Parks and gardens that are not El Retiro
El Retiro is the most important park in Madrid. But it’s not the only one. A bit further from the city centre, the Parque del Capricho is tucked away in Alameda de Osuna. Its gardens are delightful, with classical-style temples and fountains, a palace, and a laurel hedge maze. Very nearby, Parque Quinta de los Molinos is ideal to visit in February and March when its hundreds of almond trees are in bloom. If you like the idea of a “secret garden” in the city centre, you’ll love the Jardín del Príncipe de Anglona.
In search of lost books
As you walk around the capital, you may come across a whole street devoted to books: Cuesta de Moyano. Strolling next to the botanical gardens as people browse the bookstalls in search of dusty tomes is a wonderful experience. Book lovers will also like the Pasadizo de San Ginés and its bookshops, where you can find all types of volumes and enjoy a glass of wine while you browse.