walking tours in madrid

THE 10 BEST Madrid Walking Tours

Walking tours in madrid.

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1. Madrid Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour

2. Madrid Old Town & Royal Palace Walking Tour Skip the Line Ticket

3. Madrid Local Tapas & Wine tour with Drinks & Views from a Rooftop

4. Madrid Old City Exclusive Guided Walking Tour

5. Prado Museum Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket

6. Toledo Half or Full-Day Guided Tour from Madrid

7. Self Guided Private City Quest Tour in Madrid

8. Toledo City Tour, Winery Experience & Wine Tasting from Madrid

9. Toledo Tour: Cathedral & 8 Monuments with Pick-up from Madrid

10. Royal Palace of Madrid Small Group Skip the Line Ticket

11. The Best of Barcelona in One Day from Madrid

12. Toledo Private Tour with Guide and Private Driver from Madrid

13. Madrid Discoveries Private Tour

14. Madrid Countryside Wineries Guided Tour with Wine Tasting

15. Madrid Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

16. Madrid Best Walking Tour

17. Madrid: Royal Palace Tour with Optional Royal Collections

18. Madrid Food Tour: Gastronomy & History with Lunch or Dinner

19. Royal Palace of Madrid Early Entrance Tour Skip-The-Line Ticket

20. Royal Palace of Madrid Afternoon Skip the Line Tour

21. Toledo and Segovia Full-Day Tour with an Optional Visit to Avila

22. Madrid Tapas, Taverns & History Tour

23. Madrid Royal Palace & Prado Museum with Skip the Line Ticket

24. Tour 'Best of Prado Museum' (Skip the line ticket. 7 people max.)

25. Madrid Essential: Historic Center, Plaza Mayor & Royal Palace

26. Private Visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Prado Museum

27. Prado Museum Tour & Lunch at the Oldest Restaurant in the World

28. Prado Museum Expert Guided Tour with skip-the-Line&Optional Tapas

29. Ribera del Duero Wineries Guided Tour & Wine Tasting from Madrid

30. The Best of Córdoba from Madrid in One Day

What travelers are saying.

Best things to do and see in Madrid

Madrid is a city that doesn’t need any introductions. It is the capital of Spain, and a tourist hotspot every year along with Barcelona. Its abundant culture, architecture, cuisine, and art make it obvious why so many decide to visit this Iberian city, along with all the different niches and interesting sites it has to offer if you know where to look, that is! If you are planning on visiting this European metropolis, it’s important that you have a few reference points so you get the most out of your trip.

If you are looking for the best free walking tour in Madrid , the best idea is for you to do it with a local guide who knows all those mandatory tourist stops and of course the more hidden charms of this great city. If you tour this capital city you can’t miss places like: walking through Madrid’s Retiro, park area, or walking by the Gate of Alcala, (la Puerta de Alcalá) Cibeles Square, continuing until the Sun Gate, (la Puerta del Sol). A visit to the Main Square, (Plaza Mayor) where you can take a walk to the gardens beside the Royal Palace is also a must. There are also more specific tours you can choose that will take you some of Madrid’s different neighborhoods like: Salamance, Chueca, La Latina or Argüelles. If you enjoy art and museums, Madrid is a top destination with world-renowned museums like the Prado, Queen Sophia, the Archeological Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza or the Sorolla Museum. If you are choosing a walking tour, you can’t forget about places like Columbus’ Square, the Argüelles viewpoint, Santa Ana’s Square, the Gran Vía Avenue or the Plaza de España itself.

Find out more info about the free walking tours available in Madrid , by going to the webpage and reading other walkers’ opinions and reviews about their experiences on the same route with the same guide.  Whether you book a guruwalk in the morning, afternoon, or evening, you will have a great time getting to know some of the charms with professional guides who will get you the most out of your holidays in this Spanish capital. 

Free walking tour near Madrid

Others cities to visit after madrid, find other guruwalks in madrid, where are you traveling to.

Museum of Wander

Hit the Streets of Madrid With This Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour (Includes Map)

Our self-guided walking tour shows you the top sights, world famous art and the best places to eat in Madrid.

Madrid or Barcelona? Barcelona or Madrid? Madrid and Barcelona? It took us such a long time to make up our minds when we were planning our Spain and Portugal itinerary. Eventually, we committed ourselves to Madrid and we couldn’t be happier with our decision. With only two full days in Spain’s capital, we knew that we had to use our time wisely to see the highlights and eat all the tapas that we wanted. Except for planning to visit one of Madrid’s world-famous art museums, we had no real plan before arriving, so upon arrival, we grabbed a city map from our hotel and designed our own self-guided walking tour of Madrid.

Our self-guided walking tour of Madrid is a perfect introduction to the city. But let’s be honest: with only two days and being first-time visitors it doesn’t feature any hidden gems. It’s definitely not a local’s guide to Madrid. Instead, you’ll get to see the highlights of Madrid at a leisurely pace over two days and our recommendations of where to eat.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Where to Stay for this Madrid Walking Tour

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION. And price. We stayed at Hostal Met Madrid which is just across the road from the Mercado de San Miguel. The room was spotless, quiet and the location can’t be beaten.

Being so central, this guesthouse is the perfect base for exploring Madrid. We walked everywhere we mention in our Madrid walking tour, except for taking the metro to the Reina Sofia museum.

Don’t think it’s a hostel ala bunkbed though. A hostal is a budget-midrange hotel, almost like a guesthouse and quite popular throughout Spain. The room was spotless, came with a small fridge and the AC was very welcome during our siesta sessions.

Hostal Met Madrid offers exceptional value for money and comes highly recommended. The money we saved on accommodation and transport went straight into our tapas/churros/sangria kitty 🙂

Check prices and availability

Madrid Self-Guided Walking Tour Map: Day 1

Day 1 of our Madrid walking tour will take in the major sights and monuments, and include stops at places to indulge in the city’s fabulous food.

Start Your Walking Tour at Puerta Del Sol

Puerta del Sol, or simply Sol, is one of Madrid’s most central points from where all the city’s roads stem from. It’s also one of the busiest metro stops and the plaza is always buzzing. Sol is the starting point of our walking tour and also the gateway to many of the bars and restaurants in the immediate area.

The Tio Pepe sign advertising Andalusian sherry is one of Madrid’s famous landmarks. The man on horseback in the centre of the plaza is King Charles III of Spain . Other than tourists, street performers and businessmen you can also find the statue of the Bear and Strawberry tree here, which is a popular meeting spot. The statue represents Madrid’s coat of arms and while it’s the pride of Madrileños , you don’t have to go out of your way to see it.

Another quirky point of interest is the Kilometre Zero slab in front of the Town Hall. All major roads in Spain radiate outwards from this point.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is one of the most beautiful and famous landmarks in Madrid. The arcaded square is intimate rather than grande, and it’s indeed very picturesque. Three stories of residential buildings with wrought-iron balconies completely wrap around the Plaza Mayor.

Nine entranceways lead into the square where you’ll find an equestrian statue of King Phillip III who overlooks the international crowds and street performers.

Surrounding the square are cafes and restaurants which could make a nice place for a drink or bite to eat. But don’t eat here (yet) as our breakfast/brunch stop is just steps away. If you are staying in the area you should also come back to Plaza Mayor after dark since it has a totally different feel at night. Then you can have a drink and bite to eat here.

Eat Tapas at Mercado de San Miguel

By now you should have worked up a nice appetite. That’s great since the stylish Mercado de San Miguel might as well be called the Mercado de Tapa Nirvana. The iron and glass art nouveau structure is one of the best places to come to experience Madrid’s excellent tapa culture. Not only are all the tapas here mini works of art in themselves, but everything we had here was damn good.

Established in 1916, this gastronomic paradise is one of Madrid’s oldest and hippest markets. The covered market has over 30 vendors, each stall perfecting one or two tapa dishes. All the tapas are beautifully displayed and we wanted to eat them all. It’s a good idea to walk through the market to see everything there is before going back to get your favourites. Good to know too is that alcoholic drinks are available. So if you feel like living it up here in Madrid, go ahead and have breakfast sangria, vermouth or beer. If saving yourself, then perhaps get a coffee. The market is open every day from 10:00 until midnight and makes a perfect stop any time of day or night. Since our hotel was just around the corner we came here a few times.

Want more food? Check out these awesome food tours in Madrid: Wine and Tapas in Madrid Lonely Planet Experiences: Madrid Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour Evening Tapas Tour through Madrid

Spot Unique Street Names

Keep an eye out for the street names as you follow our walking tour. Even if you don’t speak any Spanish (like us) the pictures will pretty much tell you what it means.

We really liked looking at street names in Madrid. It seems that in days gone past each street was known for something special. As you walk around spot all these different streets. Street of the embroiderers, street of the blacksmiths, street of the clowns etc.

See the Modern Almudena Cathedral

Situated adjacent to the Plaza de Armas of the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral might look old but in fact, it was only opened in 1993. Uniquely modern inside, the cathedral is Neo-Gothic in style.

It looks as if a rainbow exploded onto the ceiling with its colourful patterns and designs. The stained glass windows have a nice modern twist to them as well, and can perhaps be described as religious pop art. Entry to the cathedral is free of charge, but you’ll need to pay if you want to visit the museum.

Feel Royal at the Madrid Palacio Real

Right next to the cathedral is the monumental Royal Palace of Madrid, which is the largest palace in Western Europe. The palace is home to Spain’s royal family but is only used really for state ceremonies these days. Looking at the long line kept us from looking inside. The palace is still impressive to look at from the outside though.

Top Tip: Avoid the lines and book your fast-track entrance tickets online.

Is the Plaza de Espana Open?

We came here to see the monument to one of Spain’s most beloved figures: Don Quixote. When we arrived at the plaza we were disappointed to find it all boarded up due to construction work. The text on the boards read SUMMER BITCH !

Apparently, while construction was going on they found major historic artefacts and because extensive excavation will need to be done, it will be months before the plaza reopens. Staff at our hotel told us later that it will only reopen in 2020, but no one is sure when.

Stroll & Shop on Gran Via

Plaza de España marks the southern end of Gran Via, Madrid’s most famous shopping street . Beautiful buildings from the early 1900s line the entire length of Gran Via and you can also find Spain’s famous fashion stores such as Zara, Mango, Stradivarius and Bimba y Lola here if you’re in the mood for burning money.

Gran Via is also known as the Spanish Broadway thanks to many theatres and exciting nightlife options.

Indulge in the Best Chocolate Con Churros in Madrid

Is it possible to put heaven into a cup? ABSOLUTELY! Time for chocolate and churros! You’ll find Madrid’s, if not the world’s, best hot chocolate tucked away in alley Pasadizo San Ginés just off the busy Calle Arena. Madrileños have been coming here since 1894 for their chocolate – churros fix.

Order a cup of thick, sweet chocolate and a plate of golden fried churros from the marble counter and the waiter will bring it to your table within minutes.

Dip your churros into the rich and smooth chocolate and you’ll soon understand why Chocolatería San Ginés has been around for more than a hundred years and people are still lining up. This place has ruined every other hot chocolate that we will ever have.

Best of all, it’s open 24 hours a day to cater to all our choco-junkies.

As a national pastime, siesta is as Spanish as Sangria, Jamon and bullfighting. After being on the streets since the morning it’s a good idea to have some downtime and experience this essential aspect of Spanish life.

Dinner in Madrid doesn’t really start until well after 21:00, so go back to your place and do as the Spaniards do and take a nice long siesta. Take a nap, read a book, watch a movie, make love, open a bottle of wine or all of the above in no particular order.

Dinner at Museo de Jamón

Not a museum in the traditional sense but indeed belongs up there with the Prado and Reina Sofia, the Museum of Ham is a casual stand and eat-at-the-counter tapas bar . One part bar, one part meat deli the Museo is always loud, always packed and everyone always seems to be enjoying life here. But then who wouldn’t with cheap beer and ham under the same roof? It was actually so good and cheap that we came here three times in two days!

A little intimidating at first, it’s best to dive right in and join the crowd at the bar. Ask for jamón, and the barman will present you with an English picture menu. Ham is not simply ham here. Hundreds of pig legs hang from the walls, so you’ll need to specify whether is jamón Ibérico or jamón serrano . There are also plates of cheese and crispy sandwiches on the menu. We really liked the Iberico and melon plate and old sheep cheese portion.

Museo del Jamón is a chain and has branches scattered throughout Madrid. We visited the one on Calle Mayor, halfway between Sol and Plaza Mayor and the branch on Plaza Mayor the next day. The one on Plaza Mayor has seating outside on the square which is good for having a bite and drink, but the branch on Calle Mayor was our favourite by far.

Madrid Self-Guided Walking Tour: Day 2

Today is museum day but we choose to visit only one of the world-famous art museums. We think that doing more than one will be draining. You can choose to visit either the Prado or the Reina Sofia, which are located near each other anyway.

The second day of our self-guided walking tour of Madrid has less walking than the first day. You’ll have plenty of time to eat tapas and drink sangria too. Sounds like a plan so let’s get going!

Breakfast at Cerveceria 100 Montaditos

For breakfast, you can choose to return to the Mercado de San Miguel for tapas or Museo de Jamon for more ham and perhaps a morning beer. Or give the small but popular Cerveceria 100 Montaditos a try.

Offering breakfast options from €1, it makes the perfect breakfast spot to start your second day of our Madrid self-guided walking tour. The breakfast set of Pan con Tomate (crushed tomato toast with olive oil), jamon toast and coffee is an excellent choice for only €1.90 Throw in a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for €2 and you have a great start to your day for €3.90. As the name suggests they also have cold beer on tap.

After breakfast walk to Sol before taking the metro to Atocha station. Known as the golden triangle of art, the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen museums are all a short walk away from Atocha station.

See The Guernica in the Reina Sofia

One thing we really HAD TO DO in Madrid was to visit one of its world-famous art museums . Just like our Madrid vs. Barcelona predicament before coming to Spain, we were stuck with Prado vs Reina Sofia.

In the end, Reina Sofia won since we are more interested in seeing modern and contemporary Spanish art. The Reina Sofia boasts a collection of over 21 000 works of art from the 20th century. So if modern art is your thing, you’re in for a treat.

