Viewpoints in Madrid: 3 views that will help you rediscover the city

Cerro del Tío Pío, popularly known asParque de las Siete Tetas, is one ofMadrid’smost famousviewpoints. Located in the Vallecas neighborhood, this park was, from the first half of the 20th century, an illegal settlement that came to house more than 10,000 residents who could not afford to buy a home. In 1925, it was renamed Barrio de Pío, in reference to Pío Felipe Fernández, a man from Ávila who became the first inhabitant of this hill. After the residents of this hill were relocated to decent housing, the park was inaugurated in 1987, covering more than 150,000 m² and consisting of several hills that offer a spectacular panoramic view of the Madrid skyline. 

From the top, you can see some of the city’s most iconic buildings, such as the “Cuatro Torres,” the Valencia Tower, and the legendary Torrespaña, among many others, while enjoying a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for a picnic or watching the sunset. It’s one of those places where many locals simply go to sit on the grass and let time pass. 

Did you know that thehills in the park are nicknamed the “Seven Breasts” because of their rounded shape?Each one serves as a small natural lookout point. 

Plus, since it’s a public space, it’s open 24 hours a day, all year round, so you can visit it at sunrise or at night.

For easy access, you can take the subway and get off at Portazgo or Buenos Aires (Line 1), or take one of several bus lines, such as the 54, 141, 143, or N10.

The The Royal Palace Cornice Viewpoint is one of thoseviewpoints in Madridthat surprises even those who know the city well. It is located next to the Royal Palace, on an elevated area that offers sweeping views to the west of Madrid. 

From here, you can take in the viewof the Casa de Campo, one of the capital’s largest green spaces, and watch as the city winds its way through parks and historic buildings. It’s the perfect spot to take a break during a stroll through downtown and discover a different perspective on Madrid. 

This observation deck has specific hours that vary depending on the time of year: from October to March, it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; in April and September, it stays open until 9:00 p.m.; and in May, June, July, and August, it remains open until 10:00 p.m., making it an ideal spot to watch the sunset in the summer.

Want to know a secret? Thisobservation deck reopened relatively recently, after being closed for 15 years for renovations, until 2021. From here, you can see some of the best sunsets in downtown Madrid.  

There are several ways to get there: take the metro to Ópera (lines 2, 5, and Ramal), buses such as the 3, 148, M3, or N16, or even the commuter train to Madrid-Sol.

The Temple of Debod is probably one ofMadrid’smost famousviewpoints, and also one of the best spots to watch the sunset. This Egyptian temple, located in Parque del Oeste, sits atop thePrince Pío Hill, offering spectacular views. 

From here, you can see theCasa de Campo, theRoyal Palace, and much of western Madrid as the sky changes color at sunset. It’s the perfect outing whether you’re visiting or live in the city. 

As for hours, the Temple of Debod has different schedules depending on the season: in winter, it is open Tuesday through Sunday and on holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (last admission at 7:30 p.m.), while in summer (June 15 through September 15), the hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (last admission at 6:30 p.m.). It is advisable to check for any changes before your visit.

This temple is over 2,000 years old and was a gift from Egypt to Spain in 1968 in recognition of Spain's assistance in the rescue of the temples of Nubia. 

To get there, you can take the metro to Plaza de España, Príncipe Pío, or Ventura Rodríguez, or take one of the many bus or commuter train lines to Madrid-Príncipe Pío, making it very easy to reach from anywhere in the city.