Historic Madrid Walking Tour with Babylon Tours Madrid
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily walking on city streets with no strenuous climbs.
Overview
Walk through Madrid’s historic heart with Babylon Tours Madrid’s private Spanish-speaking guide. Discover royal landmarks, hidden plazas, and local flavors on this enriching 2.5-hour journey.
History of Madrid – City Center Guided Walking Tour - Private (Spanish)
€49 - €115 | 2.5 Hrs | Daily
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour private walking tour of Madrid's Old City, guided by an expert who unveils the rich history behind iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral. Discover charming streets, taste local tapas, and explore the stories of the Habsburgs and Bourbon dynasty in this unforgettable experience.
Book way in advance - we sell out
Rates
- Adult: - €49 - €115
- Youth: - €49 (Ages 10 - 17)
- Child: - €49 (9 and under)
Duration
2 - 2.5 hours
Meeting Point
Meet by the Petrvs Statue (Saint Peter) at Plaza de la Armería, across from the main entrance outside of the Palacio Real de Madrid
About
- Start your visit in Madrid by hitting the streets to discover all of their hidden history on this 2.5 hour private tour of the Old City.
- Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to the monuments and structures that define Madrid, revealing their secrets and stories along the way. C onsider it your essential orientation to the Spanish capital, which may or may not result in a bit of tapas along the way.
- This tour is in English.
Includes
- Private Walking Tour
- Professional Tour Guide
- Duration 2 - 2.5 Hours
- Tour Will Run, Rain Or Shine
Excludes
- Tour price does NOT include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend UBER or Taxi)
- Tour price does NOT include gratuities (optional)
Full Tour Description
Start your visit in Madrid by hitting the streets to discover all of their hidden history on this 2.5 hour private guided walking tour of the Old City. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to the monuments and structures that define Madrid, revealing their secrets and stories along the way. Consider it your essential orientation to the Spanish capital, which may or may not result in a bit of tapas along the way.
Your guide will begin the Royal Palace. 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. Marvel at the majestic Royal Palace, which is the largest functioning palace in all of Europe. 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.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect several hours of walking on cobbled streets and uneven surfaces in the city center.
Bring a bottle of water
Staying hydrated helps, especially during warmer months when the tour covers multiple outdoor stops.
Cash for tapas stops
Some traditional tapas bars may prefer cash, so bring small bills to enjoy local food tastings without hassle.
Speak Spanish or bring a phrasebook
This tour is conducted exclusively in Spanish, ideal for native speakers or those seeking language practice.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban pigeons common in plazas
- Sparrows frequenting tree-lined streets
History
Madrid’s Old City reflects the city’s rise as Spain’s capital during the Habsburg dynasty, with architecture embodying centuries of royal influence.
Conservation
Efforts in the central district focus on preserving historic buildings while managing tourist impact to maintain the area's cultural and architectural integrity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Madrid
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating uneven pavements and cobblestone streets.
Light rain jacket or umbrella
Useful for spring and fall shower protection or winter rain.
spring|fall|winter specific
Water bottle
Helps keep you hydrated during warmer months and extended periods of walking.
summer|null specific
Spanish phrasebook or app
To assist non-fluent speakers during the Spanish-language tour and local interactions.