Alcobendas, a charming city in the north Madrid. Theres a lot for you to uncover, activities, attractions, shopping, restaurants. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, art lover, or simply seeking a relaxing stroll, Alcobendas has something special for everyone.
We have spent a lot of time here with the kids for the greenery. When you get to the outskirts of Madrid, there is a lot more nature, more open space and I find life moves at a calmer pace.
Let me give you some tips on things to do in Alcobendas so you are not stuck there searching on your phone all morning.
Things To Do In Alcobendas
1. Parque de Cataluña, Alcobendas: A Tranquil Oasis
If you are in Madrid with kids or just want a little fresh air, Cataluña park in Alcobendas is a nice way to spend a few hours. The park is open from 8am to 11pm, and theres fountains, monuments, a lake and plenty of green to do a little grounding.
At Christmas, the also put on special events and have laser tag, face painting, food trucks, like a little fair they put on in the festive periods.
– Location
2. La Moraleja Green: Shop, Dine, and Explore
For shopping and entertainment, La Moraleja Green is where you need to be. The shopping center is pretty big and they have plenty of retail shops, a cinema and a number of great restaurants.
You can spend most the afternoon here on a hot day in Madrid. Catch a movie, do a little shopping, have dinner and sit at one of the many terraces once the day cools off.
– Location
3. CosmoCaixa Madrid: Where Science Meets Fun
Engage your curiosity at CosmoCaixa Madrid, a dynamic science museum. We have taken the kids to see this science museum so many times. They have many interactive science exhibits, classic cars, pieces of rock from space, cosmic exhibitions, giant models of galaxies.
This place will keep you entertained for hours, and when you come out you are in the Parque de Andalucia with a lake and playgrounds. Oh also, the giant dinosaur statue on the lawn is quite impressive.
– Location
4. Jardín de la Vega: Botanical Beauty
Find tranquility at Jardín de la Vega, a botanical garden that’s a true natural gem. When you see how much effort has gone into creating these gardens it’s hard to not have a little envy.
Each part of the gardens is unique, there’s small streams with little bridges, Japanese gardens, fountains, monuments, flower beds, rose gardens, olive groves and it just goes on and on.
It’s a great thing for couples to do in Madrid, but if you have kids they also have thematic playground with an adventure boat, and a restaurant on the grounds.
– Location
5. Centro de Arte Alcobendas: Cultivating Art and Culture
Every time I walk past this building I feel like it’s going to fall on me. Not becuase it’s in bad shape or anything, it just has a weird overhang design, but very cool.
Throughout the year, it hosts exhibitions, creative workshops, performances of all genres. They particularly put on a lot of photography exhibitions here if you are a fan.
The best one we ever saw here was an exhibition they did on cinema. They had life size models of some of the characters from LOTR and a few other fantasy movies, it was really fun.
– Location
6. Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol: A Historical Marvel
I have never been able to see the inside of this church that dates back to the 16th century. It was supposedly a mosque way back then, and you can see inscriptions on the building attesting to this. But renovations have taken place over the years to add and to repair, and the church from the outside is just beautiful.
I think we just never coincided with prayer times, and although it has opening and closing hours, I don’t think they like the place being full of tourists. So, if you happen to be around when the doors are open, please grab a picture and send it to me cause I want to see it too.
– Location
7. BiciMAD Alcobendas: Pedal Through the City
Explore Alcobendas on two wheels by renting a bike from the BiciMAD stations. If you are from London, they are similar to the Borris bikes. You can’t miss them, just look around for a row of parked blue bicycles.
It only takes a minute to register, and its really cheap. I costs 50 cents for the first 30 minutes, then 60 cent per every half hour after. The bikes are battery assisted and require little effort. It’s a great option to get around on a hot day.
8. Dining Delights: Savor Local and International Cuisine
There are some really great restaurants in Alcobendas, it would be impossible to try them all, but let me tell about the three that we have visited on a few occasions.
I’m a Londoner so I love a good curry, and you will find some of the best curry in Madrid at DK Catering. If you want something a little different, more Mediterranean then go check out Shandiz Grill. The Muttabal and their Kufte is really good.
9. Plaza del Pueblo: Embrace Local Vibes
Relax and soak in the local atmosphere at Plaza del Pueblo, Alcobendas’ central square. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching, mingling with locals, and immersing yourself in the city’s ambiance.
10. Sports and Recreation: Active Pursuits
Check out the local climbing wall. If you are a little more adventurous, it’s a really cool activity to do with the kids. They have climbing walls for all abilities, the venter is pretty new and its really fun.
Remember to check the opening hours and availability of these attractions, as they may vary. Explore, discover, and create lasting memories in this hidden gem of a city. Enjoy your time in Alcobendas!