Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 21 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons worth booking?
Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons is a 3-hour experience in Madrid, Spain, from $34 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 21 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 71 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (21)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $34 per person
We propose that you learn more about the origins of the city from the urban, historical and architectural point of view since the arabs founded it at the end of the 9th century, following with the conquest of the city by
What you get
About this experience
We propose that you learn more about the origins of the city from the urban, historical and architectural point of view since the arabs founded it at the end of the 9th century, following with the conquest of the city by Alfonso VI of Castilla in the 11th century or the moment when Felipe II decided to fix the capital in Madrid, in 1561. We will begin in front of the Royal Palace, reviewing its history since the Arabs built the Alcázar, the defensive castle when Madrid was founded till the moment Felipe V ordered to built the Royal Palace as we know today. From there, we will learn more about the history of the Cathedral and the the new Royal Collections Museum designed by Tuñón and Mansilla. We will enjoy the only rests we have of the Arab Wall. Crossing the Viaduct of Segovia, we will enjoy the views of the forest called Casa de Campo, the green lung, three times bigger than Central Park, the King’s private hunting site until 1931 and a Civil War front, stopping at a viewpoint from which we will enjoy the views of part of the cornice of Madrid. We will continue the walk trough, walking throught these old small streets and squares we will arrive to the Square of Puerta Cerrada, one of the old gates of the old city. San Miguel Market will be other of one stops where you could have a drink and tapas after visiting Plaza de la Villa where the old City Hall of the city is located. From there you will learn the history of Plaza Mayor, the best example of castillians squares, built 400 years ago.
What's included
Included
- The visit led by a local architect who will give you the artistic historical context of the buildings, accompanied by plans and historical photos to understand the urban development of the city in each period.
Not included
- Tips
What you'll see and do
Teatro Real
We will enjoy the building, reviewing the history of the Opeara Theater
10 minutes here
Plaza de Oriente
We will learn the urban development of the Square from the arabs till today,
10 minutes here
Royal Palace of Madrid
We will admire every facade and we will explain you the different architects and kings that they were involved in this project,. We will not include the visit of the interior.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
Plaza de Ramales
We wil see the ruins of the Church of San Juan, where the painter Velazquez was buried and the Church of Santiago.
10 minutes here
Real Iglesia Parroquial de Santiago y San Juan Bautista
Church in honor of the apostle Santiago
5 minutes here
Church of St. Nicholas of the Servitas (San Nicolas de las Servitas)
We will visit the oldest church in Madrid with a mudejar tower full of horseshoes arches.
5 minutes here
Museo de la Catedral de la Almudena
From a seaview, we will explain you the history of the Cathedral of La Almudena
5 minutes here
Arab Wall
We will enjoy the only rests we have of the old Arab Walls built in the 9th century,
10 minutes here
Plaza de la Villa
We will visit the old City Hall and the building that surrounds the square, as Casa de Cisneros and Casa de los Lujanes.
10 minutes here
Mercado San Miguel
We will stop in the only market with the structure mad of steel we have in Madrid, where you can have a drink and eat tapas.
10 minutes here
Plaza Mayor
We will finish in the social and comercial center of the city for the last 400 yeats of this example of square from Castilla.
10 minutes here
Puerta del Sol
We will finish in the Kilometer 0 at Puerta del Sol
5 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Madrid
We will meet at the entrance of the Starbucks, left corner of the Royal Theater
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
PRIVATE TOUR
Private tour: An exclusive experience just for you and the people you book with. Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes: 3h15m-3h30m depending on the size of the group, how fast we walk or how long we stop answering your questions. Ages : From 0 to 99 years. Children from 0 to 6 years old free of charge.
GROUP TOUR
Small group tour : Groups of minimum 4 people and maximum 10 people. You will share the experience with other tourists that you may not know. Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes: 3h15m-3h30m depending on the size of the group, how fast we walk or how long we stop answering your questions. Ages: 12 and up 12-15 teen price
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- architoursmad
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 21 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
21 verified traveler reviews for Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great Architecture Tour
Fantastic rich history shown through architecture in a beautiful city. Emilio was knowledgeable and engaged.
via Viator
History emphasis tour
We learned a lot about Madrid history but thought that there would be more emphasis on the architecture since it was titled that way.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to write a review, although I am a little surprised because it is the first time in seven years that we have received such a comment. On the one hand, you decided to leave the tour with two and a half hours still to go, claiming it was cold, even though I offered to go somewhere heated for a hot coffee, and you made no mention about the emphasis on history or what were your interests. On the other hand, in a tour about historical architecture and the origins of the city, we always explain the historical, political, and sociological context of each building, without which it is impossible to understand the stylistic changes and urban development of Madrid over 12 centuries of history.
via Viator
Perfect walking seminar with a friendly expert
Emilio is a real local expert who gave us the chance to come to know the old parts of town. So many details going far beyond only the sights along the way helped us understanding the history of town much better. Despite the spectacular sights we got so many insights into the history of town and country. Emilio guided us knowlegable and in a very friendly manner and our kids recognized so many of his hints during the week after that you can see how nachhaltig his tour has been. We strongly suggest to book is second tour about Gran via in combination. Could not have been better, a real gem and an absolute recommendation! Thank you so much
via Tripadvisor
Great expetience
Our guide was excellent. He has an amazing knowledge of Madrid’s history and architecture. We gained so much from this private tour!
via Viator
Depth and perspective
Emilio is extremely knowledgeable. We would never see this much on our own. This tour helps to connect modern city to its history. Highly recommended.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Price range
- $34 to $339
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 71
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Madrid.
How much does Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons cost?
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Prices start at $34 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Madrid usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Madrid is not rushed.
Is Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 21 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Madrid, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons?
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Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Madrid can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Madrid and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Madrid Historic with an architect : Arabs, Austrias and Bourbons start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Madrid within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Madrid?
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On Outty we rank every Madrid experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Madrid Essential: Historic Center, Plaza Mayor & Royal Palace, Madrid Walking Tour from Puerta del Sol to Retiro Park, Madrid Oscuro: Torture, Ghosts, Crimes and Legends. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Madrid?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Madrid?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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