Santa Cruz Palace Madrid

Get to know part of Madrid on a 2-hour walking tour of some of its more majestic streets and districts. Begin your tour directly east of the ancient heart of Madrid in the literary neighborhood, the Barrio de las Letras. It's here where some of the greatest writers, poets, and playwrights in history lived. The memorable quotes lining the streets make it one of the cultural highlights of the city by day, and the busy bars and cafés make it a party hotspot by night. As you walk through the area, discover one of Ernest Hemingway's favorite bars, along with his passion for bullfighting. Then visit the Cervantes House, where one of the world's greatest novels, Don Quixote, was written. Next, walk down Calle de Alcalá and the Paseo del Prado, where you'll find iconic buildings that form an incredible skyline of bold designs, vibrant colors, and monumental grandeur.

Learn the fascinating history of Madrid on a 2.5-hour walking tour, and travel back in time as you stroll the medieval streets of the historical city center. Marvel at the monuments of Plaza Mayor and admire the Baroque façade of Santa Cruz Palace. See the impressive Almudena Cathedral up close, and learn the curious story about the Casa de la Panaderia (Bakery House) where the city's tourist office is located. Watch the locals going about their everyday life at San Miguel Market. Learn more about the Habsburg rulers of the 16th and 17th centuries, and discover the site of the world's oldest restaurant. Explore the Bourbon history of the city and see main monuments such as the Royal Palace of Madrid and the gardens of Plaza de Oriente. Get a deeper appreciation for the history of notable characters who shaped the history of the city along the way.

Enter the Royal Palace of Madrid without waiting in line, and see some of the 3,000 rooms of Europe's largest working royal palace. Marvel at the staircase by Sabatini and visit the Throne Room to admire the ceiling painting by Tiepolo. Enter the Royal Pharmacy containing cabinets of medicinal plants and formulas dispensed to the monarchy. Discover a collection of stringed instruments by Stradivari in the Royal Chapel. Then, explore the historical city center on a walking tour. Follow your guide down medieval streets to sites such as Plaza Mayor and Almudena Cathedral. Learn the curious story about the Casa de la Panaderia (Bakery House) and marvel at the fresh produce at San Miguel Market. Hear about the Habsburg rulers of the 16th and 17th centuries, and discover the world's oldest restaurant. Explore the city's Bourbon history and stroll in the gardens of Plaza de Oriente. Get a deeper appreciation for the notable characters who shaped the history of the city along the way.