Madrid is not only one of the European capitals for its culture and leisure, but also for being one of the greenest cities in the world.
It has an extensive network of parks and gardens, as well as promoting public transport and greener and more ecological mobility. Today we are going to review the most important green areas, that network that creates a great lung in Madrid.
Whether you are looking for a bit of peace, a walk in nature, hiking or simply observing the local flora, these parks and gardens will captivate you.
Best Parks and gardens in Madrid
Parque El Retiro
If we talk about parks, gardens and green areas, it is impossible to start a list or a guide without mentioning what is considered the most important park in the Spanish capital.In the heart of Madrid, it offers as many leisure options as there are things to do and discover.
Stroll along its paths, go cycling along its trails, disconnect in nature, have a picnic, visit its pond and take a boat or go on a route to visit all the monuments hidden in it. Some are more hidden than others.
The Palacio de Cristal is, together with the pond and the monument to Alfonso XII, one of El Retiro’s flagship monuments. The Palacio de Cristal is not only an attraction in itself, but also hosts temporary art exhibitions of the Reina Sofía.
And if art is your thing, the Palacio de Velázquez is just a stone’s throw away, as are the fountain of the Fallen Angel, the Forest of Remembrance, in memory of the victims of the 11M attacks, the Puerta de España and the Paseo de las Estatuas, among many other things.
Jardines de Sabatini
A completely magical place, even more so at night, which is not only beautiful in itself, but its location is a real treat. It is situated behind the imperial Royal Palace, and at night the whole area is illuminated, creating a unique atmosphere in the capital.
It is not surprising that it is visited by many couples, because the place is very special. Its neoclassical style, the tranquillity in the centre, the marble sculptures, the pond, all the details just make it more beautiful with every step you take.
Real Jardín Botánico
Another green jewel of Madrid. Very close to the Retiro, the Royal Botanical Garden offers a wide variety of plants with more than five thousand species. Walk through its paths, greenhouses, labyrinths and gardens to discover flora from all over the world.
t is also very close to places of great interest such as the Prado Museum, one of the most important in the world, the Retiro itself and Atocha Station. An obligatory stop whether you are touring Madrid’s parks or visiting its main monuments.
El Capricho Park
One of the most beautiful parks in Madrid also has one of the most important peculiarities you should bear in mind: it is only open at weekends and on public holidays. The Duchess of Osuna was in charge of its creation, back in the 18th century, putting all the knowledge of the time into it.
It is a peaceful place, ideal for disconnecting while walking among its canals, fountains, ponds and flowers. Like any busy place, you need to book before visiting. It’s free, but to avoid crowds, you should book on their website.
Parque del Oeste
We keep moving through the heart of Madrid, going to Plaza de España, next to the monument to Don Quixote, from the brilliant mind of Cervantes. In the Parque del Oeste, the jewel in the crown is the famous Temple of Debod, a gift from the Egyptian government to Spain, one of the most magical places to watch the sunset. This is the real gift for the Madrileños and all those who visit Madrid.
Although there is much more to the park, besides a large plantation of national and international flowers called La Rosaleda, you will find the cable car station that will take you to Casa de Campo.
Casa de Campo
La Casa de Campo is huge, but it’s worth every step you take in it. To give you an idea of how big it is, it has an amusement park inside, and it’s not small at all, and a zoo. And lest we forget, it also has a lake.
And this is the area where there is the most life, with a large number of bars and restaurants. And for true nature lovers, Casa de Campo has many unique trees, hundreds of years old.
Parque de las Siete Tetas
Officially known as the Cerro del Tío Pío Park, everyone knows it as the Park of the Seven Tits, because of its seven hills. From these hills you will have breathtaking views of Madrid.
A panoramic view that will allow you to see and photograph emblematic buildings and monuments that draw a different Madrid. There is no doubt that if you are a fan of photography or social networks, this is a must on your route through Madrid.