Madrid in three days

One of the largest city parks in Europe, it is the green “lung” of the city. You can walk there from the Salamanca district, passing by Puerta de Alcalá, one of Madrid’s iconic monuments. The park has plenty to offer for every taste. It’s the perfect area for a quiet walk, but it’s also great for children. They love it, because there is usually some form of entertainment for them, and there is a boating pond.

Many people play sports or run in the ample spaces, and others simply relax, sitting on the many benches or lying on the grass to soak up the sun. As you walk around, you’ll find several open spaces with sculptures, and some interesting buildings such as the Crystal Palace or the Velázquez Palace. Next to the north-west entrance is the Casa Árabe cultural centre, which has a well-known restaurant and organises many cultural activities. By the south-west entrance, Cuesta de Moyano is a famous pedestrianised street and the home of Madrid’s book market.

A modern park alongside Madrid’s river, the Manzanares. We recommend visiting the area closest to the Príncipe Pío metro stop. On one side you’ll see the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of La Almudena. On the other, the enormous park of Casa de Campo. Madrid Río is perfect for relaxing, taking a bike ride, letting your kids run around and play in playgrounds, or enjoy a snack while you admire the view. It’s also very near other interesting areas, such as the district of La Latina or Madrid de los Austrias. If you like football, look out for the home ground stadium of Atlético de Madrid, the Vicente Calderón.