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Offered languages
- French
This tour is for those who want to discover Madrid by really understanding its history. We will meet at Puerta Cerrada, a small central and symbolic square. We will explore the fascinating history of the city through its iconic monuments and squares.
We will pass Plaza Mayor, former Point of Sale Square; Mercado de San Miguel, a gastronomic space in a historic building; and Chocolatería San Ginés, famous for its churros since the 19th century.
We will also see the Royal Palace, the largest palace in Western Europe, built in the 18th century with the arrival of the Bourbons, as well as the Almudena Cathedral, completed in 1993. Finally, Plaza de la Villa, one of the oldest squares in Madrid with medieval charm.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Puerta Cerrada is a small square in the heart of the city centre, both symbolic and full of history. Go near the large stone cross.
Itinerary
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1Plaza De Puerta Cerrada
We will begin by discovering the medieval origins of the city. We will mention the 9th century Muslim fortress (Mayrit), the organization of the Christian defensive walls, as well as the legend of why this door remained “closed” for centuries.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
A journey to 1725, in the oldest restaurant in the world. We will dive into 18th century Madrid, exploring the history of local corporations, as well as literary links with famous authors like Ernest Hemingway and Benito Pérez Galdós.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The Point of Sale of San Miguel, a modern gastronomic place housed in a historic building.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Immerse yourself in the world of cloistered life. We will talk about Spanish Baroque art, the religious history of the 17th century, as well as the curious tradition of buying traditional sweets from nuns through a wooden turnstile.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Plaza de la Villa
Plaza de la Villa, one of the oldest and most charming squares in the city, with a strong medieval character.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Catedral de Sta Maria la Real de la Almudena
The Almudena Cathedral, completed in 1993, symbolizes Madrid’s recent history and the city’s evolution over the centuries.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
The Royal Palace, the largest palace in Western Europe, built in the 18th century with the arrival of the Bourbon dynasty in Spain, and witnessing the evolution of Madrid over the centuries.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8Teatro Real
In this square, we will recall the major urban transformations of the nineteenth century during the reign of Isabel II, including sanitation projects and engineering works such as the Isabel II Canal, which modernized Madrid’s water supply and accompanied the evolution of the city.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9Iglesia de San Gines
A look at the social customs of the late 19th century. We will talk about the tertulias (social gatherings) and the long tradition of chocolate with churros, a must-see of the nightlife and history of Madrid.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10Plaza Mayor
The grand finale. We will return to the most important events that took place in this square: from the royal coronations and popular festivals to the dark “Autos de Fe” of the Spanish Inquisition and public executions.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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