About this experience
Journey through Madrid's old town, also known as Habsburg Madrid, named after the dynasty that significantly influenced the development of the Spanish Golden Age. Visit Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square, and wander around the historic San Miguel Market. Conclude your journey at the Royal Palace of Madrid, officially known as the Palacio Real, and spend as much time as you want in exploring the area.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Meet at El Oso y el Madroño, Puerta del Sol
Make your own way to the famous bear-and-strawberry-tree statue — Madrid's most recognisable meeting point — where your guide will be waiting.
Puerta del Sol
Begin in Madrid's central square, the symbolic heart of the city and kilometre zero of Spain's road network.
Plaza Mayor
Step into the grand arcaded square commissioned by Philip III, the centrepiece of Habsburg urban planning in Madrid.
Palacio de Justicia
Admire this imposing Renaissance building — once a prison, now the seat of Spain's Supreme Court — from the outside.
San Miguel Market
Wander through the elegant iron-and-glass market hall, one of Madrid's best-preserved early-20th-century structures.
Plaza de la Villa
Pause in this intimate medieval square, home to some of the oldest civic architecture in the city.
Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales
See the exterior of this royal convent, founded in 1559 and still home to an enclosed community of nuns.
Plaza de Oriente
Photograph the Royal Palace from its most dramatic vantage point, framed by formal gardens and equestrian statues.
Cathedral of La Almudena
Take in the neoclassical façade of Madrid's cathedral, which faces the Royal Palace across a wide esplanade.
Royal Palace (Palacio Real) — self-guided
Use your skip-the-line admission to enter the official royal residence and explore the state rooms, royal armoury and collections at your own pace.
How to redeem
El Oso y el Madroño, Puerta del Sol, Madrid, Spain
Make your own way to the bear-and-strawberry-tree sculpture in Puerta del Sol. Your guide will meet you there at the start time you selected. Show your mobile ticket on arrival — no need to print.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Mobile ticket (screenshot or live)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water, especially in summer
Know before you go
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. A mobile ticket on your phone is accepted — simply show it to your guide at the meeting point.
Where exactly do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is the El Oso y el Madroño (bear and strawberry tree) statue in Puerta del Sol, Madrid. It is one of the square's most visible landmarks.
Can I enter the Monasterio de las Descalzas or the Cathedral of La Almudena on this tour?
The tour passes both buildings and you will see them from outside, but admission inside is not included. You are welcome to visit independently after the tour.
Is the Royal Palace visit guided or self-guided?
The walking route through Habsburg Madrid is guided. Once you arrive at the Royal Palace, you explore the interior at your own pace using your skip-the-line ticket.
What languages are the tours available in?
Tours run in English, Mandarin and Korean. Select your preferred language when choosing your ticket option at checkout.
Is this tour suitable for children, and is there a discount?
The tour is family-friendly. Children under 5 years old are admitted free of charge; select the appropriate ticket type when booking.