El Capricho Park, Madrid: garden, bunker and opening hours

Updated on October 5, 2026

In Alameda de Osuna, in north-eastern Madrid, El Capricho is a historic garden created in the late 18th century for the Duke and Duchess of Osuna. Its paths lead past a Temple of Bacchus, water features and ornamental buildings. Admission to the garden is free, but it opens only on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The Civil War bunker requires a separate booking: walking around the park does not give access to its interior.

Highlights

The Temple of Bacchus

This columned pavilion makes a natural stopping point among the trees. Take in its proportions from the path, then keep walking: there is more to the garden than this single monument.

Garden vistas

The layout alternates open views with winding paths beneath the trees. Explore the palace, pools and small pavilions on foot; seeing a building does not mean its interior is open. The palace is being refurbished for a museum whose opening is announced for 2027.

Practical info

Tips

Free admission, prices checked in October 2026. Eating, bringing animals, bicycles or skates, and ball games are prohibited. Capacity is limited to 1,000 visitors: arrive at opening time to reduce the chance of queuing. Free municipal bunker tours last about 30 minutes and require a reservation through the official Pasea Madrid programme; slots are released in campaigns and availability is not guaranteed.