The best terraces in Madrid to enjoy this summer

Bearing in mind that Madrid has around 2,800 hours of sunshine every year, it’s impossible to say no to one of the most mythical activities in the capital: the "terrace". But has it always been done? Well, I’m afraid not. Although the tradition has become more popular over the years, it has not always been around. In the olden days, drinking and eat on the streets. And it didn’t spread until our French neighborhoods began to bring tables and chairs outside their cafés.

Even so, we Spaniards were wary of that, but around 1876 two French people who came to live in Madrid decided to implement the idea in the Pasaje de matheu (very near the Puerta del Sol) so that customers could enjoy the lovely Madrid weather. This was how the Café de Francia and Café de Paris were born, becoming two unique meeting points for socialising, discussing and enjoying a glass of barley water.

Madrid now has numerous different types of terraces: located on rooftop areas that offer spectacular views, set in beautiful gardens, in interior courtyards and between narrow streets, and some are huge and others much smaller. They can be classic or with a much cooler atmosphere, but they can always be perfect for enjoying a simple beer with friends, a traditional Madrid aperitif, a coffee or dinner in the open air. 

The most important thing is that you enjoy good company and that you get carried away by this daring art that the locals have really mastered.

When it comes to taste, everything is absolutely guaranteed. Choosing between all the best terraces in Madrid is no easy thing. They all have something to offer and you will love their ambience, their menus or their views. That’s why today we’re only talking about famous terraces and rooftop areas in the center of Madrid which add the icing on the cake to your next city break. Spending time with your friends, family or partner is vital, and choosing the terrace where you are going to be will do the same.

What do you want? We have everything! Rooftop terraces that provide unique panoramic views of the capital, terraces in luxury hotels which are perfect for disconnecting with an elegant cocktail and an exclusive ambience, terraces on the rooftops of iconic buildings, terraces serving delicious dishes or terraces with an atmosphere modern nightlife. Let’s get started!

The Madrid City Council in the Plaza de Cibeles has created an impressive 400m² terrace on its 6th floor with a cocktail bar serving small plates of snacks and signature cocktails. All accompanied by a beautiful backdrop: the traditional and mythical streets of Madrid. You can then admire Alcalá Street, the Paseo de Recoletos and the Paseo del Prado. And there are also unbeatable views of the Fuente de Cibeles.

Sol is also home to one of the best skylines of Madrid. A must visit if you want to enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the entire city from a height of 56 metres. The rooftop terrace, crowned by the Minerva sculpture by Juan Luis Vassallo, is a dining and cultural space with a privileged location that offers breakfast, snacks, lunch, concerts and cocktails from day to night.

In the heart of Madrid, the rooftop at the INNSiDE Madrid Gran Vía welcomes you to one of the best viewpoints in Madrid. Le Tavernier between more than 500m² of outdoor terrace and the soul of a sailor who decides to stay on land enjoying the best Galician flavor accompanied by tasty and vibrant cocktails. An unbeatable skyline for enjoying a perfect experience in the capital.

Hidden in the Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá, discover another of the fantastic terrace services. A rooftop in the heart of Madrid located on the 7th floor providing maximum luxury and stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral, two emblematic buildings in the Madrid de los Austrias. The terrace of the Jardín de los Duques has a pool, jacuzzi and bar serving sophisticated cocktails and a choice of drinks.

If you want to feel like a presenter handing over grapes in Puerta del Sol, go up to the top floor of the Sports building in El Corte Inglés in the Puerta del Sol square. A restaurant serving traditional Madrid cuisine led by Alberto Chicote and Pedro Olmedo, with an indoor dining room and a beautiful terrace with views in front of the bells of the New Year.s

A surprise when you leave the lift or go up the stairs! A hidden treasure that manages to isolate you from the hustle and bustle of the Madrid streets and the noise of the cars on the Gran Vía. Located on Montera Street, hidden behind Salvador Bachiller’s suitcases and briefcases, this is a genuine secret garden which is ideal for enjoying a sweet snack, savoring exquisite cocktails or a delicious dinner.

Not far from there is another of the most charming terraces in Madrid: La Tita Rivera. An amazing space based on “Origin, Tradition, Proximity and Sustainability”, which has created an amazing refuge in the heart of the city, but also works with local suppliers to offer visitors “wine cocktails ciders, beers and vermouths ... very special offers! Don’t miss this lovely chill-out terrace that will leave you speechless.

An authentic oasis in the Plaza de la Luna, parallel to the Gran Vía. Open all year round, it changes depending on the day. The indoor restaurant has a waterfall which can be seen from the window and part of the waterfall has a transparent cover during the colder months. It also offers a menu of cocktails and drinks to enjoy outdoors at high tables, in the bar or around the pool (open from June to September). A most complete and enjoyable experience!

The same terrace as always, making you feel part of the history of Madrid. A two-storey terrace that opened in 1980 in the La Latina district and still takes us back to the time of Benito Pérez Galdós with an aesthetic of a French bistro. Brunchs, lunches, snacks, wines and dinners ... discover an iconic venue that continues to shine with its spirit for more than a century of history.

In the heart of the Retiro Park, discover an outdoor terrace with a natural ambience to help you completely disconnect. Within the Retiro itself there is a very cool which you can enjoy at any time of day. A vermouth? A drink? You couldn’t ask for more from life! One of the most iconic terraces in Madrid, with enormous versatility in its different spaces and with an endless agenda! Parties, DJs, flamenco shows, signature cuisine ... amazing!

A little further away from the centre, is this terrace with one of the most incredible views of the city: a place surrounded by nature in Madrid Rio. It provides a beautiful view from north to south, including everything from the Moncloa lighthouse to the Almudena Cathedral, the Tower of Spain and the Royal Palace. This café has an outdoor rooftop terrace and another on the banks of the Manzanares river which allow you to admire magnificent sunsets.