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El Retiro Park is one of Madrid's most beautiful and historic green spaces, stretching across more than 125 hectares and filled with over 15,000 trees. It sits right in the heart of the city and offers a calm escape from the busy streets. It's a place where locals and visitors come to walk, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. You can wander through the rose garden, sit by the water, or explore its monuments.
This is an absolutely breathtaking park; so many trails lead to surprising and serene spots. Google maps are a great way to navigate to certain areas, and I plan to do more exploring soon. So far, here are some of my favorite highlights: * Enter/Exit at the Puerta de Filipe IV on Calle de Alfonso XII, just across the Prado Museum. This entrance is impressive and meticulously planted. * Enter/Exit at the gate near the Puerta de Alcala as the peek-a-book view of Puerta de Alcala is worth it * Stroll along the Great Pond of El Retiro, and head toward Palacio De Cristal and Palacio de Velazquez (unfortunately both museums are currently closed til 2026/2027) * Meander to the Cascada Parque El Retiro - the trees are turning glorious red and orange, and be sure to find the little waterfall view * There is even a little chess park * I am fond of gazing at the various monuments and sculptures - too many to list!
What a beautiful property. I would've never seen the things I got to see had it not been for the tour guide who showed me all the highlights and must sees of the property. We entered through the Puerta de la Independencia then made our way to multiple spots. The park was filled with local residents doing their morning cardio session. Lots of people walking and running. Some were doing tai chi. My favorite area was the corner where cats and peacocks roamed around freely. YES. Peacocks were in their private area walking freely that they felt comfortable when people were just inches away from them. They were super chill minding their business like they owned the place. I also saw a bunch of ducks hanging out with them. They seemed like they were friends. I noticed a bunch of food vendors/carts, but it was so early so they weren't open yet. The other food stands were also still close. I'd love to see this during spring as I noticed the trees were all dark with dead leaves. I bet it looks super pretty when all the flowers are in bloom.
Being a New Yorker, I use Central Park as the benchmark for all other grand parks and this park in Central Madrid is outstanding! It's beautiful and clean and has formal areas and more informal areas. It was crowded (but not overly so) the day we visited so I didn't feel unsafe. There are some hills here so you can get a decent workout just walking around and taking in the sights (fountains, gardens, lake, etc). Really a gem and one of the world's most beautiful parks.
This park is a Great place to gravitate to from your hotel in Salamanca, we visited at least three (3) times in a week!! You can also come here after lunch or dinner, just to walk off your calories. From what I've read, Parque Del Retiro is the green lungs of Madrid and I believe that, with its 15,000+ trees. It's full of numerous fountains and sculptures and my two favorite things are the Great pond and the Crystal Palace. Looking back, I should have rented a row boat but when you're anxious and jumpy in a new city, idly floating around was a bit too sedate at that moment. So maybe next time. The Crystal Palace and surrounding landscaping and pond are truly beautiful as well. I guess a third favorite is museum Reina Sophia's art display, which is located in one of the buildings inside the Parque. That was worth visiting and was quite a surprise. Believe it or not, the public restrooms (which are underground) were very clean. That was a big surprise as well.
What a huge beautiful park in Madrid! We toured most of the park and we stayed all day long! The rose gardens and mazes were gorgeous and impeccably manicured, even though it was a bit early for the show of blooms, we did see many gorgeous roses! We visited the crystal palace and pond, and enjoyed seeing the black swan and other birds and animals, the small waterfall is a great photo op spot. Although the peacocks were enclosed, we did get to spy several magnificent iridescent plumages! The buildings with their authentic architecture were worth seeing and the other huge lake with the castle in the background was lovely. The statue garden was fascinating as well. Visitors can rent bikes and paddle boats, there's several snack stands (we got ice cream) , and the many musicians and entertainers throughout the park were fun to hear and see! Totally worth spending a day here exploring and getting in touch with nature! Put this place on your must see Madrid list!
