Interesting facts · Free reading
What to see in Retiro Park, Madrid: a relaxed walk
You do not need to see every corner of El Retiro. Look up, find a shady spot and let your walk take its own pace.
The essentials, at a glance
- Superficie
- 125 haAccording to Turismo de Madrid.
- Arbolado
- More than 15,000Trees, according to the official tourist information.
- Crystal Palace
- 1887Created for the Philippine Exhibition.
Start by the water
The Estanque Grande and the monument to Alfonso XII are a good place to begin. Pause to take in the scene before moving on: the water, the steps and the rowing boats are all part of its character.
A garden within a garden
The park has several distinct gardens, including the Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez, La Rosaleda and El Parterre. You do not need to visit them all at once. Choose one detour and save the others for another morning.
An idea for your ride
Look, walk around, pause.
- 01
Pond
A first pause to look at the water.
- 02
Gardens
Choose a detour instead of seeing them all.
- 03
Narváez
Continue with a tavern if you like.
El Retiro, sobre el mapa
The story behind the Palacio de Cristal
Built for the Exposición de Filipinas in 1887, its iron and glass structure rewards a closer look. Check current access and activities before planning to go inside.
Where nature meets the city
El Retiro and the Paseo del Prado form part of the Paisaje de la Luz, which was awarded World Heritage status in 2021. Explore its gardens and cultural sights at a gentle pace, rather than racing from one monument to the next.
Before you go in
Check the park's opening hours and any weather-related restrictions. Respect barriers and closed areas, and choose another plan if needed. Our Retiro route brings together stops around the park before continuing to Narváez for food.
During your trip
Walk at your own pace.
Keep GidePass routes, recommendations and travel tools with you throughout your stay.
Discover the Madrid pass →Meals, admission tickets, transport tickets and third-party services are not included.