Elegant Salamanca and Chueca: A Self-Guided Tour in Madrid

Madrid, ES

Included

  • inclusion
    Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
  • inclusion
    Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
  • inclusion
    Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • inclusion
    App for Android and iOS
  • inclusion
    Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drink
  • exclusion
    Transportation
  • exclusion
    Smartphone and headphones
  • exclusion
    Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Meeting Point

The tour begins in front of the Palacio de Cibeles, the largest building in the centrally-located Plaza de Cibeles. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Meeting point

Plaza Cibeles, 1, Retiro, 28014 Madrid , Spain

End point

End Point

The tour begins in front of the Palacio de Cibeles, the largest building in the centrally-located Plaza de Cibeles. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Meeting point

Plaza Cibeles, 1, Retiro, 28014 Madrid , Spain

End point

What to expect

1

Palacio de Cibeles

Start at the iconic Cybele Palace, an architectural marvel that once housed Madrid’s central post office and now serves as a cultural hub with a stunning viewpoint overlooking the city.

2

Calle De Serrano

Stroll down the fashionable Calle de Serrano, a boulevard lined with luxurious shops, elegant mansions, and historical sites marking Madrid’s urban expansion.

3
Puerta de Alcala

Marvel at the grand Puerta de Alcalá, commissioned by King Charles III in the 18th century and inspired by Italy’s majestic city gates, a symbol of Madrid’s rich past.

4
Cibeles Fountain

Take a moment at the iconic Cibeles Fountain, a neoclassical landmark featuring the goddess Cybele, representing Madrid’s connection to classical art and mythology.

5

Bank of Spain

Discover the impressive Bank of Spain, one of Spain’s national treasures, where legend has it that hidden gold lies within its secure walls.

6
Circulo De Bellas Artes

Explore the Círculo de Bellas Artes, a gathering place for artists and intellectuals, founded in 1880, with its rooftop views and exhibitions dedicated to Madrid’s vibrant arts scene.

7
Gran Via

Walk along the bustling Gran Vía, known as Madrid’s “Broadway,” home to ornate architecture, theaters, and iconic buildings that showcase the city’s early 20th-century modernization.

8

Cervantes Institute

<nil>

Pass by the Instituto Cervantes, dedicated to promoting Spanish culture and language worldwide, embodying Madrid’s role as a cultural capital.

9

Bárbara De Braganza

Visit the Panteón de Bárbara de Braganza, the only royal mausoleum dedicated to King Ferdinand VI and Queen Barbara, highlighting a unique piece of Madrid’s royal history.

10

National Archaeological Museum

<nil>

Conclude your tour outside the National Archaeological Museum, housing artifacts from Spain’s ancient past, including the famous La Dama de Elche sculpture—an icon with a mysterious origin story.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Start at Palacio de Cibeles
  • icon
    Bring headphones for a better experience
  • icon
    Explore nearby shops in Chueca
  • icon
    Visit Museo Arqueológico Nacional
  • icon
    Take public transport to save time

More About this Experience

Introduction

Salamanca and Chueca A Self Guided Tour with Context offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Madrid's famous neighborhoods at your own pace. Led by art historian Andrea Van Houtven, this audio tour provides insightful commentary that brings the past to life, making for an engaging and educational experience.

What to expect?

Embark on a fascinating journey through Madrid's Salamanca and Chueca neighborhoods, where you will uncover the stories of royalty, prominent citizens, and cultural evolution. Marvel at architectural wonders like the Puerta de Alcalá and delve into the history of landmarks such as the National Archaeological Museum. With lifetime access to the tour, offline audio guides, and the flexibility to explore with a self-guided GPS, expect an immersive and enriching experience that will deepen your understanding of Madrid's heritage.

Who is this for?

This self-guided tour is perfect for curious travelers who appreciate art, history, and architecture. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple seeking a cultural escape, or a family eager to learn together, this tour caters to anyone with a passion for exploring new destinations and uncovering hidden gems. With its flexible format and informative commentary, this experience is ideal for those who value independence and in-depth cultural immersion.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Madrid's Salamanca and Chueca neighborhoods with this self-guided tour. Gain unique insights from an expert like Andrea Van Houtven, who will guide you through the city's transformation from medieval roots to modern magnificence. With the convenience of an app for both Android and iOS, offline access to audio guides, and detailed directions, this tour offers a seamless and enriching way to explore Madrid's cultural heritage.

Good to know

Before embarking on your self-guided tour, ensure you have a smartphone and headphones for an optimal experience. Be prepared to start your journey at the Palacio de Cibeles in Plaza de Cibeles, where you will unlock a world of historical wonders and architectural marvels. With detailed instructions provided upon downloading the mobile app, you'll be ready to immerse yourself in the captivating stories and landmarks of Madrid.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Salamanca and Chueca A Self Guided Tour with Context rave about the depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling provided by Andrea Van Houtven. Visitors praise the convenience of the mobile app, the flexibility of the self-guided GPS tour, and the wealth of historical information that brings Madrid's neighborhoods to life. Overall, guests express high satisfaction with the tour's educational value and immersive experience.

Select Currency