very far, we don’t move very much, but being where we are, it’s like never moving from here.

The big Schweppes sign, as cinematic as it is Madrilenian, will be in front of you, just like the rest of Gran Vía. And you don’t just come up here to take photos, sit down, relax, enjoy a good cocktail, soft drink or even something to nibble on. Live the full experience with one of the best views in the centre of Madrid.

Rooftop Hotel Riu Plaza España

From Madrid to the sky, and in between, will be the rooftop of the Riu. In Plaza España, in what used to be the España building, this hotel has managed to dust off the building and bring back its glamour and style.

The views are truly breathtaking, breathtaking. But they also give a twist to the idea of being in the heights. If you have vertigo, come down from there, but we recommend you try it. Its glass floor will make you feel like you’re floating above Madrid. Yes, a walkway and a balcony with a glass floor. Who dares?

Monuments with the best views of Madrid

Faro de Moncloa

Let’s start with one of the ones you may be less familiar with. The Moncloa lighthouse offers just what it promises; a lighthouse in the northern part of the centre of Madrid.

At over 100 metres high, you’ll be about 90 metres above the ground when you look out and can enjoy spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of Madrid. From the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral to the Cuatro Torres and the Gran Vía.

Viewpoint of the Cibeles Palace

We continue enjoying Madrid with 360 degrees of vision, and we go to the area of Cibeles because, in addition to visiting impressive buildings, you will have a unique view from the highest tower of the palace.

From here we can enjoy the most lively and urban Madrid, with the Gran Vía and Calle Alcalá at our feet, as well as the Retiro Park and the Paseo de la Castellana.

Viewpoint of Catedral de la Almudena

In the dome of the Almudena Cathedral hides the most obvious and biggest secret in all of Madrid; unparalleled panoramic views of the city. Entering through the museum and before reaching the viewpoint, halfway up you can already enjoy a balcony overlooking the Royal Palace.

Once at the top, a corridor escorted by large sculptures of saints surrounds the dome, this is the viewpoint. Its views of Madrid are the best, unique, unbeatable. Enjoy the whole of Madrid at your feet, absolutely nothing will be left behind.