Sabatini Gardens Madrid
Neoclassical gardens with stunning Royal Palace views, featuring formal terraces, fountains, and seasonal wisteria blooms.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wisteria in full bloom
Sabatini Gardens Madrid
Best Time
Wisteria in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Neoclassical gardens with stunning Royal Palace views, featuring formal terraces, fountains, and seasonal wisteria blooms.
"The gardens offer a breathtaking panorama of the Royal Palace, especially magical at sunset."
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning light on the palace and gardens. Perfect for photos!
🌸 Springtime Spectacle
Don't miss the wisteria blooms in spring; it's truly magical and Bridgerton-esque!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palace Views
From the upper terraces
Panoramic vistas of the Royal Palace, especially breathtaking at sunset.
French & Italian Style
Throughout the gardens
Elegant landscaping with geometric patterns, fountains, and statues.
Blooming Glycinia
Arbors and pergolas
A magical spectacle of purple blooms in spring, reminiscent of Bridgerton.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Garden Etiquette & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning light on the palace and gardens. Perfect for photos!
🌸 Springtime Spectacle
Don't miss the wisteria blooms in spring; it's truly magical and Bridgerton-esque!
💰 Cocktails with a View
Enjoy drinks on the terrace, but be aware they can be pricey. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Levels
Wander through the different terraces for varied perspectives of the palace.
Madrid's Royal Palace
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning light on the palace and gardens. Perfect for photos!
🌸 Springtime Spectacle
Don't miss the wisteria blooms in spring; it's truly magical and Bridgerton-esque!
💰 Cocktails with a View
Enjoy drinks on the terrace, but be aware they can be pricey. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Levels
Wander through the different terraces for varied perspectives of the palace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sabatini Gardens are widely praised for their stunning views of the Royal Palace and elegant neoclassical design, especially beautiful during spring wisteria blooms. While the gardens are free and offer a peaceful escape, some visitors note that the on-site terrace bar can be pricey. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for photography and a tranquil stroll.
"With the green of Spring, the gardens are a must visit in Madrid perfect for hours of walking and relaxing"
Francesca Margherita Padula
"The whole area is great for walking as it isn’t a huge place but still pretty sizable. There’s a couple small fountains all around (some didn’t seem to be operating though), a pond in the middle of the garden, statues surrounding the whole area (up the stairs, around the pond, etc) but suprisingly not a ton of flowers around and more just bushes and trees. The whole area does seem well taken care of as well.
There’s also stairs surrounding the garden that you’ll either have to go down to reach the garden or up after looking around but is definitely worth taking time to take pictures or selfies as it’s a very nice view from atop. There are a ton of other attractions around as well such as Plaza de España, Templo de Debod, Palacio Real de Madrid, Puerta de San Vicente, and way more worth seeing."
Xoom Too
"Nice place to have a calm walk. Its very green. In Madrid, you rarely can find refresh for your eyes"
Dovydas Nalivaika
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sabatini Gardens are easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Metro stations are Ópera (Lines 2, 5, R) and Príncipe Pío (Lines 6, 10, R). Several bus lines also stop nearby. Walking from Plaza de Oriente is also a pleasant option.
Yes, Sabatini Gardens are located directly adjacent to the Royal Palace of Madrid, on its northwest side. You can easily walk between them.
From Puerta del Sol or Gran Vía, you can take the Metro to Ópera station, which is a short walk away. Alternatively, many bus routes will get you close to the gardens.
Driving is possible, but parking in this central Madrid area can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk.
The most prominent landmark is the Royal Palace itself. You're also very close to Plaza de Oriente and the Almudena Cathedral.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sabatini Gardens are free to enter and open to the public. You can wander through the grounds without any admission fee.
The gardens typically open around 9 AM and close at sunset. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check the official website or local listings before your visit.
The gardens are generally closed after sunset. However, the terrace bar may remain open later, offering views of the illuminated palace.
Visitors are asked to respect the garden's tranquility, stay on designated paths, and not disturb the flora or fauna. Large events may sometimes lead to temporary closures.
To avoid crowds, aim for early mornings on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) outside of major holidays.
📸 📸 Photography
The upper terraces offer the most iconic shots with the Royal Palace as a backdrop. The geometric pathways and fountains also make for beautiful compositions.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require special permits.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides the most flattering light for capturing the gardens and the palace. Early mornings are also great for softer light and fewer people.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around historical sites and royal properties in Madrid, including Sabatini Gardens, for safety and privacy reasons.
Capture the symmetry of the gardens, the grandeur of the palace from different angles, and the vibrant wisteria blooms in spring.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a terrace bar, Terraza de Sabatini, located within the gardens that offers drinks and light snacks with views of the Royal Palace. +1
The terrace typically serves cocktails, wine, beer, and some tapas or light bites. It's more of a place for drinks and enjoying the view than a full meal.
Reviews suggest that while the views are spectacular, the prices for drinks can be on the higher side, with cocktails ranging from €12-€15.
The area around Plaza de Oriente and Calle Mayor offers numerous restaurants and cafes, ranging from traditional Spanish cuisine to international options.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks outside the main garden areas to maintain the pristine environment. The terrace bar is the designated spot for refreshments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no dedicated playgrounds, the expansive terraces provide room to move. The visual spectacle of the Royal Palace and the well-maintained greenery can spark curiosity. Consider visiting in the spring to see the wisteria, which adds an extra layer of wonder. The nearby Plaza de Oriente also has some open space and is a good place for kids to run around before or after visiting the gardens.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
During spring, the blooming wisteria transforms the gardens into a fairytale setting, perfect for romantic or whimsical shots. The terrace bar offers a unique perspective, though be mindful of other patrons. Early mornings are ideal for capturing the gardens without crowds, allowing for unobstructed views and a more serene photographic experience.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider enjoying a cocktail at the Terraza de Sabatini for a special treat, soaking in the ambiance and the illuminated palace. The blooming wisteria in spring adds an extra layer of enchantment, creating a truly memorable experience for a romantic outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Design
The gardens are laid out across three distinct terraces, each offering a unique perspective. The lowest terrace features a more informal, English-style garden, while the upper terraces showcase the formal French and Italian influences with their symmetrical arrangements. Statues of historical figures and mythological characters are strategically placed throughout, adding to the aesthetic appeal and historical narrative of the space. The presence of the former royal stables, now integrated into the garden's design, hints at its past as a private retreat for the monarchy.
Visitors often remark on the gardens' resemblance to scenes from period dramas, particularly during the spring when the wisteria (glycinia) blooms profusely, draping pergolas and arches in a cascade of purple. This ephemeral beauty adds a romantic and almost whimsical dimension to the otherwise formal landscape, making it a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a picturesque escape.
Experiencing the Gardens: Tips from Visitors
While the gardens themselves are free to explore, the on-site terrace bar, Terraza de Sabatini, provides an opportunity to enjoy a drink with a view. However, be prepared for higher prices, as noted by some visitors who found cocktails to be on the expensive side. Despite the cost, many feel the ambiance and the unparalleled views justify the splurge for a special occasion.
For those looking to avoid crowds, visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is highly recommended. Spring is particularly magical due to the blooming wisteria, but it also attracts more visitors. Planning your visit outside of peak tourist seasons or times can significantly enhance the peaceful enjoyment of this beautiful neoclassical space.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit