Top 10 romantic activities in Madrid for your Babymoon

Why Madrid?

Madrid has made it in the Telegraph’s top list of most romantic European destinations in 2020, and it is an affordable, alive and sunny city with a lot to offer and a great metro system that can easily connect you to anywhere in the city within 10 minute walk max, which is definitely an added bonus when you are pregnant and want to explore!

So it is for sure a great getaway for your next romantic break! And if you are looking for a Babymoon destination, there are plenty of love boosting activities that are waiting for you in this sunny city.

What is a Babymoon?

Babymooning is becoming more and more common, and it is essentially a romantic and relaxed getaway for expectant couples before their baby arrives.

Becoming parents is likely going to be a big change in your couple’s dynamics and you will likely find yourselves struggling to find time for each other, especially in the early months, so it is super important to create a space where you can celebrate your love and dedicate some quality time to each other before your baby is born.

Things to consider:

Most mums-to-be find the second trimester to be the best time to travel, since the morning sickness is usually gone by then and it’s still easy enough to get around.

Also keep in mind that airlines tend to require a medical certificate to travel once you hit 28 weeks (it also varies slightly from airline to airline) and you normally won’t be allowed to fly anymore once you reach the 36 weeks.

It’s best to avoid planning too much in advance as things can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to see how you feel and then plan accordingly.

Once you are ready to plan, do take into account how you have been feeling to decide how far you want to go, travel time and what means of transport you’ll be using (easier to get up and do a little walk in a train than it would be on flight for example). There is no right or wrong answer, just do what feels right for you (and THIS is one of the most important principle of everything when it comes to parenthood, not every solution fits everyone and there is often a strong social pressure for one way or another.. just try to ignore those 😉 )

Finally, look into the expected weather in your potential destination. Madrid tends to become quite oven-like in the summer, with dry high temperature especially in July and August, so just take in account if that is for you, and what you plan to do during your visit especially if you are in the later months of your pregnancy.

I personally started having swollen feet once the high heat started in June at nine month pregnant, and I would not have wanted to be exploring a new city in that condition.

#1 – Get pampered in the Hammam Al Ándalus

Hammam Al Ándalus Madrid are the only Arab baths in the city. It is housed in an beautiful candelit excavated cellar, which makes for a relaxing and romantic out of time experience. Here you will find three thermal baths at different temperatures, a Turkish bath, a relaxing room with a source of tea (their mint tea is legendary!), and the Aromas Corner to choose the essence choice for massage. The signature treatment? The Kessa Traditional service, which consist of a purifying cleansening with a kessa glove and red grape soap.

Keep in mind that pregnant women can enjoy Hammam by taking some precautions such as avoiding the steam room and not making a contrast between hot and cold water. The professional massage therapists will be able to take great care of you with the relaxing massage which is highly indicated to activate the circulation. However, the traditional kessa is not advised during pregnancy, so it’ll be an exclusive for your partner (Always discuss your individual state with the team during check in to avoid undesirable situations). Finally, keep in mind that most area in the Hammam have a strict no-talking rule, so this is for you if you want 100% tranquility.

#2 – A classic in Madrid: Retiro Park

Romantic sunset with Palacio de Cristal in Retiro park

Retiro Park is the most popular park in Madrid, with some lovely ponds, the iconic Crystal Palace, and plenty of natural views, making it a perfect spot for a romantic afternoon.

There are so many peaceful corners where you’ll just feel surrounded by nature and out of the city – you’ll surely find the perfect hidden spot for a romantic picnic. Picnic Madrid is our go to when it comes to organising it, they specilise in Spanish products and take care of all you’ll need (including a bouquet of fresh flowers if you wish), bringing your picnic to you wherever you are, and even set it all up for you so that you can surprise your loved one!

Renting a rowboat and sailing Estanque del Retiro, a big man-made lake near the park’s northern entrance, is every couples’ favourite activity. Want to go above and beyond? Why not enjoying some strawberries during your boat trip, or feed the ducks and fish some bread as you row along.

You’ll also want to see the park’s Victorian-style Palacio de Cristal (also one of my favourite places for photoshoots!). Built in 1887 to serve as a greenhouse, it’s a magnificent glass-and-cast-iron structure now used to host temporary art exhibits.

