Old Town Walking Tour – Royal Palace and Historic Madrid

Embark on a captivating 3-hour walking tour through the heart of Madrid’s Old Town, where history and culture come alive. Visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the stunning Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and the Teatro Real, while exploring charming streets and fascinating historical sites.

Itinerary:

Puerta del Sol
• Start your journey at Madrid’s most famous square, Puerta del Sol, the symbolic center of the city. Here, you’ll learn about Madrid’s history and see landmarks like the Kilometer Zero marker, from which all roads in Spain are measured.
The Oldest Restaurant in the World
• Discover Sobrino de Botín, renowned by the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s oldest restaurant. Opened in 1725, it’s a true culinary landmark, famous for its roast suckling pig and traditional Spanish dishes.
San Miguel Market
• Next, we’ll visit the San Miguel Market, a bustling and beautifully restored food market. Sample a variety of Spanish delicacies, from jamón ibérico to fresh seafood, while learning about Spain’s gastronomic traditions.
Plaza de la Villa
• Stroll through Plaza de la Villa, one of Madrid’s oldest squares, where you’ll see medieval buildings like the Casa de la Villa and the Luján House. This area provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s early history, when Madrid was still a small medieval town.
The Oldest Pharmacy in Madrid
• As we walk through the historic streets, stop at the Pharmacy of San Pedro, the oldest pharmacy in Madrid. Dating back to the 15th century, this charming establishment retains its old-world charm, with original ceramic tiles and antique pharmaceutical equipment.
The Muslim Wall
• Step back further in time as we visit the remains of the Muslim Wall, a medieval defensive structure built during the Muslim rule of Madrid. These ancient walls offer a glimpse into the city’s history before it became the capital of Spain.
Palacio Real (Royal Palace)
• Skip the lines and enjoy a special guided tour of the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Marvel at the opulent rooms, stunning courtyards, and impressive gardens, as your guide brings the royal history of Spain to life. (Skip-the-line access and tickets included)
Almudena Cathedral
• Visit the nearby Almudena Cathedral, a strikingly beautiful church with a mix of Gothic, Neo-Romanesque, and Neo-Classical architectural styles. Explore its stunning interior and learn about the history of this relatively modern cathedral, consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993.
Teatro Real
• Conclude the tour with a visit to the majestic Teatro Real, Madrid’s grand opera house. Admire the opulent architecture of the building and learn about its rich history as the center of opera and classical music in Madrid.