Walking Tour Barrio de las Letras and Madrid de los Austrias

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Exterior visit to the Lope de Vega House Museum in Madrid’s Barrio de las Letras, which was the home of the celebrated playwright during the last years of his life. This space, restored with furniture and decoration from the Golden Age, allows you to know your daily life and work. It includes a historic garden, original rooms and exhibitions related to his legacy.

   10 minutes here · Admission not included

2. Convento de las Trinitarias Descalzas de San Ildefonso

   The Convent of the Trinitarian Barefoot, located in the Barrio de las Letras of Madrid, a cloistered monastery founded in the 17th century. This place is especially known for being the place where Miguel de Cervantes was buried, although his exact grave was not identified until 2015. The building combines elements of the austere Baroque style and is a symbol of the literary history of the city, as Cervantes spent his last years in close proximity to this place. Although the convent is not accessible to the public because it is cloistered, the annexed church can be visited at specific times, offering an opportunity to contemplate its artistic heritage and pay tribute to the author of Don Quixote.

   15 minutes here · Admission not included

3. Casa de Cervantes

   Our next stop takes us to La Casa de Cervantes in Madrid, located in the Barrio de las Letras, was the residence of the celebrated writer Miguel de Cervantes in his last years. Although the original building is not preserved, a memorial plaque on Calle Cervantes, 2, marks the place where the author of Don Quixote lived. The space is part of the literary environment of the area, next to the Convent of Trinitarias, where he was buried. This place is a point of historical and cultural interest that evokes the presence of the writer in the city and his legacy in universal literature.

   10 minutes here · Admission not included

4. Teatro Espanol

   Located in the Plaza de Santa Ana in Madrid, it is one of the oldest and most emblematic theaters in Spain. Its origin dates back to the 16th century, when it was a comedy corral known as the Prince's Corral. Since then, it has evolved into a benchmark for the performing arts. The current building which we will analyze from its exterior, neoclassical style, combines history and modernity. It has been the scene of the works of great Spanish playwrights such as Lope de Vega, Calderón de la Barca and García Lorca. In addition to its theatrical performances, it offers guided tours to explore its rich history and unique architecture. It is a must for lovers of theater and Madrid culture.

   10 minutes here · Admission not included

5. Plaza De Santa Ana

   Located in the heart of Madrid’s Barrio de las Letras, it is a vibrant meeting point that combines history, culture and leisure. Created in the 19th century, it is surrounded by bars, restaurants and emblematic buildings such as the Spanish Theatre and the Hotel ME Madrid Reina Victoria, famous for its neo-Baroque facade. The square pays tribute to key figures in Spanish literature with statues of Federico García Lorca and Calderón de la Barca. Its lively atmosphere makes it an ideal place to enjoy local cuisine, stroll or immerse yourself in the literary history of the city.

   15 minutes here

6. Tablao Flamenco 1911

   Located in the center of Madrid, our next stop outside takes us to one of the oldest and most emblematic tablaos in the city, with more than a century of history. This space has witnessed the performances of great flamenco figures, offering an authentic and vibrant experience that combines tradition and passion. The tablao stands out for its intimate atmosphere, where the art of singing, playing and flamenco dancing are masterfully presented. In addition to the shows, it offers an excellent gastronomic proposal that includes typical Spanish dishes, ideal for enjoying a full evening. It is a must for those who want to know the spirit of flamenco in the capital.

   10 minutes here · Admission not included

7. Puerta del Sol

   Puerta del Sol is the heart of Madrid, famous for the Zero Kilometer, the Bear and Madrono statue, and the clock of the Casa de Correos, a historic building built in the 18th century, originally hosted the postal services, but today houses the Presidency of the Community of Madrid. Its most emblematic element is the clock, which every December 31st marks the chimes of the end of the year, a tradition followed by millions of Spaniards. It is a place full of symbolism and an icon in the heart of the city.

