Madrid: Segway City Tour with Tapas & Royal Palace Stops

Summary

Segway through Madrid’s plazas, riverside paths and tapas stops

You’ll glide past Madrid’s Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral on a Segway, zip through lively plazas and riverside parks with your local guide leading the way, hear stories you’d never find in a guidebook, and finish off with a tasty paella tapa if you pick the longer route. It’s fun, easygoing — and leaves you feeling like you’ve seen another side of Madrid.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about looking ridiculous on a Segway in Madrid — you know that feeling when everyone else seems to know what they’re doing? But our guide, Javier, just grinned and handed me a helmet. “First time?” he asked (I nodded), then showed us how to lean and steer. It’s weirdly smooth, almost like floating over the old stones near Plaza de Santiago. My hands were sweaty at first but after two blocks I was zipping along behind him, trying not to laugh out loud.

We rolled through narrow streets where the air smelled like coffee and fried dough — churros maybe? At Plaza Mayor, there was this sudden burst of sunlight and chatter from street musicians. Javier pointed out the Mercado de San Miguel (“best olives in town,” he said) and told us stories about kings who used to walk these same routes. I kept catching bits of overheard Spanish — some old men arguing about football scores — while we waited for the light to change near Puerta del Sol.

The best part of this Segway tour was gliding down by the Manzanares River. The breeze felt cooler there, trees rustling overhead. We passed joggers and families picnicking, which made me wonder if locals ever get tired of all this space (probably not). On the longer tour we stopped at Casa de Campo park — it’s huge — and then finally sat down for a paella tapa at a little restaurant where I tried to order in Spanish. The waiter smiled politely at my accent; Javier just winked.

Honestly, I didn’t expect Madrid to feel so relaxed from a Segway. There’s something silly but freeing about weaving through centuries-old plazas with strangers who start to feel like friends by the end. I still think about that last view back toward the Royal Palace as evening crept in — kind of wish I’d taken more photos but maybe it’s better that way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Madrid Segway tour highlights

• Receive Segway training
• Visit Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral
• Glide along Manzanares River
• Explore Casa de Campo park
• See Calle Mayor and Plaza de la Villa
• Admire Mercado de San Miguel
• Reach Puerta del Sol
• Enjoy paella tapa at restaurant

Top questions

How long does the Madrid Segway tour last?

You can choose between 60 minutes (Essential), 90 minutes (Downtown), or 150 minutes (with tapa).

Does the Segway tour include food?

The 150-minute “Madrid with a tapa” option includes a paella tapa at a restaurant.

Is there training before riding the Segways?

Yes, every participant gets brief training from an experienced guide before starting.

What are some highlights visited on this tour?

You’ll see places like Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, Mercado de San Miguel, Casa de Campo park, Manzanares River paths and Puerta del Sol.

Is there an age or weight limit for riders?

The minimum age is 10 (with adult), recommended weight is between 35–125 kg (77–275 lb).

Are guides bilingual?

Yes, your local guide speaks both English and Spanish.

Does it run if it rains?

Yes; oilskins are provided on rainy days so you stay dry during your ride.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a Segway with helmet and personal bag storage, full training before departure, guidance from a bilingual local expert throughout your chosen route—plus an oilskin if it rains—and if you book the longest option, you’ll finish with a paella tapa at a local restaurant before heading back into city life.