The big draw of the Reina Sofia is Picasso’s Guernica , but it also has a handsome collection of works by Dali, Miro and Gris amongst others. The Guernica is huge; much bigger than we had anticipated. Photos showing how it evolved and how Picasso changed the painting before completion are very interesting. Photography is not allowed in the exhibition area where the Guernica is displayed.

We recommend buying your ticket online before you visit as lines to get in can apparently get ridonkeylously long. When we arrived just after opening time we walked right in without having to wait.

The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Opening hours are 10:00-21:00. The entrance price is €10 when buying at the museum, or €8 when buying online. Plan to spend at least 2.5 hours here.

Lunch at Venta el Buscon

Take the metro back to Sol and walk a block to Calle Victoria. This little street is chockablock with great restaurants and tapas bars. All of them have lunch menus displayed outside for about €15. We ended up at Venta el Buscon which is a great little place with generous portions and friendly staff.

The lunch menu includes bread, starter, mains, dessert and a drink for €14. Our enthusiastic and charismatic waiter tried the best he could to explain the menu options to us in English. We didn’t understand that dessert was included, so when we asked for the bill after our main course (we were stuffed by then anyway) the waiter said: NO! POSTRE INCLUDED!! Not knowing what postre is, he went on to say CAKE.

Jin had a beer, prawns, calamari and tiramisu while De Wet went with vermouth, curry samosas, oxtail and cheesecake.

Venta el Buscon has superb service, a great atmosphere and fantastic food. We definitely recommend a meal here.

With your tummy full, head back to your hotel to escape the hottest part of the day. Blame the jet lag, blame the hot weather, blame all the walking or tell yourself that you’re respecting local culture, but don’t underestimate the power of a good old siesta.

Cafe Culture in La Latina

The colourful and vibrant neighbourhood of La Latina is great for walking around and having a drink outside at one of the countless cafes and bars. Away from the main streets, you will find many small squares filled with tables and chairs and waiters willing to take your order.

If in Madrid on a Sunday you should also visit the El Rastro flea market which is held near La Latina metro station.

See the Best View in Madrid at the Circulo de Bellas Artes

The best view in Madrid is even better at sunset. Best place to see this view? At the Circulo de Bellas Artes of course. The trendy rooftop terrace and bar on the 7th floor offer fantastic views across the Gran Via and towards la plaza Cibeles.

In summer the sun sets around 21:30 in Madrid so come here about an hour before. We had to wait in line for about 20 minutes before we could take the elevator up to the rooftop.

You need to pay €4 to take the elevator up to the rooftop, but once there you don’t have to order anything unless you want to of course.

Dinner in Plaza Mayor

As we mentioned before, dinner in Madrid does not start until late at night. After seeing the sunset (around 22:00) we walked back towards Sol and on to Plaza Mayor to see it lit up at night. We decided to have dinner at the Plaza Mayor branch of Museo del Jamón . At this branch, you can sit at tables outside on the plaza, unlike the branch around the corner where you have to stand at the bar. There’s no better way to end our Madrid self-guided walking tour than putting your feet up and having sangria and ham in Plaza Mayor.

Now it’s your turn : Let us know in the comments below if you have any questions. As always we will try our best to help. Did we miss anything? Go put on a pair of comfy walking shoes and hit the streets of Madrid!

Heading to Seville? Check out how to really enjoy Seville in 3 days . Going to the Costa de Sol? Here are the best Marbella Hotels .

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The Best Walking Tours in Madrid

Hemingway once called Madrid “the capital of the world” and in his book Death in the Afternoon , referred to it as “the most Spanish of all cities.”

As the second-largest city in the European Union (after Berlin ), Madrid wows visitors with it’s beauty, museums, history, and food.

Madrid also boasts numerous neighborhoods crammed with fun tapas bars, their narrow, cobbled streets brimming with happy revelers until the wee hours of the morning.

There is a ton to see and do here , so much so that you could easily spend a couple of weeks dedicating yourself to getting below the surface of Madrid and still end up yearning for more.

Whether you’re looking for a light introduction to the city or something more comprehensive and nuanced, walking tours are the best way to peel back the layers of a place for a more authentic, in-depth experience. From brief free ones to food tours to in-depth historical walks, there is something for every traveler — and every budget.

To help you make the most of your time in “the capital of the world,” here’s a list of the best walking tours (and one biking tour) in Madrid:

Best Overall Tour

Take Walks is my favorite walking tour company in the city. They specialize in early and exclusive access to sites. The Prado & Botin tour , for example, takes you into the famous restaurants kitchen and underground tunnels. Their tours are incredible and my favorite in the city!

Best Free Tour

New Europe Walking Tours does a tips-based free walking tour through the center of Madrid, covering the history of the city and stopping at major sights. It starts at Plaza Mayor and finishes at Plaza Isabel II, hitting many other places along the way. (New Europe also offers private paid tours if you’re traveling with a group and prefer to take a private tour on your own schedule.)

Other Top Walking Tours in Madrid

If you’re on a budget, free tours are a great way to get the basics of Madrid. But if you’re a walking tour lover or you just want to dive into something more specific, you’ll have to pay for a more detailed one. Here are some of the best paid tours in Madrid to help you deepen your experience:

1. Devour Tours

Devour does food tours all over Spain and Italy , but its founders live in Madrid. This is why it’s especially fortuitous to do a Devour tour here — particularly if you’re a foodie. The four-hour Tapas, Taverns & History tour will fill you up and leave you satisfied. You’ll hit four family-run tapas bars for food and drink, weaving from one place to the next while stopping at major landmarks. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening in Madrid.

Tours from 99 EUR per person.

2. Free Walking Tours Madrid

Free Walking Tours Madrid is technically not free, but it’s still super affordable. You have to register for a tour and pay 3 EUR to guarantee your spot, which kind of defeats the “free tour” label; however, that’s still a bargain, and you cover a lot of ground.

The tours start with Madrid’s origins as a small Arab town, taking participants all the way through the world-spanning Spanish empire, through the Civil War and Franco’s dictatorship, and to the post-Franco “Movida” era of the late ’70s and ’80s. If you want a good primer on Madrid and Spanish history, this is it.

3. The Wellington Society of Madrid

This tour company isn’t as much a “society” as just the fabulous tour guide Stephen Drake-Jones leading small groups through Madrid on specialty tours. He does wine tours, ones that focus on Goya, and a great one on Ernest Hemingway, who spent several years in Madrid. You’ll be taken to — surprise, surprise — a few historic bars, including the amazing sherry bar La Venencia, that were typical haunts of “Don Ernesto” while he was in Madrid.

Tours from 125 EUR per person.

4. Madrid Day Tours

While this operator does do a walking tour of Madrid, its specialty is taking you out of Madrid to one of the fabulous smaller historic towns in the nearby countryside. This is a great way to visit another part of Spain while you’re based in Madrid. Tours to the medieval cities of Toledo or Segovia are great options, as they’re both just a short drive away and pack a great punch in terms of the wow factor.

Tours from 69 EUR per person.

5. Cool Tour Spain

This tour company offers engaging street art tours around Madrid. They take you around the multicultural Lavapies area to show you the amazing street art sprinkled around this central Madrid neighborhood. There are also walks that focus on architecture, feminism, and contemporary art. This is great for when you need a break from the centuries-old buildings and historic landmarks that can sometimes get a little tiresome.

Tours from 20 EUR per person.

6. Walk Eat Spain

Margaret and Amy, two long-time American expats in Madrid, lead fun walking tours in Madrid. You stop, eat, get an explanation about the dish and history of the place, and then walk it off until your next stop. Walk Eat Spain organizes walks around the vibrant Malasaña neighborhood, one of the best areas for tapas and wine crawls. They also have family-friendly private tours so you can have a more customized experience.

Tours from 89 EUR per person.

7. Fat Tire Tours

Need to give your feet a break? Or just prefer pedaling? Fat Tire offers two different three-hour bike tours around town. You’ll learn some history, explore lesser-visited neighborhoods, and still see all the highlights. While their tours pack in a lot, they also keep things at a leisurely pace, so you’ll never feel rushed. And since Madrid is one of Europe’s greenest capital cities, there’s also a tour that focuses on its parks and rivers, perfect for families — or anyone who doesn’t want to cycle around the busy city center.

Tours from 32 EUR per person.

While popular tourist hot spots like Madrid are easy to explore on your own, if you want a deeper, more authentic experience, it’s always best to connect with an expert local guide. Walking tours are just the way to go. I always take a few while I’m here, and I encourage you to do the same (definitely start with my favorite, Take Walks ).

Book Your Trip to Spain: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Three of my favorite places to stay in Madrid are are:

• Sungate One
• MuchoMadrid

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They save you money when you travel too.

Want a Guide? Madrid has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Walks , which has expert guides and can get you behind the scenes of the city’s best attractions. It’s my go-to walking tour company!

Want More Information on Madrid? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Madrid for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Free Walking Tours Madrid

The best free tour of Madrid! Free Walking Tours Madrid promotes a tourism that fuses entertainment, culture and respect for the city 🙂 Join and discover Madrid with us!

• Entertainment and culture , is the combination that defines our success formula.
• Expert guides that are passionate about the city!
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• Free Tour Madrid The best Free Tour of Madrid! Free Tour Madrid promotes tourism that blends entertainment, culture and respect for the city. Join and discover Madrid with us, discover the best side of the city !! Book & Info
• Free Tour Madrid Monumental & Retiro Park Explore with us the most monumental and artistic Madrid, a tour of the great architectural works of the city. Book & Info
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• Full day Toledo Visiting Toledo is to get to know the history of our country. The so-called "city of the three cultures" , gathers artistic and architectural jewels of Christianity, Judaism and Muslim culture. Book & Info
• Avila + Segovia, Full day Tour Free Walking Tours Madrid, together with our partner company VPT, propose a full day tour to Avila and Segovia. A magnificent full day tour in which you will get to know two World Heritage Cities. Book & Info
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Private Tours

With private tours we can adapt to your needs, with the duration and travel you prefer; a great option for groups of students, corporate events or simply to live a more personalized experience in Madrid.

We believe that everyone has the right to a quality tour regardless of their budget. At the end of the free tour you are the ones who can value the service.

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With more than 5 years of experience and a thousand positive comments on the internet, we continue to strive to provide the best service to travelers from all over the world.

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Best 5 Free walking tours in Madrid

I love the free walking tours in Madrid. They are a wonderful, sustainable, and healthy way to discover the history, culture, and top-rated attractions of the capital of Spain.

Besides, are a great option if you want to visit Madrid on a budget !

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How to book the best walking tours in Madrid for free

My 5 reasons to join the free walking tours in madrid, how walkable is madrid, 1. madrid free walking tour, 2. discover the heart of the old town of madrid and its wonders, 3. get your bearings in madrid: discover the old town, 4. free tour “millenary madrid” – madrid de los austrias (old town), 5. madrid highlights free walking tour, how much to tip a free walking tour guide, what is a free walking tour in madrid.

I would describe a free walking tour of Madrid as a type of tour usually lasting 2-3 hours with an expert local guide in a unique and fun experience while discovering the most popular tourist attractions in Madrid.

I want to highlight that you do not have to pay anything at all to book the tour. A tip is usually (fairly) expected though if you enjoyed the experience.

#1 TOP PICK

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Madrid Old Town

✔️ Duration: 2h and 15min

✔️ Language: English

After all, although tour guides are passionate about Madrid, they also have invoices to pay. It is logical to think that their work deserves some reward too.

There is a wide offer of experiences to choose from and it can be sometimes difficult to identify the best ones. This is why I have included in this post the best free walking tours of Madrid from my point of view.

It is not allowed to join the best walking tours in Madrid without booking.

Booking in advance a Madrid free tour is necessary to secure your place . Besides, you will be able to receive important information from your guide in case there are changes to the tour. Remember that children must also be counted at the time of booking.

The booking process is really easy. Just click on the link of the tours you will find on this post , choose the date, and fill out a brief form.

You will receive a confirmation email of your booking. In case you don´t, check your spam folder and verify you have input the right email address.

There is usually a minimum and a maximum number of participants. If you go to the meeting point without booking, the group could be full and do not accept additional participants.

The 5 Best Madrid Segway Tours

In case you have booked one of the best Madrid free tours and something unexpected comes up, the cancellation is also free .

If so, remember to cancel the booking as soon as possible. This way, you will give the opportunity to others to join the tour.

The meeting point is usually an easily accessible place in Madrid´s city center. It is important to arrive about 10 minutes before the start time scheduled. This way, the guide will be able to begin the tour on time.

1. You will get an integral experience .

In my opinion, walking is by far the best way to explore Madrid.

Most tourist attractions are located in the historical city center within walking distance and the weather in Madrid is excellent to enjoy a stroll.

Public transport in Madrid is awesome and can be a faster way to get around in case your planning is quite tight.

I prefer slow traveling though, as you can always come across some hidden gems of the city and experience Madrid like a local.

I have always believed that it is not just a way of getting to your final destination, but it is actually enjoying every single place you go through .

The free walking tours in Madrid are perfect to get a deeper involvement and discover the local culture and day-to-day Spanish life.

2. They are healthy and sustainable .

Walking is friendly to the environment.

According to the European Environment Agency, transport is responsible for a considerable part of the total greenhouse gas emissions.

Therefore, the free walking tours in Madrid result in fewer emissions released into the atmosphere, help to protect biodiversity and decrease noise pollution.

Besides, walking is beneficial for your health, reducing the risk of cardiac diseases and heart attack.

Research shows that regular walking actually modifies your nervous system, reduces the levels of stress and anxiety, and can significantly improve your mood.

Madrid´s nice weather is very convenient to enjoy a stroll. Rain is not usual, but in July and August a bottle of water will be much appreciated, especially at mid-day.

3. They are free .

The free walking tours in Madrid will allow you to save money on your trip to Spain. Being complimentary, you will have more budget available for other pleasures like tasting Spanish gastronomy.

Usually, the tour guides are young native freelancers with a deep knowledge of the city.

They will be always happy to offer you insider tips on places to visit, things to avoid, and the best restaurants. Therefore, a tip will be more than welcome in case you have enjoyed the experience.

