Finding Calm in the Crowds of Madrid

Are you looking for the best places to relax in Madrid? Whether you are here for a week or just a few days, Madrid is a fun, dynamic city where possibilities for adventure are endless. However, sometimes the hustle and bustle of the city can seem overwhelming. Here are three getaways within the city that will enable you to relax and take a break from the crowds.

Park employee Irene Cuence Hidalgo in front of the lake at Casa de Campo Park | Alicia Elliott

Casa de Campo

There are no shortages of parks in Madrid. Casa de Campo, however, is definitely the largest. It is the perfect place to escape from the crowds of the city if you know where to go. The park is so large it has a zoo and amusement park in it. These locations can get a bit crowded. However, visiting the lake around noon in the summer is perfect. There will be a few people out on the lake in their kayaks or walking around, but the beautiful trees and scenery will take you right out of the city and into a storybook.

Irene Cuenca Hidalgo, who works in the information center at the park, said that the conservation area in the park is a perfect getaway. “It is calm and peaceful there. It is also important because it helps the conservation of butterflies and insects.” You can bring a bike or simply enjoy walking around this park and feel removed from the noise of the city. For an overview of the whole park you can also ride in a cable car for five euros and enjoy some jazzy music while you do it.

La Bicicleta Café

Although it would be easy to fill up this list with hidden gems from the many parks, its good to add a little variety to your getaways and see even more of the city. La Bicicleta is located in the Malasaña neighborhood. It is one of the coolest quarters in Madrid full of bars, restaurants, cute stores, and awesome art all over the streets. With a cozy vibe and a unique bicycle theme, this café is designed for you to sit and spend some time. With free WiFi, you can even bring your work with you and multitask as you eat some delicious food.

Chalkboard drawing on wall in La Bicicleta Café taken from Rodadas Blog | Alicia Elliott

Even though this café is a part of the lively  Malasaña quarter, the vibe inside is refreshing and the perfect stop to take a quick break before getting back into the swing of the city. Don’t be surprised that they play music inside to cancel out the noise from the outside, it just adds to the fun and productive atmosphere. This café is made even more special by its homemade and healthy food options and dedication to creating a cozy atmosphere for guests, as well as bike and coffee lovers alike.

Almudena Cathedral

Although the Almudena Cathedral was not originally on the list of places to visit to relax, its location right across from the Royal Palace means you will be walking past it at least once during your visit in Madrid. The Cathedral sees a lot of foot traffic, but with angelic music playing and beautiful candles and paintings all over the walls it proves to be a great place to feel at peace and escape the stress that a city can sometimes bring. Not to mention the power of sitting in a place with so much history.

Juan, a tour guide who did not want to share his last name, pointed out the Reina Sofía on a main door to the cathedral. The door was a piece of art and functionality combined that can take your mind on a magical journey. Not to mention, Juan explained that it is an “excellent example of the Cathedral’s history dating back to the 16^th century, although construction did not begin until 1879 and was not completed until 1993.” If you want a peaceful fresh place full of history and beautiful architecture, this is the spot for you.

Casa de Campo; Paseo Puerta del Ángel; Open 24 hours; Metro Lago.

La Bicicleta Café; Plaza de San Ildefonso, 9; Monday – Wednesday 10 am- 1 am, Thursday and Friday 10 am to 2 am, Saturday 11 am to 2:30am, Sunday 11am to 12am. Metro Callao or Tribunal.

Almudena Cathedral; Calle de Bailén, 10; Cathedral July and August, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The rest of year, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Parish (Crypt) : From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.: opened the whole year; Metro Ópera