excursions in madrid

Deals of the Week   Vibrant North Africa   Up to 50% OFF

Madrid Tours & Trips

250+ madrid tour packages with 6,099 reviews.

In-depth Cultural Family Sightseeing Christmas & New Year +2

Madrid: Cultural Experience with Toledo Half-day tour, City Break

"The hotel is excellent and location is city centre and safe, so I just walked everywhere." Mary, traveled in September 2022

Explorer Family Historical Christmas & New Year +1

Madrid and Barcelona

"Everything was great. Really loved it." Anthea, traveled in March 2024

In-depth Cultural Explorer Sightseeing +1

Best of Southern Spain

"The balance of free time and planned activities was what we found to be most appealing." Amy, traveled in March 2024

In-depth Cultural Family Explorer Christmas & New Year +2

Madrid and Andalusia (6 destinations)

"the tour and tour guides were great ☺️." Anjelica, traveled in May 2023

In-depth Cultural Family Christmas & New Year +1

Andalucia & Toledo, 5 days on Tuesdays

"The tours were interesting, especially in Cordoba and Sevilla. There was a good balance between guided tours and free time." Mary-Ellen, traveled in October 2023

• 10% deposit on some dates

Spanish Delights, 7 days

"The hotels and cities we stayed in were nice. The dinners were alright." Maria, traveled in July 2022

In-depth Cultural Family Self Drive Sightseeing Historical Christmas & New Year +4

Undiscovered Castilla, Self-drive

In-depth Cultural Family Coach / Bus Christmas & New Year +2

Spanish Wonder (End Barcelona, 9 Days)

"Javier and Alberto were very good." Minawattee, traveled in August 2023

• €100 deposit on some dates

Andalusia with Cordoba, Costa del Sol and Toledo from Madrid

"Great Tour and we'll organise." Norberto, traveled in July 2022

• €50 deposit on some dates

Colors of Spain - 8 Days

"Very enjoy the trip in Southern Spain." Siu, traveled in October 2021

Absolutely Spain

"But overall great trip and good value. Excellent tour." Rick, traveled in April 2023

Andalusia and Toledo 5 Days from Madrid

"Very good but we didn't have chance to see the shop for some souvenirs." Alberto, traveled in October 2018

In-depth Cultural Family Coach / Bus +1

Spanish Experience (End Barcelona, 9 Days)

"The director and driver were excellent people, very friendly and ready to serve!" Gloria, traveled in June 2023

In-depth Cultural Explorer

Journeys: Discover Spain National Geographic Journeys

"Great itinerary and spectacular sights, but the lack of private transportation resulted in numerous waits." RALPH, traveled in July 2019

Discovery of Spain - 10 days

"Most of hotels we didn't like except 2." Reyna, traveled in April 2023

What people love about Madrid Tours

I had a lovely mother & daughter weekend getaway with Destination Services Spain in Madrid & Toledo! The hotel was well located, right in the heart of the city, the communication before & during with the team was also super fast, friendly. The driver for the airport transfers was both times punctual. All in all, just was I needed - a pre-made perfect itinerary, and 2 city walking trips included. Can recommend, 5/5!

Tour was disorganized. We had to switch buses midday. Okay for price.

The itinerary was good; liked the fact that we had a lot of time on our own and that we had the same hotel at least 2 nights in a row. Did not like the fact that we had to take a public bus to our hotel with luggage in tow, and that we had to drag our luggage to various pick-up stops. We have not experienced that on prior tours. The day in Cordoba was poorly planned, leaving us no time to tour the city on our own as was promised. Otherwise everything was fine.

Tours starting from Madrid

• for 10 Days (111)
• for 3 Weeks (100)
• for 2 Weeks (91)
• for 7 Days (68)
• for 4 Weeks (13)
• for 3 Days (11)
• to Europe (352)
• to Spain (232)
• to Portugal (16)
• to Morocco (10)
• Spain Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Days in Spain: Best Itineraries 2024/2025

Discover TourRadar

• France Tours
• Trips for Young Adults
• 1 Week (7 Day) Japan Travel Itineraries
• 10 Romantic Northern Lights Getaways For Couples
• Israel Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Hiking in Europe in August
• Kruger National Park Guide: 6 Things to Know

Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Madrid Tours

15 Best Madrid Tours

Madrid is the vibrant capital of Spain, and in important location for experiencing the centre of the country’s culture and history.

The eclectic food scene, buzzing nightlife, and imposing architectural monuments make this unique city a must see on any European itinerary.

Tours and experiences are a great way to soak up the culture of the city and learn about its varied history from colonialism through to modern times.

These are the 15 best tours you can take in Madrid.

1. Madrid City Tour (Hop-on Hop-off Bus)

If you’re only in Madrid for a short amount of time or want to get a feel for the city on your first day, a hop-on hop-off bus is a great option.

This tour offers you either a 1-day or 2-day pass for the hop-on hop-off buses, which begins from your first hop-on. There are 49 stops available along two routes – so if you can, we suggest taking the 2-day pass.

An audio guide is provided with 14 languages available, detailing the most important information about all of the locations. A free map is included, as well as discounts across a number of locations in Madrid.

2. Skip-the-Line Prado Museum Entrance Ticket

See the largest and most important collection of Spanish painting in the world and explore the Prado’s sculpture collection and discover more than 900 works and about 200 fragments

View Prices & Reviews

3. Bernabéu Stadium Tour with Direct Access Tickets

The Bernabéu Stadium is the home of Real Madrid, making this an excellent option for football fans.

This experience is packed with sporting history, with two museums on-site for visitors to enjoy. You will also be taken on a tour of the pitch, seating areas, dressing room, player’s tunnel, and Trophy Room.

The final stop of the tour is the Presidential Box, which is usually reserved for Spain’s most important people and Real Madrid board members.

4. Live Flamenco Show and Food and Drinks Option

This is another great experience if you are interested in flamenco, where you can watch one of the most important flamenco shows in the country.

It is located in the Torres Bermejas, a hall designed in the 1960s that mimics the world-famous Alhambra Palace in Grenada.

Before the show begins you will be able to marvel over the gorgeous Moorish inspired interiors and enjoy a complimentary drink. There is also the option to add a dinner for you to enjoy during the performance.

The Cuadro Flamenco show is 90 minutes long, making it the perfect start to an evening in Madrid.

5. Madrid Art Walk Pass: Prado, Reina Sofia & Thyssen Museums

Like most European capitals, Madrid is packed with high quality art galleries – and the Golden Triangle of Art is considered one of the best areas in Europe for experiencing a variety of artistic styles.

This ticket gives you access to the three main art museums – the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen. The Prado is itself a piece of art and one of the finest examples of European architecture.

The Reina Sofia is a great place to check out famous Spanish artists such as Picasso and Dalí, whilst the Thyssen Museum contains art from across Europe and North America.

6. Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of the Royal Palace

Spain is a constitutional monarchy, and their Royal Family is based at the Royal Palace in Madrid.

This tour allows you to skip the large lines to enter the palace and comes with a live guide. You will get to experience how the Spanish royals live and explore the largest palace in Western Europe.

Your bilingual guide will also discuss the turbulent history of the Spanish monarchy, from colonialism to their reinstatement after the Franco years.

There is also the option to add a tapas experience at the end of the tour, where you can sample some typical Spanish dishes.

7. Segovia and Toledo Tour with Alcazar & Optional Cathedral

Segovia and Toledo are two historically important cities close to Madrid. This tour departs from Central Madrid and takes you to both of these cities with an air-conditioned coach.

At Segovia you will be able to marvel at the Roman architecture – including the UNESCO World Heritage site aqueduct – and visit the Alcazár Palace. Toledo is a medieval city that had important connections with the Spanish Empire.

You will be able to explore the Christian, Jewish and Muslim quarters that have survived through the ages, and take a look at the art in Toledo Cathedral.

9. Half-Day Spanish Cooking Class

Spanish cuisine is rich and varied, and has influenced multiple cuisines across the world from Latin American to Filipino.

This cooking class allows you to try making your own version of the most popular dishes, including paella and Spanish omelette. Morning classes also include a visit to a local market where you get to hand-pick your own ingredients.

All food and drink is included in the price, and you will also get the opportunity to make your own sangria. Guests are given a book of all the recipes at the end.

10. Madrid Historical Centre & Old Town Walking Tour

Walking tours are an excellent way to gather your bearings during your first few days in a new city.

This tour takes you around the major attractions in the historical centre of Madrid, as well as some hidden gems. Group sizes are limited for a more intimate experience, and the tour can be somewhat customised by the group.

It also includes a visit to the San Miguel Market where you can pick up some souvenirs and fresh food. The tour can be taken in English, Spanish, or French.

11. 5-Hour Pub Crawl

Starting in the centre of Madrid at Puerta del Sol, this tour is a great way to experience the best nightlife the city has to offer. The tour includes five bars, with a free shot at each bar and discounts on other drinks.

You will also be given free entry to one of the best clubs in Madrid, which varies depending on the night. This is excellent for solo travellers looking to socialise with other visitors to the city.

The bars are specially selected to give you a showcase of the variety of atmospheres available in the City of Madrid. The guide is fully licensed to ensure your safety.

12. El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen: Skip-the-Line Tour

El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen are two important cultural landmarks located outside of Madrid.

This tour will take you to both from Madrid with a luxury coach. El Escorial Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and important location for Catholicism in Spain.

Valley of the Fallen is also an important location for Christians, with the tallest cross in the world. It is also full of architectural monuments that dedicate those who lost their lives during the Spanish Civil War.

The tour guide will take you around both of these attractions, and can speak both English and Spanish.

13. Madrid Tapas Experience Walking Tour

Tapas is one of the most influential culinary traditions of Spain that has spread across the Iberian Peninsula and the world. It consists of a variety of small plates that are shared, giving you the chance to sample some of Spain’s best ingredients.

This tour takes you to three tapas bars across the city, allowing you to experience local dining culture in an authentic way. You will also learn about Asturian cider and try Andalusian Rebujito cocktails.

Two free drinks (beer or wine) are included as part of the tour, as well as discounts at each tapas bar.

14. 3-Hour Art E-Bike Tour

For a more relaxed tour through Madrid, this e-bike tour allows you to take a casual ride between the most important artistic neighbourhoods and cultural sights in the city.

