Madrid City Tour tourist bus routes

The Fuente de Neptuno is on Paseo del Prado. Under the orders of King Charles III, Juan Pascual de Mena began to build this marble statue in 1780. In 1786 his disciple José Rodríguez finished off the project. The figure is standing on a chariot, drawn by two sea horses and surrounded by dolphins. Near the Plaza de Neptuno there are many of the city’s symbolic buildings, such as the Palace Hotel, Palacio de Villahermosa, Museo del Prado, the Ritz Hotel, the Congreso de los Diputados and, in the background, San Jerónimo el Real church.

This is one of the liveliest, best-known and most beautiful squares in Madrid, and is home to such emblematic monuments as the Fuente de Cibeles and Palacio de Cibeles. The Fuente de Cibeles, the symbol of Madrid, stands in the middle of the square. Goddess of nature and protector of the town, this sculpture was designed by Ventura Rodríguez in 1777. Also in this square is the Palacio de Cibeles (today the site of the City Hall) which also houses the cultural space known as CentroCentro and the Galería de Cristal.

Gran Vía is one of the most important and symbolic arteries of downtown Madrid, and in few places will you experience the hustle and bustle of this busy street. Lined with theatres, hotels, restaurants and cafés, thousands of residents and tourists stream along its pavements every day. Being located in the busy heart of Madrid it also has many souvenir shops, selling typical craft items, and traditional goods such as lace, mantilla shawls and fans.

Plaza de España is a large square, and popular tourist destination, located in central Madrid. In the centre of the plaza is a monument to Spanish novelist, poet and playwright Miguel de Cervantes. The tower portion of the monument includes a stone sculpture of Cervantes, which overlooks bronze sculptures of Don Quijote and Sancho Panza. Flanking the Plaza de España we find two emblematic buildings of the city: the Madrid Tower and the Edificio España, which constitute one of the most interesting architectural areas of Madrid.

The Plaza de la Moncloa is in the west of Madrid. From there you can see buildings in the neo-Herrerian style built during Franco's time, such as the Headquarters of the Air Force, the Arch of Victory and the Moncloa Lighthouse. The Arch of Victory was commissioned by Franco to commemorate the victory in the Spanish Civil War. A bit further on is the Moncloa Lighthouse, a lighting and communications tower for the Madrid Town Hall.

The Madrid Cable Car offers locals and visitors the unique opportunity to fly over the city and enjoy a completely different perspective: a perfect blend of monumental history and the capital’s most expansive natural areas. From its cabins, the city unfolds beneath your feet, revealing iconic buildings, wide green spaces and the main infrastructures that connect Madrid.

Along the route, you can admire iconic sites such as Parque del Oeste, the Temple of Debod, the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida, the monumental skyline with the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral, as well as the vast forested area of Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest urban park. This combination of heritage, urban landscape and nature makes the journey one of the most evocative and surprising experiences in the city.

The system features 80 cabins that travel the 2.5 kilometres between Rosales Station, located next to the Paseo del Pintor Rosales, and Casa de Campo Station, set in the heart of Madrid’s great green lung. During the approximately 11-minute journey each way, passengers enjoy a smooth, panoramic ride—ideal for families, couples, photography lovers and anyone wishing to discover Madrid from above.

The Cable Car is not only a tourist attraction but also a unique way to connect two key leisure and nature areas of the city. A calm, accessible experience perfect for those looking for something special that combines spectacular views with a peaceful break in the heart of Madrid.

This construction dates from the 2nd century BC, and, after centuries on Egyptian soil, was brought to Spain as a gift from Egypt. It arrived in Madrid in 1968, and can be seen in Parque de la Montaña, very close to Plaza de España. The monument is surrounded by beautiful gardens with a fountain, and is Madrid's oldest. It has a hall, several chapels and a terrace on the upper floor, and conserves its original decoration inside.

The Puerta de San Vicente is one of the few remaining monumental gates in Madrid. Located at the Glorieta de San Vicente, this structure is a replica of the original gate, designed in 1775 by the Italian architect Francesco Sabatini (who also designed the Puerta de Alcalá) at the request of King Carlos III. Due to the city’s expansion, the gate was dismantled in 1890 and later reconstructed in 1995 to restore this emblematic monument to Madrid.

