What to See and Do in Retiro Madrid

El Retiro is much more than a park: it is one of Madrid’s most emblematic spaces and the city’s green heart. Surrounded by historic and exclusive neighborhoods such as Jerónimos, Recoletos and Ibiza, this area blends culture, nature and quality of life. Both locals and visitors find a place here to disconnect from the urban hustle without leaving the center.

Buen Retiro Park: the soul of the neighborhood

With more than 125 hectares of gardens, fountains and tree-lined promenades, Buen Retiro Park is a true urban lung. Its most famous spots — the Great Pond, the Crystal Palace and the Velázquez Palace — make it an essential destination for both leisure and culture.

Taking a boat ride, attending an art exhibition or simply enjoying a sunset beneath centuries-old trees are everyday experiences for those who live in the area.

A first-rate cultural setting

El Retiro is framed by the Paseo del Prado, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the park itself. Just steps away lies the Art Triangle, bringing together the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum. This cultural concentration is unmatched by any other European city.

In addition, the Jerónimos quarter is home to the church of San Jerónimo el Real, a Gothic gem that recalls the area’s historical importance since the reign of the Catholic Monarchs.

Gastronomy and lifestyle

Beyond culture and art, Retiro is also a place to enjoy Madrid’s good life. The streets of Ibiza and Menéndez Pelayo bring together fine-dining restaurants, revamped taverns and lively terraces that have become meeting points for residents and visitors.

From traditional proposals to cutting-edge culinary experiences, Retiro’s gastronomic scene reflects the balance of elegance and authenticity that defines the neighborhood.

Living in Retiro

Living in this area means having everything at hand: green spaces, cultural life, restaurants, prestigious schools and excellent connectivity with the rest of the city. The properties around the park — stately apartments, penthouses with views and refurbished homes in historic buildings — are among the most sought-after in Madrid’s real estate market.

Proximity to the park adds a unique value: the chance to enjoy nature just a few steps from home, something especially appreciated by families and international investors.

El Retiro is a neighborhood where history, culture and nature intertwine in an exclusive setting. It is a perfect place to stroll, live and enjoy the essence of Madrid.

With BARNES Madrid, discovering the most distinctive properties around El Retiro becomes a personalized, discreet experience focused on the very best of life in Spain’s capital.