The knowledgeable guide will take you through the Golden Triangle of Art, Parque del Retiro, and the old city. You will also have some time to explore the bars and boutiques of Malasaña district.

The e-bike means all fitness levels can enjoy this tour, and safety gear is included. You will also be provided with a free bottle of water.

15. The Spanish Inquisition Tour

The Spanish Inquisition was one of the darkest periods of Spain’s history, where locals were brutally punished, suppressed, and murdered in order to enforce orthodox Christianity on the country.

This tour allows you to learn about the history and bloody stories that surround the time period, and how it influenced Madrid and the wider world.

You will be taken to La Encarnación Monastery, as well as to one of the former prisons that were used for the Inquisition.

15 Best Madrid Tours:

• Madrid City Tour (Hop-on Hop-off Bus)
• Skip-the-Line Prado Museum Entrance Ticket
• Bernabéu Stadium Tour with Direct Access Tickets
• Live Flamenco Show and Food and Drinks Option
• Madrid Art Walk Pass: Prado, Reina Sofia & Thyssen Museums
• Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of the Royal Palace
• Segovia and Toledo Tour with Alcazar & Optional Cathedral
• Half-Day Spanish Cooking Class
• Madrid Historical Centre & Old Town Walking Tour
• 5-Hour Pub Crawl
• El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen: Skip-the-Line Tour
• Madrid Tapas Experience Walking Tour
• 3-Hour Art E-Bike Tour
• The Spanish Inquisition Tour

The 14 Best Tours of Madrid, Spain You Have to Take!

• Pinterest 79

Madrid , the dynamic and charismatic capital of Spain , is a city that effortlessly bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. As you step onto its bustling streets, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of experiences, a melting pot of cultures, and a vibe that will sweep you off your feet. This city is where historic charm meets vibrant energy, offering a captivating blend of rich cultural heritage, world-class art, and a zest for life that’s remarkably addictive.

And that’s just the start! We haven’t even begun to mention the internationally acclaimed art museums, Michelin-starred dining, excellent shopping opportunities, and achingly beautiful architecture. Venture into the areas surrounding the city on one of the many Madrid day trips, and you’ll be blown away by dramatic national parks, charming medieval cities, and romantic vineyards that beckon you to explore.

It doesn’t matter how much research and planning you do; you simply can’t beat the expert knowledge of a guide. Whether you’re dreaming of making authentic Spanish tapas, watching a mesmerizing flamenco show, horseback riding through a forest, or exploring parts of the city most visitors never get to see, joining the best tours in Madrid is the way to do it!

But even when you’re armed with this information, putting together the ultimate Madrid itinerary is still a major challenge. Where do you go and which tours do you choose?

With such a fantastic choice of things to see and do, it can feel impossible to simply get started. To give you a helping hand, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best tours in Madrid. Stick to these exciting Madrid tour recommendations, and you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time exploring Spain’s capital city! 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

14 Fun Tours and Day Trips Around Madrid, Spain

1. learn how to make restaurant-quality spanish eats.

One of the best tours in Madrid for foodies, this half-day Spanish cooking class invites you to step into the kitchen and learn how to make some delicious Spanish delicacies. Opt for the morning tour for the chance to pick up fresh ingredients from a local market and transform them into an amazing paella. Or wait until the evening and whip up several traditional Spanish tapas!

If you choose the morning class, you’ll be led through one of Madrid’s most popular food markets, where you’ll learn how to pick the best ingredients that will work wonders in the kitchen. After shopping, you’ll head to the cooking school and get started! You’ll begin by making gazpacho (a type of cold tomato soup), followed by a mixed paella that includes seafood and chicken.

The evening class skips the trip to the market, but it gives you the chance to make five different tapas – Spanish potato omelet, garlic shrimp, chorizo in apple cider, patatas bravas, and tomato bread with ham. You’ll also learn how to make the wonderfully creamy and hugely popular Catalan crème for dessert.

Learn to Cook Spanish Cuisines

2. Watch a Live Flamenco Show at a Legendary Tablao

Immerse yourself in the passionate world of flamenco and let traditional Spanish music flow through your veins at the historic Torres Bermejas tablao . Nestled in the heart of Madrid, this legendary flamenco club has an amazing reputation and a long-standing history that goes back generations. 

Keep things simple and enjoy a couple of drinks with the show, or make it a night out you’ll never forget by upgrading to a dining table with a traditional Spanish meal.

Established in 1960, Torres Bermejas tablao is known throughout Spain for its unique decor, inspired by the Bermejas towers of Granada’s enchanting Alhambra. Before the show begins, take the time to admire walls adorned with intricate Arabic motifs, ornate hand-painted tiles, and exquisitely carved wooden ceilings. 

When the performance begins, you’ll be absolutely blown away. During the show, you’ll be in the perfect position to witness the mesmerizing choreographies of the Cuadro Flamenco. This traditional flamenco group is made up of the finest singers, guitarists, clappers, and dancers who have been practicing this tradition for years.

Watch a Live Flamenco Show

3. Explore the City on a Vintage Bike

Madrid is an incredible city filled with amazing things that you completely miss if you travel exclusively by train, metro, and car. Experience everything the city has to offer without becoming exhausted by signing up for this city tour. On this adventure , you’ll hop onto a vintage bicycle and cycle around the city, led by an expert guide who knows all the best places to visit.

You’ll stop by iconic buildings such as the Palacio Real and Prado Museum, where your guide will fill you in on the history of the place and tell you all kinds of fascinating info about it. A great trip to do early in your vacation, this city tour is an excellent way to get your bearings and discover which parts of the city you want to spend more time in and the best way to get there.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos. Don’t worry if you’re a solo traveler. As you’re traveling in a group, there will be other people who can take your photo for you!

Ride a Vintage Bike around Madrid

4. Eat Your Way Through the City on a Tapas and Wine Tour

All the best Madrid tours include savoring delectable tapas and sipping fine Spanish wines. If you’re looking for a tour that’s exclusively dedicated to indulging your palate, this foodie tour is the one for you. On this remarkable tour, you’ll stop by a number of bustling markets with the company of a local guide who will take you to all the best places to eat and drink.

During your gourmet adventure, you’ll walk through various streets, stopping at some of the top tapas bars in the city. At each stop, you’ll have the chance to dig into delights such as croquettes filled with all kinds of ingredients and crispy padrón peppers generously seasoned with sea salt. Every plate will be paired with amazing wines, beers, and ciders, of course! 

Next, you’ll move onto the San Miguel Market for even more tapas and drinks before taking a gentle stroll to your final destination. Your last bite will be an incredible dish of pork cheeks with mashed potatoes, paired with a robust red wine and some of the best city views you’ll see during your vacation.

Discover Madrid’s Local Tapas and Wine

5. Fall in Love with the World Heritage City of Cuenca

Escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid on this captivating full-day tour that whisks you away to the ancient town of Cuenca, stops by a romantic vineyard, and visits La Ciudad Encantada.

You’ll start your journey with a scenic bus ride to the mesmerizing Castilla La-Mancha region, pausing at a wine cellar along the way to try some amazing local wines. Next, you’ll head to La Ciudad Encantada (the Enchanted City), where you’ll enjoy a guided walking tour that highlights the city’s magical landscapes.

Next, it’s on to the historic city of Cuenca, where you’ll gaze at the Devil’s Window viewpoint and take a break at a traditional restaurant for lunch. As your adventure comes to a close, you’ll travel up to El Barrio del Castillo, the city’s highest point. Here you’ll have the chance to wander around the city’s historic quarter before stopping at a stunning viewpoint and heading back to Madrid. 

Visit Cuenca and Enchanted City

6. Taste Wine Made at Generations-Old Wineries

If you enjoy fine wines, you’ll fall head over heels in love with this tour that takes you through Madrid’s scenic wine country. On this oenophile experience, you’ll visit three of the best wineries in the region and develop a whole new love for this ancient, delicious drink. 

You’ll take a guided tour around each winery, where someone will show you exactly how they make their unique wine. This part of the country has been making wine for more than 900 years, and some wineries still use tools and techniques that date back centuries! You’ll see vineyards full of Tempranillo grapes that are used for making hearty red wine, as well as Malvar and Albillo grapes used to make refreshing white wine.

After you’ve discovered everything there is to know about winemaking at each location, you’ll be invited to try a number of the typical wines made there. To enhance the experience, each tasting will be accompanied by a small selection of local cheeses and charcuterie.

Explore Madrid’s Best Wineries

7. Sail Over Madrid and Segovia in a Hot Air Balloon

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Madrid, you’ll struggle to beat a hot air balloon ride. On this one-of-a-kind experience , you’ll sail high above the city over the region of Segovia, taking in the breathtaking Spanish countryside far below. This excursion includes pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation, so you can spend more time enjoying your amazing ride. 

When you arrive at the departure point, you’ll hop straight into the hot air balloon’s basket and rise up thousands of feet in the air. From this high up, you’ll have an incredible view of local landmarks, such as the 12th-century Alcázar. 

Even if you’ve visited this famous site before, there’s nothing like seeing it from a bird’s-eye view! You’ll also sail over ancient cities and an amazing Roman aqueduct that’s almost 2,000 years old. 

So you don’t miss a single thing, your pilot will point out all the most interesting places along the way. At the end of your trip, you’ll totally understand why Segovia has been given the title of a World Heritage City. 

Hot Air Balloon Ride over Segovia 

8. Visit the Prado Museum with an Art Expert

Visiting the Prado Museum is absolutely something you’ve got to do while you’re in Madrid. But unless you’re an art expert, it can be a bit overwhelming and sometimes confusing. An easy way to have the best possible experience is to visit the Prado Museum on a private tour led by someone who knows everything there is to know about the museum and its artwork.

During this cultural experience, you’ll have the chance to admire the remarkable works of Spanish and international painters from different periods throughout time. Your guide will explain what each painting represents and what was going through the painter’s mind at the time so you can fully appreciate the piece.

As you move throughout the museum, you’ll be invited to explore various styles of painting and see important historical events through the eyes of world-renowned painters. Some of the highlights you’ll see include various anatomical drawings by Ribera, 19th-century paintings from the “El Casacón” genre, and the “Black Paintings” by Francisco de Goya.

