The Best Places to Enjoy Great Views as part of a Visit to Madrid

Best Madrid Viewpoints - the Rooftops of Buildings

Palacio de Cibeles, located on Plaza de Cibeles, is a great place to start. The cultural centre, housed within the building, has three eateries, two of which are situated on the sixth floor: the Palacio de Cibeles Restaurant and the Terraza Bar. From these, marvellous views of Madrid can be enjoyed. If you go up two more levels to the 8th floor, then the view becomes even more spectacular, encompassing the Salamanca District and the entire city centre. This is also a great place to take in the iconic Edificio Metrópolis and the rolling mountains that sit behind the city.

For an unbeatable view of the bustling Gran Vía, head to the top floor of the Callao Corte Ingles. Located on Plaza de Callao, the 9th floor of the Club Gourmet in the El Corte Inglés department store is the place to be when it comes to truly stellar views.
Circulo de Bellas Artes, on Calle de Alcalá, is another place that boasts majestic views of the city. Ascend to the rooftop to admire the skyscrapers, grand avenues and monuments of the city. Admission to the rooftop is €3, and since it is open until 9pm, staying for the sunset is highly recommended.
The dome of La Almudena Cathedral offers an entirely different perspective over the city, with a sweeping view over the Royal Palace, which is located opposite. The impressive view also encompasses nearby Casa de Campo Park and the Guadarrama Mountains. It is worth noting that the dome is accessible only through the Cathedral Museum, with admission costing €6.

Best Madrid Viewpoints - Out in the Open

The viewpoint at the Huerto de la Partida, located inside Madrid Rio Park, offers fantastic views of the Royal Palace as well as La Almudena Cathedral. Another point inside the park, the Puente de Segovia Bridge, has beautiful views of the south and north sides of the Manzanares Rivers whilst for a panoramic view of Arganzuela Park and the Puente de Toledo Bridge, you should head to the Arganzuela Monumental Bridge.
If you want to take in a beautiful sunset with an uninterrupted view, then the Egyptian temple of Debod or Cerro del Tio Pio Park are the places to be.

Stunning views of the city’s skyline, in its totality, can be found at Cerro de Los Angeles Hill, located on the outskirts of the city. From here, Madrid not only looks splendid but it seems to blend with the mountains behind - a truly inspiring image.
These are just a few highlights when it comes to the best viewpoints in Madrid; but, of course, there are many more locations from which to take the city in from above. Countless rooftop restaurants as well as bars offer the chance to admire the cityscape whilst escaping the hustle and bustle of the streets below. Part of the adventure may be discovering your own locations, away from the crowds.
As part of your view seeking adventure, why not take the time to explore some of Madrid's other highlights? The expansive Casa de Campo Park spreads out across 1,700 acres and offers a great deal to discover. As well as being a wonderful place to unwind, it is home to Madrid Zoo, a funfair, Madrid Arena and a large lake, where boating is possible. It may be worth setting aside a whole day to make the most of a visit to this vast park and entertainment hub.
If bargain hunting is your thing, be sure to visit El Rastro, the city's most famous flea market. Seemingly endless rows of stalls run along Ribera de Curtidores and Plaza de Cascorro in the Embajadores district, selling practically everything imaginable. Books, vinyl records, second-hand and vintage clothing, general curiosities and many other things can be found here. The side streets are also home to a number of antique shops, as well as inviting cafés and restaurants for that much needed pitstop.
Whilst in town, you should definitely take the opportunity to view this beautiful city from above. It is well worth it! The places mentioned here are a few of the tried and tested spots for gaining fantastics views over Madrid. Once you have taken it all in from above, great dining, markets, museums, parks and more await.

Best Madrid Viewpoints – Our Rooftop Bars and Terraces

If you’re staying with us, there’s no need to travel far to appreciate a stunning Spanish sunset and the city skyline! Picalagartos Sky Bar at the NH Collection Madrid Gran Vía offers one of the best panoramic views of Madrid. Marvel at the Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture while sipping on a Scotch whiskey house special. You’ll find this rooftop bar extra spacious with both covered and open-air seating. The Casa Suecia restaurant and terrace at NH Collection Madrid Suecia is another great option with views overlooking both the Paseo del Prado and Palacio Cibeles.

Planning your trip to Madrid? Check out our best city center hotels in Madrid.