As evening blankets the city, Madrid takes on a special kind of magic. With the sunset in Madrid comes a carefree leaving-behind of the busy day. In its place comes an atmosphere of fun and festivities. Terraces and outdoor hangouts all around the capital fill to capacity every evening as locals sip drinks and chat with friends to get the night going.
You could say that Madrid is Europe’s answer to the city that never sleeps. With tapas bars thriving late into the evening and the city’s incredible nightlife taking over from there, night is the most happening time of day in Madrid. And it all starts with a truly spectacular sunset.
Want to experience the magic of a sunset in Madrid for yourself? Here are a few of our favorite spots to start the evening off on a gorgeous note.
Hotel ME Reina Victoria Madrid
The terrace of the ME Reina Victoria Hotel in Plaza Santa Ana is such a spectacular place to watch the sunset in Madrid that it’s often referred to simply as “The Roof.” The classy clientele and cocktails mean that you’ll want to dress up, but the views can’t be beat.
The hotel itself is located in the charming Huertas neighborhood, so it’s a bit off the beaten path for most tourists while still quite close to the center. Sit back and relax as you sip your drink and enjoy the views.
Cerro del Tío Pío Park
This one is a bit of a hike from the city center, but well worth it if you want to see an unforgettable sunset among a local crowd.
Tucked away in the humble working-class Vallecas neighborhood lies Cerro del Tío Pío Park, a beautiful green space and a hidden gem when it comes to watching the sunset in Madrid. Bring a picnic and set yourself up on one of the lush green hills while you watch the daylight fade from the sky.
Since it’s a bit further out, this is also the perfect spot to catch views of the city itself at any time of day. Head here if you’re looking to capture the perfect panorama of Madrid’s skyline!
Oscar Terrace
The modern lounge atmosphere atop the popular Room Mate Óscar hotel in trendy Chueca is more than just one of Madrid’s best rooftop bars. Although the drinks and music are excellent, what truly makes this place stand out are the stunning views, especially at sunset.
Known as Oscar Terrace, it offers panoramic views of the entire capital, best enjoyed from one of the many comfortable chaise lounges. Renovations in recent years have equipped the terrace for all seasons, so you can stay nice and warm even in the winter. If you’re visiting in the summer, get there a little early so you have time to enjoy the rooftop pool before the sun goes down.
Temple of Debod
This popular place to watch the sunset in Madrid is a crowded tourist attraction by day. After all, an entire ancient Egyptian temple that was moved brick by brick to Madrid certainly is something in and of itself. But come nightfall, only those in the know stick around for the breathtaking evening views.
A special kind of magic hangs in the air at the Temple of Debod no matter when you visit. Get there a bit early to wander the grounds before the temple itself closes, then head behind the structure for amazing sunset views over the Almudena Cathedral and Casa del Campo park.
When you get hungry, you’re just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the vibrant Malasaña neighborhood. Head here for tapas and drinks to kick start the rest of your night.
Círculo de Bellas Artes
With a prime location at the intersection of Gran Vía and Calle Alcalá, the spectacular terrace atop the Círculo de Bellas Artes building has become so popular that you have to pay a small fee to enter. However, the views and atmosphere here are unbeatable.
Treat yourself to a cocktail at the rooftop bar or head to the elegant restaurant to enjoy a sunset meal. Despite the crowds, it’s truly a magical place to watch the sunset in Madrid, complete with views straight off a postcard.
Parque de Tierno Galván
Make a day of your visit to this unique park and cap it off with one of the most stunning sunsets in Madrid!
Tierno Galván Park is home to a fascinating planetarium, which is worth a visit itself. Head there earlier in the day to check it out, then hang around for the sunset.
The park also includes a space known as Open Air Madrid, which hosts outdoor concerts, cultural events and movie screenings when the weather is nice. Suffice it to say that you could easily spend an entire day simply enjoying the wonders of this incredible park!
Sunset in Madrid FAQs
The sunset time in Madrid varies depending on the time of year. In winter, the sun generally sets around 6 p.m., and in summer, it stays relatively light until close to 10 p.m.
The sun sets late in mainland Spain and in the Balearic Islands compared to other parts of the world, and that has to do with the fact that the country is geographically in the wrong time zone! During World War II, Spanish dictator Francisco Franco moved the country into Central European Time, one hour ahead of its former time zone. Previously, Spain had been in the same time zone as Portugal, Ireland, and the UK.
Update Notice: This post was originally published on January 31, 2018 and was updated with new text and photos on June 15, 2021.
Templo de Debod at sunset was always so magical! Definitely one of my favourite Madrid experiences!
Kate | http://www.petiteadventures.org/