Situated in a prime location, the Puerta de San Vicente stands between Madrid Río and the ascent to Plaza de España, just a short distance from landmarks like Campo del Moro, the Royal Palace, and Parque del Oeste. From here, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views and capture the best photos and videos of some of Madrid’s most historic and picturesque sights.

The Cuesta de la Vega is one of the most special corners of historic Madrid. Located at the foot of the city’s monumental skyline, it connects Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace with the Manzanares River. It is a key spot for understanding the origins of Madrid, as it preserves remains of the medieval wall that once protected the old town.

Along its path lie the Gardens of the Cuesta de la Vega, a quiet and little-known green space ideal for strolling while enjoying unique views of the cathedral and the Royal Palace surroundings. Its tree-lined paths and landscaped areas offer a peaceful break in the heart of the city.

Just a short walk away extends the Parque de Atenas, a large urban park running parallel to the river. With wide lawns, play areas and the Royal Palace as an impressive backdrop, it is a favourite spot for families, joggers and anyone looking to unwind. Together, these spaces form a green corridor that blends history, nature and one of the most beautiful panoramas in Madrid.

Nineteen metres tall and opened in 1827, this is the most recent monumental gate built in Madrid. The impressive granite construction was started in 1812 under the orders of Joseph Bonaparte. One year later, after the withdrawal of the French troops from Spain, the project continued and Puerta de Toledo became the site to receive Fernando VII, as represented on one of the friezes. The monument consists of a central semi-circular arch, two lintelled gates and a decoration formed by columns.

Plaza Mayor is a symbol of Madrid and must not be missed. Building work began on this huge open area in the city centre in the 17th century under the orders of Phillip III, whose bronze equestrian statue adorns the square. It was opened in 1620 and is rectangular in shape, with arcades running around the edges. This site used to be the venue for many public events, such as bullfights, processions and festivals. Underneath the arcades there are traditional shops, as well as a wealth of bars and restaurants.

The Barrio de las Letras is one of the most vibrant, cultural and characterful areas in central Madrid. Located between the Paseo del Prado and Puerta del Sol, it owes its name to the fact that, during Spain’s Golden Age, it was home to great literary figures such as Cervantes, Lope de Vega, Quevedo and Góngora. Walking its streets means stepping into the literary history of the country.

Pedestrian streets like Huertas display engraved excerpts from famous works on the pavement, inviting visitors to discover iconic quotes as they stroll. The neighbourhood blends tradition and modernity: restored historic buildings, charming bookshops, old theatres and cafés that preserve its bohemian essence.

It is also a key spot for enjoying culture in all its forms. You’ll find institutions such as CaixaForum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and it is just steps away from the Prado Museum, forming part of the cultural environment of the Art Triangle. Its gastronomy stands out too, with traditional taverns, creative restaurants and lively terraces popular with both locals and visitors.

By day it is calm and perfect for relaxed walks; by night it comes alive with a warm, vibrant atmosphere. Altogether, the Barrio de las Letras is one of the areas that best represent Madrid’s blend of history, art and urban life.

The Paseo del Prado is one of Madrid’s most iconic and elegant boulevards, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Landscape of Light. This historic avenue, stretching from Plaza de Cibeles to Atocha station, is a place where art, science and nature coexist in a truly unique way.

Along the route lie three of the world’s most important museums: the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum, forming the famous Art Triangle. This concentration of cultural institutions makes the Paseo del Prado an essential destination for art lovers and curious travellers alike.

The boulevard preserves its classic layout with a central garden, historic fountains and century-old trees, following part of the Enlightenment-era project promoted by Charles III in the 18th century. Among its most notable landmarks are the Neptune Fountain, the Cibeles Fountain and the Royal Botanical Garden, which adds a botanical and scientific dimension to the area.

Beyond its cultural and historical value, the Paseo del Prado is a pleasant space to walk, rest on its benches or enjoy the atmosphere of its cafés and terraces. It is one of the avenues that best reflects Madrid’s identity: open, monumental and deeply connected to art and history.

The Fuente de Neptuno is on Paseo del Prado. Under the orders of King Charles III, Juan Pascual de Mena began to build this marble statue in 1780. In 1786 his disciple José Rodríguez finished off the project. The figure is standing on a chariot, drawn by two sea horses and surrounded by dolphins. Near the Plaza de Neptuno there are many of the city’s symbolic buildings, such as the Palace Hotel, Palacio de Villahermosa, Museo del Prado, the Ritz Hotel, the Congreso de los Diputados and, in the background, San Jerónimo el Real church.

