Madrid Essentials Free Tour and Old Town Austrias
Overview
Dive into Madrid’s historic heart with our “Madrid de los Austrias” free tour. Walk through the old town where kings, nobles and everyday Madrileños shaped the city’s character. From Puerta del Sol to the Royal Palace area, you’ll discover the stories, legends and hidden corners that define Madrid’s oldest quarter.
- Must-Visit Highlights:
Puerta del Sol (Km 0), Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel, Muslim Wall, Plaza de la Villa, Almudena Cathedral (exterior), Royal Palace (exterior), Royal Theatre and more.
This tour is perfect if you want to understand how Madrid became the capital of a vast empire while still feeling like a lively, local city. You’ll experience history, architecture and daily life all in one walk.
- Important:
Spaces fill quickly due to the tour’s popularity. Please book early to secure your spot and, if your plans change, kindly cancel so others may join. Your consideration helps us keep offering high-quality free tours.
Prepare to embark on a memorable journey through Madrid’s most authentic streets. The adventure starts in the old town!
This activity includes:
- Kilometre Zero
- Puerta del Sol
- Restaurant Botín
- La Plaza de la Villa (Madrid)
- San Miguel Market
- Plaza Mayor
- Plaza de Oriente
- Catedral de la Almudena
- El Vecino Curioso
- Plaza Isabel II
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- Guide
Our Guides
On arrival
- Meeting Point:
We will meet at Puerta del Sol, right next to the famous Bear and Madrono Tree statue, in front of the Apple Store. This emblematic symbol of Madrid is easy to spot in the square.
Look for the completely yellow umbrella – that’s your guide from Trip Tours Madrid.
- Arrival Time:
Please arrive 10 minutes before the starting time to ensure a smooth start.
- Confirmation Required (WhatsApp):
On the morning of your tour, you will receive a WhatsApp confirmation message. Please make sure your WhatsApp number is correct, valid and active when you book, and confirm your attendance by replying.
This helps us organize the group, avoid no-shows and ensure a great experience for everyone.
Things to note
- Confirmation & WhatsApp:
You will receive a WhatsApp confirmation on the morning of the tour. It is essential that your WhatsApp number is correct and active. We will use it to confirm your attendance and share any last-minute updates.
- Direct contact with your guide:
In the WhatsApp confirmation you will also receive your guide’s contact details. If you have any trouble finding the meeting point or are running late, you can contact your guide directly so they can help you in real time.
- Special gift:
By booking with a valid WhatsApp number and confirming your spot, you’ll receive a little special gift from Trip Tours Madrid during the tour.
- Dress Comfortably:
This tour involves walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress according to the weather. On hot days, we recommend bringing water and sunscreen; in colder months, bring a jacket.
- Engage & Enjoy:
Our guides are passionate about Madrid’s history, architecture and culture. Ask questions, interact and enjoy—the more curious you are, the better the experience.
How can the tour be free?
Our concept is simple — there is no set price. Instead, you tip your guide at the end of the tour whatever amount feels right to you. Typically, guests give between $10 to €50, depending on their satisfaction and budget.
Most guides accept cash or card payments, or you can do it via our app.
Free Cancellation
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
