Valdebebas

Valdebebas Madrid Historical Sites Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Valdebebas is a dynamic urban district in northeast Madrid, Spain, representing a modern vision of urban planning, sustainability, and community living. As one of Madrid’s newest neighborhoods, Valdebebas combines innovative architecture, expansive green areas, and versatile public spaces. It stands as a testament to Madrid’s commitment to sustainable development, featuring the impressive Parque Forestal de Valdebebas-Felipe VI, the Real Madrid Ciudad Deportiva training complex, and the forthcoming Ciudad de la Justicia (City of Justice). With extensive walking and cycling trails, environmental education programs, and inclusive urban design, Valdebebas provides an enriching experience for every visitor.

This guide details everything you need to know about visiting Valdebebas: from practical information on transportation, accessibility, and tickets, to insights into the district’s key attractions and its role in Madrid’s urban evolution. For the latest updates, refer to the official Valdebebas Urbanismo website and the Comunidad de Madrid portal.

View of Valdebebas Interchange from Avenida de las Fuerzas Armadas

Introduction
Valdebebas Visitor Information
Key Attractions in Valdebebas
Historical Background and Urban Development
Transportation and Accessibility
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Highlights
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
References

Valdebebas Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Access

Valdebebas is open to visitors year-round. The main attractions have the following opening hours:

Parque Forestal de Valdebebas-Felipe VI:
- Spring (March 2 – May 31): 8:00–20:30
- Summer (June 1 – October 14): 8:00–22:00
- Winter (October 15 – March 1): 9:00–18:30
Ciudad Real Madrid: Not open for casual visits; guided tours or special events only.
Ciudad de la Justicia: Public access is limited to designated areas and hours (typically weekdays, 9:00–18:00).

Tickets and Guided Tours

Parque Forestal de Valdebebas-Felipe VI: Free admission; no tickets required.
Guided Tours (Park): Free, with reservation required by phone (+34 91 639 78 69) or email ([email protected]). Details in the Habitat Madrid catalogue.
Ciudad Real Madrid: Occasional tours available; check the official Real Madrid website for ticket availability.
Ciudad de la Justicia: No general admission; entry may be possible for guided groups by prior arrangement.

Accessibility and Transportation

Valdebebas is a model of accessible urbanism:

Public Transit:
- Cercanías train (C1 line) connects to central Madrid and Barajas Airport.
- Multiple bus lines (171, 174, BR1, N2) with accessible stops.
- Metro Line 11 extension in progress, improving access by 2030.
Car: Easily accessible from M-11, M-12, M-40, and Radial 2 highways; free parking at major park entrances.
On Foot/Cycling: Extensive pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
Accessibility: Step-free paths, ramps, elevators, and accessible facilities throughout public spaces.

Special Events and Activities

Valdebebas hosts a variety of events, including:

Sports tournaments at Real Madrid facilities
Environmental workshops in Parque Forestal
Outdoor markets and seasonal festivals
Community events in Parque Princesa Leonor

Check local tourism sites and social media for current event schedules.

Key Attractions and Things to Do in Valdebebas

Parque Forestal de Valdebebas-Felipe VI

Spanning nearly 470 hectares, this is Madrid’s second-largest public park. It features:

Over 32 km of walking trails and 5 km of cycling lanes
310,000+ trees and 317,000 shrubs, including a Mediterranean Arboretum
Artificial river, lagoons, wetlands, and wildlife habitats
The Labyrinth: a spiral wooden lookout structure
Children’s playgrounds, picnic areas, and resting points
Environmental Education Center: workshops and guided activities

Ciudad Real Madrid (Real Madrid Training Complex)

A 1.2 million m² state-of-the-art sports complex hosting:

Alfredo Di Stéfano Stadium
Multiple football pitches and training facilities
Occasional open training sessions and youth matches
Guided tours and events (limited; check official schedules)

Madrid Innovation District (MID)

Set to become a technology and entrepreneurship hub, MID will feature:

