Madrid: Self-guided scavenger hunt & city walk with app

Summary

See Madrid through riddles, laughter, and your own footsteps

You’ll wander Madrid’s streets solving clues at your own pace—no guide needed. Snap creative photos, laugh with friends, and discover famous sights like Palacio de Cibeles and Retiro Park in a playful new way. With flexible timing and an easy-to-use app, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve left the city.

What’s the experience like?

Ever tried to find Palacio de Cibeles by following a riddle instead of Google Maps? I hadn’t, until last weekend in Madrid. The whole thing started with a code on my phone and this Explorial app—no guide waving an umbrella, just us and the city. The first clue was trickier than I’d like to admit (I blame my lack of coffee), but it got us looking up at old street signs and even asking a local señora for help. She grinned and pointed us down a side street, muttering something about “los turistas curiosos.” I still smile thinking about that.

The scavenger hunt kept sending us to places I’d walked past before but never really noticed—like the glassy Palacio de Cristal in Retiro Park. There was this moment when we had to take a silly photo for points; my friend tried to pose like one of the statues and nearly toppled over. We laughed so hard people stared (in a good way). The air smelled faintly of churros from somewhere nearby, and honestly, it felt more like playing than sightseeing.

What surprised me most was how much you end up talking to each other—and sometimes strangers—trying to solve the clues. The questions made us slow down and actually read plaques or spot tiny details on facades. No rush either; we took a break for coffee halfway through because you can pause whenever you want. By the end, we’d seen Madrid differently—less as tourists, more like curious kids with a map full of secrets. I kind of wish every city had something like this.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Madrid Scavenger Hunt Highlights

• Interactive scavenger hunt in Madrid
• Find sights using app hints
• Solve questions about landmarks
• Complete creative photo tasks
• Visit Palacio de Cibeles, Parque del Retiro, Palacio de Cristal

Top questions

How long does the Madrid scavenger hunt take?

The tour usually lasts about 1–2 hours but isn’t limited in time—you can go at your own pace.

Do I need to join a group or is it self-guided?

This is a self-guided activity using an app; no group or guide required.

What do I need to bring for the scavenger hunt?

You’ll need your smartphone with the Explorial app installed and your access code from booking.

Is there a set starting time for the tour?

No set time—you can start whenever you want after receiving your code.

Which Madrid sights are included in the scavenger hunt?

You’ll visit places like Palacio de Cibeles, Parque del Retiro, Palacio de Cristal, and more city highlights.

Can I take breaks during the activity?

Yes, you can pause anytime for food or rest since there’s no time limit.

Is this suitable for families or groups?

Yes—it works well for friends, families, or solo travelers who enjoy puzzles and exploring on foot.

What’s included

Your day includes access to the Explorial app for a self-guided walking scavenger hunt around Madrid’s main sights and hidden corners—just download the app after booking and use your code to start exploring whenever you’re ready.