The Retiro Park in Madrid

The city of Madrid has more than forty public parks for Madrilenos and tourists alike to enjoy. Most visitors to Madrid are surprised to see that many of the parks are in the heart of the city and that the locals spend lots of time in their parks. Surprisingly, parks are continually being added and those already existing are constantly updated and improved.

If you head out in the city on any given day and time and you will find each of Madrid's parks busy and full. The favorite and once exclusive Retiro Park is a favorite among locals and the place to be during the weekends. In order to get an authentic taste of Madrid a visit to the Retiro, one of the best parks, must be included.

The Retiro Park

The Retiro remains a favorite park for both Madrilenos and tourists for several reasons. The Retiro is in the heart of one of the most fashionable living districts in Madrid, close to a large retail and business hub, and practically connected to the Paseo del Prado with its line of art museums. If you have an afternoon open for leisure, are shopping in the Salamanca district and want a break, or are looking to get a taste of pure Madrid away from the tourist spots head to Retiro.

This green spot in Madrid is 120 hectares large and covers the gardens of what was once the private hunting grounds and gardens attached to the Palace of the Buen Retiro commissioned by Felipe III. Today the public is allowed to roam the space enjoying rose garden, lakes, meandering streams, picturesque tree lined paseos and a crystal palace.

If you are not already in the area you can easily reach the Retiro Park by taking the Metro and getting off at Retiro. The metro exits on the opposite side of the street but there is an underground tunnel that comes above ground on the North end of the park. If you are enjoying a day in the finest art museums in Madrid you can enter the park on the West side from the Paseo del Prado. The most ideal place to enter from the west end is near the Cason del Buen Retiro which is a short couple of blocks east of the Prado Museum.

El Estanque, the lake of Retiro Park

Credit: Ana Belen

Copyright: Ana Belen