• Puerta del Sol - Puerta del Sol is the vibrant center of Madrid, renowned for the Zero Kilometer, the Bear and Madroño statue, and the clock of the Casa de Correos. This historic 18th-century building originally served as the postal service headquarters and now houses the Presidency of the Community of Madrid.

Its most iconic feature is the clock, which rings in the New Year every December 31st, a tradition celebrated by millions of Spaniards. It is a place rich in symbolism and a true icon in the heart of the city.

• Petit Palace Posada del Peine - An exterior visit to the Hotel Posada del Peine reveals one of Madrid’s most iconic accommodations, known as the city’s oldest hotel with over 400 years of history. Situated in the heart of the old town near Plaza Mayor, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.

The name “Posada del Peine” originates from a curious 17th-century tradition where each room had a comb tied with a rope for guests. Today, the hotel maintains its historic character while providing updated facilities, making it an ideal choice for those wishing to experience Madrid’s history while enjoying a comfortable stay.

• Plaza Mayor - Madrid’s Plaza Mayor is one of the city’s most iconic locations, a grand rectangular square surrounded by historic buildings with uniform facades and porticoes. Originally constructed in the 17th century, it has hosted markets, festivals, bullfights, and historical events.

At its center stands the equestrian statue of Philip III, a prominent symbol of the square. The surrounding area is filled with cafes, restaurants, and traditional shops, making it a perfect spot to enjoy Madrid’s cuisine, such as a delicious squid sandwich. It is a place that blends history, culture, and modern life in the heart of the city.

• Sobrino de Botín - Established in 1725, it holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest restaurant in the world. Located near Plaza Mayor, it is a landmark of Madrid, celebrated for its traditional Castilian cuisine.

Specialties include roast suckling pig and lamb, cooked in its original wood-fired oven. Its rustic and welcoming atmosphere, complete with centuries-old cellars, transports diners back in time while offering an authentic culinary experience. Botín is a must-visit for those eager to savor the history and flavors of Madrid’s cuisine.

• Mercado San Miguel - The San Miguel Market is one of Madrid’s most iconic spots, renowned as a gastronomic market that marries tradition with modernity. Situated next to Plaza Mayor, its 20th-century iron structure is an architectural marvel.

It is the perfect place to enjoy a wide array of tapas, fresh produce, wines, desserts, and both local and international specialties. More than just a market, it offers a culinary experience where visitors can taste the best of Spanish gastronomy in a lively and cosmopolitan setting.

• La Real Botica de la Reina Madre - Located on Calle Mayor, this site traces its origins to the 16th century. Founded under the patronage of Queen Mariana of Austria, mother of Charles II, it served as a royal apothecary for centuries, providing medicines and court preparations.

The building retains architectural and decorative elements that reflect its history, serving as an example of the legacy of traditional pharmacies in Spain. Although it no longer functions as an apothecary, it remains a place of historical significance that connects with the medical and scientific past of the city.

• Plaza de la Villa - The Plaza de la Villa is one of Madrid’s most historic and picturesque corners, located in the old town, very close to Calle Mayor. For centuries, it was the administrative center of the city.

Three historic buildings surrounding it stand out:

• The Casa de la Villa, which housed the Madrid City Council.
• The Cisneros House, a Renaissance palace from the 16th century.
• The Tower of the Lujanes, a medieval structure that is one of the oldest buildings in Madrid.

The square, with its serene atmosphere and historic charm, is perfect for discovering the capital’s past and admiring its traditional architecture.

• Royal Palace’s Ledge Lookout - The Corniche Viewpoint of the Royal Palace of Madrid offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city. Located atop the Palace, it provides a unique panorama that stretches from the historic center of Madrid to Parque del Oeste, through Campo del Moro and beyond.

This viewpoint is particularly renowned for its perspective on the Almudena and the Madrid of the Austrias, offering a privileged view of the city’s rooftops and architecture. Although access is not available to the general public, the views can be enjoyed from nearby Palace gardens, such as Campo del Moro.

• Catedral de la Almudena - The Cathedral of the Almudena is one of Madrid’s principal churches, situated opposite the Royal Palace. Its construction began in 1883 and was completed in 1993, resulting in a blend of architectural styles, from neoclassical to Gothic, Roman, and Modernist.

The cathedral is renowned for its impressive facade and interior, which includes a main chapel adorned with frescoes and a Romanesque-style crypt. Vibrant colors are visible in its dome, while stained glass windows and side chapels add a touch of beauty. Additionally, in 2004, it was the site of the wedding of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.

• All fees and/or taxes
• Accredited guide

• Tickets to monuments or museums

Join this Shared Tour of the Madrid of the Austrias to explore the historic core of the capital, where each square and street reflects the grandeur of the Habsburg dynasty. Participants will wander through the impressive Plaza Mayor, a central hub of Madrid life for centuries, and navigate the lively streets leading to Puerta del Sol. The tour includes a stop at the sophisticated Plaza de la Villa, the site of the old town hall, and uncovers historical corners that transport visitors back to the Golden Age.

This enjoyable and intimate tour allows participants to experience Madrid in its full essence: its historical heritage, its traditional atmosphere, and its status as a prominent European capital.

It’s an ideal way to intimately discover Madrid and relish its distinctive ambiance in a small, personalized group!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.