Summer has arrived in Madrid, and the warm sun should be shining all the way through October and even November (and indeed, it will shine after that, though the temperatures will take a nose dive). So if you’re looking to savor those warm rays as the Spaniards do, here are some of the best places to do it.
Retiro Park
Perhaps the most ideal spot in Madrid to take in the Spanish sun is at the city’s central park called Retiro. The 350-acre space is quilted by grass plots, crisscrossed by paths, and dotted by a slew of cafes at which you can grab a snack or refreshment. Go there to take a stroll, row on the large man-made pond, or to, of course, soak up the sun as you take a load off. Make your visit a little more adventurous by joining a Madrid Bike Tour, which passes through the massive park as well as some of the city’s other top spots.
At an Outdoor Terraza
Come the warmer season, Spaniards probably look forward to one thing above all else: the outdoor terraza. These are the ubiquitous al fresco seating areas where you can sip on drinks and snack on tapas. They’re the perfect place to people watch, relax and just enjoy the marvelous Madrid sun. Not sure which ones to visit? Head to one of Madrid’s best outdoor terrazas.
At a Public Pool
So where do all the Madrileños go to cool off? To the public pools, of which there are several around the city, including the ones found at Casa de Campo and at Francos Rodriguez. And you can go too, as they require nothing more than a nominal fee (around 5 euros) to enter. Expect to find large lap pools, and also lawns about for lying out.
At a Hotel Rooftop Pool
Up your pool game by heading to a proper rooftop pool. These sky-high swim spots, available at various hotels across the city, come with sunshine of course, and also sweet, sweet views of the city. Think spots such as the hotel Roommate Oscar, whose super tiny pool is made up for by the super chill layout area and sweeping neighborhood vistas. Keen to check out more rooftops (minus the pools)? Join a Rooftop Walking Tour of Madrid to spy some of the best ones in the big city.
-Contributed by Erin Ridley
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