Stop 1: Plaza Mayor
One of the most famous squares in Madrid. This square has a great history, as it was the scene of bullfights, executions and other important events during the 17th and 18th centuries. Enjoy its baroque architecture, surrounded by arcades with shops and cafes.
Stop 2: San Miguel Market
Just a few steps from Plaza Mayor, this market is perfect for getting a taste of Madrid's gastronomy. Even if you don't linger too long, it's a good place for a quick pincho or tapa.
Stop 3: Church of San Ginés
The Church of San Ginés in Arles, located on Calle Arenal in Madrid, is one of the oldest parish churches in the city, with origins dating back to the 9th century. Although it has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries, its current structure dates back to the 17th century and features a combination of Baroque and Neo-Mudejar architectural styles. Inside, the church houses a valuable artistic heritage. Highlights include: "The Expulsion of the Merchants from the Temple" by El Greco, "A Crucified Christ" attributed to Alonso Cano and several side chapels with Baroque altars and valuable sculptures.
3. Convent of the Descalzas Reales
A cloistered monastery of Poor Clares founded in 1559 by Philip II's sister, Joan of Austria, which houses more than 200 works by artists such as Titian, Brueghel and Sánchez Coello in the form of paintings, murals, tapestries, altarpieces, sculptures, nativity scenes and reliquaries. The monastery, with Plateresque architecture, has a cloister, church and chapel and preserves the impressively rich aesthetic atmosphere of the Habsburg era.
4. Royal Palace
Built in the early 18th century by order of Philip V and designed by the Baroque architect Filippo Juvara, the Royal Palace has a rich historical and artistic heritage. In the different rooms you can see decorative elements, paintings, and sculptures belonging to the Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassicism that give the palace a luxurious, magnificent, and unique aesthetic. The palace, one of the largest in the world and designated as the official residence of the monarchs, is a visual delight that includes works by masters such as Bernini, Goya, or Tiepolo and which cannot be missed.
5. Plaza de Oriente
After visiting the Royal Palace, head to Plaza de Oriente, a beautiful square where you can find several statues of the monarchs of Spain and enjoy the Madrid Opera House. This is a good place to make a short stop and appreciate the views.
6. Calle Mayor and Plaza de la Villa
From Plaza de Oriente, walk towards Calle Mayor and Plaza de la Villa, one of the oldest corners of Madrid, where you will find historic buildings such as the Casa de la Villa.
7. Puerta del Sol
Finish your tour at Puerta del Sol, the center of the city, where you can see the famous Kilometer Zero, the Bear and the Strawberry Tree and enjoy the atmosphere of this square so representative of Madrid.