BOURBON MADRID FREE TOUR.

• The tour starts at Puerta del Sol, right by the statue of Charles III, one of the key figures behind Madrid’s transformation during the Enlightenment. From this iconic spot, we’ll step into the heart of Bourbon Madrid, a pivotal period when the city began to evolve into the modern capital we know today. As we walk, we’ll explore the buildings and institutions that shaped Madrid’s growth, such as the Real Casa de Postas and the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando.

• We will pass by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Cibeles Fountain, the Puerta de Alcalá, the Communications Palace and the Bank of Spain, before reaching the surroundings of Retiro Park. As we continue along the Paseo del Prado, we will discover two more historic fountains from the Bourbon era: the Apollo Fountain and the Neptune Fountain, before arriving at Plaza de la Lealtad, an important location connected to the tragic events of the uprising of May 2nd, 1808. We will then reach the entrance of the Prado Museum, one of the finest art galleries in the world, and finish the tour next to the Church of St. Jerome the Royal, one of the few surviving Gothic buildings in the city. A tour designed to understand how the arrival of the Bourbon dynasty shaped the architecture, politics and identity of modern Madrid.

📍 UPON ARRIVAL.

The guide will be waiting next to the statue of Philip III on horseback, that is in the center of Plaza Mayor, holding a white Volga Tours flag and wearing a cap.

🕓 DURATION.

The tour will last 2.5 hours approximately.

💶 HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Free tours do not have a fixed price. At the end of the tour, each person gives the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction and considering the time, effort and passion behind the work. As a guideline, a minimum of €12 to €15 per person is currently recommended.

❌ FREE CANCELLATION.

You can cancel your booking at no cost if you are unable to attend the tour. In that case, please cancel as soon as possible. If you do not, the guide and the rest of the participants will be waiting for you.

🏰 VISITS AND ACCESS.

All visits take place outdoors. Admission tickets to monuments or buildings are not included.

⏰ PUNCTUALITY.

It is recommended to arrive at the meeting point 10 to 15 minutes before the tour starts. This allows check-in to be done on time and the tour to start punctually without delays.

4️⃣ MINIMUM GROUP SIZE.

A minimum of 4 people is required to run the tour. If the minimum is not reached, the company will contact the client as soon as possible.

👥 GROUPS.

Bookings for up to 6 people are allowed.

♿ ACCESSIBILITY.

Suitable for people with reduced mobility.

🐶 PETS.

Pets are allowed during the tour.

🌦️ DRESS CODE AND WEATHER.

The route is walking-based, so comfortable footwear and clothing are recommended. On sunny days, bring water and sun protection. If rain is possible, do not forget an umbrella and a raincoat. In cold weather, warm clothing is recommended to protect against Madrid’s winter and autumn temperatures.

💳 PAYMENT METHODS.

Cash and Bizum are accepted.

• Expert local guide in Spanish history and culture.

• Guided walking tour specially designed to make the most of your time while discovering and understanding the essence of Old Madrid.

• Personalized recommendations and tips on where to eat, what to visit next, and which tourist traps to avoid.

• Small groups with a limited capacity to ensure a better experience and avoid crowds.

• Friendly and personal approach, which is the hallmark of Volga Tours and represents our brand's values and mission.

• Essence of the Habsburg Madrid: A journey back in time to the Golden Age, when Madrid was not only the capital of an empire but also the capital of the world.

• Royal Palace and Cathedral: Imposing neighboring buildings that showcase the historical evolution of Old Madrid.

• Muslim Wall: The oldest preserved remains in Madrid, representing the true roots of the city.

• Charming Squares: From the iconic Plaza Mayor and the hidden Plaza del Conde de Miranda to the historic Plaza de la Villa, the elegant Plaza de Oriente, and the vibrant Plaza de Isabel II.

• Icons of Madrid’s leisure: Stops at key landmarks such as the San Miguel Market and the Royal Theatre.