4. Forget about planning .

One of the main benefits of the free-of-charge walking tours in Madrid is that you do not have to worry about planning.

All you have to do is turn up at the meeting point on time, ready to have a nice time.

The tour guides will take care of the rest. The whole route is thoroughly planned in advance and you will not miss any of the best landmarks in Madrid .

Moreover, the tour guides will show you Madrid´s secrets that only the locals know.

5. Engage with new people

The free Madrid walking tours are a great opportunity to meet people who probably share your interests . That is why they are especially interesting if you are traveling solo to Spain .

Perhaps it is just me, but when I travel, I am more outgoing to talking with strangers than in my daily life.

It could be just because of this feeling of sharing the passion for discovering new places, but I have done plenty of good friends when traveling around.

As a local, I would say that Madrid is easy to navigate on foot , especially at the city center which houses most of the must-see attractions.

The weather in Madrid is most of the time pretty appealing for walking, sunny days are usual. Madrid in Winter is beautiful too, and temperatures are not extreme.

Therefore, my list of the best costless walking tours in Madrid is an outstanding way to explore the capital of Spain, strolling along the streets and discovering the hidden gems of the city.

For me, walking in Madrid is a pleasure.

Pedestrian and green zones are common, especially in the city center, and they are clean and safe . Of all the ways to explore Madrid, nothing beats a walking tour.

In order to make Madrid a more walkable city, there is a continuous investment to increase the pedestrianized areas and improve the infrastructure for pedestrians.

The main objective is to improve the pedestrian experience and convert walking into the most enjoyable and attractive means of transport.

It is true, however, that there is still plenty of work to do, some areas of the city are much more walkable than others.

What are the best free walking tours in Madrid?

The 5 Best (and cheapest) Bike Tours in Madrid

Do you want to truly get to know Madrid?

Walking tours are a great way to get a comprehensive insight into the capital of Spain and make the most out of your visit to Madrid.

There are dozens of tour companies, mainly paid, so visitors find it difficult to choose one.

In this post, I want to share with you which are, in my opinion, the best free walking tours in Madrid to help you plan your trip to Spain.

But it is not just me who believes these are the best free walking tours in Madrid. I have included just a couple out of hundreds of authentic excellent testimonials .

Please note that some free walking tours in Madrid are available in different languages, make sure to pick the right one before booking.

Here is my review of the 5 best free walking tours in Madrid:

My first option offers this free walking tour in Madrid which will allow you to discover the most emblematic areas and attractions of the capital of Spain.

You will learn all about Madrid´s history accompanied by a local bilingual guide.

This free walking tour in Madrid has a duration of 2 hours and you will stroll through El Madrid de los Austrias, the most historic neighborhood of the city.

The local guide will take you to the most iconic streets, squares, and landmarks, including the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, and much more.

While you wander through Madrid’s historic center, the guide will tell you interesting anecdotes and traditions which will bring you much closer to our Spanish culture.

Pablo was a really fantastic guide. He provided a great deal of history and information and did it with a good sense of humor. I would highly recommend this tour. Crystal | United States

This tour will allow you to discover one of the most historic neighborhoods in the city, Madrid de los Austrias.

This is one of the best free walking tours in Madrid and lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Click here to book this free tour now .

The tour starts at the iconic Puerta del Sol, which houses some of the most iconic landmarks in Madrid such as the Royal Post Office, with the famous clock marking the traditional eating of the Twelve Grapes and the beginning of a new year.

You will also find El Oso y el Madroño, a sculpture of a bear and strawberry tree which represent the coat of arms of the capital of Spain, the Kilometer 0, a mounted statue of King Charles III, the Mariblanca, and the Tio Pepe neon sign.

Melissa was an amazing guide, she provided a lot of information and made the tour super fun with her humor! Certainly recommended! Anastasia | Poland

After a short walk, you will get to the famous Plaza Mayor, an outstanding arcaded square with a rectangular shape and a total of 237 balconies.

The next stop will be a gastronomic icon temple. El Mercado de San Miguel, with a remarkable early-20th century iron structure, has more than 20 stands with the best quality products in the entire Iberian Peninsula.

Finally, you will discover the emblematic Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral, and the Royal Theater, very close to the starting point of the tour.

Here you will find the link to my third choice of the best walking tours in Madrid. Secure your place by booking now this free tour .

The tour has a duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, and the guide will show you Madrid´s historical center.

Do not worry if you are not an expert in history, the guides will only go as in depth in history as participants want to, and they will do their best to make it fun and easy to understand.

Some of the tourist attractions you will discover on this free walking tour in Madrid are Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, the 9th-century Moorish wall, and the Plaza de Oriente.

Sebastian was an excellent tour guide! We learned so much and got to see so many interesting parts of Madrid. Highly recommend. Barbara | San Marino

Would you like to know the fascinating history of Madrid and visit its historic center, a legacy of the House of Los Austrias? Book now this tour for free.

This 2.5-hour tour is the next on my list of the top 5 free walking tours in Madrid.

The tour offers a route through Madrid de Los Austrias. You will walk through the historic center of Madrid, discovering and learning about its origins, history, and legends, which have given life to this majestic city.

On this tour, you will be able to enter some of the historical sites and an experienced local guide will help you to better understand customs, traditions, and local advice that will make you enjoy a better experience in Madrid.

Some of the tourist spots visited will be Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and Plaza de Oriente.

Join this tour without charge to discover this exciting city that is waiting to tell you the secrets of more than a thousand years of history.

Luis, the guide, has been very attentive and entertaining, iproviding us with very detailed explanations. 5 stars! David | Nord de Palma

This 2-hour historical walk offers a unique experience to discover the must-see attractions of the capital of Spain.

You will cover the most historic neighborhood of the city inside and outside what was the Medieval wall.

The local guide will carefully share valuable information about the attractions, Madrid´s history, and gastronomical advice that you cannot miss.

Some of the landmarks you will visit are the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and San Miguel Market.

Great tour as a first glance at the city. We visited the most important places and heard curious facts about them. The guide was very helpful and fun . Annalisa | Lisbon

As I said before, booking the best free walking tours in Madrid is free of charge.

However, in case you have enjoyed the experience you can reward the guide for his work with the amount you consider fair and appropriate .

After all, although tour guides are passionate about their job, it is logical to think that their effort deserves some reward too.

Besides, if we all do not collaborate with these guides, free tours will end up disappearing.

The amount to tip depends on everyone and it usually depends on the final satisfaction, duration of the tour, and the number of people in your party.

I would dare to say that the usual average is around 10 euros per adult for a 2-hour tour.

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Free Walking Tour Madrid - Old Town

Discover the secrets of the capital of Spain with our Free Walking Tour   Madrid through the Old Town. For about 2,5 hours we will explore the main attractions of Madrid’s most historic neighbourhood and, we will  travel back to the era when  the city reached its greatest political and cultural splendor in Europe. 

• Everyday (except December, 23-27 & January, 1)
• Small groups: max. 10 participants. Book in advance to ensure your spots
• Puerta del Sol Square, by the Equestrian Statue of Carlos III
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• Route: Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, San Miguel market, Plaza de la Villa, Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, Plaza de Oriente. Check out the tour spots here.
• Tours run in any weather conditions: shine, rain or snow

How to book your Free Walking Tour Madrid with OgoTours?

Book now to ensure your place in our  Free Tour Madrid. Spots are limited to 10 people so we recomend booking well in advance. . 

Booking our Free Tour in Madrid is easy and quick. Choose the day you want to do the tour and fill out the fields. You will receive your tour confirmation immediately.  The days when our Madrid Free Walking Tour is not available are indicated in red in the calendar. 

Free Walking Tour Madrid is one of our best selling Madrid tours and tickets available for this tour are likely to sell out. Our groups are small in size ( 10 persons maximum ) and spots are limited so it is very important to book in advance.

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Tour Schedule & Meeting Point

Our  Free Walking Tour Madrid  takes place every day (rain, shine or snow). Just come to our meeting point at Puerta del Sol Square (Equestrian Statue of Carlos III) at 10:45 and look for the OgoTours guides with our famous green umbrellas with the logo of OgoTours

Attention : there are a lot of different umbrellas on the square: make sure you find the green umbrella of OgoTours. Do not accept imitations! 😉

How to get to OgoTours meeting point?

Metro : lines 1, 2 and 3. Station: Sol

Renfe Commuter trains: Lines C3 & C4. Station: Sol.

Why this Free Walking Tour Madrid is your best option?

Small groups.

Our Free Walking Tour Madrid has a maximum number of participants (10 people maximum) . Preferable to the very large groups of other walking tour companies. Book in advance to ensure your spots!

Professional Tour Guides

We are specialists in Madrid! Our team consists of local experts who love sharing their passion for Madrid. They all come from different fields (history, fine art and tourism).

Departure Guaranteed

If you book online on our website, the tour departure is automatically guaranteed . We never cancel our tour.

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We are a small local company based in Madrid since 2013 so invest fully in everything we do, from guiding to customer support. Feel the touch of a family-run business.

How much does it cost?

In OgoTours you state the price. In other words, our Madrid Free Walking Tour is based on your satisfaction. At the end of the tour you will have the opportunity to determine your contribution to the guides. Don´t be shy, tips are more than appreciated. 😉

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• OgoTours offers free walking tours in Madrid since 2013 which makes us one of the most experienced walking tour operators in Madrid.
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Ogotours emphasizes strongly on its commitment to quality. Our team offers small sized groups ( 10 pers. max ) on our Free Tour Madrid which allow us entry to many attractions that larger groups are not permitted. We provide more flexibility to ensure your Walking Tour has over exceeded your needs and wants, and we can guarantee that all of your questions will be answered by our passionate guides.

Tour Spots:

• Puerta del Sol Square
• Plaza Mayor
• The Bakery House
• Posada del Peine
• The Oldest Restaurant in the World
• San Miguel Market
• Royal Palace
• Almudena Cathedral
• Plaza de la Villa Square
• Remains of Santa Maria Church
• Plaza de Oriente
• Royal Theatre

Why do we offer a Free Tour Madrid?

In OgoTours we are so proud of Madrid that we want to share our city with as many people as possible! We strongly believe that the cost shouldn´t be the reason to not discover the charms of the capital of Spain. At the end of the tour we give you the opportunity to pay what you feel our work was worth. Our mission is to offer every visitor the opportunity to experience Madrid in a different way, no matter your budget. 

As the Free Walking Tour is based exclusively on tips, our expert local guides are always motivated and determined to please our customers expectations, ensuring a consistently high quality experience during your time in Madrid. If you love history and want to discover one of the most amazing cities in Europe, don´t think twice and book with our Madrid Free Walking Tour!

What to wear?

It is very important to wear comfortable shoes. Although the weather in Spain is fair, winter in Madrid is hard. During the winter months do not forget to come prepared to deal with cold (gloves, winter cap, anorak, etc.). However, in summer we recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen and light clothing. Spring and autumn are the best seasons of the year to visit Madrid.

Our team, consisting of local experts and Madrid-lovers, are passionate about their city and its history and love sharing their favorite spots in Madrid. With our Madrid Free Walking Tour you will discover the capital from a different perspective, including interesting historical facts and incredible stories. We will show you Madrid the way we live it and feel it everyday!

Copyright © OgoTours Madrid 2013-2023 OgoTours is a 100% local company. And as such, we are proud to do our bit to preserve the traditions and spirit of the city. Our goal is to help you experience Madrid like a local. Tax Identification Number: 46890705F

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Our groups are now limited to 10 people, therefore it is required to book your spot in advance.

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The original  Free Tour of Madrid  starts at Plaza Mayor, and covers many of Madrid’s top attractions, including the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral. After you’ve got the overview with the free walking tour, delve deeper with us!

The  Majestic Madrid Tour  will give you an overview of Madrid’s literary history, as well as taking you to the Golden Triangle of Art. After you’ve experience the enlightened Madrid, learn about the dark side with the  Spanish Inquisition Tour , to date one of the darkest periods of European history.

With all that walking, you’ll be getting hungry, and if you’re looking for a food tour, our  Tapas Tour will take you to incredible traditional tapas bars. And why not combine it with a breathtaking flamenco show with our Spanish Experience ?

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A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Madrid with Map

April 26, 2019 By Somto Ugwueze 4 Comments

Last updated on April 24, 2023

Madrid stole my heart when I first visited in 2012. In fact, I loved it so much that I decided to move there and call it my home for a year. Nowadays, I visit the city once in a while to catch up with old friends. Maybe you could say I’m a little obsessed with this city – from the rustic neighborhoods to the leafy parks. It seems that no matter how many times I visit Madrid, I still can’t get enough. I discover something new with each visit.

For some reason, many travelers I’ve talked to think Madrid is boring compared to Barcelona. That couldn’t be farther from the truth! I think Madrid actually has a greater variety of things to do than Barcelona. With gorgeous parks, unique neighborhoods, and some of the best museums in Spain, Madrid will keep you busy during your visit. I’ve mapped out a self-guided walking tour to help you plan your itinerary.  I want to take you to various neighborhoods, hidden art galleries, not-so-touristy food markets, and other amazing places other Madrid guides leave out. So here is your self-guided walking tour of Madrid with a map to make finding your whereabouts easy.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links as explained in my disclosure policy.

This post is part of the Madrid Travel series. Here’s a full list of posts in the series.

Walking tour: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Madrid

Day Trips: The 10 Best Day Trips From Madrid

Food: Where To Eat in Madrid: 10 Best Restaurants To Try

1 Day: One Day Madrid Itinerary: What To Do, See, and Eat

3 Days: Three Day Madrid Itinerary: Things To Do for First-Timers

Winter: The Best Things To Do in Madrid in Winter

Tourist Mistakes: 6 Common Tourist Mistakes To Avoid in Madrid

Total time required for the walking tour of Madrid

The tour will take around 3 hours if you follow the route without stopping. I would recommend you budget half a day for this tour to get to know the city well.

