The Sabatini Gardens border the north façade of Madrid's Royal Palace. Their rectangular pool, clipped hedges and statues make for a short walk, quite different from the larger Campo del Moro park. Created in the 1930s on the site of the former royal stables, they take their name from the stables' architect, Francesco Sabatini. Admission is free; allow 20 to 40 minutes, or longer to enjoy the late-afternoon light.
Highlights
The pool and north façade
Water and geometric planting frame the palace. This is the spot to choose for a wide photograph.
The beds and paths
Hedges structure the gardens like an architectural setting; the paths offer several angles on the palace.
The royal statues
Some sculptures were intended for the palace cornice before being installed in the gardens. They show how this relatively recent garden reuses older decorative elements.
Evening light
In clear weather, the palace stone changes colour as the sun sets. The effect depends on the season, weather and access hours.
Practical info
Tips
Prices checked in October 2026: admission is free. The tourist office lists daily opening but does not publish detailed hours on its information page; check the gate notices before planning a late photography session. Municipal weather alerts can close the gardens or restrict areas. Animals are not allowed in the lower gardens, even on a lead. Level changes and steps from Calle de Bailén mean you should choose your route carefully if using a pushchair or if walking is difficult.
How to get there
Calle de Bailén, 2, 28013 Madrid, north of the palace. Plaza de España metro, lines 2, 3 and 10, or Ópera, lines 2 and 5 and the Ópera-Príncipe Pío shuttle. The Sabatini Gardens and Campo del Moro are separate spaces: check your entrance gate rather than looking for an internal connection.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
See on the map →
Comments
No comments yet.