Bike tours are a fabulous way to see the capital of Spain, a vibrant and historic city. Madrid is full of charming areas to explore, and you'll uncover much of its history, culture and cuisine from the back of your bike.

A bike tour in Madrid is also an easy way to cover a large area in a short amount of time, doubling down on the sightseeing opportunities.

Here's all you need to know about bike tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Madrid.

What are the best bike tours in Madrid?

Highlights of Madrid bike tour

One of the most popular bike tours in Madrid covers all the highlights of this fabulous city in a comprehensive 3-hour adventure. The 12-kilometer route takes you past iconic landmarks and your guide will leave no story untold, taking you through the history of Spain and its vibrant capital. Halfway through the tour, you will take a much-deserved break. Take the chance to sit and feel the rhythm of the city as it passes you by.

After a safety presentation, you will ride off toward Plaza de Orient to see the imposing statue of Filip IV, the Royal Palace, the Cathedral and the San Nicholas Church. Carry on to Plaza de la Villa to see the oldest buildings in the city and the vibrant atmosphere of Mercado San Miguel.

On the way to Caixa Forum Museum, you will also pass through Plaza Mayor and Santa Ana. The last few landmarks on this Madrid bike tour include the Prado Museum and Puerta de Alcalá.

You can upgrade your experience with an optional tapas tasting at the end of your tour or choose to ride an e-bike if you don’t want to put too much effort into your ride.

Green bike tour of Madrid

Madrid is a luscious and green city and a bike tour through these marvelous natural spaces is the perfect way to escape the bustle without venturing too far. This unique tour showcases the most beautiful and important parks in the city and gets you away from the crowds.

Retiro Park is one of the largest parks in Madrid and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pedal through its manicured gardens and admire the monuments around the peaceful grounds. You will also ride along the banks of the Manzanares river, through the Casa de Campo and the Parque del Oeste to further unwind and soak in the sights of the city.

Street art bike tour of Madrid

Hop on your bike for a street art tour of Madrid. This highly curated bike tour explores the dynamic history of street art in the city and showcases pieces that have been preserved for decades along with recent works from world-famous artists.

The Malasaña neighborhood was host to the street art festival of 2017 and some of the notable works are still on display. Plaza Dos de Mayo is the beating heart of the neighborhood and has some striking urban art pieces to show off. You will also pay a visit to Solar Antonio Grilo and Esto es una Plaza where urban gardens are a testament to the power of community-generated projects.

How much do bike tours in Madrid cost?

A bike tour of Madrid’s highlights costs €30 per person for 3 hours in the day and 2 hours at night. You can also book this as a private experience for €40 per person but you can only book for a minimum of 4 people. A bike tour in Madrid with tapas is €35 per person and includes 2 small bites to eat.

Madrid’s 3-hour green bike tour costs €35 per person while a street art bike tour in Madrid costs €40 per person and lasts for 2.5 hours.

What is included?

All bike tours in Madrid include a helmet and the use of a bike or an e-bike if you aren’t feeling up to the challenge of cycling. Any extras are dependent on the tour package you book. Some tours include a rain poncho and a city map while a tapas tour includes two delicious tapas treats at the end of your trip.

Where does it start?

There are several starting points for bike tours in Madrid but they are all centrally located. Plaza Espana and Plaza Mayor are both popular starting points as well as Museo del Prado. Once you book your tour you will receive confirmation from your tour operator about the exact meeting location.

How long does it last?

Bike tours in Madrid can be as short as 45 minutes or as long as 3 hours. Highlights of Madrid tours are normally 3 hours long while the same tour at night is only 2 hours long.

When is the best time for a bike tour in Madrid?

Try to book your Madrid bike tour on the first day of your trip. These tours offer you a comprehensive look at all the city’s top sites, making you comfortable with the city’s layout and rhythm. Your guide will also offer a wealth of knowledge and suggestions about what to do for the rest of your visit.

There are tours at all times of the day but most bike tours in Madrid happen in the morning when the streets are still calm. This makes it easy for cyclists to maneuver through the exciting city.

Is it safe?

Bike tours in Madrid are exceptionally safe. However, they may not be suited for people who do not have previous experience riding a bike.

Some tours require that you have some level of experience of riding a bike in the city or on uneven ground. It's also a good idea to have decent level of fitness in order to enjoy the tour if cycling.

Bike tours are also not recommended for pregnant people or people with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Some tours may also have certain height and weight requirements in order for you to participate and use the bike.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed on bike tours, but limitations vary between different tour operators. Some tours require children to be aged 10 to 13 and up in order to participate and use a bike, while others offer child seats for kids to use. Children under a certain age would be required to be accompanied by an adult.

It's best to check with your tour provider ahead of time to ensure all members of your family can participate.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Bike tours in Madrid require good weather to operate. In the case of bad weather, your tour operator may offer a refund or alternative date to complete your bike tour of the city.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Madrid?

Travel tips

Wear comfortable clothes that won’t obstruct your cycling abilities.
Bring your ID along as some tour operators have a minimum age requirement for this activity.
Check the weather forecast before your bike tour and bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Not all operators offer rain ponchos.
Wear sunscreen. This is an outdoor activity with little to no shade and sunburn is possible.

Bike Tours in Madrid