Walking tour of the Austrian neighbourhood of Madrid

General information

Destination	Category
Madrid, Spain	Sightseeing Tours

Program details

Discover the legacy left by the Austrian Habsburg dynasty’s rule over Spain as you explore the Renaissance and Baroque style buildings in the picturesque heart of Madrid. Known in Spain as the “Casa de Austria”, the Habsburgs ruled the country for the majority of the 16th and 17th centuries and transferred the Spanish court and capital to Madrid. Coinciding with Spain’s Golden Age and rapid colonization of Latin America, the Spanish economy boomed and the Austrian rulers commissioned a variety of building projects to demonstrate the capital’s power and wealth. The result is the spectacular architecture to be found between the modern day Sol and Opera metro stations. Appreciate the history behind these spectacular landmarks on this memorable guided tour.


The most famous Habsburg construction is undoubtedly the Plaza Mayor, the dark red and orange main square of Madrid that proudly presents a statue of King Philip III in its centre. Once the scene of bloody bullfights and executions as well as royal coronations, you will learn the fascinating history of this cultural and historical landmark. Proceed to take in the Santa Cruz palace, the Town Hall, the Bridge to Segovia and many more traces of the Austrian Empire in Madrid.


The tour includes a stop off at one of the most picturesque cafés in the centre of Madrid to relax and reflect on the historical and cultural importance of the Austrian influence in Madrid.


Duration: 2 hours.

Start/opening time: At 9.30am. Guests must be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the departure of the tour.

Languages: English and Spanish.