easy
5–6 hours
Suitable for individuals with general fitness; the tour involves walking mainly on urban pavements and palace flooring with moderate standing.
Step inside Madrid’s Royal Palace and navigate the city’s historic center with Babylon Tours Madrid. This carefully crafted 5.5-hour semi-private tour offers an up-close look at Spain’s regal heritage alongside its lively urban heart.
5.5 hrs | Daily | SKIP-THE-LINE | Most popular!
Embark on an unforgettable 5.5-hour journey through Madrid, blending a semi-private tour of the opulent Royal Palace with a stroll through the enchanting Old City. Discover rich history, stunning architecture, and captivating art, all while guided by an expert who brings the city’s royal legacy and vibrant culture to life.
5.5 hours
Meet by the Petrvs Statue (Saint Peter) at Plaza de la Armería, across from the main entrance outside of the Palacio Real de Madrid.
Combine the best of the Royal Palace and the Old City on this epic combo tour, ensuring that you don’t miss a thing while in Madrid. The 5.5 hour semi-private guided combo tour takes up to 8 guests into Europe’s largest royal residence before exploring the tangle of streets and squares through the Old City.
Beginning at the palace, your expert guide will make sure you skip the line, fast-tracking you to the ornate and over-the-top interiors that await. Since the royal family only uses it for official receptions, the Royal Palace and its over 3000 rooms are open to the public. Your engaging guide will show you the famous main staircase, designed by Sabatini, which includes over 70 steps. You’ll head into the Throne Room, and admire the ceiling painted by Tiepolo, and the Hall of Alabarderos, dedicated to the palace guards. You will be able to gaze at works of master artists along the way including Velázquez, Goya, and Caravaggio, learning about their involvement with the royal family. In the Royal Pharmacy, you’ll be able to browse cabinets featuring medicinal plants, ceramic pots, and formulas that once acted as cures for the royal family’s illnesses. Inside the Royal Chapel you’ll discover a complete set of stringed instruments made by the legendary Antonio Stradivari. After visiting all of the rooms available to you, you’ll have walked in the footsteps of royalty, experiencing Madrid at its most elegant.
Next, head out to continue your journey through the Old City. Your guide will begin at Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s principal square. From there, you’ll meander through the medieval streets to sites including Plaza Mayor, Santa Cruz Palace, and the awe-inducing Almudena Cathedral. You’ll explore the stories behind the curious Bakery House and the tapas-filled stalls at San Miguel Market. This district oozes with charm, thanks in part to the 16th and 17th century ruling powers known as the Habsburgs who leant their name to the quarter. You’ll even discover the world’s oldest restaurant here in the old city, and be sure to ask about their specialty.
Stroll through the 19th century as Madrid was changed by the Bourbon dynasty. Stroll the gardens of Plaza de Oriente designed by French emperor Napoleon´s brother. You’ll pass by the Royal Theater as the architectural beauty of the French-inspired buildings will keep your eyes darting from left to right. At the end, you’ll have gained a deeper appreciation for the history of these tangled streets, as well as the many notable characters that played roles in it all.
The tour involves several hours of walking on cobblestone streets and palace interiors; sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential.
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months when walking outdoors can be dehydrating.
Arriving a few minutes early ensures punctual start times and smooth entry into the Royal Palace.
Photography inside the Royal Palace may be restricted; confirm with your guide to avoid fines or confiscation.
The Royal Palace was built on the site of a medieval Moorish fortress after the Madrid fire of 1734, marking a shift to a grand European royal style.
Madrid emphasizes preserving its historic buildings like the Royal Palace with careful restoration efforts to maintain cultural heritage alongside modern urban use.
To navigate both palace interiors and city streets comfortably.
To stay hydrated during outdoor portions in warm weather.
summer specific
Useful for variable temperatures in spring or fall.
spring specific
To capture Madrid’s rich architecture and scenic urban moments.