Best Viewpoints in Madrid for Stunning Photos

Madrid offers a variety of viewpoints that showcase the city’s beauty. From historical terraces to modern skyscrapers, here are the ones you shouldn’t miss.

Which is the best viewpoint to start with?

Start with the Palacio de Cibeles viewpoint. It's inside City Hall, a 15-minute walk from us on Calle del Pez. The terrace gives you a direct line of sight down Gran Vía and over the Plaza. Costs €3 for adults, €1.50 for kids under 12. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30–14:00 and again from 16:00–19:00.

The Palacio de Cibeles itself is worth exploring beyond the viewpoint. This stunning building is home to CentroCentro, a cultural center that often hosts exhibitions and events. If you're interested in architecture, take a moment to admire the intricate details of the façade and the grand interior. The terrace is particularly popular in the late afternoon when the sunlight casts a golden glow over the city. If you're visiting during peak tourist season, consider booking your ticket online to avoid long queues.

Where can you enjoy free panoramic views?

The Temple of Debod is your free option. It’s a 20-minute walk from the hostel and gives you a wide-open view over Casa de Campo, which is where you want to be for sunset. Guests ask us about this almost daily at reception. We tell them to get there at least 30 minutes before sunset to grab a good spot on the grass.

The Temple of Debod is not just about the views; it’s also a piece of history. This ancient Egyptian temple was gifted to Spain in 1968 as a token of gratitude for Spain's help in saving monuments in Nubia. The temple is surrounded by a reflecting pool, which adds a magical touch to sunset photos. While you're there, take a stroll through Parque del Oeste, the park that houses the temple. It's a peaceful spot with shaded paths and benches, perfect for a relaxing break.

What’s the best modern viewpoint?

The Torre de Madrid viewpoint in Plaza de España. It's a quick 10-minute walk from our door. This one is less about old architecture and more about getting a clean, high-up perspective of the modern city grid. Costs €8. Open daily from 10:00 to 21:00.

For those interested in modern architecture, the Torre de Madrid is a must-visit. Built in the 1950s, it was once the tallest building in Spain. The viewpoint offers a unique perspective of Madrid's urban layout, including landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral. If you're a photography enthusiast, the clean lines and geometric patterns of the cityscape make for striking compositions. The area around Plaza de España has recently been renovated, so take some time to explore the new pedestrian-friendly spaces and nearby cafes.

For a zero-cost sunset photo, it's hard to beat the Temple of Debod. Just get there early.

What are the best alternatives for Gran Vía views?

The Círculo de Bellas Artes rooftop is the classic spot. For €5, you get up on the roof for a full 360-degree view, with a great angle over the start of Gran Vía. It’s a 15-minute walk from Adventure Hostel Madrid. Open every day from 12:00 to 23:00.

The rooftop also features a trendy bar where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the views. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so it can get crowded, especially during sunset. If you're planning to visit in the evening, consider arriving early to secure a good spot. The Círculo de Bellas Artes often hosts cultural events, so check their schedule—you might be able to catch a film screening or live music performance after your visit to the rooftop.

Is Faro de Moncloa worth visiting?

Faro de Moncloa gives you a completely different perspective. It's not in the centre, but at 92 metres high, you see the entire city sprawl. From the hostel, it’s about a 25-minute trip: walk to Noviciado and take metro line 2 to Quevedo, then line 6 to Moncloa. Entry costs €4. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30–19:30.

The Faro de Moncloa is particularly appealing for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of central Madrid. The observation deck is enclosed in glass, making it a comfortable option even on windy or rainy days. From here, you can spot landmarks like the Four Towers and even the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains on clear days. If you're a fan of panoramic photography, the height and vantage point make it an excellent choice. Nearby, you'll find the Museum of the Americas, which is worth a visit if you have extra time.

Other viewpoints to consider

If you have more time, consider visiting the rooftop of El Corte Inglés in Callao. The Gourmet Experience on the top floor offers not only a variety of food options but also a fantastic view of Gran Vía. It's free to access, and you can enjoy a coffee or a snack while taking in the sights. Another option is the Royal Palace Gardens, specifically the Sabatini Gardens, which provide a serene setting and a unique angle of the palace. Both spots are within walking distance from the hostel.

For those willing to venture a bit further, the Parque de las Siete Tetas in Vallecas offers one of the most underrated views of Madrid. The park is named after its seven hills, and from the highest point, you can see the entire city skyline. It's a favorite among locals for picnics and sunset watching. To get there, take metro line 1 to Buenos Aires station and walk about 15 minutes.

Another hidden gem is the rooftop terrace at Hotel Riu Plaza España. Located right on Gran Vía, this terrace offers a glass walkway that lets you feel like you're walking on air while enjoying unparalleled views of the city. Entry costs €10 for non-guests, and the terrace is open daily from 11:00 to midnight. It's an excellent spot for evening drinks with a view.