Where to stay near Madrid’s Retiro Park

Buen Retiro Park – or El Retiro, as it’s known to locals – was created as a retreat for the Spanish royal family back in the 1630s. Filled with ornate fountains and leafy avenues, this huge park was finally opened up to the public in the late 19th century.

Today, Retiro Park’s wide open spaces make it one of the city’s most-loved spots. We’ve rounded up some of the best apartments nearby.

Alcalá City Center

Alcalá City Center has an understated chic look – all clean lines, design furniture and muted geometric prints. Sleeping up to six guests, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment has a spacious lounge area and a well-equipped kitchen. It’s located a five-minute walk from the gates of Retiro Park, in the upmarket Salamanca neighbourhood. You’ll find plenty of local shops along nearby Alcalá Street, including a butcher and greengrocer, and there’s a good range of restaurants in the surrounding streets.

Apartamento Alfonso XII, 22

Apartamento Alfonso XII, 22 is directly across the road from the Puerta España entrance to Retiro Park, and a few minutes’ walk from the Prado Museum. Guests felt welcomed from the moment they arrived, thanks to the building’s friendly doorman and the attentive owner. Inside there’s a spacious studio and a two-bedroom apartment, decorated with earthy tones, from the striped tabletops to the polished terracotta floor tiles. While the apartments are below street level, the high ceilings and lengthy windows keep both flats feeling cool and airy inside.

Alcala Premium

Alcala Premium is a renovated apartment set in a historic building, an eight-minute walk from the edge of El Retiro. Inside, creams and greys create a neutral backdrop for statement features: steampunk light fittings, a pillar-box red cabinet and a section of exposed brick wall. Guests were impressed by the high-speed internet, ready-to-use Netflix account and stylish kitchen. The apartment is right next to Goya metro station and surrounded by shops and restaurants – El Barril is a local favourite for seafood.

Real VIP Home

Real VIP Home is an ideal base for large groups, with space for up to 22 guests. Inside, classical-style columns and cornices contrast with colourful wall art and modern furniture. The apartment is in the middle of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, with the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums all within a 10-minute stroll. The nearest entrance to Retiro Park is also a 10-minute walk from the apartment, via pretty Platería de Martínez Square. Along the way you’ll find plenty of pavement cafés, while the smart Moratín Bistro is a few doors away.