Madrid Walking Tour Including La Latina and Lavapiés
Make your own way to Teatro Real, the opera house in central Madrid, to meet your guide and begin your 3-hour, small-group walking tour of the city’s highlights.
Follow your guide on a stroll to the bustling, bohemian neighborhood of La Latina. Situated at the heart of Madrid Old Town, La Latina is sometimes referred to as ‘El Madrid de los Austrias’, which means ‘the Madrid of the Austrians or the Habsburgs’ and is the name used for the ancient city center.
Wander through the expansive squares and the narrow, winding streets that are lined with traditional restaurants and charming coffee shops. Stumble upon hidden gems such as a 17th-century garden, historical inns that have been transformed into boutique hotels, and a square that was once a bullring.
Next, head to Madrid’s old main street that was the city’s center of commerce for many centuries. Then, be transported back in time and make a stop at an old convent to taste delicious sweets made by the nuns.
After exploring La Latina, continue to Lavapiés. A melting pot of different cultures, the neighborhood boasts an eclectic array of restaurants and shops, with Spanish eateries standing beside African restaurants, Asian shops and Indian cafes. As you explore Lavapiés, talk with your guide about the immigration issues in this area.
Visit a bustling food market and browse the stalls of fresh produce with your guide, then head to an arts center to learn about the city’s modern art scene and strong flamenco and gypsy culture. Next, browse some of the multicultural stores and sink your teeth into some delicious, traditional snacks from Africa, India and Asia.
End your tour by taking a short metro ride to one of the city’s viewpoints. Here, marvel at Madrid’s stunning cityscape, and then bid a fond farewell to your guide near the original start point.