What to pack for Madrid

• Comfortable shoes – preferably running shoes since there are some hills to climb.
• Portable WiFi – if you don’t have an international data plan then this will make your trip a lot easier. I’ve been using the Travel WiFi Portable Hotspot Device since 2018 because it’s convenient and reliable. It eliminates the need for a SIM card or an international data plan. You can read my full review of Travel WiFI to see if it’s the right pocket WiFi for you.
• Water – always stay hydrated, especially since you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
• Map or GPS – Google Maps, Apple Maps, the Moovit app, a physical map, whatever works best for you.
• Camera – you can use your phone camera, but a DSLR will capture those Gaudi buildings so much better! I always recommend the Nikon D3400 for beginners.
• Snacks – pack some fruit, a granola bar, or my go-to travel snack, the WanderBar , a protein bar made specifically for travelers and frequent flyers. I can’t get enough of the Cocoa Crunch flavor.

15 Places To Visit on Your Self-Guided Walking Tour of Madrid

Círculo de bellas artes.

At first, I thought we should start at Plaza Mayor, the main city square, but I decided to switch things up. We’re going to start at Circulo de Bellas Artes (Center of Fine Arts), an art exhibition of the entrance to the main street in Madrid, Gran Via. But we’re not going for the art. We’re going for the views.

There is a rooftop bar on the 7th floor of the building called Azotea del Circulo. It provides a panoramic view of the Madrid skyline, an iconic view you’ve probably seen dozens of times (see below.) The drinks are standard, but the ambiance is fantastic. This is a great place to get your ‘I went to Madrid!’ photo with the cityscape in the background. After getting your photo, you can lay back and relax on the white cushion sofas to save up some energy for all the walking ahead. Note that you don’t need to order anything at the rooftop, but you do need to pay 4 EUR at the entrance on the first floor for rooftop access. It’s more than worth it.

Address : Calle de Alcalá, 42, 28014 Madrid, Spain Hours : 12 pm – 12:30 am from Monday to Thursday, 12 pm – 2:30 am from Friday to Sunday

Important: You can’t get into the building from the front on Calle de Alcalá.  You’ll need to go around to the side of the building on Calle del Marqués de Casa Riera, 2, 28014 Madrid. That’s where the main entrance is. 

From Circulo de Bellas Artes, you’ll take a stroll down Gran Via, the largest pedestrian street in Madrid. Gran Via is to Madrid what Avenue de Champs Elysee is to Paris. The street is home to designer shops, theatres, fine restaurants, rooftop bars, tourist offices, and more. There is a giant Primark store with two stories as well as Zara, Mango, and other Spanish and international brands. Shopping on Gran Via is surprisingly not that expensive. That said, I wouldn’t eat at any restaurant on the street because it more than likely caters to tourists.

Address : Gran Via, 28013 Madrid, Spain Hours : 24 hours 7 days a week

Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol, simply referred to as Sol, is one of the main metro stops in Madrid’s center. It literally means ‘gate of the sun’ and is a gateway to many attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city. Sometimes, you’ll encounter demonstrations, speeches, and processions at Puerta del Sol. For instance, during the festival of San Isidro in May, there is a procession of giant bobbleheads called Los Gigantes that starts here. In the Christmas season, the Spanish eating of twelve grapes tradition takes place here.

On the east side of the square, there is a statue of a bear called El Oso y El Madroño. It’s a statue of a bear eating from a strawberry tree and represents the coat of arms of Madrid. When I lived in Madrid, people were always making a big deal about this bear. It’s a rather simple statue, but I guess it has historical significance. Still, I wouldn’t call this a must-see sight.

Address : Puerta del Sol, 28013 Madrid, Spain Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week

Plaza Mayor

Every Spanish city has a main town square, or plaza, normally located at the heart of the city. Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s expansive town square with gorgeous buildings covered in Romanesque artistry. You’ve probably seen Plaza Mayor on a million postcards. It’s a great place to sit, relax, and have a drink. There are also a number of restaurants and souvenir shops in the square, but they tend to be more expensive. I wouldn’t eat at the restaurants within the plaza itself because they’re nothing special. There are tons of really good restaurants on the streets surrounding the plaza, such as El Botin , the oldest restaurant in the world.

Address : Plaza Mayor, 28012, Madrid Hours : 24 hours, 7 days a week

Catedral de la Almudena

This cathedral doesn’t get as much love as it deserves – at least compared to other churches in Spain, like La Sagrada Familia. As the seat of the diocese of Madrid, it’s the most important church in the city. The Gothic-style interior is just gorgeous and the cool blue exterior serves as the perfect backdrop for photos.

Address : Calle de Bailén, 10, 28013 Madrid, Spain Hours : 10 am – 8:30 pm every day

El Palacio Real

Spain’s official royal palace isn’t as famous as Versailles or Buckingham Palace, but do not overlook it! With 3418 rooms, it is the largest royal palace in Europe by area. It is larger than Buckingham Palace, which has 775 rooms. Of course, not all the rooms are open to the public, but the palace tour will take you through ornately decorated rooms, collections of crown jewels, and storage of royal armory. You can take a tour of the palace between 10 am to 5 pm. Tickets cost $13 for general admission and $7 for students.

Address : Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid Hours : 10 am to 6 pm every day

Malasaña is one of the young, hip neighborhoods of Madrid. Here, you’ll find quirky coffee shops, cool bars, and vintage boutiques. This neighborhood is filled with great photo spots, too. Here are some recommended spots in this neighborhood:

La Bicicleta : This is one of the coolest bars in Madrid, with bicycles hanging in the ceiling. There is a basement with even more eclectic designs. Both hipsters and non-hipsters love the place. 

Address: Plaza de San Ildefonso, 9, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Casa Julio : this little bar/restaurant serves the best croquetas in Madrid. Their gourmet croquetas are a must-try when in the city. The first thing I do when I go to Madrid is head to Casa Julio. I’m not kidding about these croquetas!

Address: Calle de la Madera, 37, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Libros para un Mundo Mejor – this bookstore, whose name translates to ‘books for a better world’ is a quirky little place that’s definitely worth a stop Malasaña. First of all, the entrance is just so cute, with a bicycle in front and a yellow wall. Photo spot alert. Then, in the interior, you’ll find shelves of books and a live-in cat. Yes, there is a cat that lives at this bookstore.

Address: Calle Espiritu Santo 13, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Calle de Fuencarral : this is one of the main streets in the neighborhood and exemplifies the hipster vibe. There is a lot of shopping to be done here, too, from vintage shops to high street brands. 

Address: Calle de Fuencarral, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Mercado de San Anton

The most famous market in Madrid is Mercado de San Miguel, located down the street from Plaza Mayor. While it has a lot to offer, it’s also quite expensive. Mercado de San Anton is a great alternative, not only because it’s less expensive, but also because it isn’t packed to the brim with tourists. It is located at the heart of the Chueca District, which is known as Madrid’s gay district.

Address : Calle Augusto Figueroa 24, 28004 Madrid, Spain Hours : 9:30 am – 1 am from Monday – Saturday and 12 pm – 1 am on Sundays

El Museo del Prado

El Prado, Spain’s national art museum, is easily one of the best art museums I’ve ever been to. It has a collection of 7,600 paintings and 1,000 sculptures dating from the 12th to 19th century. The amount of time to budget for your visit depends on your pace, but you should be looking to spend at least 45 minutes to an hour. There are two ways to experience the best that El Prado has to offer. The first option is to buy a skip-the-line ticket and take your sweet time exploring the galleries and exhibits on your own. The second option is to do a guided tour with a certified guide . An art expert will walk you around the museum and explain the significance and history behind incredible the art you’ll see.

Address : Calle de Ruiz de Alarcon, 23, 28014 Madrid, Spain Hours : 10 am – 8 pm Monday to Saturday and 10 am – 7 pm on Sunday

El Museo de la Reina Sofía

La Reina Sofia is located just around the corner from El Prado – less than a 10-minute walk. Pablo Picasso’s famous painting, Guernica , is housed here. The iconic canvas, which depicts the bloodiness of the Spanish Civil War, was a pleasant surprise. Although I normally don’t care for abstract art, I was impressed by the sheer size of the painting. Besides that, there is a collection of 100,000 books specializing in art and many works by European artists. La Reina Sofia has four floors, each with a collection of portraits from different eras. I remember the second floor having the most ‘wow!’ pieces, although I couldn’t tell you who the artists were. The best way to experience La Reina Sofia is to do a guided tour of the museum with a professional guide who will tell you all about the artworks and art movements. If you’d rather just explore the museum on your own, be sure to get your entrance ticket ahead of time so that you can skip the long lines.

Address: Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid Hours: 10 am – 9 pm on Mondays and from Wednesday – Saturday, closed on Tuesdays and Sundays

La Tabacalera

La Tabacalera is an underground art exhibit that even some Madrileños (people from Madrid) don’t know about. In the entire year when I lived in Madrid, I never heard of this place. I only found out about it on my visit to Madrid in the summer of 2018. I was completely captivated and wondered how on earth I had never heard of this place!

The exhibit looks like a dingy alleyway when you enter but then blossoms into an art exhibition as you walk down the halls. The building features mainly street art on the walls which diverge to different exhibitions as you walk through the building. Some of them contain political messages while others are whimsical portrays o cartoon characters. Some will make you scratch your head and pause for a bit. There is no art that is too bizarre for this exhibit, a contrast to the curated, post-modern paintings at El Prado. It might not be to everyone’s liking. 

La Tabacalera is located in the Lavapies neighborhood, where many African and Middle Eastern immigrants live. It has a reputation for being sketchy. Okay, so here’s the thing: yes, there are some suspicious-looking people lurking around in some corners, but I’ve spent some time living in Lavapies and didn’t encounter any problems. It’s really not that bad. Lavapies is a great area for ethnic food, like Senegalese and Turkish.

Address : 28012, Calle de Embajadores, 53, 28012 Madrid, Spain Hours : 11 am – 10 pm from Tuesday to Sunday

Parque del Buen Retiro

After all that walking, it’s time for some relaxation. That’s why we’re ending at Retiro, the second-largest park in Madrid. The name literally means ‘Park of the Good Retreat,’ a very suitable name. This park is more like a little kingdom – it’s 350 acres of gardens, lakes, sculptures, fountains, and quaint little houses. It’s easy to get lost here. Although I lived next to the park and went there often, I still lose my way. Take a look at my map below to navigate this behemoth of a park.

Address : Plaza de la Independencia, s/n, 28001 Madrid , Spain Hours : 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Here are the must-see attractions at Retiro Park:

Palacio de cristal.

The crystal place is not only stunning, but it also functions as a museum. Built in 1887, It has a dome shape that was made out of metal and glass. There are different displays of archeological finds and art throughout the year.

Lago del Retiro

T his iconic, man-made lake is right in the middle of the park. Its image is what people normally associate with El Retiro. Here, you can rent a boat and go for a ride for about 30 minutes. They allow 1-4 people per boat. It is so much fun!

La Rosaleda

T his lovely rose garden has statues and fountains surrounded by 4,000 roses. Constructed during the early 1900s, it is one of the largest rose gardens in the world. If you visit in May or June, it’s even more beautiful.

Casita del Pescador

T his is a quaint, bright orange house surrounded by a pond. It stands out in a park full of greenery. Casita del Pescador serves as an exhibition space and cultural center, hosting a variety of art exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year.

Jardines de Cecilio Rodriguez

T his sprawling garden has some very special guests – peacocks! It also has a fountain that attracts tons of birds, a lovely sight.

Ready to explore the best of Madrid?

Book a highly-rated guided tour from my go-to tour operator for all my travels, Get Your Guide . I’ve been on dozens of Get Your Guide tours in places like Madrid, Barcelona, and Granada and love how educational and engaging they are! I always leave with tons of notes, new insights, and stories to tell. Feel free to choose the tour that most interests you. When you click on any of the three popular tours below, you can also see hundreds of other tours in Madrid to choose from. A Get Your Guide tour will add an extra dose of amazingness to your trip. Safe travels!

This concludes your self-guided walking tour of Madrid. Use this guide as a starting point for your exploration of Spain’s capital. Be sure to customize it to suit your preferences. These are just suggestions after all. Which activity are you most excited to do?

Travel Resources I Can’t Live Without

The CabinZero 36L Backpack – this trusty backpack has been my go-to luggage for both domestic and international trips since 2018. I’ve used dozens of backpacks over the years and keep coming back to this one. I almost never check in luggage so I need a carry-on bag that is spacious, sturdy, and comfortable, with a laptop compartment. The Cabin Zero 36 L fits the bill. The size makes it small enough for a weekend getaway and big enough for a month of backpacking in Europe. The bag also comes with a tracker in case it gets lost. How convenient! Check out my complete review of the backpack.

Travel WiFI Pocket WIFI Device – With portable WiFi, you can say goodbye to ridiculous roaming charges and SIM cards for good. I’ve been using the Travel WiFi Portable Hotspot device for years and love the peace of mind it gives me. The device provides 3G-4G WiFi for at least 6 hours and works in 100+ countries. In my experience, it lasts 9 hours. It also works in a variety of landscapes and terrains. I even filmed a Facebook Live from a boat in the Atlantic Ocean using my device. I can also use Google Maps, request an Uber, call my mom, and do tons of other things I couldn’t do before. Quick tip: turn off the device when you’re not using it so that the battery can last longer. Booking.com – Booking.com is my go-to website for booking discounted accommodations around the world.  What I love most about Booking.com is the variety of properties you can find, from luxury apartments to treehouses to university housing. It’s hard to beat the insanely low prices. The website also has a flexible cancellation policy, which is great if things come up or you change your mind.

For more travel product recommendations, check out my travel essentials page .

One more thing: If you liked this post, please share it!

Somto Ugwueze

Hi! I'm Somto. Two years ago, I stopped making excuses, ditched my indecisive friends, and started booking flights. Today, I'm a full-time solo traveler on a mission to inspire young women to seek new adventures.

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Reader Interactions

September 12, 2019 at 7:50 am

Hi. I love your blog! I’m planning my Euro trip coming this October and Honestly, you have the best itineraries. Thank you so much for all your help and time spend doing this.

I have a question. When you buy museum tickets or any attraction tickets. Do you use a specific website or it depends?

September 13, 2019 at 4:22 am

Thanks for your comment! I really appreciate it. Glad you find my content helpful.