This is one of the liveliest, best-known and most beautiful squares in Madrid, and is home to such emblematic monuments as the Fuente de Cibeles and Palacio de Cibeles. The Fuente de Cibeles, the symbol of Madrid, stands in the middle of the square. Goddess of nature and protector of the town, this sculpture was designed by Ventura Rodríguez in 1777. Also in this square is the Palacio de Cibeles (today the site of the City Hall) which also houses the cultural space known as CentroCentro and the Galería de Cristal.

The statue in honour of Cristopher Columbus was built between 1881 and 1885, to celebrate the marriage between Alfonso XII and María de las Mercedes from Orleáns. This monument is outstanding due to its perfect incorporation into the square in which is it situated, with a beautiful grassy area, ponds and a large waterfall. Alongside Plaza de Colón you will find the majestic Biblioteca Nacional building. Special mention should be made of its broad exterior staircase and its main façade with a Corinthian style.

This museum conducts activities whose aim is to promote a greater awareness of the diversity of the natural world. It has over six million specimens in its collections, and this makes it one of the main reference centres for not only Spanish fauna, but also that of other Mediterranean areas. It also has interesting permanent exhibits, such as the one devoted to the history of the Earth and life, in which spectacular specimens can be viewed, such as the replica of a Diplodocus.

The Estadio Santiago Bernabéu is the home stadium of the Real Madrid football team. Its name is in honour of the man who was president of the club for 35 years, Santiago Bernabéu. After various remodelling projects, it is today classified as an elite stadium, and holds the UEFA's highest distinction of five stars. The visit to the stadium includes access to Real Madrid's well-stocked trophy room, the presidential box and a chance to walk around the technical area and see the dressing rooms of the visiting team.

Where was once located the Madrid’s Hippodrome, now you can find the Nuevos Ministerios architectural complex. In 1929 Secundino Zuazo y de Jansen started building the Nuevos Ministerios complex but its construction was not concluded until the 1940s and then the paseo de la Castellana was considered an open space. In the paseo de la Castellana 142 you will find the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, the home of the Real Madrid football team.

The Sorolla Museum is one of Madrid’s most charming and luminous spaces, a place where art, intimacy, and beauty blend in a unique way. Located in the former home and studio of painter Joaquín Sorolla, it preserves the essence of the artist: Andalusian-inspired gardens, fountains, the natural light coming through the windows, and personal objects that help visitors understand his daily life. The rooms display many of his most iconic works, especially Mediterranean landscapes, costumbrista scenes, and portraits filled with the unmistakable light that made Sorolla the master of Spanish luminism. Walking through this museum means entering his creative world, observing the colors, brushstrokes, and the constant presence of the sea in his work. Sketches, studies, and tools used by the painter are also preserved, offering insight into his artistic process. The garden, divided into three areas, is one of the most photographed corners for its calm and beauty. Located in the Chamberí district, the museum is easily accessible by metro (Gregorio Marañón, Ríos Rosas, or Iglesia). It is an ideal visit for those seeking an intimate, accessible, and light-filled museum in the heart of Madrid.

Calle Serrano is one of Madrid’s most exclusive and elegant streets and is located in the Barrio de Salamanca, one of the city’s most prestigious residential and shopping areas. It is well known for its luxury boutiques, international brands, jewellery stores, art galleries and high-end restaurants, making it an ideal place for a stroll or a refined shopping experience.

Beyond its commercial appeal, Calle Serrano stands out for its stately architecture and its proximity to iconic landmarks such as the National Archaeological Museum, the National Library, Paseo de la Castellana and Retiro Park. To explore this area comfortably, you can hop on the Madrid City Tour sightseeing bus and get off at the “Serrano” stop, the perfect starting point to discover one of Madrid’s most elegant districts.

