Madrid has something special when the sun shines. And one of the best plans to enjoy it is to go up to a rooftop, order something very fresh and let yourself be carried away by the views and the vibe of the city.
If you are studying, working or have just moved to the capital, you will love this article. We bring you a guide to the best rooftops in Madrid in 2025, along with the favorite areas to live if you are a student or young professional. Without selling you anything, just showing you the lifestyle real Madrid… from above.
🌇 1. El Jardín de Diana – Classy cocktails on Gran Vía
📍 Hotel Hyatt Centric, Gran Vía
A hidden oasis on the tenth floor. Surrounded by greenery, soft lights and a cocktail menu with personality, this terrace has something magical. From here, you see the Telefónica Building and Gran Vía as if they were part of a living postcard.
The atmosphere is calm but sophisticated. Ideal for a afterwork or to disconnect after class.
🧭 This rooftop is located near neighbourhoods such as Malasaña, Chamberí and Moncloa, areas full of students and young professionals due to its proximity to universities such as UCM, ICAI, ICADE or CEU.
🌇 2. Picalagartos Sky Bar – Good vibes with endless views
📍 NH Collection Madrid Gran Vía
A place that mixes good music, 360° views and creative dishes? That's Lizardpick. The type of rooftop where you go once and you already know you're going to come back. It has that perfect balance between casual and elegant.
The people who come are very diverse: international students, young professionals and locals who know where the good stuff is.
🧭 It is a minutes walk from Chueca, Lavapiés or Embajadores, neighbourhoods known for their alternative and cultural atmosphere, where many IED, UC3M or IE University students live.
🌇 3. Círculo de Bellas Artes – Culture and views with a bohemian air
📍 Calle de Alcalá, next to Cibeles
One of the most authentic terraces in Madrid. You take the elevator and when you arrive you find a 360° panorama: Cibeles, the Retiro, the classic roofs... It is a perfect mix between culture and chill, ideal for those looking for something more than posturing.
They usually organise cultural events, exhibitions or concerts, so it is a lively place, with a lot of creative energy.
🧭 Very close to areas such as Huertas, Lavapiés or Atocha, where many young people live while studying or working. In addition, it is well connected to campuses such as UC3M, IE, UAX or UPM.
🌇 4. Rooftop of the Hotel Riu Plaza España – Views that take your breath away
📍 Plaza de España
The highest jewel in Madrid. This 27th-floor rooftop terrace has a glass walkway floating above the city, an infinity pool (for guests only), and views of the Royal Palace and the Temple of Debod. It is to come with time, camera and desire to hallucinate.
A more exclusive atmosphere, perfect for celebrations or having a treat with friends.
🧭 Surrounded by areas such as Argüelles, Conde Duque or Princesa, very popular among young people for their mix of tranquility and cultural life. Well connected with universities such as ICAI, CEU and UCM.
🎯 What if you already live in Madrid?
Know these rooftops not only gives you ideas for great plans. It also helps you explore the key areas where young life is concentrated in Madrid: Malasaña, Lavapiés, Chamberí, Moncloa, Argüelles… Neighbourhoods where universities, coworkings, bars, colivings and people wanting to take in the city come together.
✅ Conclusion: Plans from above
The rooftops of Madrid are much more than just beautiful places. They are part of the lifestyle of those who live the city at their own pace: students finishing exams, freelancers leaving coworking, newcomers who fall in love with a sunset.
And you, do you already have your rooftop favorite?