Where to Find the Best Views in Madrid

Only from above can you begin to understand the scope of Madrid, Spain’s sweeping capital. Whether you want to do so by day or night, from a rooftop terrace or the basket of a hot-air balloon, here are our top picks for where to get the best views over Madrid.

Take To the Skies

There are few better ways to get a feel for a city’s size and scope than from the sky in a hot-air balloon. While in Madrid, take a flying tour over the city and admire the network of streets below, as you enjoy a complimentary drink and listen to your guide tell tales you might not hear elsewhere. You can even choose to fly over a few neighboring cities, like Segovia or Toledo, too.

Arrange a Private Tour

If you’re visiting Madrid with a specific aim in mind—like enjoying the best views—but don’t know where to begin when it comes to planning or have limited time in the city, a private, customizable tour could be the solution. Let a guide plan the ideal sightseeing route, including stops to admire the Gran Vía from on high, for a hassle-free day of exploration. You can even opt for tours that include personal photographers.

Visit the Temple of Debod

Sunset is the best time to appreciate the sweeping city views from Madrid’s Temple of Debod, an Egyptian shrine situated on the grounds of the Royal Palace. To get the timing just right, take a tour with a local guide or opt for a package, which typically combines skip-the-line admission to the Royal Palace with a wider city sightseeing tour for a comprehensive experience.  

Sip Drinks on a Rooftop

Take in awesome views over the city from a rooftop bar, where you can enjoy an ice-cold beer after a day of exploring. Skip the hassle of figuring out which bar has both the best views and the best drinks by choosing a tour that includes a rooftop pit stop. Whether alone or in a small group, there are plenty of tour options that let you take in the best of the city from above and below. 

Hike in the Mountains

After you’ve soaked up the traditional city views, get a new perspective on mountainous Madrid during a small-group or private hiking excursion. See wild animals, take the tour at your own pace, and enjoy the fresh air.