See Masterpieces of Art at Prado Museum

9. Surround Yourself with the Beauty of the Guadarrama National Park

If you need a break from city life, sign up for a guided tour of the Guadarrama National Park. Hidden away, just 40 minutes outside the city, this dazzling national park is brimming with unparalleled beauty, spectacular viewpoints, and countless hiking trails that take you to all kinds of secret places.

On this outdoor encounter , you’ll follow your guide on a walking tour of the national park. As you meander your way through the varying landscapes, you’ll stop by stunning landmarks, such as the Puerto de la Morcuera, Puerto de Cotos, Puerto de Navacerrada, and La Pedriza. Your guide will tell you exactly where to stand to get the best pictures.

An incredible place when you feel the urge to surround yourself with nature, the Guadarrama National Park is teeming with fascinating flora and fauna. Around 1,280 different animal species call the park home. So be on the lookout and you may just spot foxes, wildcats, badgers, mountain goats, wild boars, and deer during your visit!

Embark on a Day Trip to Guadarrama

10. See the City’s Streets through the Eyes of a Graffiti Hunter

Out of all the art-themed Madrid day trips, this is definitely one of our favorites. Unlike other art tours that take you through Madrid’s award-winning galleries, this art tour invites you to experience a more urban, rough, and obscure type of art – graffiti.

With the company of a local guide, you’ll work your way through the neighborhoods of La Latina, Embajadores, and Lavapiés, seeking out one-of-a-kind murals. Your expert guide is one of Madrid’s graffiti collaborators who has helped create some of the amazing pieces you’ll see on the tour. They’ll be able to give you their unique insight into the people, culture, and themes behind each of the pieces, helping you gain a better understanding.

If you’d like to experience more of Madrid’s culture, this tour is an excellent place to start. Your guide will be able to get you invites to loads of different longboarding, cycling, yoga, dance, and photography workshops that are completely free.

Admire Madrid’s Street and Urban Art Scene

11. Explore the Medieval City of Toledo

Madrid is a fantastic city to base yourself in and explore the surrounding areas – and Toledo is one place you’ve definitely got to see. On this full-day tour , you’ll have the chance to explore this medieval city, wander through its labyrinthine streets, and admire its stunning architecture.

After being whisked away to your destination by bus, you’ll embark on a panoramic tour of Toledo’s historic center. This is one of the most beautiful parts of the city that you won’t want to miss out on. 

When your tour is done, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city on your own. If you’re not sure where to begin, we suggest checking out the Alcázar of Toledo that’s perched on a hill overlooking the city and the Toledo Cathedral with its vast collection of religious artwork. 

The Jewish Quarter, with its historic buildings, winding alleys, and hidden courtyards, is a wonderful place to wander. If you get hungry, find a restaurant that serves traditional food and order carcamusas – it’s a type of local hearty pork stew. At the end of your free time, you’ll hop on the bus and head back to Madrid.

Enjoy a Day Tour to Toledo

12. Tour the Atlético de Madrid Stadium

If you’re a fan of football (soccer), this is one tour that you absolutely won’t want to miss. Dive into the fascinating world of Atlético de Madrid and the Cívitas Metropolitano, one of the most modern stadiums in the world. 

The basic tour option gives you the chance to explore the stadium at your own pace. You’ll have special access to all the exclusive areas, such as the presidential box, dressing rooms, and the PR room. 

You’ll also have the chance to step onto the pitch itself. As you walk through the tunnel out into the open, it’s easy to imagine what it must be like to be one of the star players, with thousands of people screaming your name! 

For the best experience, we recommend upgrading to the photo package. With this option, you’ll have the opportunity to stand at the corner of the field and have a professional take amazing shots of you. At the end of the tour, you’ll stop by the gift shop and pick up your unique souvenirs.

Get an Atlético de Madrid Stadium Ticket

13. Zoom around Madrid at Night on a Segway

Madrid is a magical place to explore by night, and one of the best, quickest, and most fun ways to get around is on a guided Segway tour . On this one-of-a-kind experience, you’ll zoom through the historic center of the city on an eco-friendly, self-balancing Segway, soaking up the amazing atmosphere that’s only present after dark.

You’ll start at the Plaza San Miguel, where you’ll learn the basics of riding a Segway. When you’re feeling confident, you’ll jet off and experience the city coming to life around you. You’ll gaze at imposing architecture illuminated in the dark and see mesmerizing landmarks, such as the Palacio Real and Plaza Mayor.

One of the highlights of the tour is the Temple of Debod, which a lot of people miss when exploring the city. This amazing structure was gifted to Madrid by Aswan in Egypt in 1968. You’ll also pass by the Sobrino de Botín, one of the oldest restaurants in the world that you should definitely make reservations for on another night. 

Experience Madrid by Segway

14. Discover the Wonders of Segovia and La Granja

The historic city of Segovia and the impressive residence known locally as La Granja are just two amazing places you’ll visit on this sensational day trip from Madrid. After touring the stunning gardens and Baroque buildings of the royal residence, you’ll continue on to the world-famous Alcázar in Segovia and the imposing Roman Aqueduct that dates back to the first century. 

As you continue your tour, you’ll be treated to remarkable views of the church of San Martín and the Segovia Cathedral, among many other landmarks that you’d miss if you stayed in Madrid. You’ll have the chance to experience Plaza del Azoguejo, the best-preserved area in Segovia, and learn all about its history, which dates back to Roman times. 

If you book the upgraded option, you’ll be taken to a traditional Spanish restaurant between La Granja and Segovia. If you prefer to do things your own way, you can stick with the basic tour and choose your own restaurant or use the time to wander the ancient streets of Segovia on your own. 

Wander around Segovia and La Granja

There you have it! The 14 best tours in Madrid. Do you have any Madrid day trips or tours you’d recommend? Let us know in the comments below!

Planning a trip to Spain? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

Related Posts

The 10 Best Places to Spend New Year’s Eve (2024)

The 15 Best Things to do in Antalya, Turkey

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Aberdeen, Scotland

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

•   Tours
•   What to do

Madrid Tours

What would you like to do?

Excursions and guided tours

Aranjuez Tour (1/2 day)

On this trip to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, discover one of the most glamorous palaces of Spanish royalty. Visit its impressive rooms, full of history and art, and tour its beautiful gardens.

Free cancellation : up to 24 hours in advance.

Days of the excursion: From April to September: Wednesday and Saturday

Duration: 4 hours

Time: Afternoon

Avila and Segovia Day Trip

Discover the main monuments of these two cities declared World Heritage: the medieval walls of Avila and the Alcazar, cathedral and Roman aqueduct of Segovia and landmarks.

Days of the excursion: From April to October: Daily. From November to March: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Duration: 9 hours

Time: Full day

Avila and Segovia Monument Excursion

Discover the most important monuments of these two cities declared World Heritage by Unesco.

Days of the trip: From April to October: Every day. From November to March: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday

Duration: 8 hours

El Escorial and Valle de los Caídos (AM) + Toledo (PM) Day Trip

Combine two excursions in a day and save. Discover three of the most important and spectacular places of the Spanish heritage.

Days of the tour: From Tuesday to Sunday

Duration: 10 hours

Accessibility: Toledo not suitable for people with limited mobility.

El Escorial and Valle de los Caídos Tour

Days of the excursion: Tuesday to Sunday

Duration: 5 hours

Time: Morning

Hop-On Hop-Off Madrid Bus

Tour Madrid's most typical corners, main monuments, best-known plazas and parks, most relevant museums and most commercial areas.

Free cancellation : Up to 24 hours in advance. Voucher : Printed ticket

Departure time:  9:00 h – 22:00 h from March to October and from 10:00 h – 18:00 h from November to February.

Frequency: 7-15 minutes approx.

Duration: 65 minutes route 2 and 80 minutos la route 1.

Departure and arrival point: hop on and off at anyone of the 37 available stops.

Night Walking Tour to Madrid´s Old Centre

Meet on this guided tour at night the charm and magic of the squares, buildings, streets and historic shops of Habsburg Madrid.

Days of the tour: Tuesdays and Thursdays

Duration: 2,5 hours

Time: Evening

Prado Museum Guided Tour - Avoid Queues

Explore the Prado Museum, Spain’s great treasure-trove of art. Enjoy a selection of the greatest masterpieces that are kept in this great Madrid gallery, one of the most important in the entire world.

Days of the visit: Morning Tour: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Afternoon Tour from November to March:  Tuesday, Thusrday and Saturday

Duration: 2 hours

Time: Morning and Afternoon

Prado Museum and Royal Palace Tours

Get to know the Prado Museum, one of the most important galleries in the world and the Palacio Real,  the largest in Western Europe.

Days of the visits: From March to October: from Monday to Saturday. From November to March: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Prado and Reina Sofia Museums - Guided Tours

Visit the Reina Sofia and Prado museums with our expert guide and without queues. Discover the pictures, art and history from the XV century up to the present day.

Days of the visits: Monday, Wesdnesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday

Royal Palace Guided Tour - Avoid Queues

Discover the immense heritage of this historic and residence inhabited by the Spanish royal family until 1931, and avoid long queues at the entrance.

Days of the visit: Daily

Duration: 1,5 hours

Salamanca and Avila Day Trip

Get to know two historic cities declared World Heritage Sites. Visit the cathedral, the main square, the university in Salamanca and the wall of Avila and other places of interest.

Days of the excursion: Wednesdays and Saturdays

Duration: 11 hours

Sightseeing Bus Tour

In a comfortable fashion and in less than three hours, discover the Spanish capital’s most important monuments, buildings, streets, places and areas on this guided bus tour. .

Days of the tour: Daily

Duration: 3 hours

Sightseeing in Madrid + Prado Museum Tours

From a comfortable bus, get to know Madrid’s most emblematic places, travel to some of its most celebrated sights and visit one of the world’s most important galleries, the Prado Museum.

Days of the tours: From April to October: Daily. From November to March: Wednesdays.

Duration: 4 hours and 30 minutes

Sightseeing in Madrid + Royal Palace Tours

From the comfort of a bus, discover Madrid’s most emblematic places, travel to some of its best-known areas and visit the impressive Palacio Real, all in one excursion.

Days of the tours: Daily

Sightseeing in Madrid and Santiago Bernabeu Tour

Discover Madrid on a bus tour that takes you to the capital’s most emblematic places, and visit the Santiago Bernabeu stadium and museum.