Pro Local Tip: also check out Parque El Capricio – a stunning park not too far from Madrid’s airport, which was commissioned by Duchess María Josefa de la Soledad Alonso Pimentel in 1784 with the aim of creating a natural paradise in which only the most prestigious artists and gardeners worked. Romance is guaranteed!

#3 – Sunset at Templo de Debod

This Egyptian temple, dating back to the 2nd century BC, was donated to Spain by the Egyptian governement to save it from the flooding caused by a dam construction. This is one of Madrid’s favourite sunset spot, as the terraced walk near the temple offer stunning views over the king’s palace and the Casa de Campo park, with the sun setting behing it all.

The sunset views from here are second to none.

#4 – Book a photoshoot

Aurelie Noyer Photography in Madrid for your Babymoon Pregnancy Photoshoot

It’s time to ditch the selfie stick and let us do a professional job at capturing your pregnancy AND your holiday, all in one photoshoot! It’ll be all about creating some tangible memories of your love for each other, as well as a special time to dream about your little one. A relaxed moment for the two of you to focus on all the emotions you have for each other and toward your baby. You’ll appreciate being able to look back to one of your favorite trips years from now!

Check www.AurelieNoyer.com to see some ideas of what we can do and contact me for more informations about your maternity photoshoot.

#5 – Grab a drink with a view

Enjoy the panoramic view from la azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes, an iconic building constructed in 1926, today offering some of the best rooftop Madrid views of the city.

Needless to say, it is a must see spot where you can wrap your arms around your loved one and take deep breaths while enjoying the city from above, and another great sunset location.

#6 – See Madrid from above

Get an eleven minute ride on the teleferico – and a bit of an adrenalin rush – over Casa de Campo Park on Madrid’s cableway, while enjoying the view of the Royal Palace, Temple of Debod, Madrid’s River, and the Rose garden. Surely one of the most evocative views of the city.

Casa de Campo is a huge park in the west of the city and a great place to go for a picnic or long walks. It is also home to Parque de Atracciones amusement park, and the Zoo Aquarium, one of the most important zoos in the world with animals from every continent.

Pro Local Tip: Plan for the cableway return trip close to the sunset time, and make it an unforgettable experience!

#7 – Experience a Gourmet dinner on a vintage train car

El Vagon de Beni offers an intimate setting which is perfect for couples looking for a fun, yet very romantic night out.

The menu showcases delicately presented traditional Spanish dishes with a modern twist, paired with a great selection of local wines. So put some fancy clothes on and board the 1950’s themed train car for a trip to the past.

Pro Local Tip: when it comes to eating, madrileños typically don’t eat lunch until 2pm and dinner starts around 9pm. This means that especially in the evening most restaurants don’t open until at least 8pm. If you are wanting to get a quite dinner with the place to yourself, going to the restaurant at 8-8:30pm will usually get you that, but if you want to experience the lively social life of Madrid you’ll want to book a table (yes, cause at that time it’s much more likely that places will be full, even in weekdays) for 9-9:30pm. Outdoor tables are super hard to find whenever the weather is even just decent, so try to beat the mass in time if that’s what you are looking for.

#8 – Wander around the streets and relax in a plaza

A true favourite activities for Spaniards, wandering slowly around the streets is a must when visiting Madrid to really enjoy this cultural aspect and the feel of small village that most barrios have.

Malasana’s tiny cobblestone streets, lined with pretty unique boutiques, many coffee shops, and delicious tapas bars are perfect for exploring new spots. The Chueca gay district is another one of my personal favourite, lined with colorful coffee shops and art galleries and a great night life. And last but not least, Lavapies, a cool, bohemian neighborhood with its steep streets full of culture and street art

#9 – Watch a Flamenco Show

Why not combining a delicious Gastronomy dinner with an award winning Flamenco show? One of the oldest and most renowned “tablao” of Madrid, offering Flamenco shows since 1956, Corral de la Moreria is a great option for a romantic night out experiencing this world known part of the spanish culture.

#10 – Catch a show at Teatro Real

Theatre date night is perhaps one of the most old-school and charming ways to impress your loved one, so why not planning your night at one of Europe’s greatest theaters. From opera, to dance spectacles and music concerts, the Teatro Real has something for everyone.

Are you planning your Babymoon in Madrid and have any questions or doubts? Contact me and I’ll be more than happy to try help you if I can!

Have visited Madrid with a bump and want to share your highlights? I’d love to hear from YOU!

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