The Puerta de Alcalá is one of Madrid’s most famous and photographed landmarks, as well as a true symbol of the city. It was commissioned in 1769 by King Charles III, who entrusted the project to architect Francisco Sabatini to commemorate his official arrival in the capital in 1778. The Puerta de Alcalá was part of Madrid’s former monumental gates, built when the city was still surrounded by walls, and marked the entrance from the Aragón road. Sabatini designed a neoclassical structure with five arches, three semicircular and two lintelled at the ends, an innovative design for its time. Located next to Retiro Park and Plaza de la Independencia, it is now a must-see sight and can be comfortably admired on board the hop on hop off Madrid City Tour, offering a panoramic view of this iconic monument. The Madrid City Tour route makes it easy to discover this historic landmark as part of modern Madrid, combining heritage, major avenues and green spaces.

Plaza Canalejas is one of the most elegant and strategically located urban spaces in central Madrid, a place where history, architecture, and modern life blend harmoniously. Located just a short walk from Puerta del Sol and the Literary Quarter, Canalejas Madrid has become a key area for both locals and visitors seeking charm, premium services, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Recently restored, the square stands out for its historic eclectic-style buildings, many of which have been renovated to recover their original beauty.

One of its major attractions is Galería Canalejas, a luxury shopping gallery housed within an exceptional architectural complex. Here you’ll find exclusive boutiques, international brands, gourmet spaces, and personalized services that make the visit truly sophisticated. Strolling through its corridors means enjoying a perfect blend of heritage and modernity.

Around Plaza Canalejas, iconic façades such as the former Palacio de la Equitativa—now a five-star hotel—add to the elegance of the area, along with lively streets that connect with some of Madrid’s most emblematic spots. Its location also provides easy access to the Carrera de San Jerónimo, Sevilla, Gran Vía, and the Huertas district.

Getting to Canalejas is very simple thanks to its excellent public transport connections: Sevilla metro station is just a few steps away, and several bus lines run nearby. Day or night, the square is an ideal meeting point for anyone who wants to enjoy the historic center with a touch of sophistication.

The Fuente de Neptuno is on Paseo del Prado. Under the orders of King Charles III, Juan Pascual de Mena began to build this marble statue in 1780. In 1786 his disciple José Rodríguez finished off the project. The figure is standing on a chariot, drawn by two sea horses and surrounded by dolphins. Near the Plaza de Neptuno there are many of the city’s symbolic buildings, such as the Palace Hotel, Palacio de Villahermosa, Museo del Prado, the Ritz Hotel, the Congreso de los Diputados and, in the background, San Jerónimo el Real church.

The Puerta de Alcalá is one of Madrid’s most famous and photographed landmarks, as well as a true symbol of the city. It was commissioned in 1769 by King Charles III, who entrusted the project to architect Francisco Sabatini to commemorate his official arrival in the capital in 1778. The Puerta de Alcalá was part of Madrid’s former monumental gates, built when the city was still surrounded by walls, and marked the entrance from the Aragón road. Sabatini designed a neoclassical structure with five arches, three semicircular and two lintelled at the ends, an innovative design for its time. Located next to Retiro Park and Plaza de la Independencia, it is now a must-see sight and can be comfortably admired on board the hop on hop off Madrid City Tour, offering a panoramic view of this iconic monument. The Madrid City Tour route makes it easy to discover this historic landmark as part of modern Madrid, combining heritage, major avenues and green spaces.

The Casa Árabe, also known as the Arabic House in Madrid, is one of the city’s most distinctive cultural spaces. Located in a beautiful Neo-Mudejar building on Calle de Alcalá, very close to Retiro Park, it stands out for its carefully restored architecture and its rich cultural programme focused on the Arab world.

Visitors can enjoy exhibitions at the Arabic House, film screenings, lectures, and educational activities designed to showcase the artistic and cultural diversity of the Middle East and North Africa. It has become a key meeting point for anyone looking for unique cultural experiences in Madrid.

The venue also features one of the most pleasant corners in the area: the Casa Árabe terrace, perfect for having a drink in a unique setting. There is also a restaurant offering flavours inspired by Arab and Mediterranean cuisine, often referred to simply as the Casa Árabe restaurant.

Thanks to its strategic location between the Salamanca district and Retiro Park, many visitors combine their cultural visit with a walk around the Retiro area, making Casa Árabe near Retiro an essential stop for discovering a different side of Madrid.

A place where architecture, culture, and gastronomy come together to offer an enriching experience in the heart of the city.

Calle de Goya is one of the most famous and vibrant commercial streets in the Salamanca district, right in the heart of Madrid’s most elegant area. Stretching from Plaza de Colón to Plaza de Manuel Becerra, it brings together fashion, gastronomy, local life and stately architecture.

