What to do in Madrid in summer

Are you unsure about what plans to make in Madrid this summer? We know that summer in Madrid can either be a sweltering experience or an unforgettable one, depending on the great plans you choose. Thanks to the wide variety of activities and places the city offers, you can have the summer of your life. From enjoying its parks and gardens, exploring its museums, to cooling off at terraces and sky bars with pools, there is always something for everyone's taste. Here we present a detailed guide on what to do in Madrid in summer, highlighting some of the best options to enjoy this beautiful city.

Enjoy Madrid's parks and gardens

Parque del Retiro

There are many things to do in Madrid in summer, and one that should not be missed is visiting this park. Parque del Retiro is one of the most iconic green spaces in Madrid. With its expansive gardens, ponds, and monuments, it is a perfect place for a stroll, a picnic, or simply relaxing in the shade of the trees. You can rent a boat and row on the pond or visit the Palacio de Cristal, which often hosts art exhibitions.

Jardines de Sabatini

Located next to the Palacio Real, the Jardines de Sabatini are an ideal spot for a peaceful summer afternoon. These neoclassical gardens offer spectacular views of the palace and are perfect for an evening walk. Moreover, their symmetrical design and fountains make them a very picturesque place for photography.

Parque del Oeste

Parque del Oeste, located near Plaza de España, is known for its cable car that offers panoramic views of the city. It also houses the Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that is especially impressive at sunset. The tree-lined paths and green areas make it a perfect place to escape the urban hustle.

Explore museums and cultural centres in Madrid

Museo del Prado

Among the plans to make in Madrid in summer, visiting museums is one of the most chosen by tourists visiting the capital. Museo del Prado is a must-visit for art lovers. With a vast collection of masterpieces by artists like Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch, this museum is one of the most important in the world. During summer, it can be a great refuge to escape the heat and enjoy culture.

Museo Reina Sofía

Mainly dedicated to modern and contemporary art, Museo Reina Sofía houses the famous work “Guernica” by Picasso, among many others. Its temporary and permanent exhibitions are fascinating, and the building itself, a former hospital converted into a museum, is worthy of admiration.

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza completes the so-called "Art Triangle" of Madrid. Its collection ranges from the Renaissance to contemporary art, offering a broad view of the history of Western art. It is a perfect place for a cultural afternoon in the heart of the city.

Refresh yourself at our Sky Bar

The Sky Bar at our OD Madrid hotel is one of the best options to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink with spectacular views of the city while taking a dip in our pool. With a chic and modern atmosphere, it is the ideal place to spend a summer afternoon in an elegant and pleasant environment. Moreover, its central location allows easy access to other tourist attractions in Madrid. If you don’t know what to do in Madrid when it’s hot, this is your plan.

The best outdoor activities in summer are in Madrid

Cycling Routes along Madrid Río

Madrid Río is a linear park that follows the course of the Manzanares River, offering kilometres of paths for cycling. It is an excellent way to stay active while enjoying urban nature and impressive views of the city.

Boating in Parque del Retiro

Returning to Parque del Retiro, one of the most popular activities is renting a boat and rowing on the large pond. It is a refreshing and relaxing experience, perfect for a summer day. Moreover, you can combine it with a visit to the nearby Palacio de Cristal or the Jardín de Vivaces.

Picnic in Parque Juan Carlos I

Juan Carlos I park is one of the largest in Madrid and offers numerous green areas to enjoy a picnic. With large open spaces, lakes, and sculptures, it is an ideal place to spend a day outdoors with family or friends.

Still don’t know what to do in Madrid in summer? We doubt it! Madrid offers a great variety of activities to enjoy in summer, from exploring its green parks and grand museums to relaxing at terraces with panoramic views. Don’t forget to visit OD Madrid for a comfortable stay accessible to all these city wonders.