Castizo Charm in Old Madrid

Savor a guided walk through La Latina & Madrid de los Austrias, the city’s oldest and most authentic quarters. This experience reveals the fascinating history, architecture, and legends of Madrid — from medieval origins to the grandeur of the Hapsburg and Borbón eras.

You’ll stroll through narrow lanes, charming squares, and historic corners that locals call Castizo, meaning “authentic Madrid.” Along the way, your bilingual guide will share stories of kings, aristocrats, and everyday Madrileños, bringing the past vividly to life.

To enrich the journey, you’ll stop at two signature tapas stops in charming-old taverns, each tapa or pincho paired with a wine or other beverage. These tapas are not a full meal (3 tapas or pinchos total) but a cultural sampling – a chance to savor traditional flavors in the same places where locals have gathered for generations. This tour is a paseo or stroll on foot, at a relaxed pace, with time to enjoy the atmosphere and uncover Madrid’s hidden gems. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve walked in the footsteps of history.

Why This Tour Is for You

If you’re curious about Madrid’s unique past, love lively stories, and enjoy combining history with authentic flavors, this experience is designed to be fun, social, and full of discovery.

What’s Included

• Guided walking tour through Madrid’s oldest quarters: La Latina and the Barrio de los Austrias.
• Two signature tapas stops in charming old taverns, each paired with a tapa & beverage (total of 3 pinchos or tapas, a wine, beer, or soft drink).
• Cultural highlights along the route: Plaza de la Paja, Plaza de la Villa, Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza de Oriente, Royal Palace.
• Local insights from a bilingual guide (English, Spanish).
• Small public tour experience— up to 8 guests, with private option available.

Get Tips & Insights for Your Travel

• Insider recommendations — your bilingual (English, Spanish) guide will share local tips to make the most of your stay in Madrid.
• Food & drink advice — discover how madrileños enjoy tapas and pinchos and where to continue your tasting journey.
• Cultural context — Learn stories that connect Madrid’s medieval past, Habsburg & Borbón grandeur, and today’s vibrant local life.
• Best photo spots — from Plaza Mayor’s arcades to Royal Palace views at Plaza de Oriente.
• Neighborhood gems — suggestions for nearby cafés, artisan shops, and hidden corners worth exploring after the tour.
• Travel tips — practical advice on moving around Madrid, from metro stops near La Latina to shortcuts for reaching the Royal Palace area.

Itinerary

• Iglesia de San Andrés & Plaza de la Paja
• Tapas Stop 1 — Historic Tavern
• Plaza Mayor
• Mercado de San Miguel
• Ancient Plaza de la Villa
• Madrid’s Oldest Church
• Cathedral de Almudena
• Plaza de Oriente
• Royal Palace
• Tapas Stop 2 — Historic Tavern

Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Enjoy tapa tasting — two stops included as a sampling experience, not a full meal. (For any dietary restrictions please contact us).
• Expect variety — this tour blends history, culture, and food, so each day may vary slightly.
• Children policy — suitable for ages 14 and above.
• Accessibility — unfortunately not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers.
• Weather note — tours run rain or shine, so bring an umbrella or sun protection depending on the season.