Secret places in Madrid

The streets of Madrid are home to a number of stunning beauty and originality. Some of these spaces are so little known that many local residents don’t even know they exist. For example, the Casa de las Flores in the Chamberí district has a façade full of plants and colors that contrasts with the urban architecture of the area. Another hidden treasure is the secret garden at the Romantic Museum, a haven of peace in the heart of the city.

One of these places is the Quinta de los Molinos Park, especially in spring when the almond trees are in bloom, or El Capricho Park, a historic-artistic romantic garden with beautiful paths and a lake that courses through beautiful buildings. Another free space full of history is the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida, with its impressive frescoes by Goya. And if you prefer markets and a bohemian atmosphere, don’t miss the Motor Market, held in an old train depot and offering dining options, activities and live music.

We would like to highlight some of the treasures that you can find without going too far from the center of Madrid, such as the Glass Palace in the Retiro Park, which, although it is well known, few ever venture to discover the Casa de Vacas, a cultural center with an interesting choice of exhibitions and shows. Near the center of the city, the Matadero de Madrid is formerly a livestock market and is now a center for contemporary creation, providing a dynamic and versatile space that is well worth exploring.

The Gran Vía is much more than just shops and theatres. Among its iconic buildings, there are spectacular charming places that go unnoticed by most. One of these nooks and crannies is the Fourth Floor of the Telefónica Building, which houses a permanent exhibition on the history of telecommunications. Very nearby on the same road is the rooftop terrace of the Círculo de Bellas Artes, with one of the best panoramic views of the city. Equally astonishing is the Hall of Realms at the Buenavista Palace, a historic room that was once part of the palace and now houses the army headquarters.

Madrid is also a city full of legends and enigmatic stories that have left their mark on many different corners of the island. For example, the Palacio de Linares, now the Casa de América, has a legend of spirits that attracts fans of the paranormal, while the House of the Seven Chimneys also has its own history of unsolved mysteries. Another place that seems like something out of a fairytale is the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that was moved to Madrid and which offers a view full of charm, especially at sunset.

Madrid’s secret buildings and secret passages are mute witnesses to the history and evolution of the city. The Pasadizo de San Ginés, for example, is a narrow alley that connects Arenal Street with the Plaza de San Ginés. The hotel is home to the famous chocolate shop of the same name and one of the most charming bookstores in Madrid, the San Ginés Bookstore, is a paradise for book lovers. Another emblematic site is the Pasaje de la Piedad, a passage that seems to take you to another era between the Gran Vía and the Calle de la Piedad. For guests seeking different experiences, there are other nearby spaces that offer exclusive events and activities. La Tabacalera in Madrid organizes creative workshops and La Bombilla prepares outdoor cinema sessions for summer.