Research and business centers
Public plazas and cultural venues
Integrated green areas and digital infrastructure

Ciudad de la Justicia (City of Justice)

Valdebebas’ most ambitious civic project, consolidating Madrid’s judicial services:

470,000+ m² of judicial buildings, 40,000 m² of green space
378 judicial bodies and a central plaza of 13,500 m²
Landmark architecture designed for sustainability and accessibility
Phased completion between 2026 and 2028

Parque Princesa Leonor

A landscaped park connecting to Parque Forestal, offering:

Walking and cycling paths
Community gardens and relaxation spaces
Modern playgrounds and gathering areas

Historical Background and Urban Development

Valdebebas was developed in the early 2000s as part of Madrid’s strategy to create sustainable neighborhoods. Previously agricultural land, it was transformed into a mixed-use district emphasizing:

Sustainability: Green roofs, reclaimed water networks, and EMAS-certified environmental management (Valdebebas Urbanismo)
Community Life: Inclusive design, ample public spaces, and social infrastructure
Connectivity: Integration with existing districts and major transportation corridors
Digitalization: Smart city features, environmental sensors, and digital justice technologies

Transportation and Accessibility

Valdebebas is among Madrid’s best-connected neighborhoods:

Valdebebas Interchange: Opened December 2024, integrating bus, train, and future tram/light rail services for seamless transfers (Metro Madrid Press Release)
Cercanías C1 Line: Connects to Chamartín, Atocha, and Airport T4 (Moovit)
Buses: Lines 171, 174, N2, and BR1, plus local stops near major attractions
Metro: Line 11 extension planned, with current access via San Lorenzo (Line 4)
Accessibility: Step-free access, accessible restrooms, and dedicated support services

Practical Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds
Dining: Restaurants, cafés, and shops within Valdebebas and adjacent neighborhoods
Safety: Family-friendly area, well-maintained and well-lit
Planning: Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially in peak seasons (Euro Weekly News)
Travel Apps: Download Moovit for transit, TUR4all for accessibility, and the Audiala app for personalized guidance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours and ticket costs for Parque Forestal de Valdebebas-Felipe VI?
A: Open daily (seasonal hours); free entry, no tickets required.

Q: How do I join a guided tour of the park?
A: Reserve by phone (+34 91 639 78 69) or email ([email protected]); tours are free.

Q: Is Valdebebas accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the district and its main attractions offer accessible paths, facilities, and transit options.

Q: Can I visit the Real Madrid training complex?
A: Limited public access; check for special event days or guided tours via the official Real Madrid website.

Q: How do I reach Valdebebas from central Madrid?
A: Take the Cercanías C1 train to Valdebebas station, use city buses, or drive via major highways.

Visual Highlights

Panoramic view of Parque Forestal de Valdebebas-Felipe VI with its trails and greenery
Alt text: Expansive urban park in Valdebebas with walking and cycling paths among trees
Alfredo Di Stéfano Stadium at Ciudad Real Madrid
Alt text: Modern football stadium within Valdebebas sports complex
Map showing Valdebebas in relation to central Madrid and major transport hubs
Alt text: Valdebebas district map with public transport connections

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

To maximize your Valdebebas experience:

Use the Moovit app for real-time transit updates.
Download the Audiala app for guided tours and event alerts.
Check the official Madrid tourism website for current events and accessibility resources.
Follow local social media channels to stay informed about new attractions and community happenings.

Summary: Why Visit Valdebebas?

Valdebebas is a pioneering example of modern, sustainable urban development. Its green spaces, innovative architecture, and excellent public transport links make it ideal for families, nature lovers, sports fans, and anyone interested in Madrid’s future. With free public attractions, accessible amenities, and a welcoming community atmosphere, Valdebebas offers a comprehensive and memorable visitor experience. Plan ahead, stay informed, and discover a new side of Madrid where innovation and quality of life converge.
(Valdebebas Urbanismo) (Comunidad de Madrid) (Moovit)