When I book museum and attraction tickets, I either go to the museum website or a book a guided tour. I typically use a tour company called Get Your Guide for guided tours. I hope that helps!

January 17, 2020 at 5:48 am

Thanks you for all your help!

July 17, 2020 at 8:29 pm

You’re very welcome!

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Who Is Somto Seeks?

Hi there, I’m Somtochukwu. Can you try pronouncing that? I've always gone by Somto (Sohm-toe). I'm a child of Nigerian immigrants who decided to pursue her dream of living an extraordinary life. In 2015, I chose faith over fear, packing my bags and moving to Spain with $1,000 in my pocket. This was after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that caused me to develop a giant bald patch in the middle of my scalp. Living in Spain and traveling around Europe for a year changed my life forever, allowing me to discover the freedom of solo travel and the freedom of working from anywhere. Today, I’m a full-time travel writer whose mission is to help you navigate this big, beautiful world with confidence and have those omg-pinch-me-moments you’ll remember for a lifetime.

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THE 10 BEST Madrid Walking Tours

Walking tours in madrid.

• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Madrid Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour

2. Madrid Old Town & Royal Palace Walking Tour Skip the Line Ticket

3. Madrid Local Tapas & Wine tour with Drinks & Views from a Rooftop

4. Madrid Old City Exclusive Guided Walking Tour

5. Prado Museum Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket

6. Toledo Half or Full-Day Guided Tour from Madrid

7. Madrid Royal Palace: Guided Tour of the Royal Collections Gallery

8. Toledo City Tour, Winery Experience & Wine Tasting from Madrid

9. Toledo Tour: Cathedral & 8 Monuments with Pick-up from Madrid

10. Royal Palace of Madrid Small Group Skip the Line Ticket

11. The Best of Barcelona in One Day from Madrid

12. Toledo Private Tour with Guide and Private Driver from Madrid

13. Madrid Tipsy Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks

14. Madrid Countryside Wineries Guided Tour with Wine Tasting

15. Madrid Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

16. Madrid Best Walking Tour

17. Madrid: Royal Palace Tour with Optional Royal Collections

18. Madrid Food Tour: Gastronomy & History with Lunch or Dinner

19. Royal Palace of Madrid Early Entrance Tour Skip-The-Line Ticket

20. Royal Palace of Madrid Afternoon Skip the Line Tour

21. Toledo and Segovia Full-Day Tour with an Optional Visit to Avila

22. Madrid Tapas, Taverns & History Tour

23. Madrid Royal Palace & Prado Museum with Skip the Line Ticket

24. Tour 'Best of Prado Museum' (Skip the line ticket. 7 people max.)

25. Madrid Essential: Historic Center, Plaza Mayor & Royal Palace

26. Private Visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Prado Museum

27. Prado Museum Tour & Lunch at the Oldest Restaurant in the World

28. Prado Museum Expert Guided Tour with skip-the-Line&Optional Tapas

29. Ribera del Duero Wineries Guided Tour & Wine Tasting from Madrid

30. The Best of Córdoba from Madrid in One Day

What travellers are saying.

• The Best Walking Tours In...

The Best Walking Tours in Madrid 

Madrid is a very walkable city and one of the best ways to explore when you first arrive is by going on a walking tour. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the city’s rich history or its street art scene, here are some of the very best walking tours in Madrid.

Graffiti tour.

Cool Tour Spain offers a tour that bypasses the historical sights and instead introduces travellers to Madrid’s street art scene. The tour weaves through Lavapiés, Madrid’s multicultural barrio that is full of interesting graffiti, some by big names in the street art world. The tour also includes a visit to La Neomudejar, a modern arts centre and La Tabacalera, a former tobacco factory turned modern art space. The two-and-a-half-hour tour costs €15 and can be booked online.

Hemingway Tour

Wellington Society founder Stephen Drake-Jones takes visitors around some of Madrid’s most fascinating historical sights on his bespoke tours . One of the most intriguing is the Hemingway tour, during which you’ll explore the hotels, bars and restaurants favoured by Don Ernesto, who spent a lot of time in Madrid over the years, from his first visit in the 1920s to covering the Spanish Civil War and attending bullfights at Las Ventas bullring.

Sandeman’s Free Tour

Look out for the red T-shirt wearing guides in the tourist information office on Plaza Mayor, the starting point of this enjoyable and informative tour that takes place at 10am, 11am, 2pm and 2.30pm. The tour, which takes around two-and-a-half hours, takes in many of the centre’s historic sights including the Royal Palace, Teatro Real Opera House and Moorish Walls. Best of all, the guides tell you lots of intriguing stories about the chequered history of Madrid and its residents. Tours are free but tips are expected for the guide at the end.

Legends of the Prado Tour

Tackling Madrid’s most famous museum can be daunting – what are the must-sees and where should you start? Take the worry away by doing a walking tour with WalkingMad that delves into the legends of the Prado, including Velázquez, Goya and El Greco. A local guide will take a small group (seven people max) around the highlights of the museum, explaining the historical and social significance of the paintings. The tour takes place during the Prado’s free hours so – bonus – there is no entry free either. Just tips for the guide at the end. Tours take place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 5.30pm and on Sunday at 4.30pm.

Free Walking Tour

Free Walking Tours offers tours in English and Spanish leaving every day from Plaza de Callao, just off the Gran Vía, at 11am. The guides are fun and informative, mixing historical tales with fun factual nuggets along the way. During the two-and-a-half hour tour you’ll learn about everything from Miguel de Cervantes to the Movida Madrileña, the indie, counter-cultural movement that flourished after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in the late ’70s and ’80s.

Devour Madrid

OK, this tour might be more eating than walking but it gives you a great introduction to Madrid’s food scene and you will walk off some of the food between pit stops. Devour Madrid offers a range of tours, from the tapas, taverns and history tour to a tour of Madrid’s rastro flea market and tapas scene. The company’s team of international guides are knowledgeable and passionate about Spanish cuisine, and eager to share their love with new visitors to the city.

Madrid Day Tours

If you’re looking to travel a little further afield and prefer to be driven rather than take public transport, Madrid Day Tours offer hotel pick ups and fascinating day trips to Toledo, Segovia and El Escorial. Tours start at just over €100 per person, with a maximum of six people on the trip.

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Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Free Madrid Walking Tours

Which free tour is best.

This post covers free walking tours in Madrid, including outings that cover the historic district, the best-kept secrets of the city, and even a look at the city after dark.

• Overview + Schedule
• Historic District + Essentials
• Majestic Madrid
• Tapas Tours
• Night Tours + Pub Crawls
• Flamenco Tours

Museum Tours

OVERVIEW + SCHEDULE

Madrid has been one of the epicenters of Western art in Europe for centuries and is now home to world-class museums, culture, architecture, monuments, and other attractions.

While exploring the Spanish capital, you will navigate through the city’s fascinating history from its foundation as a Moorish town to its modern and vibrant current state.

Free Walking Tour of Madrid

Below is a calendar of some of the great free walking tours led by locals that are available in Madrid. Click on the entry below to expand the listing for more details.

The tours listed below are run through us. More tours are available in the following sections.

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Here is a calendar with more of the best free walking tours in Madrid.

Take a walking tour and become a Madrileño for a day, because in the words of the great writer Calderón de la Barca: “Madrid is everyone’s homeland…”

This model of tours is pay-what-you-wish, meaning you can pay your local guides what you think the tour was worth, or what you could afford after your walk is over.

According to online reviews, most tourists pay between €5 to €20 per person for free walking tours Madrid-style.

We offer tours globally . Here are just a few cities.

• Palma de Mallorca

HISTORIC DISTRICT TOURS + ESSENTIALS 

Several free walking tours take you through the most historic neighborhoods in Madrid, providing a closer look at notable landmarks and explaining what life was like during medieval times.

While you can expect to learn some history on these outings, you’ll also receive tips about the best places to visit, great restaurants in the area, and more.

Royal Palace of Madrid

In addition to discovering how the capital of Spain developed into the city we see today, you can also expect to visit some of the following locations:

• Puerta del Sol
• Plaza Mayor
• The Royal Palace
• Almudena Cathedral
• Mercado de San Miguel

If you want to learn more about these sites, consider one of the pay-what-you-wish tours listed below.

Learn about the royal families of the past and how this city rose to prominence as you visit some of the most notable sites on this 2-hour free tour of Madrid.

This pay-what-you-wish tour is available in both English and Spanish twice a day at 10:00 am, 10:30 am, 11:00 am, 11:30 am and 17:00 (5 pm) on every day.

The tour will start at the Puerta del Sol also known as the Sun Gate.

Get more information or book this tour .

You may also want to consider a self-guided exploration game instead. This service puts you in the role of someone escaping the Spanish Inquisition.

Although the self-guided game is not free, at only €10, it's around what most people would consider tipping their guide for a pay-what-you-wish walking tour.

This tour game lasts 2 hours and runs daily from C. de San Bernardo, 1, 28013 Madrid, Spain

MAJESTIC MADRID

If you’re looking to take a more unique tour of the city, there are at least a couple of options you may want to consider.

While some cover the basic history of Madrid from a different perspective, others are more focused on the culture of the city, including details about famous writers and artists from the area.

• Puerta de Alcalá

At least one of these outings includes free food samples!

You can expect to see some of the following highlights on these tours:

• Circle of Fine Arts
• Plaza de la Armería
• Fuente de Cibeles (Cibele Fountain)
• The Royal Theatre (Opera House)
• Monastery of the Royal Barefoot
• Prado Museum

For more information about locations like these, consider taking one of the pay-what-you-wish walking tours listed below.

Xtreme Tours

Discover the other side of Madrid on a tour covering several notable sites you won't see on the typical tour of the city centre.

In addition to the unique take on history, you’ll also get some free drinks just for taking this 2 ½ hour tour.

The tour is available every day at 11:30 am and 17:30 (5:30 pm).

The tour starts at Puerta del Sol in front of the equestrian statue of Carlos III. Your tour guide will be waiting with a distinctive white umbrella with the Xtreme Tours Madrid logo.

Book the tour or learn more .

If you’re interested in learning about the most famous artists who ever lived in Madrid, Sandemans Majestic Madrid tour is an excellent choice.

Learn about the history of Miguel de Cervantes (Don Quixote), Ernest Hemingway (A Farewell to Arms), and many other literary geniuses who once walked the streets of this city.

Although this tour is free, it will only cost €3 for adults and €15 for groups (per guest) to get priority tickets. Many travelers tip between €10-€15 after a pay-what-you-wish tour, so this is a quite fairly priced outing.

This Madrid tour is available in both English and Spanish on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 15:00 (3:00 pm).

The Tour starts in front of the Tourist Information Centre in Plaza Mayor

TAPAS TOURS

There’s a lot of great food in Madrid, but tapas are one of the most popular dishes in all of Spain, so you can expect to find a wide variety of them at restaurants in this city.

These tasty treats are so prevalent that there are some free walking tours you can take which will help you find the best tapas in all of Madrid.

Most of the locations you will visit are known as tapas bars, which specialize in making several different styles of meals.

Each of these tapas tours will allow you to decide how much food you try, as you’ll be paying for your food along the way.

Leaf Madrid

This tour company offers a free tour that will take you to popular bars and restaurants which specialize in making a variety of different tapas.

Rather than paying one flat price upfront, you’ll pay for all the food you want to try along the way, giving you control over the cost of the tour.

Available in both English and Spanish, this 2 ½ hours free tapas tour is limited to groups of 10 or fewer and it’s offered on Thursday at 18:00 (6 pm).

Meeting point of the tour is Puerta del Sol at Carlos III on Horse Statue . Tour guide will be holding a Sky Blue Umbrella in his hands.

Book your tour or learn more .

Unseen Footprints

If you’d rather explore the city and try some of the best food in Madrid on your own, this self-guided tapas tour is an excellent choice.

This outing includes multiple different stops at tapas bars in the city, allowing you to try several different types of this popular dish.

The best part about this option is that you don’t have to pay anything for a tour guide and you can decide how much you want to spend on the actual food as you make your way to each location.

The tour starts around 9 pm and the first stop of the tour is El Oso y el Madroño .

Take this self-guided tapas tour or learn more .

Enmanuel Tours

Note: Tour is currently unavailable.

This expert local guide offers a tour called "Delicious Madrid," which covers some of the best foods to eat in the city.

Rather than focusing just on Tapas, this is both a gastronomy and historical tour, providing details about Spanish traditions, customs, and history.

Along the way, you'll have opportunities to taste some of the best dishes in Madrid at local, family-run businesses.

This tour is offered every Saturday and Sunday at 11 am and 16:30 (4:30 pm).

Find out more about the Delicious Madrid tour .

NIGHT TOURS + PUB CRAWLS

These are pretty much the same as a tour of the historic district, but they are offered after the sun goes down.

That said, some night tours offer additional tips and tricks to help guests find their way around the city.

If you’re interested in seeing what Madrid looks like either as the sun is setting or after it goes down, these are excellent sightseeing opportunities.

It’s also worth noting that the free tapas tour from Leaf Madrid starts at 6 pm, so you could easily consider this a night tour as well.

We’ll also provide a few options for pub crawls in Madrid to help you find the best sangria, beer, wine, and vermouth in the city!

Here are a few of the sites you can expect to see after dark:

• Plaza de la Villa

Discover what Madrid looks like at night on one of the following free walking tours.

Tours Tilla

This is the same historic district tour that we have listed above, but it should be noted that they offer their service after dark, and it’s one of the best free night tour options in Madrid.

Guests can take the tour every night in either English or Spanish at 17:00 (5 pm), and it’s approximately 2 hours in length, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city after dark.

Learn more about this option or book the tour now .

Madrid’s Origin

This outing provides information stretching back over 1200 years of history, and it includes stops at some of the most famous locations in the city.

Although this 2-hour tour is offered in both English and Spanish three times a day – once at 17:30 pm, 21:00 pm and again at 22:30 pm Daily!

Meeting point of the tour is Puerta del Sol and guide will be carrying a light blue umbrella.

Find out more or book this tour .

GPS My City

If you’re looking for a free pub crawl, there is one self-guided option provided by GPS My City that you might want to consider.

