The best views in Madrid: my top 10 viewpoints in the city

Last Updated on March 3, 2026 by Ioana

Madrid is stunning at street level, but from above it becomes unforgettable. The red rooftops, grand boulevards, palace domes, and distant mountains create one of the most beautiful skylines in Europe. Whenever I travel, I actively seek out the best viewpoints. I wake up early for them. I plan sunsets around them. Madrid rewarded me with some truly spectacular panoramas. Here are the 10 best views in Madrid, from iconic rooftops to peaceful parks. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Find out more here.

1. Palacio de Cibeles

Cibeles Palace is a complex of two stunning white buildings located in Plaza de Cibeles in the center of Madrid.

These emblematic buildings used to be the city’s post office and telegraph headquarters back in the day. Today it houses the City Council of Madrid.

There is an observation deck at Palacio de Cibeles on the top floor. It costs 3 euros to go up but it’s totally worth it. You can buy tickets here. This rooftop terrace is one of Madrid’s hidden gems. 

It offers one of the best viewpoints of Madrid. You can see the Plaza de Cibeles fountain, Paseo de Recoletos, Paseo del Prado, and Gran Vía. Basically all major avenues located in the heart of the city.

I think the best time of day to visit is as soon as they open in the morning. That’s what I did and there were only a few other people there.

If you go this early you can have the entire place to yourself to enjoy one of the most iconic views of Madrid and take lots of pictures.

2. Temple of Debod

If you visit the city of Madrid, the Royal Palace should be on your itinerary. When you visit the palace continue walking past its Sabatini gardens and you will get to the Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple.

You might be a little confused. Why is there an Egyptian temple in the heart of Madrid? It was a gift from the Egyptian government in 1968 for the help provided by Spain in saving the Abu Simbel temples.

Right next to Debod Temple there is a park with a beautiful view of Madrid. It’s free and you’ll be able to see the Royal Palace, plus a lot of the skyline of Madrid.

It’s the perfect place to sit down on a bench and recharge while enjoying spectacular views of the Royal Palace and of the Madrid skyline.

3. The terrace at Riu Plaza España

Riu Plaza is an iconic hotel located in Plaza de España. The coolest thing about it is that it has a rooftop bar and a terrace on the 27th floor that offers the most spectacular view of Madrid. 

This terrace has a 360 view of the city. And it also has a glass walkaway suspended in the air. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and the most breathtaking views of the city. 

You can go to this rooftop bar to enjoy a drink and the views even though you are not a hotel guest. It tends to be a popular spot, but I can understand that as it’s a great place with amazing panoramic views of Madrid.

4. Círculo de Bellas Artes Rooftop

Círculo de Bellas Artes is one of Madrid’s most respected cultural institutions, and its rooftop terrace offers one of the most classic skyline views in the city.

There is a small entrance fee to access the terrace. Once upstairs, you are greeted with sweeping views over Gran Vía and the surrounding rooftops.

The iconic dome of the Metropolis Building stands out beautifully from this angle.

When I visited in the late afternoon, the atmosphere was relaxed. There is a bar on the terrace (see spot #9 on this list for more details), so many visitors stay for a drink while enjoying the view.

This rooftop feels slightly more refined and less adrenaline-focused than Riu Plaza España, making it a great alternative if you prefer a calmer setting.

5. Mirador de la Cornisa Near the Royal Palace

Behind the Royal Palace, near the gardens, you will find Mirador de la Cornisa. It is one of the viewpoints in central Madrid.

From here, you get a layered view of the Royal Palace complex with Casa de Campo stretching behind it. The perspective feels slightly elevated and more open compared to the palace’s main entrance.

It makes most sense to go here when you visit the Royal Palace and the gardens since it’s so close.

6. Faro de Moncloa

Faro de Moncloa is a 92-meter observation tower located outside the historic center. Because it requires a short metro ride, it attracts fewer visitors.

There is a small ticket fee, and access is regulated for safety. Once at the top, you get a wide panoramic view of Madrid’s skyline and, on clear days, the surrounding mountains.

This viewpoint is ideal if you want to see how vast Madrid really is. It provides a broader, more geographical perspective rather than close architectural detail.

7. El Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience in Callao

One of the most convenient views in Madrid is from the Gourmet Experience terrace at El Corte Inglés in Callao.

There is no entrance fee. Simply take the elevator to the top floor and walk out onto the terrace. You can order food or drinks while overlooking Gran Vía.

Watching the city from above while traffic moves below gives you a new appreciation for Madrid’s energy. It is casual, accessible, and easy to add to your itinerary if you are already exploring the city center.

8. Parque del Cerro del Tío Pío

This park, often nicknamed the park of the seven hills, offers one of the best panoramic skyline views in Madrid.

Located in a residential neighborhood, it feels local and authentic. The rolling hills create natural viewing platforms that frame the city in the distance.

I recommend coming at sunset. The skyline appears silhouetted against the sky, and the atmosphere is much quieter compared to central viewpoints.

9. Azotea del Círculo

Azotea del Círculo operates as a rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar connected to Círculo de Bellas Artes.

The atmosphere here feels more curated and refined. If you want to pair skyline views with dinner or cocktails, this is a strong option.

Weekday evenings tend to be calmer, while weekends are more social. It’s a great setting for a relaxed sunset with a drink in hand.

10. Casa de Campo

Casa de Campo is Madrid’s largest park and offers a completely different type of viewpoint.

From certain elevated areas, you can see the Royal Palace and city skyline framed by greenery. It feels removed from the busy center even though it is just across from it.

If you enjoy nature and want a quieter perspective of Madrid, this is a refreshing alternative to rooftop terraces.

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