This park is a great experience by itself. Be prepared to walk, or rent a bike. Tip: I used Google Maps to get from one point of interest to another and I walked through shortcuts to get from the pond to the Palacio de Cristal, which is a hidden gem (or at least it felt like it during my morning walk).
Passed this park on the way to Mercado La Paz. My Cab driver said it was a beautiful park so planned to walk through after the Mercado visit. 15 minutes from Mercado La Paz/Salamanca area. Gardens throughout with a few water fountains and walking paths. I saw two Cafes and a couple of food stands. Also, some picnic areas. A small lake provides some great views of King Alfonso's Monument. Also, saw the Fountain of the Turtles. Didn't have time to see Madrid's oldest tree and there is much more to see. Park wasn't too crowded around 3 on a Friday afternoon. Most definitely one to visit.
Retiro Park is like the Central Park of Madrid. This gigantic park has it all. Large grassy areas for a picnic or long pathways to run or walk. A big lake in the center to rent a row boat and ride around or a crystal palace to swoon over. Retiro is big and it can be hard to see everything on foot. There are lots of available rental bikes to make your trip throughout the park even easier.
Park was once the private playground of royalty. Formal gardens, rose gardens, fountains, lakes, exhibition halls, outdoor cafes, flamenco concerts, puppet theater on weekends at 1. Glass palace houses exotic plants. Statue called the Angel Caido fallen angel is the only one in the world depicting the prince of darkness foe his fall from grace. The large pond had musicians, restaurants, and lots of walkers. Serene beautiful Saturday morning.
2 months ago
Retiro Park is an oasis in the center of Madrid. Is a gorgeous, immaculately maintained green space in the heart of the city. There are numerous entrances into the park and walking paths throughout. On a pretty day, it's hard to find a better place to spend the afternoon. The people watching is fantastic, and there are multiple things to see and do inside the park, including the crystal Palace. I love to go sit by the lake and watch the people on the boats. They are often musicians playing, kids riding their bikes, and families enjoying all that Madrid has to offer. read more
3 months ago
So if I lived in Madrid, I'd run Parque Del Retiro daily. We wandered in for a stroll but I had my heart set on a little mermaid moment, l was ready to row a boat, minus any kissing the girl. We meandered through the park a bit and eventually found ourselves to the row boats. After a little coaching from bestie, I sort of had it down. We'll just say I won't soon be rowing on any Olympic team and I managed to splash a good amount of water up on us but we were going places! This has got to be a must do if you're visiting. The weather shaped up rather nicely and we had the boat in by sunset. I loved seeing how many runners were out at different times of the day here. Beautiful park to spend some time. read more
Another place that was high on my list of places to visit while in Madrid. This park was beautiful and you could spend days walking around and not see everything. We were lucky that the almond trees were blossoming while we were there and smelled amazing! One of the downsides was that the Crystal Palace was closed for renovations (note: it will be closed through 2026 into 2027, if you were planning a visit during that time). Even without being able to visit that landmark, it was still a great place to visit and just have a leisurely day. Make a stop at Retiro part of your Madrid plans! read more
El Retiro Park is one of Madrid's most beautiful and historic green spaces, stretching across more than 125 hectares and filled with over 15,000 trees. It sits right in the heart of the city and offers a calm escape from the busy streets. It's a place where locals and visitors come to walk, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. You can wander through the rose garden, sit by the water, or explore its monuments. read more
8 months ago
This is an absolutely breathtaking park; so many trails lead to surprising and serene spots. Google maps are a great way to navigate to certain areas, and I plan to do more exploring soon. So far, here are some of my favorite highlights: * Enter/Exit at the Puerta de Filipe IV on Calle de Alfonso XII, just across the Prado Museum. This entrance is impressive and meticulously planted. * Enter/Exit at the gate near the Puerta de Alcala as the peek-a-book view of Puerta de Alcala is worth it * Stroll along the Great Pond of El Retiro, and head toward Palacio De Cristal and Palacio de Velazquez (unfortunately both museums are currently closed til 2026/2027) * Meander to the Cascada Parque El Retiro - the trees are turning glorious red and orange, and be sure to find the little waterfall view * There is even a little chess park * I am fond of gazing at the various monuments and sculptures - too many to list! read more
