Parque del Retiro

"Madrid's crowning park is a vast expanse of green encompassing formal gardens, fountains, lakes, exhibition halls, children's play areas, outdoor cafés, and a Puppet Theater." Full review

"One of the few vestiges of the 17th-century Palacio del Buen Retiro, this somewhat austere building overlooking the Parque del Buen Retiro is run as an academic library." Full review

"Madrid’s answer to New York’s Central Park is a warren of paths carved in green with a large, central man-made lake and plenty of space (330 acres) for lolling about." Full review

"A green space where... you can row on the (artificial) lake under the indifferent gaze of King Alfonso XI, or join the locals running along the pathways." Full review

"Originally the gardens of a royal palace, the Retiro is now Madrid’s main park, with a boating lake, cafés and exhibition venues." Full review

"The biggest park in the Spanish capital, Retiro is a great destination where you could spend the better part of your day." Full review

"Madrid’s sprawling, elegantly faded green space, Parque de El Retiro, hugs the main avenue that leads to the city’s two biggest art museums as well as the main city station, Atocha."

"To see madrileños at their most relaxed, spend a Sunday among the families in Parque del Retiro. Originally a playground for the Spanish monarchs, it became a public park at the end of..." Full review