Gardens and Parks

El Retiro Park is one of Madrid's most iconic landmarks, a must-visit for tourists and locals alike seeking a breath of fresh air in the heart of the capital.

Nestled alongside the Prado Museum, the Royal Botanical Garden (Real Jardín Botánico) traces its roots back to 1781 when King Charles III ordered the relocation of the botanical garden's original site in Soto de Migas Calientes to its present location. The park's name, El Retiro, means "retreat" in Spanish, reflecting its intended purpose during the reign of Philip II as a place of solitude and religious contemplation.

The garden's layout features three tiered terraces adorned with plants from the Americas and the Pacific, as well as European species. This garden remained closed for many years, but thanks to a popular movement, this hidden gem was saved and restored in the early 1980s by landscape architect Leandro Silva and architect Guillermo Sánchez-Gil.

Enclosed by an artistic fence with twelve monumental gates, the park boasts a variety of sculptures and buildings, along with several distinct gardens. Visitors can rent a boat and go rowing on the large pond, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, while the various pavilions host exhibitions, such as the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace), which, along with its artificial lake, was constructed in 1887 for the Exposition of the Philippines.

Adjacent to El Retiro Park lies the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid, home to over 5,000 different plant species.

West Park (Parque del Oeste) is another enchanting spot in Madrid, well worth a visit. Nestled in the Moncloa district, this sprawling green space offers a haven of tranquility and stunning panoramic views of the city from the teleférico (cable car).

The park's northern section, the oldest, boasts a picturesque landscape style, featuring an artificial river meandering for 600 meters. In the southern zone lies the 'Ramón Ortiz Rose Garden,' home to a dazzling array of 600 modern rose varieties. And for a truly magical experience, extend your park stroll to witness the mesmerizing sunset by the Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian monument that adds a touch of exotic charm to the cityscape.

Nestled between the municipalities of Alcorcón, Fuenlabrada, Móstoles, and Leganés, Polvoranca Park is a designated natural educational reserve teeming with over 400 plant species and a diverse array of wildlife, particularly birds.

The park offers an idyllic setting for leisurely strolls and nature-immersed activities. To make the most of your visit, check out the year-round calendar of events organized by the Polvoranca Park Environmental Education Center. These events range from guided tours for various groups to workshops, exhibitions, and talks. Inaugurated in 1996 and located in the park's central zone, the center belongs to the Community of Madrid's Network of Environmental Education Centers.

Inaugurated in March 2015, Juan Carlos I Park is not only the newest addition to Madrid's green spaces but also one of the least known, despite being the city's second-largest park, after Casa de Campo.

Nestled in the Valdebebas neighborhood within the Hortaleza district, the park offers breathtaking views of Madrid and the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range. Its design pays homage to the natural landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula's interior. This verdant oasis invites visitors to explore its charms throughout the year, though it is particularly enchanting in springtime.

One of the park's most striking features is its Mirador (lookout point). This wooden structure spirals upwards, providing panoramic views of a landscaped labyrinth and terraces that descend towards the artificial river meandering through the park.

To fully immerse yourself in the park's beauty, follow one of its many trails or cycle along the loop that encircles it. Additionally, the park features picnic tables, relaxation areas, and children's playgrounds.

Nestled within the Campo de las Naciones district, Juan Carlos I Park stands as a vibrant green oasis, the third-largest park in the Spanish capital after Parque Forestal Felipe VI and Casa de Campo. Spanning across 160 hectares, this urban haven offers a captivating blend of recreational opportunities, artistic expressions, and unique ecological features.

Fueled by his passion for hunting, King Philip II embarked on an ambitious project to acquire vast tracts of land extending towards El Pardo, aiming to establish an expansive hunting ground for the exclusive use of the royal family. Subsequently, Ferdinand VI declared Casa de Campo a "Royal Forest" and equipped it for hunting purposes.

Exclusively enjoyed by the Spanish royalty, Casa de Campo remained under their domain until the advent of the Second Republic. During the Spanish Civil War, it served as a battlefront, and remnants of trenches, forts, and military structures are still visible today.

The park's predominant vegetation is holm oak, but over time, it has been repopulated with a significant number of pine trees. Additionally, a charming pier offers visitors a delightful respite when the weather permits.

Beyond its natural beauty, Casa de Campo boasts a variety of attractions, including an amusement park, a zoo, a portion of IFEMA's exhibition grounds, Venta del Batán (where fighting bulls are housed before bullfights at Plaza de La Ventas), a cable car, and various sports facilities.

Stretching along both banks of the Manzanares River, Madrid Río is a linear park that beckons visitors with its inviting allure for leisurely strolls, cycling adventures, and invigorating rollerblading sessions. From the Segovia Bridge, breathtaking panoramic views of the Royal Palace and the Cathedral unfold before your eyes.