What a beautiful property. I would've never seen the things I got to see had it not been for the tour guide who showed me all the highlights and must sees of the property. We entered through the Puerta de la Independencia then made our way to multiple spots. The park was filled with local residents doing their morning cardio session. Lots of people walking and running. Some were doing tai chi. My favorite area was the corner where cats and peacocks roamed around freely. YES. Peacocks were in their private area walking freely that they felt comfortable when people were just inches away from them. They were super chill minding their business like they owned the place. I also saw a bunch of ducks hanging out with them. They seemed like they were friends. I noticed a bunch of food vendors/carts, but it was so early so they weren't open yet. The other food stands were also still close. I'd love to see this during spring as I noticed the trees were all dark with dead leaves. I bet it looks super pretty when all the flowers are in bloom. read more
Being a New Yorker, I use Central Park as the benchmark for all other grand parks and this park in Central Madrid is outstanding! It's beautiful and clean and has formal areas and more informal areas. It was crowded (but not overly so) the day we visited so I didn't feel unsafe. There are some hills here so you can get a decent workout just walking around and taking in the sights (fountains, gardens, lake, etc). Really a gem and one of the world's most beautiful parks. read more
This park is a Great place to gravitate to from your hotel in Salamanca, we visited at least three (3) times in a week!! You can also come here after lunch or dinner, just to walk off your calories. From what I've read, Parque Del Retiro is the green lungs of Madrid and I believe that, with its 15,000+ trees. It's full of numerous fountains and sculptures and my two favorite things are the Great pond and the Crystal Palace. Looking back, I should have rented a row boat but when you're anxious and jumpy in a new city, idly floating around was a bit too sedate at that moment. So maybe next time. The Crystal Palace and surrounding landscaping and pond are truly beautiful as well. I guess a third favorite is museum Reina Sophia's art display, which is located in one of the buildings inside the Parque. That was worth visiting and was quite a surprise. Believe it or not, the public restrooms (which are underground) were very clean. That was a big surprise as well. read more
What a huge beautiful park in Madrid! We toured most of the park and we stayed all day long! The rose gardens and mazes were gorgeous and impeccably manicured, even though it was a bit early for the show of blooms, we did see many gorgeous roses! We visited the crystal palace and pond, and enjoyed seeing the black swan and other birds and animals, the small waterfall is a great photo op spot. Although the peacocks were enclosed, we did get to spy several magnificent iridescent plumages! The buildings with their authentic architecture were worth seeing and the other huge lake with the castle in the background was lovely. The statue garden was fascinating as well. Visitors can rent bikes and paddle boats, there's several snack stands (we got ice cream) , and the many musicians and entertainers throughout the park were fun to hear and see! Totally worth spending a day here exploring and getting in touch with nature! Put this place on your must see Madrid list! read more
1 year ago
A lovely park with lots of shade and birds. It was such a delight to be surrounded by monk parakeets chattering away as I strolled. read more
2 years ago
This park is a great experience by itself. Be prepared to walk, or rent a bike. Tip: I used Google Maps to get from one point of interest to another and I walked through shortcuts to get from the pond to the Palacio de Cristal, which is a hidden gem (or at least it felt like it during my morning walk). read more
Passed this park on the way to Mercado La Paz. My Cab driver said it was a beautiful park so planned to walk through after the Mercado visit. 15 minutes from Mercado La Paz/Salamanca area. Gardens throughout with a few water fountains and walking paths. I saw two Cafes and a couple of food stands. Also, some picnic areas. A small lake provides some great views of King Alfonso's Monument. Also, saw the Fountain of the Turtles. Didn't have time to see Madrid's oldest tree and there is much more to see. Park wasn't too crowded around 3 on a Friday afternoon. Most definitely one to visit. read more
2 years ago
Retiro Park is like the Central Park of Madrid. This gigantic park has it all. Large grassy areas for a picnic or long pathways to run or walk. A big lake in the center to rent a row boat and ride around or a crystal palace to swoon over. Retiro is big and it can be hard to see everything on foot. There are lots of available rental bikes to make your trip throughout the park even easier. read more
