Walking Tour in El Retiro Park, Madrid | Explore Alfonso XII Monument & many more highlights inside

Step into the heart of Madrid with me on this peaceful walking tour of Parque de El Retiro, the city’s most iconic green oasis. 🌿✨

We begin our stroll at the Parterre Garden (Jardín del Parterre), a beautifully landscaped French-style garden with symmetrical designs, manicured hedges, and one of Madrid’s oldest trees. From there, we head towards the Fuente de la Alcachofa (Artichoke Fountain), a stunning 18th-century Baroque-style fountain crowned with an artichoke sculpture, which adds charm to the historic park.

As we walk further, we are greeted by breathtaking views of the Great Pond of El Retiro (Estanque Grande de El Retiro) — the park’s grand lake where people enjoy rowing boats. Overlooking the pond is the majestic Monument to Alfonso XII, an impressive semicircular colonnade and equestrian statue that reflects beautifully on the water’s surface. 🏛️

After exploring the Great Pond of El Retiro (Estanque Grande de El Retiro), I walked over to the magnificent Monument to Alfonso XII, one of the most iconic landmarks in Madrid’s Retiro Park.

This grand semicircular colonnade, crowned with a majestic equestrian statue of King Alfonso XII, was built in the early 20th century and stands as a symbol of Spanish history and pride. From here, you get a stunning panoramic view of the shimmering pond below, where visitors enjoy rowing boats and relaxing by the water. 🚣‍♂️✨

The steps of the monument create a beautiful gathering spot — a perfect place to sit, soak in the atmosphere, listen to street performers, and admire the reflections of the monument and sky dancing on the lake. The combination of neoclassical architecture, calm waters, and lively surroundings makes this one of the most picturesque and photographed areas in all of Parque de El Retiro. 🏛️🌿💙

Next, we step into the serene Cecilio Rodríguez Gardens (Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez) — a hidden gem filled with elegant pathways, fountains, and free-roaming peacocks, making it feel like a secret escape within the bustling city. 🦚

Our tour continues to the Rose Garden (La Rosaleda), which is usually bursting with colors and fragrances, but during this visit, it was off-season with only a few blooms — still, the layout and romantic pathways remain enchanting. 🌹

Finally, we reach the magical Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace). Although the palace was under construction and closed during this visit, I explored the Estanque del Palacio de Cristal — the pond in front of it. This picturesque setting features a fountain, a small waterfall, and lively wildlife. Watch closely and you’ll see fish swimming, ducks gliding, and even a tortoise resting by the shore! 🐟🦆🐢

El Retiro is not just a park, but an open-air museum of art, history, and nature — a must-visit for anyone exploring Madrid. Come walk with me and experience the calm beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 🌍💫


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