Free Tour

Modern Madrid

From village to metropolis. Discover how modernity burst onto the scene in Madrid: Gran Vía, Malasaña, Chueca, the Movida Madrileña, Cibeles, the Paseo del Prado and much more.

On this tour, you'll discover, in an entertaining and dynamic yet rigorous way, the modernization that Madrid underwent from the 18th century onwards. History told with a smile, so you can understand how Madrid transformed from a Castilian village into a major metropolis with an international reach.

We'll walk along Gran Vía, the grand modernization project of the early 20th century. You'll understand the radical transformation this street brought to the city and why it's so iconic.

We'll walk through the Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods, which represent the most modern and cosmopolitan side of Madrid, icons of democratic Spain. We'll talk about the counterculture of the 80s, the Movida Madrileña, and the cultural changes after the Franco dictatorship.

We will cross the Paseo del Prado, an enlightened modernization project of Charles III that today forms part of the Landscape of Light, which has earned Madrid a place on UNESCO's World Heritage List. We will also visit the Cibeles Fountain and see the Puerta de Alcalá, two of the city's most emblematic monuments.

In short, a tour of some of Madrid's most iconic landmarks, brimming with history, anecdotes, and great moments. All presented with a positive attitude, a sense of humor, and a storytelling style accessible to everyone. With trained and entertaining guides, you'll learn while having fun. Come and discover the most modern side of Madrid!

* If you take both of our free tours, you'll get a tremendously comprehensive view of Madrid's history and identity.

⏳ 2.5 hour journey

🕙 Time: 4:00 PM

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Suitable for all ages

👥 small groups

ITINERARY

• Gran Vía

• Malasaña

• Chueca

• The Madrid Scene

• Gran Vía

• Cibeles

• Madrid City Council

• Paseo del Prado

• Alcalá Gate