Madrid Old City Walking Tour: Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor & Market

Summary

Wander Madrid’s royal streets, lively plazas and hidden corners

You’ll walk Madrid’s royal halls, sample market treats at San Miguel, and lose yourself in La Latina’s winding streets—all with a small group led by a local guide who brings every plaza to life. Expect laughter, history you can touch, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left Puerta del Sol behind.

What’s the experience like?

Someone in our group pointed at the stone lions outside the Royal Palace of Madrid before our guide, Carmen, could even start her story. She just grinned and said, “Everyone always asks about those.” The air smelled faintly of churros from somewhere nearby — maybe that’s why I kept getting distracted. We shuffled past guards and into this wide square where Carmen explained how the palace is only used for ceremonies now. I didn’t expect to feel so small standing there; the stones underfoot were still cool from last night’s rain.

We zigzagged through narrow lanes to Almudena Cathedral — bells echoing off the walls — and then down to the oldest chunk of Madrid: the Muslim Walls. Carmen traced her finger along rough stone and told us about Madrid’s beginnings (I tried to repeat “Mayrit” like she did but gave up). Calle Mayor was busy but not overwhelming, with old men arguing over cards at a café window. At Plaza de la Villa, she paused so we could watch a wedding couple pose for photos — their friends tossing petals that stuck to the wet pavement.

I lost track of time wandering La Latina’s side streets, honestly. There was a moment in Plaza de la Paja where everything went quiet except for birds and someone tuning a guitar. We stopped at Mercado de San Miguel for a quick snack; I grabbed an olive skewer that tasted saltier than I expected (in a good way). By the time we reached Plaza Mayor, my feet were tired but I didn’t really care — Carmen had us laughing about how locals used to sneak into bullfights here ages ago. The last stop was Puerta del Sol; it was loud and chaotic but somehow felt like the heart of everything. I still think about that view looking back down Calle Mayor as people rushed past us into the evening.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided walking tour of Madrid old city

• Visit Royal Palace of Madrid
• See Almudena Cathedral and museum
• Explore Muslim Walls of Madrid
• Walk along Calle Mayor street
• Visit Plaza de la Villa square
• Walk through La Latina neighborhood
• Explore Plaza de la Paja marketplace
• Relax at Plaza de los Carros fountain
• See Plaza de Puerta Cerrada
• Pass Arco de Cuchilleros archway
• Visit Mercado San Miguel market
• Explore Plaza Mayor square
• See Real Casa de Postas building
• End at Puerta del Sol square

Top questions

How long does the Madrid Old City Walking Tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

What is the maximum group size for this walking tour?

The group size is capped at 12 people per tour.

Which main attractions are included on this tour?

The tour covers Royal Palace of Madrid, Almudena Cathedral, Muslim Walls, Calle Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, La Latina neighborhood, Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol.

Is food included during the tour?

No meals are included but you’ll have time to buy snacks at Mercado de San Miguel.

Does this walking tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is provided; guests meet at a central location in Madrid.

Is this tour suitable for children or strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Will we enter all attractions on the itinerary?

No; due to security measures some sites are seen from outside only.

What happens if it rains during the walking tour?

The tour operates in all weather conditions—bring an umbrella or dress appropriately.

What’s included

This semi-private Madrid old city walking tour includes a professional local guide leading your small group (up to 12 people) through historic plazas and neighborhoods. You’ll explore iconic sites like Royal Palace of Madrid and Plaza Mayor on foot—with free time for snacks at Mercado de San Miguel—before finishing near Puerta del Sol. No hotel pickup or entry tickets required; just comfortable shoes and curiosity recommended.