The Bourbons in Madrid: a special tour of the centre

The Bourbons came to the Spanish throne at the beginning of the 18th century, and their dynasty still reigns today. Until then, Madrid was characterised by narrow streets, palaces and churches. With the arrival of the Bourbons came a more classical architectural style and a significant reorganisation of urban spaces.

Museums, libraries, promenades, fountains, academies and gardens were created during this period, many of which are still preserved today. Some are internationally famous, while others can be discovered by exploring the city through its Bourbon heritage.

If you would like to understand this historical transformation in greater depth, private tours in Madrid can help you follow the Bourbon legacy with the guidance of a local expert, uncovering details that are not always visible at first glance.

There are also other ways to experience the city from different perspectives, whether through thematic routes or more active explorations of Madrid’s historic centre and culinary traditions.

La Puerta del Sol: beginning of the Madrid through the Bourbons tour

The Puerta del Sol square is one of Madrid’s tourist sites that everyone needs to visit. This is where the clock tower from which the twelve chimes that bring in the new year ring out. Did you know that in Spain, new year is brought in by eating 12 grapes?

You will also be able to admire the 'Oso y el Madroño' (the bear and the strawberry tree), the statue of Carlos III, and the Casa de Correos (Royal Post House).

We suggest taking a route through the streets of Alcalá and Caballero de Gracia, where you will discover Casa de Postas, the Real Casa de Aduanas, the Real Academia de Bellas Artes, and, finally, El Oratorio del Caballero de Gracia, one of the great works of neoclassical architecture.

We follow the route to Plaza de Cibeles

Plaza de Cibeles is where Real Madrid fans celebrate their titles, but it's also one of the most beautiful places in the city. The Palacio de Linares and Palacio de Buenavista are found in the square.

The fountain in the middle of the square represents the Greek goddess Cybele and is a great place for obligatory photos and selfies.

Visit the Puerta de Alcalá and finish at the Prado Museum

A few metres away is one of Madrid's five Arcs de Triomphe, La Puerta de Alcalá. Located in Plaza de Independencia, for centuries it has welcomed travellers from Aragon and France.

From here, you can choose whether to walk around the Parque del Retiro, full of beautiful architecture, sculptures, and landscapes, or you can go down the Paseo del Prado, which, during the reign of Carlos III, housed buildings dedicated to science.

If you choose the second option, we recommend continuing to the Prado Museum, passing by the Fuente de Apolo, the Fuente de Neptuno, the Botanical Garden, and the Congreso de los Diputados (Congress of Deputies).

Without doubt, the Madrid through the Bourbons tour is a great way of discovering the Spanish capital's most famous sites. If you would like to go on the tour accompanied by a guide, remember that we do bespoke tours of Madrid so that you can enjoy a unique day out and you don't miss a thing.