Whether seeking a tranquil walk, a fun-filled family outing, a playful escape at the children's playgrounds, an exhilarating day of skating, or simply a refreshing day under the open sky, Madrid Río promises an unforgettable experience.

The breathtaking spectacle of almond trees in full bloom during the early days of spring draws hundreds of captivated visitors to La Quinta de los Molinos, transforming this urban oasis into a mesmerizing rural landscape. For a few fleeting days, the park sheds its urban garb and embraces the enchanting beauty of the Spanish countryside.

This unique park was conceived by architect and urban planner César Cort Botí as a tribute to his homeland, the Alicante region. The terraced terrain, ornamental ponds, intricate irrigation system with canals, and the presence of cypress trees, pines, and other Mediterranean flora evoke the evocative landscapes of the Levant.

A significant portion of the park's grounds was originally cultivated for agricultural purposes, and this agricultural heritage remains one of its most captivating features. The mesmerizing sight of almond orchards in full bloom during early spring, a captivating rural tableau amidst the urban landscape, attracts hundreds of visitors each year. The park also boasts an impressive collection of lilacs, which César Cort himself would serenade in his beloved gardens.

One of the park's lesser-known gems is the grass tennis court nestled amidst the trees near the palace. The court's architectural style bears distinct Art Deco influences, mirroring the aesthetic of other structures surrounding the palace. The arched enclosure at one end, the grassy spectator stands, and the overall proportions of the space create a tranquil and inviting setting for a leisurely summer afternoon.

Considered the most beautiful gardens of that time, they served as inspiration to artists such as the composer Joaquín Rodrigo or the painter Santiago Rusiñol. 

There are several historic gardens surrounding the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, each one representing a different type of style according to the time and taste of the monarch who commissioned its creation. 

Today you can visit the Prince's Garden (between the Puerta de Villanueva and Calle Isabel II), the Queen's and King's Garden (the latter from the Parterre), the Isla, Isabel II and Parterre gardens.

In the late 18th century, Madrid was dotted with suburban villas that formed a verdant belt around the city. While most of these villas have succumbed to the city's expansion, one remarkable oasis remains: El Capricho Park, nestled within the Alameda de Osuna district.

This enchanting park embodies the quintessential elements of a Romantic garden, featuring a labyrinth, temples, follies, and serene ponds. Its name, aptly translated as "The Whimsy," alludes to the whimsical structures, or "caprichos," scattered throughout the park, waiting to be discovered as visitors wander along its winding paths.

One particularly intriguing capricho is the beehive, a refined structure topped with a dome. From its interior, visitors can observe and study the fascinating activity of bees through a glass window, reflecting the era's keen interest in connecting with nature.

Designed by a French landscape architect and inspired by the grandeur of Versailles, El Capricho Park stands as one of Madrid's most captivating green spaces. Created in 1784 by the Dukes of Osuna, particularly Duchess María Josefa de la Soledad Alonso Pimentel, the park transformed into a true natural paradise, frequented by the most illustrious figures of the time and attracting renowned artists, gardeners, and set designers.

Following the Duchess's passing, the park began to decline, a fate that was averted in 1999 when the city council acquired it. The park showcases three distinct styles: the parterre or French garden, the English landscape garden, and the giardino italiano.

After the Duchess's demise, the villa passed to her grandchildren, but the property's upkeep was neglected by the last heir, leading to his death in debt and the subsequent auction of the estate. During the Spanish Civil War, the estate served as a refuge for the Republican army's general staff, and the underground galleries that housed the soldiers are still preserved today. For many years, the villa and its gardens remained abandoned until 1974 when the Madrid City Council acquired the ensemble and embarked on a meticulous restoration project.

Your visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid would be incomplete without venturing into the enchanting Sabatini Gardens and the sprawling Campo del Moro. These verdant havens offer a tranquil escape from the city's bustling energy, providing a serene setting to soak in the grandeur of the palace and the surrounding landscape.

Sabatini Gardens: A Neoclassical Oasis

Designed in the neoclassical style, the Sabatini Gardens stand as a testament to elegance and harmonious design. Stroll along its manicured paths, adorned with sculptures and fountains, and let the tranquil atmosphere wash over you. The gardens offer a refreshing respite from the grandeur of the palace, providing a peaceful space to reflect and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Campo del Moro: A Historical Tapestry Unfolds

Nestled behind the Royal Palace, Campo del Moro unveils a rich historical tapestry. Its name echoes the Moorish settlements that once occupied this land, offering a glimpse into Madrid's diverse past. Once the site of royal hunts, jousting tournaments, and processions, Campo del Moro transformed into a verdant park during the reign of Queen Isabel II.

