Overview
Retiro Park, also known as Buen Retiro Park, is one of the most popular and beautiful parks in Madrid, Spain. It's a perfect blend of nature, history, and art, featuring stunning gardens, historical monuments, and cultural attractions.
The park has been a witness to many historical events and is a symbol of Madrid's rich cultural heritage. It's a UNESCO-listed site and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Location
Address
Plaza de la Independencia 7, 28001
Neighborhood: Retiro
Coordinates
40.394918, -3.693835
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Flowering gardens
- • Outdoor performances
summer
Hot
- • Outdoor cinemas
- • Extended park hours
autumn
Cool and pleasant
- • Fall foliage
- • Harvest markets
winter
Cold
- • Holiday lights
- • Christmas markets
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Free entry for EU residents
- Bring ID for discounts
- Check park map for attractions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low to moderate
- • Stay hydrated in summer
- • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas
Medical facilities: First aid stations available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards, Debit cards
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable, Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, Walking shoes, sandals (in summer), Inappropriate clothing, High heels (on grassy areas)
Booking Tips
- • Not required for general entry, but recommended for special events
- • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • Depends on the event or service
- • Available for popular attractions within the park
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Madrid Retiro Park Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Event calendar, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Park news and updates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafés and restaurants, Near major monuments
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Some cafés and restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 25-40 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2-3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a green oasis in the city, perfect for relaxation, exercise, and cultural events. It's a place where Madrileños go to enjoy nature, socialize, and celebrate special occasions.
Historical Significance: Originally a royal park, it was opened to the public in the 18th century. It has been the setting for many historical events and is home to numerous monuments and sculptures.
Insider Tips
- Visit the park on a Monday morning for a quieter experience
- The best local food can be found at the small cafés and kiosks within the park
- The park's gardens are particularly stunning in spring and autumn
Local Recommendations
- • Try churros and chocolate at a nearby café
- • Visit the nearby Prado Museum for a complete cultural experience
- • Take a guided tour to learn about the park's history and secrets
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal)
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture reflections in the glass
Result: Stunning architectural shots
The Fallen Angel (El Ángel Caído)
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Use the surrounding greenery for context
Result: Unique and mysterious photos
Boat Lake (Estanque de Retiro)
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Capture the rowboats on the water
Result: Romantic and serene shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Prado Museum
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Museum
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Distance: 700m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Museum
Puerta de Alcalá
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Historical Monument
Cibeles Palace
Distance: 800m
Walking: 12 min
Type: Historical Building
Gran Vía
Distance: 1.2 km
Walking: 18 min
Type: Shopping and Entertainment District
Reviews
Based on 25,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience"
- "Bring comfortable shoes for walking"
- "Don't miss the Crystal Palace and the Fallen Angel statue"
- "Try the churros and chocolate at nearby cafés"
- "Check the event calendar for concerts and performances"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Madrid: Prado Museum and El Retiro Park Guided Tour
Madrid Icons & Hidden Gems: Private Custom Tour with a Local
Private tour to the Cibeles Palace and the Retiro Park
Madrid Royal Palace & Retiro Park Tour with Optional Tapas
Madrid E-Bike Small Group Tour
Skip-the-line Madrid Royal Palace with tapas tasting & Retiro Park
Madrid Parks & Riverside Bike Tour
Christmas Lights Tour of Madrid in Eco Tuk Tuk Private
Madrid City Tour | Regular Bike or E-Bike | Reduced Groups
Madrid Evening Walking Tour and optional Flamenco Show
Retiro Park Private Tour with Local Guide
Retiro Park & Prado Museum Private Tour
Madrid Bike Tour with Churros and Wine, Ham, and Cheese Upgrade
Full-Day Madrid Tour
Highlights and parks in Madrid by segway
El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen Private Tour
Madrid: Highlights Bike Tour with Madroño Tasting
Private customizable bike tour Madrid
10-Day Andalusia and Morocco from Madrid
Madrid in a Day: Private Custom Tour with a Local Insider
Private Photography Tour in Madrid with Personal Guide and Photographer
Private Tour of Madrid
Private tour Avila and Salamanca from Madrid
Skip-the-line Entrance to Prado Museum and Private Madrid Tour with Local Guide
Quick Info
Available Tours
120
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
25,000
Adult Entry
Free (for EU residents), $5 (non-EU residents)