El Retiro Park, or Parque del Buen Retiro, is a historic public park in central Madrid, east of the Prado. Its paths pass formal gardens, fountains, sculptures and landmarks including the glass-and-iron Palacio de Cristal and the Alfonso XII monument beside the boating lake. You can stroll beneath the trees, pause for a picnic or rent a rowboat on the Great Pond. The Cecilio Rodríguez Gardens, known for their peacocks, and the Rosaleda rose garden add quieter stops to a visit among the park’s broad lawns and avenues.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long should I spend at El Retiro Park?
Allow about two to three hours for a walk that includes the lake, Palacio de Cristal and some gardens. Add time if you plan to row or visit an exhibition.
Can you rent a boat at El Retiro Park?
Rowboats are available on the Great Pond, beside the Alfonso XII monument.
What is the Palacio de Cristal?
It is a glass-and-iron pavilion built in 1887 for the Philippine Exposition. It is now used as an exhibition space for the Reina Sofía Museum.
What gardens should I see in El Retiro?
The Rosaleda is the park’s rose garden, while the Cecilio Rodríguez Gardens are known for their peacocks. The Parterre Gardens contain an old Mexican conifer believed to be Madrid’s oldest tree.
