Which viewpoints in Madrid are worth visiting?

From Madrid to heaven... an expression as quintessentially Madrid as the city itself. The saying goes that once you've experienced and enjoyed Madrid, the only other place worth visiting is heaven—because nowhere else can compare. It reflects the pride and affection the capital inspires, a poetic way of saying that living or visiting the city is something truly special.

And there's no better way to appreciate this sentiment than by taking in the city's skyline from above, at viewpoints, parks and rooftops where the sunset turns Madrid's sky into a breathtaking spectacle.

Near the Royal Palace, Mirador de la Cornisa sits between the palace itself and Almudena Cathedral, offering direct views over Campo del Moro Gardens and Casa de Campo Park, with free entry.

For a higher vantage point, head to Faro de Moncloa which boasts sweeping views of the city skyline stretching as far as the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range. Another must-visit observation deck in the city centre is Mirador Madrid—located in Cibeles Palace—with 360º views over the city and free guided tours at specific times, available by advance booking.

Among the rooftops with the best views, Azotea del Círculo stands out as one of the most iconic spots to admire Madrid from above. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy a unique perspective of the city's layout, with the buildings of Gran Vía avenue right before your eyes. To access the exclusive rooftop, purchase a ticket at reception and then take one of the glass-door lifts straight up to the top floor.

A short stroll away is another unmissable terrace: the 360º Rooftop Bar at the Riu Plaza España Hotel, with its glass walkway 27 storeys high from which you can take in a complete panoramic view of the city. Other popular rooftops include Azotea Cibeles, Picalagartos Sky Bar—with a restaurant and 360º views over Gran Vía—Ginkgo Sky Bar at VP Plaza España Design and the terrace of The Principal Madrid Hotel. Each combines great food, a vibrant atmosphere and spectacular views of Madrid’s skyline.

To enjoy some the city’s most natural and authentic sunsets, there are several spots where the city’s sky turns golden over urban and green landscapes.

In the heart of El Retiro Park, the Monument to Alfonso XII is not only a magnificent sculptural and architectural landmark, but also one of the most special viewpoints in central Madrid. On rare occasions it opens to the public, allowing visitors to enjoy unique views from its semicircular structure that embraces the large lake.

The Temple of Debod, located beside Plaza de España, is one of the most emblematic places to watch the sun go down. This Egyptian temple dating from the 2nd century BC—donated to Spain and rebuilt stone by stone in its current location—is oriented east to west, allowing the final rays to illuminate its structures in spectacular fashion.

On the other side of the Royal Palace, Las Vistillas Gardens offer sweeping views over the banks of the River Manzanares and Casa de Campo Park. It's a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike, ideal for sitting out on its open-air terraces and enjoying the sunset among trees and fountains. Just a few meters away are San Francisco el Grande Gardens, located next to the basilica of the same name, which boast an elevated viewpoint with one of the most beautiful vistas in western Madrid, especially when the sun sets behind the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral.

Another prime spot is Huerta de la Partida, a 38,000-square-metre natural area within Madrid Río Park, opposite the Royal Palace. Amid its footpaths and fruit trees, a viewpoint allows you to watch the sun go down over the rooftops of the historic centre, with the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range in the background. The lake in Casa de Campo Park, surrounded by lush greenery and terraces, is also perfect for enjoying the sunset reflected in the water while you dine or stroll along its shores.

Meanwhile, the dome of the Almudena Cathedral offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Royal Palace, Plaza de Oriente and Viaducto de Segovia. Open only to visitors of the Cathedral Museum, it's an exceptional vantage point from which to admire the city's historic skyline at twilight.