El Retiro Park

El Retiro Park showing a garden
El Retiro Park
El Retiro Park
El Retiro Park
El Retiro Park


Relax by the pond, walk through landscaped gardens, and admire the elegant statues and buildings in one of Madrid’s biggest and most popular parks.

El Retiro (El Parque de Retiro) is one of Madrid’s favorite parks and occupies nearly 350 acres (140 hectares) of land in the city center. It was once a royal retreat and the site of a large palace, but was opened to the public in the 1860s. There are statues and monuments all throughout the park, as well as two ponds, art galleries and fountains. It’s a popular retreat for Sunday afternoon picnics and you’ll notice street performers plying their trade in the busiest areas. Wander among the trees and flowerbeds there are both landscaped gardens as well as wilder, more natural areas. Walk through the Rosaleda del Retiro to see a colorful display of roses. The Forest of Remembrance is dedicated to the victims of the 2004 terrorist attacks in Madrid. Stroll down the Paseo de la Argentina to see statues once inside the Royal Palace or head over to the Retiro Pond to gaze up at the monument to King Alfonso XII. The semi-circular colonnade is surrounded by allegorical statues with the king mounted on horseback in the center. Keep exploring the park to find more statues, gardens and fountains. Rent out a boat to paddle around the pond and then move on to the neoclassical Palacio de Velázquez or the Palacio de Cristal for an art exhibition. Walk through a garden of trimmed hedges up to the Casón del Buen Retiro, one of the only remaining buildings from the 17th-century palace that stood in the park. It was once a ballroom but today houses the Prado Museum’s study center.El Retiro is in central Madrid, only a short walk from the Paseo del Prado and the Plaza de Cibeles. The main entrance is right next to the Puerta de Alcalá, but the park is also accessible from the Retiro, Principe de Vergara, Ibiza and Atocha metro stations. The park is open daily, hours vary according to the season, so check ahead before your visit.

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Things to do near El Retiro Park

El Retiro Park offers a delightful array of activities for visitors, including birdwatching amidst its lush greenery, exploring various art installations, and enjoying picturesque sunsets. Whether you're wandering through the serene paths or relaxing by the lake, the park provides a tranquil escape in the heart of Madrid, perfect for leisurely strolls and appreciating nature.

Shopping

El Rastro, a vibrant public market, is just 621m from El Retiro Park, perfect for unique gifts. Nearby, ABC Serrano offers a blend of shopping and entertainment, also 621m away. El Corte Inglés, another store option, is conveniently located within the same distance.

Recreation

Explore Madrid Río, a nearby recreation park offering serene pathways and picnic spots for relaxation. For an energetic experience, visit the Madrid Arena, where you can enjoy various sports events. Alternatively, Sala La Riviera hosts lively concerts, providing a vibrant atmosphere for entertainment and enjoyment.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of karting at Karting Carlos Sainz Center, located 1.2km from El Retiro Park. For tennis enthusiasts, Centro Deportivo Municipal Tenis Casa de Campo offers exciting matches, 1.9km away. Don't miss the Madrid Cable Car, 2.5km distant, providing stunning views and family adventures.

Nightlife

Your evening in El Retiro Park can be enriched by a visit to the Teatro Infanta Isabel for a captivating show or the Teatro de la Zarzuela for a taste of local culture. For a unique experience, explore the Royal Observatory of Madrid, where families can marvel at the stars.

Find the best attractions near El Retiro Park

El Retiro Park in Madrid offers a delightful mix of attractions, including picturesque squares, art museums, and vibrant streets, perfect for those seeking culture and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore the renowned Buen Retiro Park, immersing themselves in the lush surroundings and artistic treasures. This oasis in the heart of the city promises memorable moments for every traveller.

  • Gran Via: This bustling street is a hub of vibrant city life, showcasing stunning architecture and a plethora of shops, restaurants, and theatres. Stroll along Gran Via to experience the energetic atmosphere and savour the local culture.
  • Prado Museum: Renowned for its extensive collection of European art, the Prado Museum is a cultural treasure trove. Marvel at masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
  • WiZink Center: A prominent entertainment venue, WiZink Center hosts concerts, sporting events, and family shows. Enjoy a lively atmosphere and create unforgettable memories with friends and family in this dynamic space.

Best time to go to El Retiro Park

The best time to visit El Retiro Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.4°F (5.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February44.8°F (7.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May63.9°F (17.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
June73.6°F (23.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July81.3°F (27.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August80.6°F (27.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September71.2°F (21.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
October62.1°F (16.7°C)Light RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December44.6°F (7.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Retiro Park

To save money on your visit to El Retiro Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January, February, or August for lower accommodation prices. Booking your stay about a month in advance often yields the best rates, especially if you check for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Mondays typically offer the cheapest rates, while Saturdays are the priciest. Additionally, walking is a great way to explore the park and surrounding areas, allowing you to enjoy free activities without the cost of public transport.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around El Retiro Park are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around El Retiro Park about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around El Retiro Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around El Retiro Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to narrow down your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and ideal hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You might find that you can save some money by combining your hotel stay near El Retiro Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.