Vintage Madrid Century Old Shops Cafés and Traditions

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3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Delve into the rich history of Madrid on a private walking tour through hidden gems and age-old traditions. Discover historic taverns, family-run shops, and iconic cafés, each with a story spanning more than a century. From vermouth at Bodega de la Ardosa to churros at Chocolatería San Ginés, the tour reveals the flavors and craftsmanship of old Madrid. Guests may also choose a postcard at La Postalera to mark their journey through the city's heritage.
Visit historic establishments like Bodega de la Ardosa and Chocolatería San Ginés
Learn about Madrid's cultural rituals and traditional craftsmanship
Meet local artisans and discover storied establishments
Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into Madrid's past
Alcoholic beverages are not included. Any alcoholic drinks are optional and may only be purchased and consumed by guests aged 18 or older. Non-alcoholic alternatives are available.

What's Included

Private guided walking tour with a local guide from our team
Food and drinks purchased during the tour
Souvenirs and personal purchases

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide outside the entrance of Bodega de la Ardosa. Your guide will be waiting near the entrance. Please arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled start time. If needed, we will contact the lead traveler before the tour to make the meeting easier.

End point

The tour ends at Plaza de Cibeles, in front of Palacio de Cibeles, the former Palace of Communications. Guests who wish may send the postcard they prepared during the tour before saying goodbye to the guide.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Guests will step inside one of Madrid’s most iconic historic cafés, serving churros with thick Spanish hot chocolate since 1894. We’ll discover how this simple combination became one of the city’s favourite traditions and hear stories connected with old Madrid’s theatre and nightlife.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Step inside one of Madrid’s most legendary historic restaurants, founded in 1839. Lhardy became a meeting place for writers, politicians, aristocrats and members of Madrid high society. We’ll discover stories from its nearly two centuries of history and see how nineteenth-century gastronomic elegance still survives here today.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Palacio de Cibeles

    Our journey ends at the magnificent Palacio de Cibeles, inaugurated in 1919 as Madrid’s former Palace of Communications. Here we’ll connect the final chapter of the tour with the city’s history of letters and communication, before sending the postcard written earlier on its journey home.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Spain With Eva

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Food & Drink
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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