Start at Metro Sol, where the symbol of Madrid is the bear and the tree (Oso y el Madroño). On that square, you’ll also find La Casa De Correos, a big building from the 18th century, where the 0 KM Madrid/Spain is located. The clock on this building is where Spaniards eat the famous 12 grapes during New Year’s Eve. 

Next, walk through Calle Mayor, which is on the right. Enjoy a beer at El Museo del Jamón and then head to Plaza Mayor, where you can try one of the best Bocadillo de Calamares at Bar La Campana (a sandwich with squid and bread) or visit Mercado San Miguel, the best gourmet food market in Madrid, which is next to Plaza Mayor. Just around the corner on La Cava de San Miguel is one of my favorite bars/restaurants, El Mesón Del Champiñon, which serves the best mushrooms in the world (sorry, Amsterdam doesn’t count). If you keep going on that street, you’ll find El Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). 

After that, go to Plaza Santa Ana, which is the neighborhood of the writers (Miguel de Cervantes used to live there). Lateral is a good restaurant in that area. Then, walk down through Calle Huertas to El Prado Museum. From there, head to Parque del Retiro (visit Fuente Alfonso XII and Palacio de Cristal). Then, go to La Puerta de Alcalá and walk down to the Cibeles Fountain, where the city hall is located. You can even go up and have a drink there. And don’t forget to visit The Royal Palace! 

What’s Madrid 

History and Culture:

Madrid is the capital of Spain and has a rich history and culture that dates back to the 9th century. The city is famous for its art and architecture, which can be seen in the many museums, galleries, and monuments. 

Food and Drink:

Madrid is known for its delicious food and drink, including tapas, paella, sangria, and local wines. Visitors should try traditional dishes like cocido, a hearty stew made with meat and vegetables, and churros con chocolate, a popular dessert. 

Attractions:

Madrid has many popular attractions that are worth visiting, such as the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Prado Museum, and the Retiro Park. The city also has many beautiful plazas, including the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol. 

Festivals and Events:

Madrid hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the San Isidro Festival, which celebrates the city’s patron saint, and the Madrid Pride

Parade, which is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Europe. 

Neighborhoods:

Madrid has many unique and vibrant neighborhoods that are worth exploring, such as La Latina, which is known for its tapas bars and lively atmosphere, and Malasaña, which is known for its trendy bars and vintage shops. 

Day trips:

Madrid is a great base for day trips to nearby cities and towns, such as Toledo, Segovia, and El Escorial. These destinations offer beautiful architecture, rich history, and delicious food 

Fun facts

• Madrid is the highest capital city in Europe, with an altitude of 667 meters above sea level. 
• The Puerta del Sol in Madrid is the geographic center of Spain and is also where you’ll find the famous clock tower that counts down to the New Year. 
• Madrid’s Retiro Park used to be the private garden of the Spanish monarchy, and it is home to a stunning crystal palace that was built in 1887. 
• Madrid is known for its delicious cuisine, including dishes like “Tortilla de Patatas”, “Churros con Chocolate” and Tapas from all over Spain. 
• The Plaza Mayor in Madrid has been the site of many important historical events, including bullfights, public executions, and even the proclamation of a new king. Madrid is home to one of the largest royal palaces in Europe, the Palacio Real, which has more than 3,400 rooms. 
• The Prado Museum in Madrid is one of the most important art museums in the world and is home to works by famous Spanish artists like Diego Velázquez and Francisco de Goya. 

These are just a few examples of the fun and interesting facts you can expect to learn on our bike tour in Madrid. Our knowledgeable and charismatic tour guides will provide you with many more fascinating details about the city’s history, culture, and landmarks.