As is the case every year around this time, the main day of the San Isidro festivities simultaneously marks the start of the swimming season in the Community of Madrid, and 2026 is no exception: from last Friday, May 15, through September 6, the regional swimming pools are open… and for many users, swimming can be free.
The pools at the Canal de Isabel II, San Vicente de Paúl, and Puerta de Hierro Sports Park facilities—which are open every day of the week from 11 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.— will be free for all users with a Youth Card— which, as a reminder, is valid until the moment they turn 31.
It’s important to note that if you take advantage of this offer, you can only get one ticket per day, and spots are limited. If you get this type of ticket twice and don’t use it, you won’t be able to book any more for the rest of the season.
In the case of the pool at the Centro de Natación Mundial 86 (M86), managed by the Madrid Swimming Federation, holding a Youth Card entitles you to a 20% discount on the admission price —meaning it would cost €4, one euro less than the general admission price.
Other rates for swimming pools in the Community of Madrid
- General admission: €5. If you have a Youth Card and there are no free spots left at the facilities managed by the Community of Madrid (all except M86), you can purchase a general admission ticket at a 20% discount.
- Reduced: 30% discount. For those over 65, children between 3 and 13 years old, and members of large families (this last discount can be combined with the others).
- Free: people with a recognized disability of 33% or higher and their companions, children under three years of age, and victims of terrorism.
How do I get a ticket for the Community of Madrid’s swimming pools?
It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online via the registration portal and also through the DeportesCM mobile app. Seniors over 65 and those with a recognized disability of 33% or higher (plus one companion) may obtain tickets at the ticket office starting at 10:30 a.m.
Tickets, on the other hand, can only be purchased for the same day of use.
Natural swimming areas in the Community of Madrid
In addition to the swimming pools, the Community of Madrid has four natural swimming areas: the San Juan reservoir (San Martín de Valdeiglesias), Alberche Beach (Aldea del Fresno), Las Presillas (Rascafría), and Los Villares (Estremera).