   15 minutes here

8. The Posada del Peine Hotel is one of Madrid’s most iconic hotels, known for being the oldest hotel in the city, with more than 400 years of history. It is located in the heart of the old town, close to Plaza Mayor, offering a mixture of historic charm and modern amenities that we will discover from the outside. The name “Posada del Comb” comes from a curious tradition of the 17th century, when each room featured a comb tied with a rope for guests. Today, the hotel retains its historic character, but with updated facilities that make it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the history of Madrid while enjoying a comfortable stay.

   10 minutes here · Admission not included

9. Plaza Mayor

   Madrid’s Plaza Mayor is one of the city’s most iconic places, an imposing rectangular square surrounded by historic buildings with uniform facades and porticoes. Originally built in the 17th century, it has witnessed markets, festivals, bullfighting and historical events. In the center is the equestrian statue of Philip III, a prominent symbol of the square. In addition, its surroundings are full of cafes, restaurants and traditional shops, making it an ideal point to enjoy Madrid’s gastronomy, such as a good squid sandwich. It is a place that combines history, culture and modern life in the heart of the city.

   15 minutes here

10. Founded in 1725, it is the oldest Guinness World Record restaurant in the world. Located near Plaza Mayor, it is an emblematic place of Madrid, famous for its traditional Castilian cuisine. Among its specialties are roast suckling pig and lamb milk, prepared in its original wood-fired oven. In addition, its rustic and welcoming atmosphere, with centuries-old wineries, transports you back to the past while enjoying an authentic dining experience. Botín is a must-see stop for those who want to taste the history and flavors of Madrid cuisine.

    Pass by without stopping

11. Mercado San Miguel

    The San Miguel Market is one of Madrid’s most emblematic places, famous for being a gastronomic market that combines tradition and modernity. Located next to Plaza Mayor, its 20th century iron structure makes it an architectural icon. It is the ideal place to enjoy a wide variety of tapas, fresh produce, wines, desserts and local and international specialties. More than a market, it is a culinary experience where you can taste the best of Spanish gastronomy in a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

    20 minutes here

12. La Real Botica de la Reina Madre

    Located on Calle Mayor, which traces its origins to the 16th century. It was founded under the patronage of Queen Mariana of Austria, mother of Charles II, and functioned as a royal apothecary for centuries, supplying medicines and court preparations. The building preserves architectural and decorative elements that reflect its history, being an example of the legacy of traditional pharmacies in Spain. Although it no longer operates as an apothecary, it is a place full of historical value that connects with the medical and scientific past of the city.

    Pass by without stopping

13. One of the most historic and picturesque corners of Madrid, located in the old town, very close to Calle Mayor. It was for centuries the administrative center of the city. Three historic buildings that surround it stand out: - The Casa de la Villa, which hosted the Madrid City Council. The Cisneros House, a Renaissance palace from the 16th century. -The Tower of the Lujanes, a medieval construction that is one of the oldest buildings in Madrid. The square, with its quiet air and historic charm, is ideal to discover the past of the capital and admire its traditional architecture.

    20 minutes here

14. Mirador de la Cornisa del Palacio Real

    The Corniche Viewpoint of the Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the most impressive views of the city. Located at the top of the Palace, it offers a unique panorama that spans from the historic center of Madrid to Parque del Oeste, through Campo del Moro and beyond. This viewpoint is especially known for its perspective on the Almudena and the Madrid of the Austrias, allowing a privileged view of the rooftops and architecture of the city. Although access is not available to the general public, it is possible to enjoy the views from nearby Palace gardens, such as Campo del Moro.

    15 minutes here

15. The Cathedral of the Almudena is one of the main churches in Madrid, located in front of the Royal Palace. Its construction began in 1883 and was completed in 1993, giving it a mixture of architectural styles, from neoclassical to Gothic, to Roman and Modernist. The cathedral is known for its impressive facade and interior, which includes a main chapel decorated with frescoes and a Romanesque-style crypt. Vibrant colors can be seen in its dome, while stained glass windows and side chapels add a touch of beauty. In addition, in 2004, it was the location of the wedding of Kings Felipe VI and Letizia.

    15 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Tour in French

• Tour in Spanish

• Tour in English

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en, fr, es

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 10 travelers per booking

Operated by

Descubre Tours

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photos