City Tours in Madrid

Known for its picturesque parks, vibrant nightlife scene and breathtaking architecture, Madrid offers endless options of things to see and do. Explore the Spanish capital’s historic landmarks and modern attractions with a local guide when you book a city tour in Madrid.

This is your opportunity to familiarize yourself with one of Europe’s most fascinating and elegant cities. Learn about Madrid’s astounding history and its deep connection to art and literature as you explore the city streets with your guide leading the way.

Here's all you need to know about city tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Madrid.

What are the best city tours in Madrid?

Private electric tuk-tuk city tour in Madrid

There is no better way to discover the city's iconic monuments than on an electric tuk-tuk tour of Madrid. After meeting your guide at the Four Seasons Hotel, you’ll be driven around the city, stopping to admire views and visit various attractions.

Some of the places that you can look forward to seeing include the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral, the House of Cervantes and the Church of Los Jerónimos among others. There are several different tuk-tuk tours to choose from, each with slightly different itineraries.

As you and your travel companions will be the only tour participants, there will be plenty of opportunities to ask your guide questions and get recommendations on what to do during the rest of your stay in Madrid.

Each tuk-tuk can carry up to 4 people, making this the ideal activity for couples, families and groups of friends.

Guided city tour in Madrid by vintage bicycle

Take a leisurely cycle through Madrid’s picturesque city streets on a vintage bicycle that makes for fantastic photographs! Your knowledgeable guide will lead the way and fill you in on the history behind the sites that you see throughout your journey.

Once you have met your guide in the city center, you’ll spend the next 3 hours exploring the most emblematic areas of Madrid. Some of the places you’ll visit include the Prado Museum, Retiro Park and Plaza Mayor just to name a few.

Although the bicycles used are vintage, they are well-maintained and easy to ride. However, there is the option to ride an e-bike instead of a vintage bicycle if you prefer. You’ll also be provided with a helmet and gloves for your safety and comfort.

Learn about Madrid’s history, art and culture as you pedal through the city on a comfortable bicycle.

Family-friendly private city tour in Madrid

Traveling with kids can be challenging at times, but this private tour provides you with the perfect family-friendly introduction to the city. As the tour is private, you and your family will be the only tour participants and will benefit from a personalized experience.

Your professional local guide creates an atmosphere that is enjoyable for both adults and children alike as you explore the very best of what Madrid has to offer. You’ll get to visit Lope de Vega Museum and Jardines de Lepanto as well as a variety of hidden gems.

Through fun activities like pop quizzes and treasure hunts, your children will get the opportunity to immerse themselves in Spanish history and culture. The adults are also sure to learn a few things too, even if this isn’t your first time in Madrid.

Before the tour comes to an end, you’ll stop to enjoy a delicious local snack at one of Madrid’s traditional eateries.

Open-top minibus city tour in Madrid

Make your way to the Neptune Fountain and board a comfortable minibus that will take you around Madrid for the next 1.5 hours. This is the perfect tour for those who want to see as much of Madrid as possible but have limited time.

See places like  Puerta de Alcala, the Prado Museum, Castellana Street, Neptune Square, Debod Temple, and many other points of interest as you listen to the fascinating commentary provided by your bilingual guide.

Unlike large double-decker buses, the minibus can get into hard-to-reach places and is limited to just 19 participants, making for a more personal experience. The open-top bus also allows you to enjoy better views of your surroundings.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be taken back to the starting point and you can continue to explore the city on your own.

Alternative private city tour in Madrid

Take the path less traveled as you visit some of Madrid’s hidden gems and lesser-known attractions by joining this alternative city tour. The excursion takes place in the trendy neighborhood of Cheuca, which is filled with street art and tapas bars.

Visit the San Anton Market and marvel at its colorful stalls before heading to Plaza del Dos de Mayo, which is known for its breathtaking architecture. See the city through the eyes of a local and feel free to ask your guide questions about this up-and-coming area.