Duration: 3 hours and Bernabeu Tour on your own

Special Toledo Excursion (mornings)

Tour Toledo on foot on a route that will take us to the most important places in this city, and visit the most important temples of the three religions that co-existed in harmony during the 16th century.

Accessibility: Not suitable for people with limited mobility.

Special Toledo Tour (AM) + Royal Palace of Aranjuez (PM)

Combine two excursions in one day and save. Visit two historic, impressive and must-see places close to Madrid. 

Days of the tours: From April to October: Wednesday and Saturday

Accessibility: Excursion not suitable for people with limited mobility.

Toledo Tour (Half day)

Discover in this excursion the ancient capital of Spain until 1561 and enjoy discovering places that have hardly changed since the 16th century

Days of the excursion: Daily

Toledo and Segovia Day Trip

These former capitals of Spain will give you the opportunity to discover two of the most beautiful cities of the country, both of which are World Heritage Sites.

Toledo and Segovia Excursion (Day 1) + Royal Palace of Madrid Tour (Day 2)

Combine these excursions into a single booking and save money.

Days of the tour: From April to October: Daily. From November to March: Monday, Wednesday and Friday

Accessibility: Toledo is not suitable for people with limited mobility.

Places to visit

Madrid city tours

Find out about excursions in Madrid consisting of walkings tours, bus tours and day trips from Madrid to its surroundings to marvel at all of the tourist attractions that the Spanish capital offers you. So that you don’t get lost, consult all of our suggestions and sign up for those that seem most interesting to you.

In our catalogue of touristic itineraries, we have walking tours through the capital’s most charismatic places or guided tours of various monuments and places so that you can get to know them in-depth.

If you prefer, you can also embark on our bus tours, going in a quick and pleasant way from one point to another, without losing time traversing large areas on foot or waiting for public transport. And also on our bus routes, you can count on the presence of an expert guide to give you interesting information about the places that you visit and to provide advice about making the most of your stay in Madrid.

Any of our guided excursions will show you all that you wish to see in Madrid. Of course you will visit and experience must-see places, like the constant vitality of the Puerta del Sol , the history of the Plaza Mayor , the artistic wealth of the Royal Palace or the masterpieces held within the city’s grandest museums.

We have created a catalogue of the excursions that we’ve made available to you. You have the option of visiting parks where nature and history combine, as is the case with Retiro Park , or places especially cherished by the people of Madrid, like the enormous Plaza de Colon or the venerated Puerta de Alcalá (Alcala Gate).

Our itineraries bring you to the Teatro Real (Royal Theatre), the Almudena Cathedral , the Debod Temple or the popular plazas of the gods Neptun0  and C ibeles. And logically, on the tours that we offer can also show you the scenes most followed by fans of Madrid. That is to say, we have tours in which you can discover complexes like Plaza de toros de Las Ventas (Las Ventas bullring) or the stadiums of the most popular football teams in the city.

In the end, the option of choosing any of our tours, be they thematic or generic, walking or by bus, is the best experience for going to the large number of tourist attractions in the city. Our experience allows us to design itineraries especially conceived to be pleasant, interesting and of course a joy, as well as not too tiring.

But there are many other things to do and see in Madrid , such as getting to know the surroundings of the city.

Day Trips from Madrid

Signing up for tours from Madrid through the surroundings of the Spanish capital is an excellent option for making the most of your holiday in the city. We offer you the possibility to go on our trips, which include excursions to places near the capital, treasures like Toledo, Aranjuez , Avila , Segovia , Salamanca , El Escorial or the Valley of the Fallen .

Get the prices of each one of these excursions, which are always done in comfortable buses for short journeys on the road. We will clearly show you the schedule of each of our itineraries and of the places to which we’ll have to take the bus. From there, we will enjoy a day discovering the charms of Madrid’s surroundings, thanks to the presence of our guide, who will accompany you both at the destination of each trip and on the journey there.

Why should you embark on any of our trips to the outskirts of Madrid? It’s very simple: there’s much to see and our tours will definitely surprise you.

All of our tours take place during one day. Throughout the day, sufficient time is available to tour places quite different from the capital, like Avila or Segovia . The first is famous for its long medieval walls and the Santa Teresa de Jesus. And the second is world-famous for its Roman aqueduct and the spectacular Alcazar.

Another interesting destination for a trip from Madrid is the city of Toledo . This city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s worth going on the peaceful guided tour that we offer you through its streets and to its monuments. It’s the best way to discover the City of Three Cultures.

The attractive places to see on a day excursion don’t stop there. It’s also possible to go to two quite distinct places that embody the far-off and more recent histories of Spain. Guided tours to Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial and to the Valle de los Caidos ( Valley of the Fallen ) are also available.

And equally interesting is to go on a trip to Aranjuez in order to see the palaces, museum and gardens in this beautiful town, located very close to the capital and thus easy to go to on a day trip from Madrid.

That’s to say, we offer various destinations for these trips, which always include a guided tour to the most attractive and unforgettable places to see during your holiday in Madrid.

The BEST Madrid Tours

Book tours of madrid and the ancient cities like segovia and toledo.

Are you looking to explore the best of the Spanish Capital? Take in the expansive collection of Spanish art in the Prado Museum with expert art historian guides. Enjoy delicious tapas, observe the grandeur of the Royal Palace, or take a day trip to Segovia or Toledo. With our skip the line access, top guides, and local knowledge; see Madrid in style

14 Tours Found

Price - Lowest First

Price - Highest First

Most reviewed

Most Popular

Prado Museum Art Tour with Skip the Line Entry

Dive into Spain’s largest art collection with an expert guide to explore El Greco, Goya, and more!

Toledo, Avila, and Segovia Day Trip from Madrid

Explore Toledo’s cathedral, Avila’s Roman walls, and Segovia’s Alcazar in a day, with Iberian lunch

Royal Palace of Madrid Tour with Flamenco Show and Dinner

See the famous palace with skip-the-line entry before tapas dinner and dancing at the iconic Tablao

Madrid Local Tapas Tour with Rooftop Experience

Indulge in delicious Spanish specialties and perfectly paired local wines on this culinary adventure

Half-Day in Madrid with Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and Tapas

Skip the line at the opulent palace, explore the scenic park, and taste local Spanish specialties

Madrid City Tour by Electric Tuk Tuk

Ride through Madrid with a local driver-guide and see landmarks from the Royal Palace to the Prado

Toledo and Segovia Full Day Tour from Madrid

Walk across Bridge of San Martin, ponder impressive Aqueduct, and more during two guide-led city tou

Segovia Day Trip from Madrid with Hot Air Balloon Ride

See historic Segovia from above before exploring the Roman aqueduct and Alcázar Castle on foot

El Escorial, Valle de los Caídos & Segovia Day Trip

Explore the historic Roman aqueducts and medieval castle of Alcazar before your suckling pig lunch

Scenic Madrid Half-Day Electric Bike Tour

See Madrid's stunning parks and pass by the Royal Palace, Teatro Real, and Prado Museum

Madrid Segway Wine and Tapas Tour

Ride a Segway through the stunning streets of Madrid while stopping for delicious tapas and wine!

Half-Day Toledo City Tour with Winery Visit from Madrid

From Madrid, explore the City of Three Cultures alongside an expert guide and sample 3 select wines

Skip the Line Royal Palace Tour in Madrid

Discover the Throne Room, Banquet Hall, Private Royal Apartments, and more alongside an expert guide

Madrid in a Day with Prado Museum and Royal Palace

Discover the hidden gems of the Spanish capital with skip-the-line tickets to the main attractions

Things to do in Spain

Madrid Tours | Barcelona Tours | Day Trips from Barcelona | Granada Tours | Montserrat Tours & Day Trips | Sagrada Familiar Tours | Alhambra Tours | Prado Museum Tours | Sevilla Tours | Toldeo Tours & Day Trips | Royal Palace of Madrid Tours & Tickets | Food Tours in Barcelona | Segovia Tours | Day Trips to Segovia from Madrid | Park Guell Tours | Casa Batlo Tours | Boat Tours in Barcelona

OUR BEST SELLING TOURS AT A GLANCE

Most Popular Tours

Ultimate palace of versailles tour from paris.

Breeze past the lines for the palace and gardens with a friendly English speaking guide

Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Skip the line and gain direct access to the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, and St. Peter's Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Half-Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Explore St. Mark's Square's most iconic attractions with skip-the-line tickets and an expert guide

Semi-Private Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Enjoy a premium and exclusive tour of the Raphael Rooms, St.Peter's Basilica, and more!

Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!

Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

Do more in a day: St. Mark's, Doge's Palace, glassblowing and lacemaking demos, and a gondola ride

Venice in a Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Visit St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, Rialto Bridge, and the hidden areas of Venice

Subscribe for New tours

All our destinations.

Madrid   Travel Guide

Courtesy of pvicens | Getty Images

23 Top-Rated Things to Do in Madrid

The Spanish capital has its own brand of hustle and bustle, providing visitors with an authentic experience across an urban landscape of green spaces and fortress-palaces. Madrid can be enjoyed across tastes and budgets, whether it's dining at

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro) free

To the east of central Madrid,  Parque del Buen Retiro (El Retiro Park) can be translated as "Garden of the Pleasant Retreat," and that's what it is – a sprawling swath of lush greenery filled with formal gardens, lakes, cafes, playgrounds and more. This 300-acre park previously housed Felipe IV's palace and gardens, and wasn't open to the public until the late 19th century. In 2021, it was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site along with Paseo del Prado as "a landscape of arts and sciences."

Today, you can still rent a rowboat before heading to the  Palacio de Cristal  (Crystal Palace), which holds regular art exhibitions. You can also stop and smell the roses in the  Rosaleda (Rose Garden), which boasts more than 4,000 roses; May and June are the best months to see them in full bloom. Plus, for those traveling with little ones, the Teatro de Titeres hosts puppet shows most weekends. To the south lies a fountain where uncannily, the angel Lucifer stands before his fall from grace. Madrileños claim that the Ángel Caído (Fallen Angel) statue is the only one in the world depicting the Prince of Darkness before his transformation.

Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado) Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Paseo del Arte Pass allows you to visit the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen- Bornemisza museums for 32 euros (about $35), saving 20% of the three tickets' combined prices. You can buy it online or at any of the three museums and it's valid for one year. – Julienne C. Raboca

One of Madrid's most famous museums, the elegant Museo Nacional del Prado, is consistently touted by travelers as a must-see. Opened in 1819 at the encouragement of Queen Maria Isabel de Braganza (King Ferdinand VII's wife), the museum contains more than 7,600 paintings and 1,000 sculptures featuring Spanish, Italian and Flemish styles of art. Among the most famous works featured include Velazquez's "Las Meninas," Bosch's "The Garden of Earthly Delights”, and El Greco's "The Nobleman with his hand on his Chest." Travelers note that sometimes it can be difficult to get close to the most famous paintings, recommending that visitors come during off-peak hours for the best chance of seeing these works without hordes of others.

Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real) Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Time your visit with the changing of the guard ceremony on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Every first Wednesday of most months, the Solemn Changing of the Guard is staged by 400 people and 100 horses as it was done in the 19th century. – Julienne C. Raboca

One of the largest palaces in the world, this royal residence housed the kings of Spain from the mid-1700s to the early 1900s. Although the royal family does not currently live in the palace, it is still considered their official residence. It is also thought to be the largest royal palace in Western Europe with a total of 3,418 rooms, only some of which are open to the public, including the popular armory room and royal pharmacy.

Popular Tours

Three Cities in One Day: Segovia, Avila & Toledo from Madrid

(2785 reviews)

from $ 131.15

Welcome Tour to Madrid in Private Eco Tuk Tuk

(1504 reviews)

from $ 48.64

Avila & Segovia Tour with Tickets to Monuments from Madrid

(4948 reviews)

from $ 84.16

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum

The Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is named for the family from which the collection was acquired by the Spanish state in 1993. Housed in the intimate Villahermosa Palace, the museum has nearly 1,000 works of art gathered from the 1920s to the 1980s by a Swiss baron and his father. Before being persuaded by his Spanish wife to accept her country's $350 million offer, Thyssen was reportedly courted by heads of state for the $2 billion private collection, which at the time was surpassed only by that of Queen Elizabeth II's. The collection traces the history of Western art with examples from every important movement, from German Expressionism to Russian Constructivism and 19th-century American art. Artists featured include Dürer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Gogh and more. 

Recent visitors offer rave reviews of Thyssen-Bornemisza, praising its easily navigable layout, as well as the all-encompassing history of Western European art presented in the buildings. Travelers also commend the museum's gallery cafe for lunch. Mixed opinions were offered on which museum was superior – this one or the Prado – but many noted a more pleasant experience at Thyssen-Bornemisza due to fewer crowds, friendly staff and better natural light from which to see the more colorful artwork.

Gran Vía Gran Vía free

Madrid's bustling Gran Vía is at the heart of the city, a prime spot for shoppers and architecture buffs. Built in the early 1900s in an effort to decongest the city, Gran Vía spans nearly a mile and is packed with shops and restaurants. The avenue was home to Spain's first skyscrapers and marked the beginning of modernization in Madrid. Try a traditional bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich), buy a new outfit from the five-story Primark flagship store or catch a show at Teatro Lope de Vega. 

Start your journey where the street intersects Calle de Alcalá. There you'll find Círculo de Bellas Artes, a cultural center best known for its sweeping rooftop views. You'll have to pay 5 euros (about $5.35) to get to the top, but once there, you can enjoy a drink while soaking in the sunset. From this viewpoint, you can't miss the iconic Metrópolis Building presiding over the beginning of Gran Vía with a dome on which a winged Victoria statue rises. You may have to wait in line, but previous visitors agreed the views are worth it.

Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a breather from all the walking at Hammam Al Ándalus, an Arabic-style bathhouse a few steps from Plaza Mayor where you can dip into pools of varying temperatures, book a massage or get stretched on a hot stone bed. –  Julienne C. Raboca

This square, located in the heart of Madrid, is more a must-experience attraction than a must-see one. Surrounded by cafes and bars, Plaza Mayor practically begs passersby to take a seat, order a coffee or glass of wine (depending on the time of day) and people-watch. Not only do throngs of tourists pass through, but multiple street performers plant their feet here to entertain. The square starts getting busy around 2 p.m. and will grow increasingly lively as night falls.

Mercado de San Miguel Mercado de San Miguel free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For alternatives to the upmarket Mercado de San Miguel, visit Mercado San Antón or Mercado de San Ildefonso. These innovative food markets are popular social spaces in Madrid's Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods. – Julienne C. Raboca

Mercado de San Miguel, a market built of beautifully ornate glass and cast iron, is a popular stop for tourists to Madrid, especially since it is located right outside of Plaza Mayor . Opened in May 1916 as a local food market, Mercado de San Miguel became the city's first gourmet market in 2009. Here, visitors can purchase wine, grab a cocktail, juice or coffee, snack on a variety of ready-to-eat tapas, or pick up ingredients for lunch or dinner from the fruit, seafood and meat stalls. San Miguel Market's most famous stands include Michelin-starred chef Jordi Roca's homemade and natural ice creams at Rocambolesc, and the traditional tapas at Madrí by Arzabal.

Lavapiés Lavapiés free

The neighborhood of Lavapiés boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is believed that Lavapiés was once the Jewish neighborhood of Madrid, with remnants of a Jewish cemetery on Salitre Street. After 1492, the area continued to attract waves of immigrants, becoming a popular district known for its corralas , small affordable houses that accommodated new residents. Today, Lavapiés showcases architectural gems, such as the Corrala de Sombrerete, and is home to the largest second-hand market in Madrid, the Rastro . The neighborhood is also adorned with historic buildings, like the Pías de San Fernando Schools and the old Inquisition Prison, alongside significant cultural centers like the Reina Sofía National Museum of Contemporary Art .

Lavapiés embraces its multicultural character, reflected in its diverse festivals, international influences, and support for emerging art, exemplified by the C.A.L.L.E. urban art festival. In the second week of August, the streets are adorned to celebrate the traditional Verbena de San Lorenzo, honoring the patron saint of the basilica located in the district. Another notable event in Lavapiés is Tapapiés, a food festival that showcases tapas and music and usually takes place during the month of June.

Flamenco Show & Special Menu at Torres Bermejas in Madrid

(1371 reviews)

from $ 30.60

Madrid Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour

(2489 reviews)

from $ 87.44

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

(922 reviews)

from $ 42.63

Temple of Debod Temple of Debod free

The Temple of Debod, located in Parque de la Montaña, just behind the newly renovated Plaza de España, is a must-see attraction known for its historical significance and unique setting. Gifted to Spain from the Egyptian government, the temple dates back to the second century B.C. and was transported stone by stone to Madrid. Its preservation is a result of Spain's assistance in protecting the ancient sites of Abu Simbel from flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan Dam in Egypt. The temple's decorative motifs and projections help tell its fascinating story, and it is particularly enchanting when illuminated after sunset. Reconstructed on the hill of with its original orientation from east to west, visitors will be able to see scale models, videos and audiovisual material inside to enhance their understanding of its significance.

Reviews from travelers proffer mixed opinions. Some visitors mention long wait times to enter the temple, with only a few people allowed inside at a time. However, others acknowledge that the wait (and uphill climb) is worthwhile, admiring the hieroglyphics and mummy exhibits. Others, hesitant to endure the wait, chose to admire the temple from the outside, still appreciating the site's historical value, convivial atmosphere and beautiful views of the city. With luck, the moat around the temple will be filled with water when you go, creating a reflection pool that photographers love to capture.

Reina Sofía Museum Reina Sofía Museum

The  Museo Nacional   Centro de Arte Reina Sofía or Reina Sofia Museum is Madrid's modern, contemporary art gallery and – along with the Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza – makes up the city's "Golden Triangle of Art." The Reina Sofia displays almost 2,000 pieces from its vast collection, including art by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró. However, probably the most famous work is found on the second floor: Pablo Picasso's "Guernica" is the museum's crowning jewel.

Reina Sofia Museum's main building, in front of the Atocha train station, is composed of two connected buildings. Located on the site of the former Hospital de San Carlos, the 18th-century Sabatini Building has been declared one of Spain's Historic-Artistic Monuments of National Interest. Opened in 2005, the Nouvel Building is a contemporary annex designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, who also designed Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Barrio de Salamanca Barrio de Salamanca free

If you find yourself surrounded by designer stores and elegant restaurants, you've probably stumbled into Madrid's Salamanca neighborhood. Salamanca is one of the fanciest areas of the city, and its main streets – Calle de Serrano, Calle de Goya and Calle de Velázquez – are some of the most expensive. Often compared to New York City's Fifth Avenue or London's Bond Street, Calle Ortega y Gasset has been nicknamed the "Golden Mile" because it's studded with posh brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Cartier. The equally famous Calle de Serrano begins near the corner of Buen Retiro Park next to the Puerta de Alcalá monument and ends in Plaza de la República Argentina.

Even if you have no plans to purchase, Salamanca is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon strolling and window-shopping, according to previous visitors. There are many upscale hotels  in the area as well as unique dining experiences and museums. The National Archaeological Museum is Salamanca district's cultural gem, displaying artifacts from Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome along with a collection of Iberian sculptures. In the summer, its spacious terrace is open to enjoy.

Matadero Madrid Matadero Madrid free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Explore Madrid Río Park, a recreational area along the Manzanares River that has transformed this part of the city. Hop on a bicycle and discover the revitalized riverside admiring the newly built Arganzuela and Perrault bridges. – Julienne C. Raboca

What was once an old slaughterhouse is now a hub of art and culture in Madrid's Arganzuela neighborhood. Along the banks of Manzanares River, Matadero Madrid offers travelers a chance to see many creative facets of the city all in one place, including a theater complex, a film archive, citizens' laboratory and two restaurants.

Malasaña Malasaña free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Discover the hidden gem of Iglesia de los Alemanes. This Baroque church, founded by Felipe III in the 17th century, is like a lesser-known Sistine Chapel . Admire its unique elliptical design and breathtaking frescoes; guided tours are available. – Julienne C. Raboca

Malasaña, a vibrant district in Madrid, is bordered by Gran Vía , Calle Fuencarral, Calle Carranza, and Calle de San Bernardo. Named after Manuela Malasaña, a key figure in the events of the Dos de Mayo Uprising in 1808, the district holds historical significance. Plaza del Dos de Mayo, located at the heart of Malasaña, commemorates the rebellion against Napoleon's occupation and pays tribute to brave captains Luis Daoíz and Pedro Velarde.

