Watch the video in which Aria guides you through her favorite places to frolic and read ahead for more information on charming local parks in Madrid where you can beat the crowds.
Much has already been written about Madrid’s most famous and popular parks. But Madrid is a very green city and there’s plenty of other spacious and peaceful parks throughout the city center. Our city girl correspondent, Aria (@arialaprincesa), is here to show you her favorite hidden parks in Madrid, aka where the local madrileños like to hang out.
Parque de la Cornisa
Parque de la Cornisa is located right behind the majestic Real Basilica de San Francisco El Grande in the neighborhood of La Latina. If you ever see the cathedral’s doors open, you should definitely take the opportunity to look inside because the inside is absolutely breathtaking. The green space behind the church is lovely too. There’s a rose garden right next to the basilica which is quaint and real pretty when the roses are blooming. The bigger park below the garden is a popular hangout for locals who live in the neighborhood. It’s always alive with kids playing basketball, dogs playing in the grass and people chatting on the benches throughout the day. It’s a great place to sit on the grass in the sun and get some fresh air in the middle of the city.
Jardin de las Vistillas
If you walk down Calle Bailen from the Basilica, you will arrive at Jardin de las Vistillas before reaching the Palacio. This small “park” consists of soft grassy hills which directly face the Catedral de la Almudena and Puente de Segovia. The gorgeous views of the cathedral dome make it the perfect place to catch a sunset, as you’ll see the sky color from vibrant orange to pink to purple every night. There are usually groups of young people reading, picnicking and drinking beers on the hilltops. It’s a charming slice of greenery that’s awesome for romantic dates, drinking wine and just chilling with your friends.
Parque del Oeste
Parque del Oeste is a lush, tranquil piece of nature that’s truly hidden away in the middle of the city. Located just beyond Templo de Debod, somehow this park escapes even the minds of locals because it’s usually quite empty. Here you’ll find lush green hills with sun rays peeking through the branches of towering trees. In the center of the park you’ll find the Teleferico de Madrid (Cable car of Madrid), which takes you on a slow scenic trip to the other station in Casa de Campo park. Because of how green and uncrowded it is, Parque del Oeste is great for when you need to get away and seek peace and quiet. It’s also conveniently located right below Calle de Pintor Rosales, which is one of the loveliest streets in Madrid lined with upscale bars and restaurants, so you can scurry up and get a drink whenever you’re done hanging out at the park.
Parque de las Siete Tetas
Vallecas is a lively working class neighborhood with a countercultural reputation. It’s not a common area that tourists go to when they visit Madrid. But locals know and love Parque de las Siete Tetas, which lovingly translates to Park of Seven Tits, because of the seven hills looking over the southeastern Madrid. It’s a treat to climb the gently sloping hills and marvel at the sweeping panoramic views from every angle. The park is a popular place for cookouts, parties and gatherings, and of course for watching sunsets. It’s easy to catch the metro to the park from the city center. Just take Line 1 to Buenos Aires stop and walk past the huge Al Campo supermarket, where you’ll immediately be met with jaw-dropping views.
