Madrid is a historic capital city with many “must see” sites to see, from the Royal Palace, to the museums, monuments, gardens and fountains. While Madrid is a big city, it really is a series of distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own history, character and vibe.
One of the best ways to experience Madrid is to do so through the lens of the 3 main periods of architectural development: Madrid of the Habsburgs (los Austrias), Madrid of the Bourbons, and the modernization of Madrid. Madrid of the Habsburgs (16th to 17th centuries) takes you back to the time when the city became the capital and the buildings around the area of the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol were commissioned. The Bourbon dynasty succeeded the Habsburgs in the 18th century, and their focus was on expanding and beautifying the city. Under their rule the city was expanded from the Puerta del Sol towards the Prado Museum and Retiro Park. The modernization of Madrid began in the late 19th century. Through the use of urban planning, the city was further expanded and neighborhoods such as the upscale Salamanca area, the business district of Chamberí, and the lively university area of Argüelles were built.
On this 4 hour private tour you will have both a private guide and a vehicle with driver, so you will be able to get a panoramic tour of Madrid and also have time to stop and walk around to get a closer look at monuments, take pictures and experience the neighborhood. The tour can be customized to meet your specific interests.
The following is a suggested itinerary:
- Madrid of the Habsburgs – Royal Palace, Royal Theater, Plaza de la Villa, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol
- Stop to take a waking tour in the area of the Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace (time permitting you can visit the palace with your guide)
- Madrid of the Bourbons – Prado Museum, Bank of Spain, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains, Retiro Park, Puerta de Alcalá
- Stop in the Retiro Park to walk through the gardens
- Modern Madrid – Paseo de la Castellana, Estadio Santiago Bernabéu (Real Madrid’s stadium), Barrio Salamanca and Calle Serrano, Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas (bullring)
Please note that the Royal Palace is used for state business and may be closed to the public when used for official ceremonies and functions.
2024 Prices and other info:
Tour price for 1-2 People in a Sedan (VW Passat)
- US – On request – Monday through Friday (start time from 8:00am – 4:00pm)
- US – On request – Saturday, Sunday and Holidays (start time from 8:00am – 4:00pm)
Tour price for 1-2 People in a Sedan (Mercedes E Class)
- US – On request – Monday through Friday (start time from 8:00am – 4:00pm)
- US – On request – Saturday, Sunday and Holidays (start time from 8:00am – 4:00pm)
Tour price for 3-6 People in a Minivan
- US – On request – Monday through Friday (start time from 8:00am – 4:00pm)
- US – On request – Saturday, Sunday and Holidays (start time from 8:00am – 4:00pm)
All tours
- Price includes a tour with an official licensed guide and a vehicle with driver for 4 hours
- Vehicles are insured, as required by Spanish law
- Price does not include entrance fees (if any), which are extra
- Common languages available: English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese and German
- Gratuities are not included and are at the discretion of the client
- Prices are subject to change
Photo credit: © Christopher Pappas · All rights reserved. Photo of Puerta de Alcalá
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