General information
| Destination | Category |
|---|
| Madrid, Spain | Sightseeing Tours |
Program details
Marvel at the legacy of the Spain’s Habsburg kings, who ruled the country during the peak of its empire, a period fondly recalled as the Golden Age. This four-hour walking tour of the parts of Madrid dating from their reign takes in an astonishing array of monumental Renaissance and Baroque buildings, culminating in a guided visit of the Royal Palace.
See all of the most important landmarks from the era, including Calle Mayor with its elegant 17th century Palaces and Madrid’s oldest church, San Nicolas de los Servitas. Take in the vast surroundings of Plaza Mayor, the elegant heart of this most vibrant of cities. Its centrepiece is the famous equestrian statue of Philip II, Spain’s second Habsburg king and the man who sent the invincible Armada. Take a break for a drink in a traditional
mesón before continuing to the Royal Palace.
The palace itself was the brainchild of Philip V, Spain’s first Bourbon king. The Habsburg line died out with the unfortunate Charles II, known as ‘the bewitched’. He ordered it built after the original was gutted by fire. The more than 3,400 rooms make it the largest palace in Europe by floor space. The interior décor is an eclectic mix; apart from the grandiose state rooms, there are ones inspired by oriental, Victorian, Renaissance, beaux arts and many other styles.
Meeting/pick-up point: San Nicolas, 15, next to Plaza de Ramales.
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Duration: 4 hours
Start/opening time: At 10am.
Languages: Spanish, English, French and Italian every day except Wednesday
Italiano
Español