Madrid Río Park (Parque Madrid Río)
Paseo de la Ermita del Santo 14-16, Madrid, ESP
What was once an unremarkable stretch of the Manzanares River is now the Madrid Rio, a 2,220 acre (820 hectare) riverfront park boasting numerous attractions, from bike paths and urban beach to kids' play areas. Whether you dine at a parkside restaurant, or cross one of the 33 bridges for a photo, plan to visit the park on your next Madrid trip.
Unveiled in 2008, the Madrid Rio is a popular destination snaking around 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) of the city. A stone's throw from Puerta del Sol, visitors stop by the park on numerous city tours, including Segway and bike tours—which are a great choice for basking in Madrid's famous sunshine. Traditional sightseeing tours typically stop by the Madrid Rio, and you can even catch a glimpse of the riverfront park on city center airport transfers, depending on your drop-off location.
- Adventurous travelers shouldn't miss a Vespa tour—follow a guide to Madrid's top sights, with the wind in your hair the whole time.
- Travelers that want to take the guesswork out of planning can book an all-inclusive regional tour, with Madrid Rio sightseeing included.
- Remember to wear sunblock to the Madrid Rio urban beach area, since you may not find adequate shade.
- Families should visit the park's play areas, with slides, ziplines, and jungle gyms perfect for letting the kids burn off extra energy.
The Madrid Rio is conveniently accessible by metro, and you can choose among several stops—including Principe Pio, Puerta del Ángel, Legazpi, or Almendrales—depending on the stretch you'd like to explore. To lounge on the urban beach, hop out at Marqués de Vadillo, and find the beach across the Puente de Toledo footbridge.
You get the most out of the Madrid Rio in the warmer months, when skies are clear and you can bask in the famous Spanish sunshine. September and October are ideal, as are April and May—you can expect pleasant weather, and avoid the peak tourist season (and uncomfortably hot temperatures) of the summer months.
Along the Manzanares River, near the Principe Pio metro stop, visitors find two must-see attractions: the neoclassical Sabatini Gardens, and the world-renowned Royal Palace. Just steps from the Madrid Rio, stop by the Sabatini Gardens to explore the hedge maze, and snap photos with the Royal Palace in the background. Next, join for a Royal Palace tour to see the rococo building's ornate interior, and celebrate the royal collection.
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