Madrid is well-known for its party credentials. You'll find no end of bars, neighborhoods, and streets that come alive after dark and stay open beyond sunrise. But sometimes, sampling the nightlife and going wild for a weekend isn't on the agenda. Occasionally, you might just be looking for a few days in a place where you can relax and unwind. So here are some suggestions if you're looking for a chilled-out time in Madrid.
Lounge In the Park

Another thing that Madrid has in droves – aside from the bars – is a fair amount of open space. On one side of the city, in particular, you've got the Parque del Retiro. You'll find 320 acres of space here, encompassing a boating lake and monuments such as the imposing Alfonso XII Monument and the regal Palacio de Cristal.
However, these well-known areas can get busy, so head away from the crowds, entertainers, and fake sunglasses and explore the wooded paths and rose gardens dotted around the periphery. Wandering around the park's outskirts, you'll also find benches, shady spots, and even some outdoor exercise equipment to help you wind down should the mood take you.
Stay In a Quiet Part of Town
While the party animals tend to congregate around the lively streets of Gran Via, Malasaña, and Chueca, those of you seeking a quieter night might find solace in the Salamanca and Retiro neighborhoods. If you're staying near the latter, you'll find Calle Ibiza full of small tapas bars and restaurants where you can have a quiet bite to eat alongside the locals.
Another option is La Latina, situated in the old city, parts of which are quieter than the main streets but still close enough to the Rastro flea market and numerous tapas bars to get a taste of the evening atmosphere.
Stroll Around the Museums
During the day, Madrid's temperature can soar – and that's where the city's many museums come into their own. While you won't want to miss the Golden Triangle of Art, home to three top-class art museums: the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, there are other museums worth a shout, too.
For example, there's the art academy where Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali once studied—the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando. This grand building houses a museum and gallery collection of fine art from the 15th to the 20th century.
Sightseeing from up high
One way to see all the main tourist spots without battling the crowds is from the air. Madrid is lucky enough to have El Teleférico, a cable car that scoops you up from its base near La Rosaleda Park and takes you above the parkland to Casa de Campo.
You can see the Royal Palace of Madrid and La Almudena Cathedral in the distance. Still, and best of all, you can enjoy five minutes of peace and take in the city from above before strolling around the parkland at the other end or having a cheeky glass of Sangria in the restaurant before hopping back on again.
Jeff Broman says
Retiro Park is one of my favorite places in Madrid. I have spend a lot of time there on my visits. I did not know there was a cable car ride. I will check that out on my next visit.
Dave says
I didn't know about the cable car ride during my first visit to Madrid either!
Elle says
Wow! This is indeed a place to see. I never visited Madrid but after reading this, I am quite sure that visiting the place is all worth it. :)
Elle @ [link removed]
jan says
Loved Retiro Park and the Crystal Palace. Stayed in La Latina which had a authentic neighbourhood feel about it. Pretty down to earth and gritty in places. Spain is a wonderful country to visit, the cities are all so different.
Carla says
I like the museums in Madrid; nice article and nice pictures