Toledo Tour with Cathedral, Synagoge & St Tome Church from Madrid

(3878 reviews)

from $ 98.37

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

(2405 reviews)

from $ 45.90

Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with Bottomless Wine Pairing

(574 reviews)

from $ 114.76

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu) Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (Estadio Santiago Bernabéu)

The Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, located north of central Madrid, is the city's main  fútbol  (soccer) stadium and the domain of the world's most successful club: Real Madrid. It was named after the legendary Madrid manager, who presided over the club for 35 years. After its opening in 1947, the stadium was completely refurbished leading up to the 1982 World Cup, which it hosted.  Fútbol  is an integral part of Spanish life, and the stadium's sheer size is an example of this (it can accommodate more than 80,000 fans).

In 2019, Real Madrid began remodeling Santiago Bernabéu. Among its new features are a retractable roof and a removable pitch that can be reassembled, which allows the stadium to be used for other events like concerts, conventions and other sports.

Casa de Campo Casa de Campo free

While Buen Retiro Park may be more famous, Casa de Campo is Madrid's largest public park and boasts almost 7 square miles of natural space. Originally used as hunting ground by the Spanish royal family, it was opened to the public in the 1930s and is now loved by outdoor enthusiasts as a more natural escape compared to the manicured lawns of El Retiro.

Many people enjoy simply strolling around the park or having picnics on the grass, but there are also plenty of activities in the sprawling grounds. In the southeast corner of Casa de Campo, there's a large lake with boat and kayak rentals available. When you work up an appetite from boating, there are restaurants located around the lake. The park also features a large outdoor pool perfect if you need to escape Spain's summer heat.

Sample tapas in Barrio de La Latina Sample tapas in Barrio de La Latina

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Immerse yourself in the tradition of Galician-inspired pintxos and beer by visiting La Latina's top restaurants. Sample  carrilleras  (beef cheeks) at La Musa Latina near Basilica de San Miguel, or freshly-made Spanish-style brie tortillas and craft beer at Pez Tortilla. –  Julienne C. Raboca

Famous for its tapas scene, Barrio de La Latina is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Madrid that offers a mix of history, tapas culture and lively atmosphere. With its narrow, winding streets dating back to the Middle Ages, this small area packs a punch when it comes to experiencing the city's essence. The neighborhood gets its name from Beatriz Galindo, a renowned writer and humanist known as "La Latina" due to her grasp of the Latin language. The area is steeped in history, with buildings that reflect its medieval origins. Plaza de la Cebada (Barley Square) and Plaza de la Paja (Straw Square), once bustling markets, still bear witness to the neighborhood's commercial heritage.

Gateway of the Sun (Puerta del Sol) Gateway of the Sun (Puerta del Sol) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On a cooler day, head to one of the city's most historic restaurants, Lhardy. The place will take you back in time with its elegant decor; try Madrid's best cocido madrileño , a traditional stew of chickpeas, vegetables, pork and lamb. – Julienne C. Raboca

The true center of Madrid, Puerta del Sol has been the heart of Madrid since the 17th century. During King Felipe V’s reign in the early 18th century, six roads were built from the city, referenced by a brass plaque on the south side of Sol. The plaza's most recognizable feature is thus called "kilometer zero," the point from which all distances in Spain are measured. The renowned plaque is undergoing a 21st-century visual update, replacing its square tile with a compass rose design featuring metallic embellishments and border indications pointing toward major Spanish cities.

Segovia Segovia free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent bicycles from Segovia's Plaza Mayor to discover the city's green belt or to visit the small market that sets up on the square every Thursday morning. – Julienne C. Raboca

Accessible via an approximately 30-minute high-speed train ride is the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Segovia – a perfect daytrip from Madrid. The city's star attraction is the remarkably preserved Roman aqueduct, a stunning architectural feat dating back to A.D. 50. Explore the historic center, which showcases impressive landmarks like the Alcázar fortress, a 16th-century Gothic cathedral and several Romanesque churches. Wander through Plaza del Azoguejo to marvel at the aqueduct's majestic tiers of arches, and don't miss the chance to climb the tower of the Alcázar for breathtaking views; this 11th-century royal palace is rumored to have inspired Walt Disney's Cinderella castle. Charming restaurants near Plaza Mayor offer local specialties like roast suckling pig ( cochinillo ) or milk-fed lamb ( lechazo ). Segovia is also home to a green belt that will lead you to a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverbank. To learn more, stop by the visitor center, which offers guided tours and night walks to uncover Segovia's legends.

Madrid: Royal Palace Tour with Optional Royal Collections

(584 reviews)

from $ 38.25

Royal Palace of Madrid Small Group Skip the Line Ticket

(178 reviews)

from $ 53.56

Essential Flamenco: Pure Flamenco Show in the Heart of Madrid

(735 reviews)

Plaza de Cibeles (Cibeles Plaza) Plaza de Cibeles (Cibeles Plaza) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're in Madrid for the holidays and want to get into the winter wonderland spirit, head to the palace's magical Glass Gallery, which transforms into a 3,200-square-foot ice rink from December to January. – Julienne C. Raboca

Cibeles Plaza together with Cibeles Palace are in the heart of Madrid's tourist map. Declared a Cultural Heritage Monument in 1993, Palacio de Cibeles (or Cibeles Palace) was formerly the city's main post office, but now serves as Madrid's City Hall. Located at the intersection of Calle de Alcalá (which leads into Sol ) and adjacent to Paseo del Prado/Paseo de Recoletos, Plaza de Cibeles draws tourists for its stunning architecture. The plaza's fountain features the Roman goddess Cybele ("the Great Mother"), who represents fertility, driven in a chariot being pulled by two lions. The goddess has unofficially been adopted by the city's fútbol (soccer) team, Real Madrid. When Real Madrid, or the Spanish national team, win a title, the city holds a parade that ends in Plaza de Cibeles with one of the players fastening the team's flag to the goddess.

Take a daytrip to Toledo Take a daytrip to Toledo

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a breath of fresh air, hike the 4.4-mile El Tajo trail. It will take around two hours to complete this moderately challenging route, but it offers mountain views, historical landmarks, the Alcántara Bridge and panoramic vistas of Toledo along the Tagus River. – Julienne C. Raboca

Once you've soaked up Madrid's sights, consider escaping the bustling city with a daytrip to nearby Toledo. It takes just 30 minutes by train to reach the "City of Three Cultures" from downtown Madrid, and it's a worthwhile visit for anyone looking for history, world-renowned architecture or riverside hikes with views of heritage sites.

Catch a flamenco performance Catch a flamenco performance

An art form born in Andalucía around the 15th century, flamenco expresses the emotions of life through dance, guitar-playing and song. The rhythm of this classic Spanish dance pulses through the streets of Madrid and provides great entertainment for tourists and locals alike. Although flamenco originated in southern Spain, dancers from far and wide come to the capital city to showcase their talents. When you're visiting Madrid, you would be remiss if you didn't set aside time for a flamenco show.

The toughest part is deciding which Madrid tablao – or flamenco venue – to choose for your flamenco experience. The city is home to one of the oldest and most famous flamenco houses in the world, Corral de la Morería, which has held shows at its city center location since 1956. It's highly regarded as the best place to watch performances, and it's not rare to see celebrities, politicians and even the king of Spain in the audience. What's more, it's home to a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Chocolatería San Ginés Chocolatería San Ginés

Chocolatería San Ginés, located in a passageway within walking distance of Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol , is a renowned chocolate shop that has been serving hot chocolate with churros since its establishment in 1894. Steeped in history, it offers a glimpse into the tradition of enjoying chocolate as a restorative drink, a custom that dates back to the discovery of cacao in America. In the past, street chocolatiers in Madrid sold this beloved beverage, particularly in Puerta del Sol, where late-night revelers and early morning walkers would partake in hot chocolate to ward off the chill. Chocolatería San Ginés preserves this culinary heritage and continues to entice visitors with its delightful combination of crispy churros and rich hot chocolate.

Travelers' reviews of Chocolatería San Ginés highlight its popularity, which often leads to queues. However, visitors are impressed by the efficient and speedy service despite the crowd. The quality of the chocolate and churros receives praise, even from those who aren't typically chocolate lovers. The suggestion to try the fresh Spanish orange juice is also a recurring recommendation. While the seating inside the shop can be tight, many suggest opting for a takeaway order to enjoy the experience outside. During peak times, such as summer, visitors may need to wait for 15 to 20 minutes to secure a table to dining inside.

El Rastro Market El Rastro Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Head to nearby San Fernando Market for lunch afterward. The newly refurbished, covered market has craft beer and authentic Latin American eats alongside an excellent vermouth stall and the unique La Casquería, a bookstore selling books by weight.  – Julienne C. Raboca

Exit the La Latina metro station on a Sunday and wander down Calle de las Maldonadas to one of Spain's most popular open-air flea markets, El Rastro. Dating back to the 15th century, the market starts at Plaza de Cascorro and is primarily concentrated on Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, ending at Ronda de Toledo. The streets, also including Calle San Cayetano, are lined with hundreds of merchants selling everything from leather goods and ceramics to art and antiques and even everyday household items.

Prado Museum Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket

(1146 reviews)

from $ 59.68

Madrid City Tour Hop-On Hop-Off

(2780 reviews)

from $ 27.32

Toledo City Tour, Winery Experience & Wine Tasting from Madrid

(1375 reviews)

from $ 109.29

Things to Do in Madrid FAQs

Explore more of madrid, best hotels.

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Best Madrid Tour Companies

Search 59 Madrid tour operators and travel companies, with 813 reviews.

Health Safety +

Featured Madrid Trips

Intrepid Travel

Iberian Escapes

Health Safety

Planet Rail

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

Interrailing Packages

Eat Northern Spain

Sagres Vacations

Expat Explore

Studytrip.com

Venez Discover

Under30Experiences

AMA Waterways

Best Single Travel

EF College Break (EF Ultimate Break)

APT Touring

59 match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

View Madrid trips

Plan your Madrid trip

Madrid Reviews & Ratings

I enjoy intrepid but the style of.