This guide will use GPS to help you find your way from one bar to the next and it has a total of 18 stops.

You can download it to your smartphone using their app on either iTunes or Android.

Since you don’t have to pay for a tour guide, you can save all your money on trying out a variety of different drinks at the bars you’ll visit along the way.

Take this self-guided pub crawl or learn more .

Other Madrid Pub Crawls

Most pub crawls in this city are not free, but they do often include at least one free drink at each of the bars visited in addition to some drink specials to save you even more money.

Prices range from just €11 to €39, and these outings can last up to 6 hours depending on which one you choose.

If you want to learn more or see what’s available, please check this list of Madrid pub crawls .

FLAMENCO TOURS 

Madrid is home to some wonderful artistic and cultural traditions, and it’s the origin of a popular form of music and dance known as Flamenco.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about this dance form, there is at least one free walking tour you may want to consider.

You can expect to visit some of the dance schools and Spanish bars where famous Flamenco dancers and musicians have performed throughout the years.

You’ll also visit some artisan shops which sell items such as Flamenco shoes and handmade guitars for artists who perform either the dance or the music that goes along with it.

Your tour guide will also provide information about Flamenco to help you understand its artistry of it and get the most out of any show you might choose to see after this outing.

This 1 ½ hour free walking tour is only available every Saturday at 11:45 am, so it’ll be important to sign up for the service well in advance to ensure you’re included in the group.

Book this tour or learn more .

See a Flamenco Show

If you want to see this music and dancing for yourself either before or after the tour, several venues offer tickets you can purchase well in advance.

Here are a few of the best Flamenco shows currently available in Madrid:

• Corral de la Morería
• La Taberna de Mister Pinkleton
• Centro Cultural Flamenco
• Torres Bermejas
• Cafe de Chinitas

In addition to all of the other types of free walking tours, you can take in Madrid, there are also several companies offering pay-what-you-wish tours of notable museums.

While these services do not include admission to the museums in question, they are an excellent way to make sure that you're seeing all the best exhibits and sites at each museum.

The only issue with these museum tours is that they aren't always consistently offered on a regular basis, so availability really depends upon when you plan to visit and how far in advance you reserve your spot.

Here are a few of the best options currently available:

• Best of the Prado Museum
• Prado Museum Essentials Tour
• Best of the Reina Sofia Museum
• El Prado: A World Art Treasure
• Free Tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid

And much, much more

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Walking Tour Madrid: Top Sights of Madrid, Spain

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Hola! Ready to embark on a Free Self Guided Walking Tour in Madrid? From Plaza Mayor to the Prado Museum, this DIY Walking Tour of Madrid highlights the best things to see. You’ll easily navigate your way through lush parks and ornate squares, passing famous sights and some exquisite Madrid architecture along the route. 

Madrid Free Walking Tour: Best Sights of Madrid, Spain

On our first two visits to Madrid, Spain, we were on quick, 24-hour layovers. Both times, we dashed to see the sights of Madrid as quickly as we could. Our sightseeing was done haphazardly – and it was more of a sprint than a Madrid Walking Tour. 

Each time we returned to the Spanish capital for longer stays over the years, we were anxious to truly experience the best sights in Madrid. We compiled a list of the Top Madrid Landmarks, grabbed a Madrid Tourist Map and designed a Walking Tour Madrid Route that provides the perfect introduction to the city. To help others find their way to all the prime sights, we are sharing our Madrid tour for free !

Self-Guided Free Walking Tour Madrid

Our self-guided, free walking tour of Madrid is perfect for those who like to explore at their own pace. Budget travelers and independent travelers will find our free tour of Madrid particularly helpful.

How To Use This Madrid Walking Tour Free Guide

We’ve outlined the top sights to see – including beautiful plazas, decorative churches, food markets and famous museums. For step-by-step directions, use our Walking Tour Madrid Map and provided links to directions. Additionally, we provide pertinent Madrid sightseeing advice and tips that will help you plan your perfect vacation to Spain!

1 Day in Madrid Sightseeing

Our walking tour of Madrid Old Town is about 3 miles long. For ambitious travelers it can be completed in about 2 hours, but that only includes walking the route. We think the best way to enjoy this Madrid Self Guided Walking Tour is to make stops along the way – both for entering sites and tasting the local fare.

In fact, visitors can plan a full day of sightseeing in Madrid, Spain by using our walk as an outlined itinerary. The top sights in Madrid to visit on the route are the Mercado de San Miguel, Almudena Cathedral, Royal Palace and Prado Museum. We also include famous Madrid food recommendations to keep you satiated!

Whether you are spending a day – or one week in Madrid -you can use our Free Walking Tour to start your exploration!

Pin, Bookmark or Save our Walking Tour of Madrid for your trip to Spain!

Walking Tour Madrid, Spain

Are you excited to start our Madrid Free Walking Tour? Before heading off, fuel up with favorite Madrileno fare – either pastries, jamon or a squid sandwich.

Pasteleria La Mallorquina (established in 1894) is a traditional bakery that is known for their Chocolate and Cream Neapolitans. For something savory, however, get a meaty sandwich from Museo del Jamon or a bocadillo de calamares from Bar La Campana.

Now, lace up your shoes, load this Map on your phone for our Madrid Walking Directions and vamos!

#1 Puerta del Sol

MAP . Start your self-guided city tour of Madrid in the bustling Puerta del Sol, a hub of activity and must-see tourist destination. Puerta del Sol dates to the 15th century when Madrid was encircled by protective walls. The name translates to ‘Gate of the Sun’ – as structures featuring the sun used to stand on the site.

The square is known as the center of Spain, marking the 0 km point for six major roads in the country. The exact spot is designated with a plaque in front of the Madrid Old Post Office. The historic Post Office building dates to 1766 and now serves as the office for the President of the Municipality of Madrid. 

Sol is also home to numerous iconic landmarks, such as the soaring clock tower, which is the center point of Madrid’s New Year Celebrations  and the famous neon Tio Pepe sign. Several monuments dot the area, but the most popular is the ‘Oso y el Modrono’ statue located on the east end of the square. It depicts a bear climbing a strawberry tree, which is an emblem of Madrid. 

A nearby site that soccer/football fans will want to make time for in their Madrid sightseeing adventures is the Legends: Home of Football Museum. A massive, interactive space featuring immersive experiences, the museum is located on the southeast corner of Puerta del Sol.

#2 Plaza Mayor

The history of Plaza Mayor can be traced to the 15th century when it was utilized as the city’s marketplace. Today, the square still hosts markets – including a Sunday morning antique market and the famous annual holiday market, which is a highlight of Madrid Christmas Festivities .

An equestrian statue featuring King Philip III, an early 17th century Spanish sovereign, stands at the center of the square – as it has since 1848. 

#3 Mercado de San Miguel

MAP . Stop #3 on our self guided tour is the modern, upscale marketplace, Mercado de San Miguel . Featuring fresh produce, meat and fish and tasty prepared delicacies, the market is the pinnacle of Madrid gastronomy. Spend time squeezing your way through the crowds to peer into the cases of fine cheeses, divinely crafted desserts and beautifully displayed fruit.

If something is too tempting to pass by (like the goat cheese and sauteed onion tapas), stay for a bite before continuing your Madrid tour. In fact, if you are ready for lunch, this is the perfect place! 

Pro Tip : For a real taste of Madrid, consider joining a culinary tour that explores the best gastronomy of the city – and includes a stop at Mercado de San Miguel. We highlight more guided tours of Madrid at the end of the article.

#4 Plaza de La Villa, Madrid Old Town Hall

MAP . Continue your self-guided walking tour of Madrid to Plaza de la Villa – an area that is steeped in Spanish history. The quaint square features the 17th century Town Hall building, called Casa de la Villa de Madrid. It occupies an entire side of the square and is fronted by a pretty, fenced garden. Opposite Casa de la Villa is Casa de Los Lujanes, which has a short tower that dates to the 15th century – and ranks as the oldest civil building in Madrid. 

#5 Almudena Cathedral of Madrid

MAP . Next up on your Madrid city walk is the massive, but relatively modern, Almudena Cathedral. Equally impressive as it’s size is that it took 100 years to build. It was only completed in 1993 and consecrated by the late Pope John Paul II that same year.

Officially called the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Royal of the Almudena, the church was built in the Gothic Revival style and is topped with a dome that measures 65-feet across. Inside, however, the Madrid Cathedral is a trove of ancient and contemporary artworks – including bright stained-glass windows and an intricate, mosaic ceiling. 

Visitors can also access the crypt beneath the cathedral. The columned catacomb features numerous altars and tombs of notable Spaniards, including royalty. The cathedral and crypt are open to visitors for free, but a donation is requested at the entry.

Pro Tip : It is believed that the cathedral in Madrid was built on the site of an ancient mosque. On the south side of the church, Parque del Emir Mohamed I showcases remnants of 9th century fortifications, called the Muslim Walls. 

#6 Madrid Royal Palace

MAP . Sitting next door to the cathedral is the grand Royal Palace , which seems to go on forever and is one of the top Madrid landmarks. It is the largest palace in Europe with 3,418 rooms and almost 1.5 million square feet of space. The history of the palace can be traced to the year 860. It was originally a fortress built by the Moors and called the Royal Alcazar of Madrid. In 1734 the Alcazar burnt to the ground and a Baroque palace was built in its place.

Since then, the palace has been expanded and renovated into the colossal royal residence that stands today. It’s interesting to note, that while it is the official home of the Spanish Royal Family, they don’t actually live there, opting instead to reside at the rural Palace of Zarzuela.

The interior of the Royal Palace is decorated with masterpiece paintings, gorgeous tapestries, fine furniture and incredible architectural details. Now mostly used for state functions and official visits, tourists can enter the palace (with a ticket) to see the rooms and artworks. 

Pro Tip : If you want to visit the palace and are trying to see Madrid in a day, be aware that there are often long lines to get inside. Be sure to purchase  Skip-the-Line tickets  in advance.

#7 Madrid Palace Gardens

The palace grounds encompass two gardens – Sabatini Gardens to the north and Campo del Moro Gardens to the west. On sunny days, both gardens are fabulous to wander, not only for the solitude, but for the lovely views. 

Sabatini Gardens

MAP . The Sabatini Gardens are an easy escape from the sightseeing trail and free to enter. The manicured terraces and groomed walkways are laid out in a grid, pass by pleasant fountains and provide stellar views of the Royal Palace.

Campo del Moro Gardens

MAP . While we love the Sabatini Gardens, one of the best places to walk in Madrid is in the vast Campo del Moro that sits behind the Royal Palace. Designed by Philip II, the sloping green space features several decorative elements – like the Conchas Fountain and Tritons Fountain. The gardens are free to enter and they often host concerts that are free to attended as well. (Plus, they have public toilets!)

#8 Plaza de Oriente, Madrid

MAP . Plaza de Oriente, is just across the street from the palace – but we have made it a separate stop in our Walking Tour Madrid Free Guide because we think it deserves an up-close look. Designed in 1844, the space is lined with statues, trees, shrubs and a fountain in the center. The equestrian statue is of Philip IV and the others surrounding it represent the Spanish kings that were crowned at the Royal Palace. 

The pretty plaza sits between the palace and Teatro Real. The ornate opera house, which is often just referred to as El Real or Opera, dates to the early 1800s and to this day is one of the premier European theaters. Those who are interested and have the time can take a tour. 

Pro Tip: Walk past Teatro Real and continue down Calle del Arenal – a busy street lined with cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels. Pop into Torrons Vicens – a shop that specializes in Spanish turron nougat and offers free samples!

#9 Chocolateria San Gines

MAP . Indulgent and divine, eating churros with chocolate is a must for visitors – and San Gines Chocolateria is the most famous churreria in Madrid. Established in 1894, San Gines has welcomes locals, tourists and celebrities.

The crispy, deep-fried sticks are served piping hot and then dipped into thick, rich chocolate for a heavenly treat. The shop is so popular that it has expanded into nearby buildings, so the line should move swiftly. 

Pro Tip: Nearby Chocolateria 1902 is also incredibly popular. The traditional family-run bakery is quite forward thinking – as they now make a selection a treats that are gluten-free, lactose-free, sugar-free and vegan.

#10 Calle de Preciados Shopping Street

MAP . A pedestrian lane, Calle de Preciados is one of the best walking streets in Madrid – which is just one reason why we include it on this self guided tour.

The other reason is that the atmospheric street is the city’s historic shopping strip. Running nearly 1000 feet from Puerta del Sol to Plaza del Callao and Gran Via, the bustling thoroughfare is lined with fashion retailers and boutique shops interspersed with cafes. 

Some of the best stores on Preciados are the El Corte Ingles department store, a FNAC media store along with many recognizable international brands. 

Top Tip: For those interested in learning more of the religious history of Madrid can make a detour to the Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales, which features artwork, tapestries and religious icons. 

#11 Gran Via

MAP . Everyone should see the city’s most famous street, Gran Via, which is why we include it on our Madrid Self-Guided Walking Tour! Walking along the wide Gran Via just feels classy. Known for its early 1900s architecture and boasting many upscale shops, it is also referred to as Spanish Broadway for its many theaters, cinemas and exciting Madrid nightlife. Some stores even occupy former movie theaters. 

In addition to the big name fashion brands, two of the best stores on Gran Via are Casa de Libro bookshop and the Official Real Madrid Football Club outlet. Walk the street from west to east and notice that the stores to the east are more elegant, as is the architecture. The most ornate building is Edificio Metropolis, which marks the east end of Via Gran. 

Pro Tip: Love a good view? Gran Via is home to a few of the best spots for rooftop dining in Madrid. Top picks are Picalagartos and Ella Sky Bar. 

#12 Cibeles Palace and Fountain

MAP . The striking Palacio de Cibeles was built in 1909 to house the Spanish Post Office headquarters. Today, the elaborate building is home to the Madrid City Council and the CentroCentro cultural center.

One of the best features of the Cibeles Palace is the Mirador Madrid observation deck. For a small fee, visitors can take in the expansive panoramic city views from the building’s tallest tower. The fountain that sits in the center of Plaza de Cibeles features the Roman goddess Cybele being pulled by two lions in her chariot.

