Madrid Highlights Tour (walking tour + bus tour)
1-Hour Walking Tour
Discover the historic city center of Madrid, known as Habsburg Madrid, on this walking tour through the area developed during the reign of the Habsburg dynasty, who ruled Spain between the 16th and 17th centuries.
Although not all the streets and buildings we’ll see belong exactly to that period, they are considered part of Habsburg Madrid due to their location. These are the main highlights of our tour:
Almudena Cathedral
Madrid’s cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena, the city’s patron saint. It is one of the most modern cathedrals in Europe, built between 1883 and 1993. It features a neoclassical exterior and neo-Gothic interior. King Felipe VI was married here.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest in Western Europe. Built in the 18th century in the Baroque style with neoclassical influences, it is the official residence of the Spanish monarchs, although they have not lived there since the early 20th century. If you want to visit the Royal Palace, you can choose to add a guided visit to the Palace along with this tour or visit it separately at another time.
Plaza de Oriente
Located between the Royal Palace and the Royal Theater, this square is known for its statues of ancient Visigoth kings and the equestrian statue of King Philip IV riding a rearing horse.
Plaza Mayor – Main Square
Inaugurated in the early 17th century, Plaza Mayor has been the center of public life since its beginnings. It hosted markets, bullfights, and even public executions during the Inquisition. A favorite spot for both locals and tourists, the square features the equestrian statue of Philip III and the ornate façade of the Casa de la Panadería.
Calle Mayor
This commercial street connects Puerta del Sol to Almudena Cathedral. It is lined with historic palaces, churches, buildings, and shops, including Plaza de la Villa.
Plaza de la Villa
A political and urban center since the 15th century, this square features three buildings of great historical and artistic value: the House and Tower of the Lujanes, the Cisneros House, and the Casa de la Villa (former City Hall).
San Miguel Market
Once a traditional food market, today it is a gourmet hotspot where you can enjoy Spanish cuisine at any time of day.
Madrid Bus Tour
The panoramic bus tour is the perfect option if you want to discover the essentials of Madrid in a short time. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll get an informative overview of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Unlike the hop-on hop-off bus, which requires more time, planning, and good weather, this tour lets you comfortably explore some of the capital’s most emblematic streets and avenues.
From the windows of a climate-controlled bus, you can admire monuments, squares, and landmarks stress-free and from a privileged perspective.
Here are some of the highlights you’ll see on our tour:
Plaza de Cibeles
One of Madrid’s most iconic squares, known for the fountain of the goddess Cybele and the majestic Cibeles Palace, current City Hall. It’s where Real Madrid fans celebrate major victories.
Puerta de Alcalá
This 18th-century neoclassical monument is one of Madrid’s iconic landmarks and one of the city’s five historical gates. Commissioned by Charles III, it was inspired by Roman triumphal arches.
Las Ventas Bullring
Las Ventas is considered the cathedral of bullfighting. It is the largest bullring in Spain and the third-largest in the world. From the bus, you’ll see its stunning neo-Mudéjar façade.
Plaza de Castilla – KIO Towers
Located in northern Madrid, Plaza de Castilla is home to the iconic KIO Towers, the first leaning skyscrapers in the world. This modern square marks the entrance to Madrid’s financial district.
Cuatro Torres Business Area
The most modern skyline in Madrid, made up of four towering skyscrapers housing offices, luxury hotels, and business centers. They are the tallest buildings in Spain and represent the city’s global and cosmopolitan side.
Gran Vía
Gran Vía is Madrid’s liveliest avenue, filled with theaters, shops, and historic buildings. Known as “Madrid’s Broadway,” it showcases the city’s cultural and commercial vibrancy.
Paseo de la Castellana
One of Madrid’s main arteries, running north to south through the city. Along the way, you’ll see important institutions, office towers, embassies, and elegant residential areas.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
The recently renovated home of Real Madrid is one of the most important stadiums in the world. From the bus, you’ll see its impressive façade made up of 14,000 stainless steel panels. To visit inside, we recommend booking this tour together with the Bernabéu Tour ticket.
Plaza de Colón
Located on Paseo de la Castellana, this public space connects several major city roads. It features a statue of Christopher Columbus and the world’s largest Spanish flag. It often hosts public events and celebrations.
Prado Museum
From the bus, you’ll see the elegant façade of one of the world’s most important art museums. If you want to go inside, you can book this tour with museum tickets or schedule a guided visit at another time.
La Latina Neighborhood
Located in the heart of historic Madrid, La Latina is one of the city’s most charming and authentic districts. Its narrow streets, quiet plazas, and traditional architecture reflect Madrid’s medieval roots.
In short, with these two tours—first on foot and then by bus—you’ll get to explore the most iconic places in Madrid in just two and a half hours. Locations renowned for their history, architecture, fame, or cultural value, offering a well-rounded view of the city’s essence. Some of them will surely inspire you to return and dive deeper into their charm.
Combined Options
If you want to expand your experience, you can combine this tour with visits to Madrid’s main attractions:
Essence of Madrid Tour + Guided Visit to the Royal Palace
Essence of Madrid Tour + Prado Museum Entry
Essence of Madrid Tour + Bernabéu Stadium Tour
Note: If you choose to get off at the Prado Museum or the Bernabéu Stadium, you will miss the rest of the panoramic route.
**Itinerary may vary slightly from the description above.
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