I enjoy intrepid but the style of travel doesn't suit everyone.

Good size group, great tour leader (on

Good size group, great tour leader (on this occasion), pretty good value for money on the whole.

good balance of guidance and free time

Inexperienced leadership resulting in some wasted time.

Inexperienced leadership resulting in some wasted time. Too much time traveling in buses and small vans. Our leader was not confident in communicating information to...

Very knowledgeable, competent, personable guide. Fun and

Very knowledgeable, competent, personable guide. Fun a...

See all Madrid reviews

Related Trips and Tours

Trip planning.

The 11 best things to do in Madrid in 2024

Feb 10, 2024 • 7 min read

From traditional tapas bars to frenzied flamenco shows, Madrid has so much to offer © RgStudio / Getty Images

The Spanish capital is a cultural and social behemoth that attracts visitors from around the world and they keep coming back for more. Madrid has something to tempt every traveler and will have many of them dancing until sunrise thanks to its thriving nightlife.

With architectural wonders, world-class gastronomy, famed art museums and even an Egyptian temple within the city limits, Madrid offers sights and attractions to satisfy all visitors. Here are 11 experiences not to be missed when you get there.

1. Visit the Golden Triangle of Art

Madrid’s "Golden Triangle of Art" consists of three renowned museums, the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which are home to some of the world’s most valuable art collections. Even if you’re not typically the gallery type, a stop at one of these venues is an essential Madrid experience.

The Prado houses several masterpieces by Spanish artists Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya and Francisco Zurbarán. Arguably the most famous work people flock to see is Velázquez’s Las Meninas , an oil on canvas considered among the most important paintings in Western art.

The Reina Sofía is the Spanish national museum dedicated to 20th-century art, exhibiting impressive collections of Surrealist and Cubist masters Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso, including Picasso’s huge anti-war oil painting Guernica .

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza , once the private art collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza and his son Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza, showcases nearly 1000 paintings of the world’s most celebrated European and American artists from the 13th to the 20th centuries. It’s a real feast for art fans.

2. Get a taste of Spain on a traditional tapas crawl

Tapas hopping, or ir de tapas , is a national pastime and a satisfying prelude to dinner, which in Spain is typically eaten between 9pm and midnight. A tapa is a small plate of food usually paired with a glass of wine, caña  (a small glass of beer) or vermút , Madrid’s popular aperitif. 

You can join locals after work any day of the week, hopping from one tapas bar to the next to sample a selection of Iberian hams, charcuterie and cheeses.

Planning tip: Sunday afternoons are the best time to visit Cava Baja, a popular street in the historic La Latina neighborhood with vibrant little bars, taverns and restaurants that are perfect for a laid-back tapas crawl.

3. Shop at El Rastro flea market 

Every Sunday and on public holidays, you can take part in a 400-year-old shopping tradition at  El Rastro flea market . Open from 9am to 3pm, El Rastro stretches along the La Latina neighborhood’s Plaza de Cascorro, La Ribera de Curtidores and Ronda de Toledo and features a labyrinth of open-air stalls peddling clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, antiques and all the bric-a-brac you can imagine. 

Planning tip: Many of the vendors only accept efectivo  (cash). Get some cash out before heading to the market or you’ll be left hunting for an elusive ATM.

4. Follow Hemingway’s footsteps

"Hemingway did not drink here" is a popular joke written on signs hanging in some Madrid establishments. It’s no secret that the American literary giant, fondly called "Don Ernesto," was Madrid’s adopted sybarite who loved to drink, eat, write and watch bullfights while he was covering the Spanish Civil War as a foreign journalist. 

Fans of Hemingway can retrace his footsteps and enjoy some of his favorite haunts that still exist today, including Restaurante Botín , the world’s oldest restaurant, which houses a 16th-century cellar cradling dust-covered wine bottles.

Hemingway also used to frequent La Venencia , a dimly lit sherry bar that is virtually frozen in time with its massive molasses-stained wooden barrels, antique cash register and fading sepia-hued posters.

Planning tip: Don’t bother whipping out your phone to take some pictures at La Venencia – snapping photos is still strictly prohibited, just as it was in the 1930s when the bar was wary of fascist spies.

5. Watch a flamenco show

While Andalucía in southern Spain is the birthplace of flamenco, you don’t need to venture far from Madrid to watch live shows of the Spanish dance. Dinner, tapas and drinks are usually served during the performance, providing a full evening’s entertainment.

You can watch the frenetic spectacle in big touristy venues such as Cardamomo and Teatro Flamenco or smaller cozy venues like Las Tablas , which make up for their size with the big flamenco artists they attract.

Planning tip: For a truly luxurious experience, the Corral de la Moreria is an intimate space that also features a Michelin-starred restaurant.

6. Explore Retiro Park

Parque del Buen Retiro , Madrid’s most famous park, is an expansive 118-hectare (292-acre) area that was once reserved for Spanish royalty and aristocracy until it was opened to the public at the end of the 19th century. "El Retiro" is adorned with ornate fountains, statues of Spanish writers and heroes, gazebos and open-air cafes.

Different areas of the park reveal various landscaping styles, from French-inspired manicured lawns to craggy tree-lined pathways and the romantic La Rosaleda  rose garden with more than 4000 roses that are in full bloom in May and June.

The park's grounds have several landmarks, including the grand Monument to Alfonso XII depicting the former Spanish king atop his horse, the  "Fallen Angel" statue  (one of the only public statues of Lucifer in the world) and the oldest tree in Madrid, planted in 1633.

Planning tip: Don’t miss Palacio de Cristal , an architectural marvel of iron and glass that occasionally hosts events and reflects magnificently on the waters of the surrounding lake.

7. Stand in the center of Spain

Translated to "Gate of the Sun," Puerta del Sol  is Madrid’s busy central public square and main crossroads. A clock sits atop the plaza’s main building, the old Casa de Correos  – now the headquarters of the Madrid regional government – and every New Year’s Eve, thousands of revelers gather here to eat the traditional 12 grapes right before the clock strikes midnight. 

All roads (quite literally) lead to Sol, as it is the symbolic center of Spain, marked by the Kilometer Zero plaque at the footstep of the Casa de Correos. At the plaza’s center is the equestrian statue of King Charles III, though his popularity is overshadowed by a more famous character on the east side of the square – the Bear by the Madroño tree sculpture that represents Madrid’s coat of arms.

8. Tour Madrid’s iconic soccer stadiums

Spain is a soccer powerhouse, with its international teams winning both the World Cup and European Championships and its regional teams dominating European football.

Madrid has two teams, and soccer fans can enjoy a tour around both world-renowned stadiums – the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu  for Real Madrid and the Wanda Metropolitano for Atlético de Madrid. Guided tours of the museums display the teams’ trophies, jerseys throughout the years and memorabilia narrating their long, illustrious histories.

9. Pull up a chair in Plaza Mayor

At the heart of old Madrid, the beautiful, expansive Plaza Mayor  has been the stage for everything from royal crowning ceremonies and soccer games to outdoor markets, bullfights and public executions during the Spanish Inquisition. 

Today, 237 balconies peer out from a three-story residential compound embracing the plaza. While it’s easy to get distracted by the buskers, it’s worth taking a seat at one of the buzzing (albeit overpriced) cafes and taking time to admire the magnificent frescoes painted between the balconies.

Planning tip: The square also plays host to the city’s annual Christmas market, which has taken place since 1860.

10. Wander through an Egyptian temple 

Few people know that Madrid is home to an ancient Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BCE. Dedicated to the goddess Isis and the god Amun,  Templo de Debod was the Egyptian government’s token of gratitude to Spain for helping restore the temples of Abu Simbel in southern Egypt. Templo de Debod was transported and rebuilt stone by stone, opening to the public in 1972 in Madrid’s Cuartel de la Montaña Park, near Plaza España . 

Planning tip: The temple boasts some of the best panoramic views of western Madrid, particularly at sunset when the walls reflect off the surrounding pools, making for incredible photos.

11. See the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace of Madrid

Although you won’t find the Spanish king and queen living in  Palacio Real  anymore, it is still the official residence of the Spanish monarchy. Inspired by the Italian sculptor Bernini’s sketches for the construction of the Louvre in Paris, the palace faces a large central courtyard and contains 3418 rooms, making it the largest functioning royal palace in Europe. 

The biweekly changing of the guard happens every Wednesday and Saturday, but the grander spectacle is the Solemn Changing of the Guard that takes place every first Wednesday of the month, showcasing a parade of horses and the Spanish Royal Guard, as performed during the time of King Alfonso XII.

This article was first published Mar 2, 2020 and updated Feb 10, 2024.

Explore related stories

Mar 7, 2024 • 10 min read

There are so many incredible experiences awaiting you in Spain. Here are some of the very best.

Sep 22, 2023 • 11 min read

Jul 21, 2022 • 9 min read

Jun 24, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 7, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 19, 2021 • 7 min read

Jul 9, 2020 • 2 min read

Sep 2, 2019 • 4 min read

May 16, 2019 • 4 min read

Oct 17, 2016 • 5 min read

Hemos recibido tu solicitud correctamente.

Recibirás un mail con el resumen de tus reservas.

¿No lo encuentras? Déjanos tu correo electrónico y te enviamos un resumen de tus reservas.

Compártelo en redes directamente con tu id y nombre de campaña

Últimas opiniones

• Free tour por el Barrio de las Letras 10,0 18/06/2024 Anónimo Zaragoza , España Viajó en pareja
• Tour por el Madrid islámico y medieval 10,0 18/06/2024 Rosario Las Palmas De Gran Canaria , España Viajó con amigos

Excursión a Toledo y Segovia

Visita guiada por el Palacio Real

Excursión a Toledo de día completo con entradas

Tour Bernabéu

Traslados en Madrid

Free tour por Madrid

Excursión a Ávila y Segovia

Visita guiada por el Museo del Prado y el Palacio Real

Excursión a Toledo de medio día

Visita guiada por el Museo del Prado

Excursión a El Escorial y Valle de los Caídos

Espectáculo flamenco en Torres Bermejas

Tour de misterios y leyendas de Madrid

Excursión a Toledo, Segovia y Ávila

Autobús turístico de Madrid

Tour privado por Madrid ¡Tú eliges!