Pro Tip: If time allows, walk one block east to Puerta de Alcala. The ornamental, arched gate was completed in 1778 – at a time when the Medieval walls still surrounded the Madrid city center. 

#13 El Retiro Park

MAP . El Retiro is the most impressive park in Madrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an absolute must-see! The stunning 300-acre space was originally designated for royalty, but has been open to the public since the 18th century. The grand green space features a variety of gardens, paths, ponds and statues.

The top feature is the exquisite Palacio de Cristal de Retiro. The Glass Palace – constructed of cast-iron and glass – was built in the 1887 as a conservatory. Today, the greenhouse hosts art exhibitions from the Reina Sofia Museum. 

Additionally, visitors should see the impressive statue-lined walkway Paseo de las Estatuas and the Great Pond. That said, it is lovely to just spend time wandering the paths and well worth a longer detour from our Madrid city tour.

Pro Tip: On the southwest corner of Retiro Park is the Real Jardin Botanico. Opened in 1781, the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid features 90,000 plants, 1,500 trees and multiple greenhouses. 

#14 Paseo del Prado

MAP . Perhaps the prettiest street in all of Madrid, Paseo del Prado is a lush, tree-lined boulevard that connects Plaza de Cibeles in the north to Plaza del Emperador Carlos V in the south. It’s a place where couples stroll, artists paint and kids play. 

The gorgeous promenade features museums, monuments and fountains. The world-famous Prado Museum (which is next on our Self Guided Walk of Madrid), Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Naval Museum and the CaixaForum Arts Center all reside along Paseo del Prado. 

Not to be missed is the extravagant Neoclassical Neptune Fountain. But smaller fountains – like the Apollo Fountain and the Fuentes de las Cuatro Estaciones – are also worth seeking out. 

#15 The Prado Museum

MAP . The next stop is one of the best museums in Madrid: The Prado. Founded in 1819, Prado Museum features a grand collection of renowned artwork. The most notable are Las Meninas and The Triumph of Bacchus by Velazquez. Many consider the Prado to be one of the greatest art museums in the world.

There is an admission fee to enter the museum and we recommend purchasing a Skip-the-Line Ticket . However, some of the money-saving Madrid sightseeing cards might include entry into the Prado. Visitors short on time who want to see the museum highlights can join a Prado Museum tour.

Pro Tip : The Prado has free entry from 6-8pm Monday-Saturday and from 5-7pm on Sundays and holidays.

#16 Plaza de Santa Ana, Madrid

MAP . The final stop on our walking Madrid tour is Plaza de Santa Ana – a square that quickly became our favorite in Madrid. Santa Ana Plaza is home to the 17th century Teatro Espanol, the oldest theater in Madrid. Yet the area has a quaint, neighborhood feel to it. In the winter, an illuminated Christmas tree casts a blue hue over the square at night.

As this completes our Walking Tour of Madrid, give your feet a rest and enjoy a glass of Spanish wine at one of the cafes on the plaza. We recommend taking a seat at Cerveceria Alemana, which opened in 1904 as a brewery and has been frequented by famous personalities, like Ava Gardner and Earnest Hemingway. 

Pro Tip: If you’re ready for dinner, continue another block to Matador for tapas or Pez Tortilla for a delicious Spanish-style omelet.

Madrid City Tour Map & Walking Directions

Use our Map of Madrid City Center to route your way to the attractions highlighted on our Walking Tour.

• This Map gives directions for the Madrid Sights numbered 1 to 10. 
• This Map provides step-by-step directions for attractions numbered 10 to 16. 
• This Interactive Madrid Tourist Map highlights each attraction listed in our walking tour. Simply click on any of the markers to expand the side bar for more information. 

Pro Tip : Our Walking Tour Madrid Attractions Map Route can be printed! Click on the image to enlarge it, right-click outside of the image and select Print. 

Madrid Tour: What You Will Need

Before you set off on your trip to Madrid, make sure you are properly packed ! We have a few tips for things you will want to bring – and get your Free Packing Checklist to make sure you have everything in your suitcase or backpack for your Spain Vacation!

Walking Shoes for Madrid

Madrid is a walkable city, but only with the right travel shoes ! I like these by Columbia – Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes for all types of walks.

Travel Camera for Madrid Photography

Madrid is a truly beautiful city. Rather than using your phone to capture the sights, we recommend upgrading to a real travel camera . We use a DSLR Canon Rebel , which takes amazing photos and comes with a complete kit. For this, we rank it as one of the Best Budget Cameras . 

Madrid Weather Gear and Day Pack

Summers in Madrid are very sunny and very hot. Bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat on your walking tour of Madrid. We also recommend carrying this collapsible water bottle that is perfect for travelers! 

Those visiting Madrid outside of the summer months should be prepared for cooler weather with a chance of rain. Pack a travel umbrella and lightweight raincoat for your trip. You’ll also want to be sure to have a great Day Bag to carry and secure all your Daily Travel Essentials .

Wi-Fi and Tourist Map of Madrid

To be able to follow our Free Walking Tour Madrid (and the directions provided on the Maps), you will need an internet connection. If your phone is locked, rather than paying high daily fees for international data, we recommend investing in a Pocket WiFi Hotspot . 

We travel with a GlocalMe Mobile WiFi Hotspot . It allows us to connect up to ten devices at once (which makes it ideal for families or groups traveling together) and it doubles as a portable charger . What we really love about GlocalMe is that we can pre-purchase data plans…so we can be connected from the moment we touch down off that long flight !

Those traveling without Wi-Fi can print our Map of Madrid Tourist Attractions and Walking Route. For a more detailed map, consider purchasing a Map of Madrid City Center – like this one – in advance of your trip. 

Madrid Guided Tours

While we enjoyed sightseeing Madrid on our own, there are many guided tours that can help lead the way. If you would like the company of an expert guide (and fellow travelers), consider one of these highly-rated guided tours of Madrid. 

• Small-group Madrid Tour and skip-the-line Palace entry – Book now
• Retiro Park and skip-the-line Prado entry – Info here
• Madrid Spanish Inquisition Tour –  Book it
• Private Tours for the Best of Madrid ( Book here ) and Secrets of Madrid ( Reserve now )
• Madrid Street Art Tour – Get Info
• Book a Guided Madrid Free Tour –  New Europe Tours  

As an alternative to seeing the city on foot, visitors can catch a ride on the Hop-On Hop-Off Madrid Sightseeing Bus, or explore on a Segway Tour or this very popular Madrid Bike Tour .

Money-Saving Sightseeing Cards

Some of the places we pass on our Madrid Self-Guided Walking Tour require a ticket. To save money, consider purchasing a Madrid Sightseeing Card that will that includes entry to top sights and attractions, as well as other discounts. 

Madrid Sightseeing Tips

There are many, many options when it comes to visiting Madrid – as there is so much to see and do! In addition to the sights, a few of the top things to do are Flamenco dancing, tapas tastings, neighborhood wandering and sport matches. 

Flamenco Show in Madrid

With live music and steamy dances, Flamenco shows are a top Madrid experience. Visitors can attend a performance at one of the legendary Spanish tablaos. Reserve your seat!

Madrid Tapas and Wine Tour

The gastronomy in Madrid is divine – especially when it comes to tapas – the much adored Spanish culinary snack. Spend an evening with a local guide on a small group tour to discover the best tapas and wine in Madrid. Join this popular tour!

Madrid Neighborhood Discoveries

Visitors can also get off the beaten path and navigate through Madrid’s best neighborhoods. We like to wander the streets of Chamberi to the north – or walk south to Parque Madrid Rio, a riverside park of wide paths, artistic bridges and inviting cafes. 

Planning Your Madrid Trip

Creating an itinerary for Madrid is no simple task – but we are sharing some advice that will make it much easier! With sights located within walking distance, tourists can see a lot with just 1 Day in Madrid.

That said, we recommend spending at least two days in Madrid…but three is even better. We have outlined the top things to do in our One Week Spain Itinerary and our detailed 3-Day Madrid Itinerary .

Travelers visiting from overseas can find our best tips in our guide on How To Plan a Europe Vacation . We share all the need-to-know info and honest advice from our personal experiences. 

As you begin to prepare for your trip to Spain, organization is key! Stay on top of all the details with our Printable Travel Planner . 

Start planning your trip to Spain ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We want to know: What are your favorite Madrid sights? Is there anything you would add to our Self-Guided Free Madrid Walking Tour? Please share with us in the comments below! 

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Travel & Explore Madrid

Popular tours, the modern walking tour, free tour madrid, the classical walking tour, street art tour, discover madrid, a few words, our customers love us, latest reviews.

“I really recommend you to go to the walking tour with the Wolves! And if you go with Katia, you’re lucky!! She has a good energy and looks forward to explain you everything and gices good tips!”

“This is a must. If you are here even just for two days like me, you have to go for this bar tour. All the bars you visit are full of people, music is amazing, everybody is in a good mood and dancing. Not to mention the club where the tour ends. Big thanks and love for our guide Edu and our group for this fun night. See you again for certain.”

nina_fenixnn

“I did the Classic tour with Erika, and it was great! Erika is very funny and also very knowledgeable about all the sites.

Plus, she gave great recommendations for food and other tours. The restaurant she took us to after the tour had incredible paella and tapas, and the best Sangria I’ve ever had.”

Caroline Hoffman

“Very good tours and Erika and Diana are very good on explaining the monuments and the history of the city, it’s a must have if you are in Madrid to check the city with someone that knows and loves Madrid.”

Tiago Vieira

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You Must Do This Food Tour In Madrid If You Want Authentic Eats While Avoiding Tourist Traps

Looking for the best food tour in Madrid so you make sure you eat the best food without wasting money, time, or calories? Look no further!

Caleb and I always do a food tour when we visit a new European city, and Madrid is no different. We went on the Devour Tours Tapas, Taverns, and History tour during one of our visits to Madrid and then loved it so much that we did it again the next time we went back! 

In this quick review, we’ll share everything you need to know about Madrid’s food tour with Devour so you can get all the info you need to book and fill your belly with delicious tapas and wine. Hello!

Get your stretchy pants on, and let’s dig in, starting with a video of one of our tours!

Food Tour Quick Facts/Know Before You Go:

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ✅  Book it!

WHY BOOK NOW:  There are so many reasons that we think that the Tapas, Taverns, and History food tour is a must-do when you’re in Madrid! Here are our top 8 reasons we think you should book, like yesterday: 

• You won’t have to stress about having to make reservations in a different language. While some areas do speak English , it can be really TRICKY. Trust us, we’ve done it.
• You also won’t have to risk not getting in anywhere for a night because you didn’t know you  should  make reservations (and Madrid’s restaurants get BUSY!) That means you won’t have to go hungry one evening or risk going somewhere lackluster and wasting your calories. No bueno!
• You’ll get exclusive, front-of-the-line access to many popular tapas bars that are usually so packed with locals that you might feel too overwhelmed to go in! That means you get the best, most authentic eats!

4. You’ll get to explore hidden-gem , locally-owned spots instead of accidentally going to a tourist trap and wasting your money on not-so-good, overpriced eats for an evening.

5. Having a tour completely organized for you means one WHOLE evening where you don’t have to worry about planning things to do or getting to places at specific times – it’s all done for you! You simply just have to show up and have fun!

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6. Save yourself the headache of getting lost when getting around the city because you’ll have a guide showing you around. They will also give you the lay of the land, which will benefit you as you travel around during the rest of the days you spend in Madrid .

7. You’ll get more restaurant recommendations from the local guide so you can keep making sure you’re eating the best food and save all the stress of Googling where to eat and just *hoping* that it’s good.

8. You’ll end up saving money because it would cost you much more to get the amount of food and booze that you get on the tour yourself. VALUE BABY!

⏳ DURATION:  4 hours

• 8+ DELICIOUS tapas and 5+ drinks at 4 family-run restaurants.
• A guided walking tour through historic Madrid (just under 2 miles of walking with stops)
• An English-speaking, local guide who was SO nice both times we did the tour. Also, very knowledgeable about the food and history of Madrid!

INSIDER TIPS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR GO:

• There is a lot of food and booze …in a GREAT WAY. Just go hungry because you will want to eat it all. It’s just so dang good.
• At each spot along this Madrid food tour, you get to choose between different alcohol (or non-alcoholic) options, which we love. It’s nice to be able to choose something you like instead of being forced to drink something you don’t.
• They can cater the tour to vegetarians, pescatarians, gluten-free (not celiac), dairy-free, and pregnant women. 

OTHER REVIEWS:

⭐️ Viator: 5/5 Stars with 1000+ reviews.

>> Click here to check prices, reviews and availability on Viator <<

⭐️ Get your Guide: 4.7/5 Stars

>> Click here to check prices, reviews and availability on Get Your Guide <<

Lovely experience for our last night in Madrid. Rosita was a great tour guide and provided a lot of information on history as well as modern traditions and customs. She took us to tapas bars we would have never found or tried on our own.

-Viator User

Loved this tour! Our guide was wonderful (I think her name was Caroline)! She took us to excellent tapa bars, showed us how to make sure we were eating at the best places and avoiding tourist traps and took great care to ensure we all had a great time. The food was fantastic (ox tail, garlic shrimp, cod, broken eggs over potatoes, ham, fried dogfish, and dessert). And the drinks were plentiful. A great introduction to tapas culture and food in Madrid! Highly recommend!

Read Other Reviews HERE

Quick overview of our experience.

The food tour was so freaking good that we did it twice!! And the best part was that almost all the restaurants were different both times because Devour Madrid knows endless amazing, non-touristy places to eat! We also did their tapas tour in San Sebastian, and it was the same, delicious story!

We met in the old town of Madrid and had a short walk to start our tour with our favorite: vermouth! You can NOT go to Madrid without drinking vermouth, and this is a great place to try some of the best in Madrid!

From there, we took a leisurely stroll through various downtown neighborhoods and stopped at 2 other tapas bars along the way for some of the best food in Madrid that we’ve ever had. Caleb and I researched the crap out of food, and we had never been to these tapas bars during the almost 10 times we’ve been to the Spanish Capital! They *truly* take you to local hidden gems that you would likely miss!

