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- Private Sightseeing Tours
- Walking Tours
- Historical Tours
- Cultural Tours
Royal Madrid's Scandal and Secrets: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
- Duration1 hour 30 min – 2 hours
- GroupPrivate tour
- TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
- LanguagesEnglish
- BookingInstant confirmation
About this activity
Madrid wasn’t built quietly. It was forged by monarchs obsessed with protocol, anarchists throwing bombs, and power struggles that still echo through its plazas.
This self-guided walking tour takes you straight into the royal scandals, assassination plots, hidden convents, and political drama that shaped Spain’s capital.
The tour starts and ends at Puerta del Sol, the symbolic heart of Spain. You’ll make your way into Plaza Mayor, the large square that was once the stage for bullfights, public trials, and royal spectacle. You’ll move down medieval streets and pass the world’s oldest restaurant that still uses a 300-year-old oven. As you walk, you’ll hear the real stories behind Madrid’s grand façades.
This tour is designed for independent travelers who want substance, not surface-level sightseeing. By the end of the walk, you’ll have a sense of Madrid’s architecture, religion, monarchy, and rebellion – all blended into one sharp, unforgettable walk.
What to expect
You’ll pass through Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s most famous public squares, known as the symbolic centre of Spain and home to the iconic “Kilometre Zero” marker. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
Plaza Mayor
Pl. Mayor, Madrid, 28012, Spain
You’ll pass through Plaza Mayor, a grand arcaded square dating back to the Habsburg era, long used for markets, celebrations, and public gatherings. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
Mercado San Miguel
Plaza De San Miguel, S/N, Madrid, 28005, Spain
You’ll pass by Mercado de San Miguel, a historic iron-and-glass market hall known for its vibrant food stalls and traditional Spanish delicacies. Please note that entry to the market or any purchases made inside are not included in this tour.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Calle de Bailen s/n, Madrid, 28071, Spain
You’ll pass by the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family, renowned for its grand architecture and richly decorated interiors. Please note that entry to the palace is not included in this tour.
Catedral de Sta Maria la Real de la Almudena
Calle Bailen 10, Madrid, 28013, Spain
You’ll pass by the Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena, Madrid’s main cathedral, known for its blend of architectural styles and its position opposite the Royal Palace. Please note that entry to the cathedral is not included in this tour.
Teatro Real
Plaza de Isabel II, Madrid, 28013, Spain
You’ll pass by the Teatro Real, Madrid’s premier opera house, known for its grand 19th-century architecture and world-class performances. Please note that entry to the theatre is not included in this tour.
Pickup & meeting point
There is no pickup — all travellers meet at the start point.
Start
This tour starts at the Puerta del Sol. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
End / drop-off
This tour starts at the Puerta del Sol. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Redemption
Indirect delivery
VOICEMAP CODE ─── Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code. DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS ─── Once you've received your code, please follow these steps: Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app Create an account Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes Enter your code then select Download Now PLEASE NOTE ─── You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point. This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next. When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point. Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour. SUPPORT ─── For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
What's included
Included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- App for Android and iOS
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
- Food and drink
- Transportation
Good to know
Accessibility & suitability
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Traveller requirements
- Minimum 1 traveller per booking
- Maximum 15 travellers per booking
- Age bands: Adult (6–99)
Languages
- Audio
- English
- Written
- English
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 1+ days before100% refund
- 0–1 days before0% refund
Important booking information
- Confirmation
- Confirmed immediately after booking.
- Tickets
- One per booking
- Local time zone
- Europe/Madrid
- Product code
- 110804P1311
What you'll be asked when booking
- Any special requirements
Traveller reviews
5.0/ 56 reviews
Ratings aggregated from Viator (1) and Tripadvisor (5).
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From USD 9.99 per person · Free cancellation available
Activity information provided by Viator, an authorized travel partner. Gateera does not operate this activity.