Madrid’s Golden Age: History along the Manzanares River

5.0 (1 reviews) Madrid, Spain
Duration50m - 1h 10m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

On this self-guided walking tour, you'll leaf through centuries of history in one of the capital’s newest public parks

Parque Madrid Río (meaning Madrid River Park) follows the gentle flow of the Manzanares River through the southern part of the city, like a green ribbon. It’s one of the city’s newest public spaces, yet it’s packed with some of its most important historical places.

You’ll walk along the river’s edge to Puente del Rey and take a trip through time, hearing about the Spanish Golden Age of the 1500s, the Civil War of the 1930s, and, eventually, the present day.

This hour-long walk will introduce you to the river’s fascinating links with the last 500 years of Spanish history, while you enjoy local wildlife and nature along the way. It’s a side of the city that’s popular with locals, but which few visitors ever get to see. So, if you’d like to take a break from Madrid’s bustling city centre, this tour is perfect for you!

What's included

  • Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
  • Smartphone and headphones

What to expect

  1. Madrid Rio Park
    Pass by
    Begin your exploration of Madrid Rio Park, a vibrant public space that follows the gentle flow of the Manzanares River through the southern part of the city, offering a mix of history, nature, and recreation.
  2. Parque Madrid Rio
    Pass by
    Discover Parque Madrid Río, a modern urban park that showcases the evolution of Madrid's capital city alongside the Manzanares River.
  3. River Manzanares
    Pass by
    Follow the Manzanares River's path as it winds through Madrid Rio Park, learning about its historical significance and connection to Spain's fortunes.
  4. Pass by
    Start your journey next to the Segovia Bridge, one of Madrid's oldest bridges, and uncover the secrets of its history and construction.
  5. Pass by
    Explore the Chapel of the Virgin of the Harbour and learn about its religious significance and the replica statue it houses.
  6. Pass by
    Discover Dam N° 5, a historical structure that played a crucial role in the development of Madrid's waterways and irrigation systems.
  7. Pass by
    Encounter the Letters of Madrid, iconic symbols that spell out the city's name and serve as a popular photo spot for visitors.
  8. Pass by
    Pose for a photo with the Madrid Rio Sign, a recognizable landmark that marks the entrance to Madrid Rio Park.
  9. Pass by
    Explore Huerta de la Partida, a scenic area within Madrid Rio Park offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  10. Mirador De La Huerta De La Partida
    Pass by
    Enjoy panoramic views of the river valley from Mirador de la Huerta de la Partida, a popular lookout point.
  11. Casa de Campo
    Pass by
    Learn about Casa de Campo, a historical royal hunting ground that has been transformed into one of Madrid's largest public parks.
  12. Pass by
    Marvel at the Fuente de la Buena Suerte, or Fountain of Good Luck, and discover its significance within Madrid's cultural landscape.
  13. Pass by
    Discover the Mansion of the Vargas, another historical landmark with ties to Spanish nobility and intrigue.
  14. Pass by
    Pass by the Puerta del Río, or Gate of the River, and learn about its historical significance as a point of entry and defence for Madrid.
  15. Puente del Rey
    Pass by
    End your tour at the Bridge of the King, a historic bridge that spans the Manzanares River and offers stunning views of Madrid Rio Park.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The starting point is the Segovia Bridge, on the south bank of the Manzanares river. The starting point is the corner of Paseo de Extremadura and Paseo de Ermita Santo Madrid, 28011. The starting point is the Matadero Centre, Plaza de Legazpi, 8, 28045 Madrid.

End point

The tour ends at Puente del Rey, otherwise known as The Bridge of the King.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (1)
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