Park was once the private playground of royalty. Formal gardens, rose gardens, fountains, lakes, exhibition halls, outdoor cafes, flamenco concerts, puppet theater on weekends at 1. Glass palace houses exotic plants. Statue called the Angel Caido fallen angel is the only one in the world depicting the prince of darkness foe his fall from grace. The large pond had musicians, restaurants, and lots of walkers. Serene beautiful Saturday morning. read more
It's a beautiful park especially with the warm weather. It's one of those places where you can just sit for hours and people watch. Very popular with tourists and locals. I think everyone coming to Madrid should come, admire the breath taking architecture. Free admission. read more
4 years ago
If you're in Madrid, I'd probably recommend walking through enormous El Retiro Park (Spanish for retirement park) more than any other activity in the city! And indeed, this is a wonderful place to "retire" from the chaos of Madrid. Ironically, within this wonderfully vibrant city that I love, this favorite destination of mine is actually an escape from that very vibrancy. Sometimes, you just need a little break. Comprised of 118 acres (292 hectares), it's almost 35% the size of New York's famed Central Park (which is enormous), offering a similar experience of being in a massive city while getting the impression that you're not. This pristine piece of land is 0.9 miles (1.5 km) long and 0.6 miles (1 km) wide at its extreme. Worthy points of interest would include the large, rectangular lake known as Estanque del Retiro (Spanish for Retreat Pond or simply the pond within Parque del Retiro). It's located in the northern half through which most park visitors pass. It's the center of activity and there are even boats available to rent for 45 minutes, so you can paddle around the water yourself. You'll find restrooms on the southwest corner of the lake if you need them. Other places for which you can search on this giant scavenger hunt include the peacocks in the southeast section, and the magnificent rose garden in the south-central section. You'll find countless shaded paths, tree-lined avenues, turtles in the pond by the Glass Palace, and numerous species of birds throughout. This is paradise within one of the world's most populated cities. read more
2 years ago
This is such a beautiful park close to the Salamanca neighborhood. There are plenty of cafes inside the park to give you the chance to sit down and refresh. It is a big park and it can take a few hours to get around. There are also plenty of trees to stay under the shade in a hot day. It definitely is a favorite with locals who come and just spend the afternoon picnicking. read more
My cousin and I decided we wanted to check out this park before heading to some high-end shopping (6 minute walk away) on our last day in Madrid, and bless that this was our plan! We went fairly early after we had breakfast, so we arrived there at about 10:30 am. While there were people already present walking around, there wasn't enough that we were bumping into anyone. There were even street musicians playing their saxophones, which just added to the ambiance. This is a gorgeous park with plenty of statues, fountains, and greenery that you could take several photoshoots and each one would give off a different vibe. If you have time, def check this place out! read more
2 years ago
This park is so clean and so beautiful and ginormous! If I had to choose I'd choose this park over any other. I think it's better than Central Park in NYC and better than Griffith Park in LA. read more
6 years ago
I am a park fanatic. I always enjoyed the best it brings to visitors pleasure. This park is NYC Central Park equivalent. It has a botanical garden, glasshouse, art museum, manmade lake , crystal castle, playground , manicured lawn etc. A day visit is not enough especially during summertime. It was dead during our visit due to Covid 19 situation. Most of its facilities were closed. We got to enjoy everything from the outside. It is well maintained. I imagine how beautiful it looks during flower season or foliage time. read more
This is such a beautiful park in the center of Madrid. There's so much to see! It was a hot day when we visited so we decided to see it via a pedi-cab. It was a great option because we probably wouldn't have been able to visit all the parts just by walking in the little time we had. One of my favorite spots is the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace). It was built in 1887. At the eastern side of the park is the original Madrid zoo that opened in the late 1700s. There are no longer animals there today but you can see the area that did feature some animals during the time. The Estanque de Retiro is also a beautiful spot featuring the moment to Alfonso XII. read more
8 years ago
We came here to have a stroll on the park and came to the lake where we rented a row boat.... great thing to do as it is calm and you can enjoy something really different in the city... this I would repeat again! Enjoy read more