Acompañadnos en este tour privado por Madrid  para descubrir la ciudad con un guía en exclusiva. ¡La forma más personalizada de disfrutar de la capital!

Free tour nocturno por Madrid

Excursión a Cuenca y la Ciudad Encantada

Palacio Real + Catedral de la Almudena

Las mejores excursiones, visitas guiadas y planes en madrid.

Monumentos impresionantes, espectáculos por doquier, parques de atracciones... Hay tanto que hacer en Madrid . Desde su mítica Plaza Mayor o su clásico Palacio Real hasta la modernidad de las Torres Kio, la ciudad destaca por su combinación de tradición y vanguardia. 

Son muchos los monumentos que ver en Madrid. El templo de Debod, de orígenes egipcios, la catedral de la Almudena, la Puerta del Sol, la fuente Cibeles o la Puerta de Alcalá son algunos de ellos. Asimismo, paseando por barrios como Malasaña, La Latina o Salamanca podréis descubrir las diferentes etapas y estilos arquitectónicos por los que ha pasado la ciudad.

Recorriendo Madrid con Civitatis

¿Queréis entradas al Museo del Prado ? ¿O realizar una visita guiada por el Reina Sofía para ver el Guernica de Picasso ? ¿O quizás os apetece un divertido tour en segway por El Retiro? Civitatis os ofrece las mejores actividades en Madrid para exprimir la ciudad. 

Una ciudad que es puro espectáculo

Madrid alberga algunos de los mejores tablaos de flamenco de España. Además de disfrutar de este arte tradicional, la ciudad cuenta también con numerosos teatros, destacando los que acogen los grandes musicales de la Gran Vía . 

Otras atracciones de interés en Madrid

Inicia sesión para añadir actividades a tus favoritos y acceder desde cualquier dispositivo

Este sitio está protegido por reCAPTCHA y se aplican la política de privacidad y los términos de servicio de Google.

Información básica de protección de datos

Responsable del tratamiento: CIVITATIS TOURS, S.L. (CIVITATIS). Finalidad: Prestación de los servicios solicitados; Remisión de comunicaciones comerciales sobre los productos y servicios de CIVITATIS, para lo que se podrán elaborar perfiles comerciales de nuestros clientes; Remisión de encuestas con el objeto de valorar los servicios ofrecidos y su grado de satisfacción, así como la publicación de las opiniones sobre el servicio recibido; Cumplimiento de las obligaciones de índole contable, legal, fiscal y administrativa; Publicación de las imágenes de los clientes y Tratamiento de datos para fines estadísticos. Derechos: Tiene derecho a acceder, rectificar y suprimir los datos, a la limitación de su tratamiento, a oponerse al mismo y a su portabilidad. Información Adicional: Puede consultar la información adicional sobre Protección de Datos en las Condiciones Generales de Contratación .

You Must Do This Food Tour In Madrid If You Want Local 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!

Free Email Course: Madrid Made Easy

Discover everything you need to know to plan an epic madrid getaway in our free email course.

First Name*

I want THE TIPS!

We won’t send you any spam, and you can unsubscribe at any time!

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

Paul announces Europe dates for the 2024 'Got Back' tour

⁠PAUL ANNOUNCES  GOT BACK TOUR 2024 Paul and the band will visit Paris, Madrid, Manchester and London this December TICKET INFORMATION HERE!

Wednesday 4th December - La Defense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠Thursday 5th December - La Defense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠Monday 9th December - Wizink Centre, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠Tuesday 10th December - Wizink Centre, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠Saturday 14th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠Sunday 15th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠Wednesday 18th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠Thursday 19th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK

SIGN UP TO THE PAULMcCARTNEY.COM MAILING LIST FOR AN EXCLUSIVE PRE-SALE PASSWORD

Paul will bring his acclaimed Got Back tour to Europe this December!

Fulfilling his promise to 'get back', Paul will return to France, Spain and the UK with his Got Back  tour. Earlier this month, Paul announced his first live shows of 2024 with the next leg of the tour launching in South America this October.  

With songs like ‘Hey Jude’, ‘Live and Let Die’, ‘Band on the Run’,  ‘Let It Be’ and so many more, the Paul McCartney live experience is everything any music lover could ever want from a rock show: hours of the greatest moments from the last 60 years of music – dozens of songs from Paul’s solo, Wings and of course Beatles catalogues that have formed the soundtracks of our lives.

This will mark Paul’s first European show since his iconic Glastonbury headlining performance in 2022. Hailed as “one of the greatest gigs of all time” by The Times and “a masterclass from the greatest living cultural figure in this country’s history” by The i, it was also Paul and his band’s 500th show together! These dates will see McCartney return for his first live performance in Paris in six years - in 2018 he played at La Defense Arena, where he is making his return. The wait has been longer for Spaniards, where he last played eight years ago, in 2016 at Estadio Vincente Calderon.

Paul launched his Got Back tour in 2022, completing 16 huge shows across the US before performing his history-making set at Glastonbury in June 2022. In 2023 Paul performed 18 incredible shows as the Got Back tour rocked through Australia, Mexico and Brazil.

PRE-SALE AND GENERAL SALE TIMINGS ARE STAGGERED BY COUNTRY

Wednesday 4th December - La Défense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠Thursday 5th December - La Défense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 18 June 10am CET ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am CET ⁠ ⁠Monday 9th December - WiZink Center, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠Tuesday 10th December - WiZink Center, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 18 June 10am CET ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am CET ⁠ ⁠Saturday 14th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠Sunday 15th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Wednesday 19 June 10am BST ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am BST ⁠ ⁠Wednesday 18th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠Thursday 19th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Wednesday 19 June 10am BST ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am BST ⁠ ⁠ ⁠Visit the Got Back 2024 tour page for more information and ticket links , and keep an eye out for more news coming soon...

Related Articles

NEW DATE ADDED: Paul announces 2024 dates for the 'Got Back' tour

Paul Plays Club Show in Brasília

NEW DATE ADDED: Paul announces Australian dates for the 'Got Back' tour

• Search Search

London Flagship Store

F1 2024 insider's guide no. 10 – spain.

The Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is a fast, flowing and ferocious affair that will thrill motorsport fans everywhere. The highlight for many Spaniards here though will, of course, be seeing two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso taking to the track at his second home Grand Prix as an Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One® Team driver this weekend. Alonso always wins the hearts of the home crowd and this time should be no different. Barcelona is the perfect European city with beaches, architecture, food and lashings of culture. After the race head towards the millionaire’s paradise of Andorra. The Pyrenees Mountains offer spectacular drives and luscious boutique boltholes like the stunning Mas Sant Marc in the hills near Puigcerdà.    

Up on the roof in Barcelona  

Pools and secret gardens renewed 

Barcelona’s best-kept secret is the jaw-dropping hidden villa on top of the recently transformed Grand Hotel Central.  Brought to life by its visionary founder, Francesc Cambó, politician and dedicated patron of art and culture, Casa Cambó is simply a magical piece of history. It’s lost in time - and includes a library and a wondrous secret rooftop neoclassical garden that encompasses two floors and measures over 100 square metres. Although not fully open to guests, it can be explored on exclusive hotel tours.Grand Hotel Central’s exciting new Can Bo restaurant opens in September. The Kimpton Vividora’s roof is also spectacular with a pool and 360 - degree view of the Old City. The restaurant here, Fauna, serves classic Catalan dishes to warm the cockles.  

How to find joy in the journey?  

Take the high-speed train to Madrid 

High-speed AVE trains criss-cross the nation and get you to Madrid in no time. In the bustling, cultured capital you can eat amazing tapas, see art and luxuriate in beautiful parks. Hotel Montera is a swish boutique hotel with classy décor and the perfect place to stay. While Totem and Urso are twin sibling design hotels that epitomise the luxury-forward Madrid aesthetic and serve classic cocktails and impressive food. Madrid’s stylish Único is a grand dame of the city’s hotel scene while its doppelganger, Principal is a deliciously boho mixture of style and class that will wow.  

What’s new in Barcelona?

Sailing and luxury 

The 37th America’s Cup will be bringing the sailing cognoscenti to Barcelona from August to October. From the 15th floor of the luxurious new Torre Melina, a Gran Meliá Hotel, you can see down to the port. The pool and spa there have just opened too in time for the G rand P rix . And don’t forget to dine at the swanky new Erre & Urrechu. Lab 22 is a testament to Barcelona’s forward-looking future. This tech-forward district has a brand new design hotel, Lab22 at its heart. With a very trendy rooftop pool and bar offering iconic vistas. While you’re there check out the new pool and roof terrace at the NH Collection Constanza, which is another neat new opening in the city.  

Where should I go next?  

Head west to buzzy Lisbon, the hipster city that in some ways is eclipsing Barcelona and drawing in hipsters, tech CEOs and creatives. This historic city by the Tagus revels in its faded grandeur and seedy glamour. Stay in the design-led properties Vintage, with its retro decor and rooftop bar and Lumiares, classy, stylish and in the heart of the Bairro Alto. Or the glitzy Ritz with its imposing decor and rooftop running track. Lisbon has plenty of chi-chi beach resorts nearby like Cascais, which will appeal to F1 fans as a kind of ‘Mini Monaco’ filled with yachts and well - heeled holidaymakers.  

The  Globe-Trotter x Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team  partnership celebrates a shared commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and heritage; bringing together the timeless style of Globe-Trotter’s handcrafted luggage and the cutting-edge design and performance of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team.

Newsletter Signup

Sign up for our exclusive newsletter to unlock insider access, travel inspiration, VIP events, and expert tips.

Featured items in this article

Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team AMR24 Carry-On - 4 Wheels

Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team AMR24 Large Check-In - 4 Wheels

Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team AMR24 Large Luggage Tags

Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team AMR24 Miniature Case

Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team AMR24 Small Attaché

Similar articles – we think you'll love.

F1 2024 Insider's Guide No. 09 – Canada

F1 2024 Insider's Guide No. 08 – Monaco

F1 2024 Insider's Guide No. 07 – Emilia-Romagna

Worldwide shipping

Complimentary on all orders

Secure payments

For all major credit/debit cards

Up to five years after purchase

Easy returns

Free returns for up to 28 days

Select Shipping Destination

You currently have no items in your bag