The seven most spectacular viewpoints in Madrid
Discover Madrid from one of its seven most spectacular viewpoints and enjoy a truly unforgettable experience that will make you fall in love with our wonderful city.
Revel in an extraordinary panoramic view of Madrid from one of the city’s many dazzling viewpoints.
Don’t forget to pack your camera before your stay at our 5 star hotel in Madrid, because there are many viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the Spanish capital, with each deserving a special mention. Here’s a map of the seven most spectacular viewpoints in Madrid.
1. Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes
Located right in the heart of Calle Alcalá, just a stone’s throw away from Puerta del Sol, the rooftop bar of the Fine Arts Circle (Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes) is one of the most well-known and treasured viewpoints in the Spanish capital, offering an unrivalled 360-degree view of Madrid’s skyline.
The azotea is also a unique gastronomical space, where you can indulge in culinary delights and savour the finest beverages against a stunning urban backdrop.
To get the ultimate view of Madrid’s skyline, take the glass lift and go up to the top floor. Tickets can be purchased for €5 (€4 for Youth Card holders [carné joven]) from the Círuclo de Bellas Artes lobby.
2. Palacio de Cibeles Viewpoint
Home to Madrid City Hall, and located in Cibeles Square (Plaza de Cibeles), between Calle de Alcalá, Calle de Montalbán and Paseo del Prado, Cibeles Palace (Palacio de Cibeles) is open to the public and a must-see attraction for all visitors to the city.
For just €3, you can explore the palace and bask in the delight of Madrid’s skyline from the viewpoint on the eighth floor.
The views are similar to those from the Círuclo de Bellas Artes rooftop, but as it’s not quite so well-known, it probably won’t be as busy.
You can also visit the Cibeles Terrace (Terraza Cibeles) on the sixth floor, which offers slightly less comprehensive, yet equally remarkable, views of Plaza de Cibeles.
3. Templo de Debod Viewpoint
Next to the iconic Debod Temple (Templo de Debod) lies the Príncipe Pío Mountain, home to one of the best free viewpoints in Madrid.
Beside this magnificent Egyptian monument is a spectacular free viewpoint facing towards the west of Madrid, overlooking both the Royal Palace (Palacio Real) and Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena).
With its supreme, spine-tingling Madrid sunsets, the Templo de Debod is an extremely popular attraction among visitors to the city.
4. Biblioteca Ana María Matute
A unique example of contemporary architecture, the Ana María de Matute Municipal Public Library (Biblioteca Pública Municipal Ana María de Matute), located in San Isidro Park (Parque de San Isidro), Carabanchel, offers panoramic views of Madrid’s urban landscape.
Entry to the Biblioteca Ana María Matute is free.
5. Catedral de la Almudena
Boasting highly impressive architecture adorned with statues of the 12 apostles, Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena) is home to a viewpoint offering awe-inspiring views of central Madrid.
Although entry to the cathedral is free, tickets for the museum and the viewpoint cost just €6 — a worthwhile investment for the jaw-dropping views of Madrid’s skyline. For an unparalleled view of the Royal Palace (Palacio Real), stop off at the balcony as you make your way up to the cupola.
6. Faro de Moncloa
Standing at 92-metres tall, the Faro de Moncloa transmission tower was built in 1992, shortly after Madrid was named European Capital of Culture. Located in the Ciudad Universitaria ward of the Moncloa-Aravaca district, this incredibly tall manifestation of architectural brilliance can be seen from anywhere in North-East Madrid.For just €3, enjoy stupefying views of Madrid’s skyline, Victoria Arch (Arco de la Victoria) and the Ministry of the Air Force (Ministerio del Aire or Cuartel General del Ejército del Aire).
7. El Corte Inglés (Plaza de Callao) Terrace
The ninth-floor terrace at the El Corte Inglés department store in Callao Square (Plaza Callao) is home to a free viewpoint with startling views of Madrid’s skyline.
This building in the beating heart of Madrid offers a wide selection of restaurants and Gourmet Experience stores, where you can have a nice bite to eat and a few drinks.
The only downside to this viewpoint is that it tends to be very crowded, due to its great popularity and central location, and because entry is free.
Gran Hotel Inglés is more than just the hotel of your wildest dreams, since we do everything we can to make your Madrid experience unique and unforgettable. You can also savour the finest dishes in our restaurant, Casa Lobo, and read our blog for tips on how to make the most of your stay in Madrid. We wish you a pleasant stay in the Spanish capital.