Each tour ended at more of a “sit down” Spanish restaurant and ate family style, where we passed various dishes around the table and enjoyed not one but two delicious Spanish alcoholic beverages! If you’re a more introverted couple, don’t worry – the wine/vermouth has been flowing by this time, so everyone is just best friends! 😏

Top 5 Foods Sampled

We’ve had a TON of different food during the two times we’ve done our food tour, but here are our top 5 that you might get to look forward to:

• Chorizo stuffed mushrooms – honestly, these were so good I could cry. I don’t even usually like mushrooms, but they are so flavorful and juicy that you’ll dream of them forever.
• Stewed Bull Tail in Puff Pastry – think of a cozy, grandma-made beef stew, but then wrap it in buttery puff pastry and put a sweet pepper on top with a squeeze of tangy sauce. YES, it’s as good as it sounds.
• Sizzling Garlic Shrimp – from the place that INVENTED the Spanish classic! These shrimp are so tender, juicy, and garlicky, and you won’t be mad about washing them down with house-made, slightly sweet red wine.
• Impossibly Crispy Fried Cod – I’m not a “fried food person,” but Caleb and I have never had a better piece of fried fish. They’re perfectly seasoned and INCREDIBLY juicy, and they will ruin you for any other fried fish you ever eat.
• Spanish French Toast That Tastes Like Christmas In Your Mouth – We made room in our itinerary to go back again on our last night just to eat this because it’s like no dessert you’ll ever have.

Of course, I am not going to tell you where to find these things! I don’t want to ruin the surprise. 😏

You’ll have to book your food tour for that!

Let’s Wrap This Up: Madrid’s Best Food Tour

Caleb and I always go on a food tour the first evening in a new city – it’s the best way to get to know the local eats and history! Devour’s food tour in Madrid, “Tapas, Taverns, and History, ” has been one of our favorite tours across Europe, and we absolutely think it’s a must-do for other food-loving couples like us!

>> Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability! <<

So, are you going to book this tour ASAP? What questions do you have before booking? Feel free to leave a comment!

Other Foodie Posts in Madrid

• Hidden Nun Cookies in Madrid
• Tapas Tips: Ultimate Tapas Guide to How to Eat in Spain
• Calle Ponzano Madrid: 7 Best Tapas Bars
• 10 Best Calle Cava Baja Tapas Bars

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What you need to know when traveling for taylor swift’s eras tour.

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US singer and songwriter Taylor Alison Swift, also known as Taylor Swift performs on stage at the ... [+] Paris La Defense Arena as part of her The Eras Tour, in Nanterre, north-western France, on May 9, 2024.

Taylor Swift thrilled fans with the addition of performances from her latest album The Tortured Poets Department when she kicked off the European leg of The Eras Tour in Paris on Thursday, May 9, 2024. She jokingly called that section of the show Female Rage: The Musical . Most concertgoers already knew and sang along to every word of all the songs she sang from the album even though it was released just a few weeks earlier on April 19. Such is the power of Swift.

In her long career of riveting live shows, her stunning performance of “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?” may very well be her masterpiece so far. Swift is enjoying unprecedented success with her latest albums and tour, which showcase how she can tell a story like no other artist. Both her singing voice and her literary voice are stronger than ever, and it’s joyful to watch Swift embody and embrace her mightiness as a performer.

It's no wonder many fans are willing to travel hundreds or even thousands of miles for the chance to see Taylor Swift perform live. Since tickets sold out so quickly for the few remaining U.S. tour dates and resellers are aware of the intense demand, some fans discovered it was more doable to attend one of her international shows.

So, many fans in the U.S. and other countries have decided to make a vacation out of going to The Eras Tour in Europe this summer. If you are among them, here’s some advice on how to make the most of your international adventure.

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PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 09: Taylor Swift performs onstage during "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour" at La ... [+] Defense on May 09, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management )

Consider Your Lodging and Transportation Choices First

Before buying a ticket, be sure that you will have accommodations available. If you can book a hotel that’s within walking distance of a stadium and know the area is safe, that is ideal. Otherwise, check bus and train schedules for the night of your venue, then look at hotels that might be close to bus or train stops.

With tens of thousands of fellow concertgoers leaving at the same time, transportation can get tricky. If you book a room that’s farther from the venue, try to get a rental car instead of vying for a taxi or rideshare after the show. If you do that, just be sure parking will be available. You may need to buy a parking pass from the venue.

Also be aware that hotel room prices skyrocket when Swift is in town because there is such a high demand. If you are renting a car and don’t mind a longer drive, you can save a lot of money by booking a hotel room that’s a longer drive from the venue.

Enjoy The Moment

Amy Wilkinson, a 49-year-old Swiftie from Tucson, AZ, went viral in December 2023 for her reenactments of The Eras Tour performances using Elf on the Shelf dolls. She posted them to her Instagram, @Tswizzle_Momma , and found thousands of people watching each time she posted her videos. Like many other Swifties in the US, she is flying to Europe for The Eras Tour.

Wilkinson told me she had this advice for fellow fans going to the show abroad, “Enjoy the entire experience, from the moment you get on the plane until the morning after. You may be going for the concert, but the memories are made in the details. See the sights. Enjoy the food. Meet other Swifties. This is at the heart of what international travel is about.”

Make The Friendship Bracelets

Rebecca Bartley, a Swiftie from Nova Scotia, Canada, is going to Sweden to see The Eras Tour. She advises bringing friendship bracelets to share with fellow concertgoers on the night of your show. Wilkinson suggested making friendship bracelets in the language of the country where you’ll be seeing the show.

MARINA DEL REY, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 13: A Taylor Swift fan, friendship bracelet detail, attends the ... [+] opening night theatrical release of "Taylor Swift : The Eras Tour" at AMC Marina Marketplace 6 on October 13, 2023 in Marina del Rey, California. (Photo by Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)

It’s easy to learn how to make friendship bracelets. I had never dabbled in making jewelry before, but now I find great joy in creating friendship bracelets. I created dozens and handed them to fans at The Eras Tour movie.

To make friendship bracelets, I start by choosing the colors I want and which word or phrase I want the bracelet to express. Then I choose colorful beads and pick out all the necessary letter beads.

Next, I cut off elastic string. I find it’s best to use Stretch Magic elastic string because of its strength and durability. To make the bracelets, I cut off a piece of string that’s twice as long as I need so that there is ample room for cutting and tying multiple knots.

Then I tape one end of the string to my workspace, string the beads I have set aside until I feel like the bracelet is complete. Being careful to not let any of the beads slide off the string, I then wrap it around my wrist to see how it fits and then consider whether I am making the bracelet for a wrist that’s likely larger or smaller than mine. (Also, with elastic string, there’s room for a flexible fit.) I adjust accordingly.

As a last step, I make four to five knots in the string to tie off the bracelet. Many fans choose to add a dab of fabric glue to the end of the knot, but I found that got really messy and wasn’t necessary if you make multiple knots. Then I tuck the knots into one of the beads so that it doesn’t show on the bracelet. Then the bracelet is concert-ready!

Keep in mind that there are a lot of other ways to make friendship bracelets that are for more involved and creative that mine. And, if the idea of making friendship bracelets doesn’t sound fun to you, don’t worry. You can buy premade friendship bracelets on Etsy. Some Etsy shops like RainFoxx13 and BonniesBracelet have elaborate, beautiful friendship bracelets that you may want to keep for yourself. Others sell packs of friendship bracelets in bulk.

If you don’t want to trade friendship bracelets, that’s okay, too. The Swiftie community is accepting and supportive, and you still may get several bracelets as gifts.

What To Wear To The Eras Tour

There are no rules for what you should wear to Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour beyond the guidelines from the venue. Some fans go casual, and others choose to dress to the nines for the show. Some fans choose to wear merch from Taylor Swift’s official store . Many fans choose to dress up in costumes inspired by Swift’s songs and lyrics.

With the release of The Tortured Poets Department and its video “Fortnight,” some fans are choosing to imitate some of her looks from the video. Others are wearing their interpretation of the incredible costumes she wears during The Eras Tour concert. Others look at past eras for inspiration. You are likely to see every era represented in fan costumes at a show.

What You Should Bring To The Eras Tour In Europe

Wilkinson advised me that the number one thing to bring is a portable phone charger. If you plan on recording video and taking photos, your phone’s battery may die down quickly, and a phone charger can ensure you can keep capturing the memories all night.

Earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to loud noise. If you’re bringing kids along, they are a must. They ensure you can enjoy the music while protecting your ears.

Bring along a cardigan or jacket. Layering is a good idea for a concert during the summer. Although it may be hot in the stadium, you might be chilly on the way home from the show.

You can’t go wrong bringing along hand sanitizer and a travel pack of tissues. Even if you can get through “All Too Well” without tearing up, you may cry at the sheer excitement of the experience. It can be intense in the best way.

If you have tickets that are far back, bring along binoculars to see close-up details.

What To Avoid At The Eras Tour

Don’t come to the stadium with a big bag. If you haven’t attended stadium concerts before, you may not know that you need to carry a clear bag if you want to bring a purse. It also has to fit within the measurements allowed in the stadium, so you can’t just buy a clear backpack and expect to get in the show. Check with your show’s venue to make sure you follow their rules for what you can bring.

What Are The Dates Of The Eras Tour 2024 In Europe?

Taylor Swift started the European leg of The Eras Tour in Paris on May 9, 2024. Here are all the dates for The Eras Tour that are scheduled for the rest of 2024.

Thursday, May 9, 2024 – París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Friday, May 10, 2024 - París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Saturday, May 11, 2024 - París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Sunday, May 12, 2024 - París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Friday, May 17, 2024 – Friends Arena - Stockholm, Sweden

Saturday, May 18, 2024 - Friends Arena - Stockholm, Sweden

Sunday, May 19, 2024 - Friends Arena - Stockholm, Sweden

Friday, May 24, 2024 - Estádio da Luz – Lisbon, Portugal

Saturday, May 25. 2024 - Estádio da Luz – Lisbon, Portugal

Wednesday, May 29, 2024 - Estádio Santiago Bernabéu – Madrid, Spain

Thursday, May 30, 2024 - Estádio Santiago Bernabéu – Madrid, Spain

Sunday, June 2, 2024 - Groupama Stadium - Lyon, France

Monday, June 3, 2024 - Groupama Stadium - Lyon, France

Friday, June 7, 2024 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium - Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Saturday, June 8, 2024 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium - Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Sunday, June 9, 2024 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium - Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Thursday, June 13, 2024 - Anfield Stadium - Liverpool, United Kingdom

Friday, June 14, 2024 - Anfield Stadium - Liverpool, United Kingdom

Saturday, June 15, 2024 - Anfield Stadium - Liverpool, United Kingdom

Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - Principality Stadium - Cardiff, United Kingdom

Friday, June 21, 2024 - Wembley Stadium in London, United Kingdom

Saturday, June 22, 2024 - Wembley Stadium in London, United Kingdom

Sunday, June 23, 2024 - Wembley Stadium in London, United Kingdom

Friday, June 28, 2024 - Aviva Stadium - Dublin, Ireland

Saturday, June 29, 2024 - Aviva Stadium - Dublin, Ireland

Sunday, June 30, 2024 - Aviva Stadium - Dublin, Ireland

Thursday, July 4, 2024 - Johan Cruijff Arena - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Friday, July 5, 2024 - Johan Cruijff Arena - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Saturday, July 6, 2024 - Johan Cruijff Arena - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Tuesday, July 9, 2024 - Stadion Letzigrund Zurich - Zürich, Switzerland

Wednesday, July 20, 2024 - Stadion Letzigrund Zurich - Zürich, Switzerland

Saturday, July 13, 2024 - San Siro Stadium - Milan, Italy

Sunday, July 14, 2024 - San Siro Stadium - Milan, Italy

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 - Veltins-Arena - Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Thursday, July 18, 2024 - Veltins-Arena - Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Friday, July 19, 2024 - Veltins-Arena - Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 - Volksparkstadion - Hamburg, Germany

Wednesday, July 24, 2024 - Volksparkstadion - Hamburg, Germany

Saturday, July 27, 2024 - Olympiastadion - Munich, Germany

Sunday, July 28, 2024 - Olympiastadion - Munich, Germany

Thursday, August 1, 2024 - PGE Narodowy - Warsaw, Poland

Friday, August 2, 2024 - PGE Narodowy - Warsaw, Poland

Saturday, August 3, 2024 - PGE Narodowy - Warsaw, Poland

Thursday, August 8, 2024 - Ernst-Happel-Stadion - Vienna, Austria

Friday, August 9, 2024 - Ernst-Happel-Stadion - Vienna, Austria

Saturday, August 10, 2024 - Ernst-Happel-Stadion - Vienna, Austria

Thursday, August 15, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Friday, August 16, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Saturday, August 17, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Monday, August 19, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Tuesday, August 20, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Friday, October 18, 2024 – Hard Rock Stadium – Miami, Florida, United States

Saturday, October 19, 2024 - Hard Rock Stadium – Miami, Florida, United States

Sunday, October 20, 2024 - Hard Rock Stadium – Miami, Florida, United States

Friday, October 25, 2024 – Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Saturday, October 26, 2024 - Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Sunday, October 27, 2024 - Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Friday, November 1, 2024 – Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Saturday, November 2, 2024 - Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Sunday, November 3, 2024 - Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Thursday, November 14, 2024 – Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Friday, November 15, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Thursday, November 22, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Friday, November 22, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Saturday, November 23, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Friday, December 6, 2024 – BC Place – Vancouver, Canada

Saturday, December 7, 2024 - BC Place – Vancouver, Canada

Sunday, December 8, 2024 - BC Place – Vancouver, Canada

For more information about the forthcoming shows, see the tour page of Taylor Swift’s official website .

How To Get Taylor Swift Tickets In 2024

Tickets have already gone on sale for the rest of the currently confirmed dates of The Eras Tour for 2024. However, you can get secondhand tickets from resellers. It’s usually not a good idea to buy from individuals in Facebook groups offering to sell tickets. That’s hard to verify, and many are scammed that way. Instead, check with the individual venue to see how their resell process works. It varies throughout Europe depending on the country and the individual stadium.

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