Rooftop Pools in Madrid: An Insider’s Guide

When the dog days of summer hit, there’s no better place to be than poolside.

That’s especially true when it comes to rooftop pools. Hanging out by the pool is always a must in summer. But when you’re practically on top of the world surrounded by stunning views of Madrid, it gets even better.

These breathtaking rooftop pools in Madrid will help you relax and enjoy summer to the max.

Poolside view with deck chairs
Nothing says “summer” like a rooftop pool! Photo credit: Nathan Waters

Many of the most incredible rooftop pools in Madrid are private and sit atop hotels. This makes them a tantalizing amenity for potential clients. But if you’re staying elsewhere, there are plenty of options that allow for non-accommodated guests to access the rooftop as well.

No matter how long you have to spend in Madrid, be sure to take a well-deserved break from sightseeing to relax poolside and enjoy the views from above.

The Best Rooftop Pools in Madrid

1. Hotel Emperador

One of the few complaints people make about Madrid is that it has no beach. But once you step out onto the rooftop at the Hotel Emperador, you’ll see that a beach is completely unnecessary.

Here, you’ll be able to enjoy the splendor of Madrid’s historic city center from the largest rooftop pool of the city. The entire place feels like a posh Mediterranean resort. As one of the more historic rooftop pools in Madrid, the terrace area dates back to 1948, but has a sleek and modern look to vibe with the current times.

If you’re not a guest at the hotel, adults can access the pool for €50 per day from Monday–Thursday and €63 on weekends and holidays.

View of Madrid city skyline taken from a rooftop.
The view of Madrid’s skyline from Gran Via never gets old. Photo credit: vpogarcia

2. Gymage

Gymage is less of a gym and more of a fully equipped health resort. In addition to the gym itself, they have an onsite theater, health food store, restaurants, hair salon and so much more!

However, the crown jewel sits on the very top floor, where you can access an exclusive terrace with a chic pool and rooftop bar. The space itself features an Instagram-worthy modern design, and the city views look like something off of a postcard.

Rooftop access for non-members is very reasonably priced, as are the delicious custom cocktails.

3. Room Mate Oscar

As one of Madrid’s trendiest and most modern hotels, the warm and friendly vibe at Room Mate Oscar feels like visiting a fun and outgoing friend. In this case, said friend also happens to have one of the most incredible rooftop pools in Madrid.

Soak up the sun as you enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the entire city from atop the hotel’s privileged location at the edge of Gran Via. As evening draws near, stick around for a spectacular sunset and incredible drinks from the terrace bar.

If you’d like to access the rooftop and aren’t staying at the hotel, you need to reserve your rooftop access in advance on their easy-to-use website.

Rooftop pool on top of Room Mate Oscar hotel in Madrid with view of the city skyline.
The rooftop pool at Room Mate Oscar. Photo credit: @littlearchivemouse

4. Axel Hotel

Axel Hotel is home to more than just one of our favorite rooftop pools in Madrid. As one of the most LGBTQ-friendly hotels in Madrid, everyone can feel welcome at their chic location in Barrio de las Letras.

As for the hip, modern rooftop, it’s a true oasis in the sky. On weekends, they open their rooftop pool and Sky Bar to non-accommodated clients for just €20, which includes a towel, drink and sunscreen. Chill out on the sun loungers and work on your tan during the day, and stick around for the fun evening ambiance as night draws near.

Poolside view at the Axel Hotel with the Madrid skyline in the distance.
Dramatic views and good vibes await you atop Axel Hotel. Photo credit: @joseotro

Madrid Rooftop Pools FAQs

Where can you swim in Madrid?

If you’re not able to visit one of these rooftops and you’re not staying at another Madrid hotel with a pool, you still have options for swimming. The Casa de Campo park has a great public pool, and the Francos Rodríguez swimming facility is another great option.

How far is Madrid from the sea?

Madrid is just about as landlocked as it gets, lying in the exact center of Spain. The nearest beach is 200 miles (300 kilometers) away. Luckily, the city boasts excellent links to coastal cities such as Barcelona, Malaga, and Valencia via the high-speed AVE train, so you can be at the beach in just an hour or two.

Where can I sunbathe in Madrid?

Madrid is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, and there are plenty of great places to catch some rays. In addition to these rooftop pools, you can also sunbathe at any public pool, or in one of Madrid’s grassy parks and gardens.

What is the warmest month in Madrid?

July and August are by far the hottest months in the Spanish capital. Temperatures often reach well into the 90s Fahrenheit (32–37º Celsius).

Update Notice: This post was originally published on August 23, 2018 and was updated with new text and photos on March 9, 2021.


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