I’ve recently seen many newly arrived parents in Madrid asking where to take their kids, and having lived here for over 5 years, I’ve certainly learned from experience. Today I’m compiling a list of my children’s favorite places, hoping it helps everyone.
Outdoor Parks
Retiro Park is definitely the top choice, no need to say more about that. It does get crowded on weekends, but the place is large enough. Bring some bread to feed the ducks and kids can play all afternoon. There’s a small playground in the park with slides and swings, and it’s free. If you want to rent a boat, the rental station is near the Crystal Palace, 15 euros per hour for a four-person boat. I recommend avoiding Sunday noon when the queue can wrap around.
Casa de Campo is also worth visiting, much larger than Retiro, with dedicated children’s play areas. I usually go on weekday afternoons when it’s much less crowded. There’s also a small zoo there, reasonably priced at about 23 euros for adults and cheaper for children. If going in summer, remember to bring sunscreen and water as there isn’t much shade.
Indoor Venues
On rainy days or when it’s too cold, we visit the Natural Science Museum. Kids are particularly fascinated by the dinosaur fossils, tickets are 7 euros, free for under 4s. The first Sunday of each month offers free admission, but it gets very crowded. Opening hours are 10:00-17:00, closed Mondays.
Faunia is also good, it’s like a small animal theme park. Kids really enjoy the penguin pavilion and tropical rainforest area, though tickets are a bit pricey at around 27 euros for adults. They often have promotional offers, worth checking their official website.
| Venue | Ticket Price | Recommended Age | Time Needed |
|---|
| Retiro Park | Free | All ages | 2-3 hours |
| Natural Science Museum | 7 euros | 4+ years | 2 hours |
| Faunia | 27 euros | 3+ years | Half day |
| Casa de Campo | Free | All ages | Half day |
Other Recommendations
If you’re looking for indoor playgrounds, there’s a nice children’s play area on the third floor of Islazul shopping center, charged by the hour at around 8 euros per hour. Clean environment with responsible staff. Previously went to the one at La Vaguada, didn’t think it was as good.
Weekend markets are also worth considering, Matadero Cultural Center often hosts family-friendly activities, sometimes with children’s workshops. The key is many activities are free, you can check their schedule on the website in advance.
That’s about it. Every child has different preferences, I’m only sharing my family’s experience. If anyone has other great places, please feel free to add them - after all, Madrid is so big, there must be many places I haven’t discovered yet.