3 years ago
One the most beautiful parks I've ever seen in my life. I highly recommend to visit when sun comes down. It's romantic and peaceful. read more
3 years ago
Dear readers, this park went beyond my imagination. The fact that it started as the kings private gardens made it even more magical. It's so very grand, and lucky locals have it available to them on a daily basis, I'm so jelly...I took my son the first time to check it out...I loved seeing everyone appreciating it, some jogging the trails, others picnicking under the trees...children playing at the many playgrounds scattered all around...they day we visited they had a lovely book festival...it was impressive...it was endless amounts of stalls selling any and every genre you can think of...there are cafes, food stalls, and restaurants all over. We stopped for some ice cream, it was a warm summer day. We then continued our walk to the gardens, we only scratched the surface...we brought dad along a few days later, and really discovered more...there is a huge pond where you can paddle boat...the crystal ballroom which sits in front of another gorgeous pond with ducks and turtles...there are parts that aren't as manicured, I felt I was in the middle of a forest, the gentleman playing the accordion brought me back to reality, but it was so pleasant hearing him play while we were walking around. Take me back... read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Surround yourself in all the greatness of this park. This tremendous park offers boating, food, live music, maze-like gardens, rows of benches lined with lush trees offering shade on vast pathways, fountains and more. I love this park so much I went two days in a row!! read more
6 years ago
Such a beautiful place to take a nice stroll and enjoy the people and scenery of Spain! If you have time during your stay I'd definitely hit up this park just to enjoy and relax with family or significant other! We didn't get to ride the paddle boats because we were extremely tired and we arrived when they were about to close! But they are available! read more
4 years ago
Such beautiful scenery and amazing environment to be in, so many monuments and peacocks speared all around the park! read more
7 years ago
Reminds me of a mini Central Park. I would definitely recommend coming to visit this park if you have time. You can relax and have a walk in this park and enjoy a snack as they have a small place where you can purchase food, drinks, and dessert. There is this really nice man made lake where you can rent a rowing boat. They also have this crystal house if you walk a little further down. Unfortunately when I went, they were remodeling it for a new exhibit or something so it was closed! :( super sad but it was still nice to see from the outside. read more
This is a beautiful park in the center of Madrid's Goya neighborhood. There are a lot of small plazas and paseos with many fountains and tons of green open spaces where people can just hang out in a group or in couples (we saw many just snuggling up in the grass). There is a place for everybody: runners, children's, bicyclists, roller skaters, friends, people who work out, walkers, dogs, etc. Great use of open space. There's the crystal palace and the library and tons of benches. This park is also close to the botanical garden, museo El Prado, Caixa Forum, and other cultural activities. Totally recommended and we came in the fall so we got to see all the leaves turning to warm tones. read more
4 years ago
This is my first time in Spain, and I made it a point to visit this green oasis, nestled in the heart of Madrid. El Retiro Park is definitely the manifestation of serenity and tranquility and is a ideal for anyone seeking refuge from the unforgiving heat (maybe it would helpful to bring a bottle of water or you can buy one from the overpriced vendors located throughout the park). You'll catch plenty of joggers, sun bathers, and others such as myself going for a peaceful stroll. It's also a great place for a picnic It's no wonder the Spanish monarchs tried to keep this treasure to themselves... read more
One of the best parks I have ever experienced. I love that you can rent the lime scooters and roam around all over. The views here are amazing. This park is so clean and tidy as well. There are little stands selling gelato and snacks everywhere. I especially loved the rose garden and crystal palace area! I could go on and on but you just need to come here and experience it yourself. read more
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More info about Parque Del Retiro
Plaza de la Independencia, 7
28001 Madrid
Spain
Retiro
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914 008 740
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Parque Del Retiro - parks - Updated July 2026
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