For rose garden strolls, dimly-lit baths, sunset picnic spots, and other romantic things to do, Madrid is a great place for a passionate getaway for two. And don't feel too shy to hold your lover's hand or engage in some public displays of affection – Madrileños certainly aren't afraid to show their more affectionate sides.
As a manicured park in the shadow of the Royal Palace, the Campo del Moro is a quiet place for a romantic stroll and a popular site for locals to pose for wedding pictures. The pheasants and peacocks wandering around also lend to the storybook atmosphere.
For a romantic row on an artificial lake flanked by stone columns, try Retiro Park. Or if the season's right, enjoy the park's circular rose garden. Otherwise, take a hand-held stroll through Retiro Park's grand lanes and tree-covered paths. While there, be sure to check out the park's Crystal Palace and some of its half-hidden gardens and stone sculptures.
No matter what the temperature is like outside, Medina Mayrit makes bringing your swimsuit to Madrid a must. There couples can enjoy the exotic music and ambience of the underground pools bathed in the flickering candlelight. Don't forget to try the sweet mint tea in the fountain room.
Though the museum itself is a fascinating piece of ancient Egyptian history, the area surrounding the Templo de Debod and its pool of water is actually a romantic sunset picnic spot with views into the valley below.
Otherwise, a more charming place for a picnic – though farther away from Madrid's downtown – is the idyllic El Capricho Park. And for romancing a fan of history, take him or her to view the remnants of Romantic-era living at the Romantic Museum.
Virgen del Puerto, s/n
Paseo de la Virgen del Puerto
Royal Palace's Gardens...
Plaza de la Independencia, s/n
Calle de Alfonso XII
Madrid's playground...
Calle Atocha, 14
Ultra relaxing spa experience...
Paseo Pintor de Rosales 2
A piece of Egyptian history in Madrid, the temple itself is the star of the museum...
Avenida de la Alameda de Osuna
Paseo de la Alameda de Osuna
Charming aristocratic landscape...
Calle de San Mateo 13
Middle-class customs in 19th-century...
Calle Ayala, 126
Middle Eastern-style Hammam...
Opposite the Royal Palace (Palacio Real)
across from the Palacio Real
A large square opposite the Royal Palace...
Paseo del Pintor Rosales, s/n
Huge park with a rose garden...
Barrio de Salamanca
Near Maria de Molina and Serrano Streets
Madrid's most elegant neighbourhood...