Before your tour comes to an end, you’ll stop at a tapas bar, where you’ll enjoy a local beer and a dish of delicious tapas. Take the opportunity to chat with your guide and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

This is the perfect tour for those who may have visited before and have already seen Madrid's attractions or for those who simply want to see a different part of the city.

Which places are visited?

While each city tour in Madrid offers a slightly different itinerary, most tour guides ensure that you get to see Madrid’s most iconic landmarks, including Plaza Mayor, Retiro Park and the Prado Museum among many other points of interest.

Plaza Mayor

Once the center of Old Madrid, Plaza Mayor is probably the most recognizable square in the city. The historic public square is surrounded by porticos, restaurants and cafes, and is known for its Cuchilleros Arch, which serves as one of the entrances.

Retiro Park

Filled with palaces, lakes, statues and greenery, Madrid's Retiro Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Madrid. Once owned by Spanish royalty, today the public can visit the park for free and it is a great place to relax in nature and stretch your legs.

Prado Museum

Located in central Madrid, the Prado Museum houses the world’s richest and largest collection of Spanish art. The most famous piece in the museum is ‘Las Meninas’ by Velázquez, but the museum is home to hundreds of other masterpieces.

Puerta de Alcalá

The Puerta de Alcalá is a Neo-classical that is situated in the Plaza de la Independencia. This gate serves as one of the most iconic monuments in Madrid, and you’ll see its likeness on many souvenirs.

Royal Palace of Madrid

As the official residence of the Spanish monarchy, the Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the largest palaces in the world and boasts intricate architecture. While royals no longer live here, the vast estate is still well worth seeing.

How much do city tours in Madrid cost?

One of the most affordable city tours in Madrid is the open-top minibus city tour, which costs just €25 per person for a 1.5-hour excursion. Other group tours, such as the vintage bicycle tour and e-bike tour, usually cost between €25 and €35 per person for a 3-hour experience.

Private tours, such as the eco tuk-tuk tour, family-friendly tour and alternative city tour, typically cost between €55 and €65 per person. However, the cost per person usually fluctuates depending on how many people there are in your group.

What is included?

City tours in Madrid are led by professional tour guides and depending on the type of tour you book, you may also be provided with a city map, bottled water and/or a light snack.

If you book an e-bike and vintage bicycle city tour, the use of a bicycle and helmet is included in the cost of your tour. In most cases, you’ll be responsible for any personal expenses, like food and drinks, so it’s always a good idea to bring along some spending money.

Where does it start?

On the day of your city tour in Madrid, you’ll need to meet your guide at their tour operator’s offices or an easy-to-find location in the city, such as the Four Seasons Hotel, Plaza de Isabel II or Cervecería Santa Bárbara.

Aim to arrive at the meeting point around 10 minutes before your tour is meant to start so that you don’t keep anyone waiting.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of a city tour in Madrid is between 2 and 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the city with your guide.

However, if you are short on time you could opt for one of the many 1-hour tours that are available. There are also half-day excursions, lasting around 5 hours, for those looking for a more comprehensive experience.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Unfortunately, most city tours in Madrid are not suitable for wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility. If you or any one of your travel companions is a wheelchair user, make sure you check accessibility details before making a booking for a city tour.

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

The best time for a city tour in Madrid is during spring or autumn, which correspond to the months of March to May and September to November. The weather is mild and there are less crowds when compared to the summer season.

Summer (June to August) in Madrid can be quite hot. If you can tolerate the heat, this is a great time to experience the vibrant street life, open-air terraces, and cultural events. However, be prepared for the possibility of crowds and extremely intense sun.

Winter (December to February) in Madrid is relatively mild, but it can still get chilly. If you prefer fewer crowds, winter is a good time to participate in a city tour, and you’ll be able to experience the festive atmosphere around Christmas and New Year's.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable clothes as well as walking shoes.
• Be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas.
• Carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated while exploring the city.
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as the late dining hours.
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases.
• While many people in Madrid speak English, knowing some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
• Plan your meals and shopping according to the siesta (afternoon break) from approximately 2 PM to 5 PM.
• In Madrid’s restaurants, it's common to leave a tip of 10-15% of the bill.