A Guide to Madrid's Stunning Parks and Gardens
With Spain's capital city of Madrid topping travelers' bucket lists for must-see Europe destinations, drawing visitors from across the globe, it comes as no surprise that Madrid tourism is booming. So, what can you expect to discover when on a Madrid trip? From Old World architecture that will awe and inspire to world-class dining options featuring exquisite cuisine, and so much more including marvelous must-see attractions, you could safely say Madrid has it all.
But did you know that Madrid also has quite the array of amazing parks and gardens, each filled with expansive green spaces, flourishing flora, and acres upon acres to come away from the world and simply soak in the natural beauty of Spain's capital city? If you are one of the millions that have a Madrid trip at the top of their travel itinerary (and why wouldn't you be?!), being sure to include stops at some of Madrid's most stunning parks and gardens is an absolute must! To help you ensure you don't miss the most magical ones, we have compiled our highlight reel of sorts, covering the best Madrid parks and gardens you simply won't want to miss!
Escape from the Outside World at Madrid's Retiro Park
If we had to pick one single Madrid park that is the most iconic of them all, it would have to be El Parque del Buen Retiro, also known as Retiro Park. Once used solely as a heavenly oasis for Spain's Royal elite, Retiro Park in Madrid was often used as the site for the famed garden plays and concerts the Royal families were known to host.
Visitors stopping by Madrid's Retiro Park can look forward to meandering down winding, paved paths past the iconic Crystal Palace, getting an eye-full of gorgeous fountains, and even strolling around the vast man-made lake on the grounds. For those who are wanting to try something new and fun as you visit Retiro Park in Madrid, you can even rent a rowboat onsite and paddle your way around this truly lovely lake. You will also probably pass many locals biking, walking, or jogging amid the jaw-dropping scenery here, too, so feel free to join them in these activities as well!
Wander Around Madrid's Royal Botanical Gardens
Way back in the late 1700s, Spain's King Carlos III was struck with the intense desire to fill Madrid with the magic of blooms and beauty. So, in 1774 the royal leader of Spain officially commissioned Italian architect Francesco Sabatini (the mastermind who also worked on parts of the Royal Palace) to design botanical gardens that rival and astound all.
Visitors to Madrid's Botanical Gardens today will discover a trio of greenhouses onsite, representing different climates and boasting more than 30,000 species of plants. The location of these gardens is also quite ideal, as the nearby proximity to Madrid's famous Prado Museum offers this enchanting site up as a perfect place of respite and reprieve after spending a few hours of exploration among the arts.
Marvel at the Grandeur of Madrid's Expansive Casa de Campo
The saying “Go big or go home” definitely applies when referring to Casa de Campo, as it is Madrid's largest park, covering more than 4,000 acres of sprawling land! Visitors to Casa de Campo can not only soak up the natural beauty within the park, but can also avail themselves of numerous activities, including options for biking, walking, and even picnicking on extra lovely days when the weather is fine.
And if you are an animal lover, Casa de Campo is also the site of a Madrid zoo, a Madrid aquarium, and even a Madrid amusement park! So, head to Casa de Campo and let the fun commence!
Visit Parque del Oeste for a Parade of Roses and More
If you love roses, Parque del Oeste in Madrid will thrill you to the core, as its onsite rose garden has long been its premiere claim to fame. Also found in this magical Madrid park are myriad evergreen trees, as well as an ancient curiosity: the Egyptian Temple of Debod.
Be Captivated by the Beauty of Campo del Moro
Inspired by the royal gardens of England, Campo del Moro Park – which literally translates as “The Field of the Moor” – is a nod to the Moors' attempt to capture Madrid back in the 12th century. As the story goes, where the gardens stand today mark the very spot where a Moorish military leader camped overnight with his troops, thus christening the expansive space at the time with the moniker. Visitors to the garden space will truly feel as if they have been teleported to a sprawling English estate in the countryside, making Camp del Moro a must-visit Madrid attraction.
Get Lost in the Unique Labyrinth that Is Jardines de Sabatini
The same acclaimed Italian architect as mentioned before, Sabatini, is not responsible this marvelous Madrid garden, but is instead the namesake for it, as the gorgeous grounds were officially opened nearly 200 years after his death and named after him in his posthumous honor. Located on the grounds of the Royal Palace in Madrid, what makes this garden so unique is its ode to the French design style, incorporating their iconic trimmed hedges, shaped into crisp, geometrically angled eye candy.
Step Back in Time at Jardín del Príncipe de Anglona
Feel as if you have stepped back in time as you stop by Jardín del Príncipe de Anglona, a walled garden filled with wonders that harken visitors back to days gone by. If you are looking for a peaceful place to hide away from the hubbub of the capital city, this garden – one of the most historical in all of Madrid -- just might be the perfect pick.
Discover the Woodland Wonderland of Dehesa de la Villa
If you have a bit of time and are looking for an active morning or afternoon in Madrid, consider journeying to Dehesa de la Villa. Tucked away in the northern edge of the capital city, this expansive park was gifted to Madrid by King Alfonso VI to be used as a hunting ground way back in the 1100s. One of the few Madrid parks that is forested, this woodland wonder offers visitors hours of enjoyment to escape the city and simply get lost in nature. The park also offers a splendid view of the capital city skyline if you are looking for a place offering a priceless Madrid panorama!
Embrace Your Inner Whimsy at Parque del Capricho
Literally translated as “the whim,” Parque del Capricho is one of the few private Madrid parks we have listed in this guide. The park takes a wee bit longer to get to from Madrid center, as it is found in the district of Barajas, but the park itself is so lovely, it is well worth the trek.
A highlight of the grounds is its trio of sections: a French section resembling the style of Versailles, an English-inspired garden, and an Italian-inspired garden. Just note that the park is only open to visitors on weekends and holidays, so be sure to make your Madrid travel plans accordingly, so you can add this enchanted spot to your list!
Picnic and Play at Parque Juan Carlos I
If you are looking for a perfect place to have a picnic, then play, play, play, Parque Juan Carlos I is a family-friendly park that takes the cake! A family-friendly recreational wonderland, you can do all kinds of activities while visiting here, among which include rollerblading, running, and even renting bikes. There is even a courtesy little train that transports visitors to and from within the park!
And if you are the type of traveler that likes to learn all about the culture of the destinations you visit, you will particularly enjoy the park's three-pronged garden, which represents influences of the trio of historic cultures that characterize Spain: Jewish, Christian, and Arab.
Run Along the Rivera at Madrid Rio
Runners looking for a great place to stretch their legs need to look no further than the Rivera at Madrid Rio. Pristinely maintained and one of the more modern, recent Madrid parks, this spectacular space spans an impressive 10km along the Manzanares Riverside and features myriad walking and running paths, as well as children’s play areas, and even a little beach of sorts to enjoy.
Watch a Sunset from Jardines de Las Vistillas
Searching for a perfect spot to enjoy the magic of a Madrid sunset with that special someone? Head to Jardines de Las Vistillas, a beautiful Madrid park situated in West Madrid that offers not only lovely panoramas of the Mazanares River but also provides an absolutely stunning vantage point for taking in the inspiring image of the iconic Almudena Cathedral.
Ready to Lose Yourself Amid the Most Magical Madrid Parks and Gardens?
Are you ready to escape away and immerse yourself in these stunning Madrid parks and gardens? Our expert team is here to help make your travel dreams come true and plan a Madrid trip that is perfectly catered to you! Reach out today and let us tell you all about our amazing Madrid specials and travel deals, so we can work together to make your Madrid trip nothing short of magical!
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