The park's current layout dates back to this era, featuring the iconic Triton Fountains and an abundance of trees, some dating back 170 years. As you wander through the park, take in the breathtaking views of the Royal Palace, its grandeur enhanced by the park's gentle elevation. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Campo del Moro, breathing in the fresh air and the spirit of Madrid.

Nestled in the heart of Madrid, the Royal Botanical Garden (Real Jardín Botánico) is a sanctuary of botanical treasures, offering a captivating blend of history, nature, and scientific exploration. Founded in 1755 by order of King Ferdinand VI, the garden was later relocated to its current site under the direction of renowned architects Juan de Villanueva and Francesco Sabatini, and officially inaugurated in 1781.

A Treasure Trove of Botanical Diversity

The garden's extensive collection encompasses over 90,000 plant species, meticulously arranged within seven distinct outdoor sections and five greenhouses. Visitors can embark on a captivating journey through diverse plant kingdoms, from the vibrant blooms of camelias, dahlias, lilies, and magnolias to the fragrant allure of the rose garden.

Bonsai Collection: A Miniature Masterpiece

Among the garden's many gems, the bonsai collection stands out as a testament to the art of miniaturization. Donated in 1996 by former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe González Márquez, the collection found its home on the Laurel Terrace in 2005. This remarkable assemblage showcases a wealth of native Iberian species, complemented by specimens from Japan, China, Canada, and South America. Some of these miniature masterpieces were crafted by renowned Japanese bonsai masters and presented as gifts by heads of state and government.

Planning Your Visit: A Botanical Adventure Awaits

The Royal Botanical Garden is a treasure trove of surprises, offering a haven from the city's clamor and an invitation to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature. The garden's website provides a wealth of resources to plan your visit, from exploring the garden's state month-by-month to selecting from a variety of engaging activities and self-guided itineraries. Embark on thematic journeys such as "Plants in Don Quixote," "Aromatic Plants," "Remarkable Trees," and "Scientific Expeditions," each promising a unique botanical adventure.

Having a walk in the Royal Place of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one of the most wonderful feelings that you can have in the Region of Madrid. It has been declared World Heritage by the UNESCO thanks to its gardens.

This environment brings together the natural spaces of the Forge, the Pine Grove of Abantos and the chair of Felipe II. This allows the visitor to enjoy the heritage and nature in a relaxed way.

We recommend you to take a walk around the Monastery gardens, the Little Infant gardens and the Little Prince House Gardens, in order to whet the appetite and discover the gastronomy of El Escorial.

The gardens that surround El Prado are a natural corner very close to the capital, where you will be able to take a break in surrounding declared Historical Artistic Garden.

Take a walk around the gardens of the palace, commissioned by Felipe II and extended by the best major of Madrid (Carlos III). You can also take a walk around the little house of the Prince and the Gardens of la Quinta del Duque de Arco.

Surrounding the Palacio del Infante Don Luis, a magnificent Renaissance garden unfolds, reminiscent of the Medici gardens in Florence. This verdant oasis was meticulously reconstructed following the fortuitous discovery of a land registry map in 1868.

In the spring of 2015, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of its construction, the gardens opened to the public after an extensive restoration project led by Italian landscape architect Lucía Serredi. Guided by architect Cervantes Martínez and historian José Luis Souto, a team of 60 artisans, from gardeners to locksmiths, meticulously revived the garden's splendor.

The reconstructed garden encompasses a splendid terrace adjacent to the palace, one of three terraces gracing the mansion's surroundings. This enchanting haven is enveloped by an 800-hectare oak forest. Cascading across three levels, the terraced garden embraces the mansion, imparting a unique sense of grandeur through its descending layout. This harmonious interplay seamlessly connects the palatial architecture with the surrounding natural beauty, which emanates from both the gardens and the adjacent forest.

Within this enclave, a rich tapestry of Baroque artistry unfolds: Renaissance gardens, a Bramantesque staircase, a late Baroque palace, a classicist parterre, and a 19th-century land parcel complex.

In 1974, the palace, its gardens, and the Ventura Rodríguez Fountain were declared a Historic-Artistic Monument. In 1998, the property was acquired by the Boadilla del Monte City Council, which has undertaken its rehabilitation.

Nestled within the heart of the Royal Botanical Garden, the Bonsai Collection unveils a world of miniature artistry, showcasing a remarkable assemblage of bonsai trees donated by former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe González.

The bonsai collection finds its home in a secluded corner of the Botanical Garden, tucked behind the Villanueva Pavilion on the aptly named Laurel Terrace. This dedicated exhibition space, meticulously designed by gardener Fernando Caruncho, serves as a sanctuary for these miniature masterpieces.

The bonsai collection's origins trace back to former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe González's growing interest in this unique form of horticulture during his tenure at La Moncloa Palace. Inspired by valuable bonsai specimens received as state gifts, he embarked on a journey to cultivate these miniature trees.