Known as a shopping hotspot in Madrid, Goya combines major international brands, specialty boutiques, traditional shops and department stores such as El Corte Inglés, making it an essential stop for anyone who loves urban shopping and lively streets.

It also hosts cultural and sports venues like the WiZink Center, one of the city’s top arenas for concerts and events. Its surrounding streets—such as Alcalá, Serrano and Príncipe de Vergara—connect with one of Madrid’s most upscale and active areas.

Goya is also ideal for enjoying Madrid’s gastronomy, with classic cafés, modern restaurants and busy terraces popular among both locals and visitors. By day it’s a bustling commercial hub; by night it remains lively, safe and pleasant for strolling.

Overall, Calle de Goya represents the essence of elegant, vibrant and cosmopolitan Madrid, blending history, quality shopping and a distinctive urban lifestyle.

The Monumental Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas is one of Madrid’s most recognizable architectural and cultural landmarks. With a capacity for 23,798 spectators and a 60-meter-diameter arena, it is considered not only the most important bullring in Spain but also one of the largest and most prestigious in the world.

Its construction began based on a design by architect José Espelius, who did not live to see the project completed. After his death, Manuel Muñoz Monasterio finished the bullring in 1931, the same year it was officially inaugurated. The building is designed in the Neo-Mudéjar style, known for its exposed brickwork, horseshoe arches and intricate decoration that blends tradition and symbolism. Its exterior façade features hand-painted ceramic tiles depicting the coats of arms of all Spanish provinces, a tribute to national identity and the country’s bullfighting heritage.

In addition to hosting bullfights and major events—especially during the San Isidro Fair, one of the most important bullfighting festivals in the international calendar—Las Ventas is also an important cultural venue. Inside, it houses the Madrid Bullfighting Museum, which showcases the evolution of bullfighting through historic “traje de luces” costumes, famous bull heads, photographs, posters, artworks and pieces linked to legendary figures such as Manolete, Belmonte and Curro Romero. Even for visitors who are not fans of bullfighting, the museum is of great interest thanks to its historical and artistic perspective.

The statue in honour of Cristopher Columbus was built between 1881 and 1885, to celebrate the marriage between Alfonso XII and María de las Mercedes from Orleáns. This monument is outstanding due to its perfect incorporation into the square in which is it situated, with a beautiful grassy area, ponds and a large waterfall. Alongside Plaza de Colón you will find the majestic Biblioteca Nacional building. Special mention should be made of its broad exterior staircase and its main façade with a Corinthian style.

The Bilbao area, located between the districts of Chamberí and Centro, is one of the liveliest and most characterful parts of Madrid. Its heart is the Glorieta de Bilbao, a historic roundabout where well-known streets like Luchana, Carranza and Fuencarral converge. The area is known for its youthful atmosphere, cultural life and a great mix of traditional bars, modern cafés and trendy spots.

The Bilbao metro station (lines 1 and 4) is one of the oldest in Madrid’s underground system, opened in 1919. Its entrances preserve the classic design of the early metro: iron railings, enamelled signage and a historic charm that make it an iconic stop. Thanks to its strategic location, it offers fast connections to Gran Vía, Sol, Nuevos Ministerios or Atocha, making it convenient for both locals and visitors.

Just steps from the roundabout begins Fuencarral Street, one of Madrid’s most important and vibrant shopping areas. This long pedestrian axis combines fashion stores, international brands, independent boutiques and alternative spaces, attracting young people, visitors and shopping lovers. The surrounding streets are full of theatres, cinemas, small shops and restaurants that give the neighbourhood its distinctive personality.

Bilbao is also known for its cultural scene: historic cinemas, concert venues and theatres coexist with bookshops, art galleries and creative spaces. By day it is perfect for walking and shopping; by night it becomes a lively area full of terraces, music and a great atmosphere.

Malasaña Madrid is one of the city’s most vibrant and creative areas, where traditional charm and an alternative spirit blend naturally. The Malasaña neighborhood in Madrid, located between Gran Vía and the University district, takes its name from Manuela Malasaña, although today it is known for its youthful and cultural energy. Walking through Malasaña neighborhood means discovering street art, independent shops, alternative bookstores, and cafés full of character. Plaza del Dos de Mayo, the neighborhood’s heart, perfectly reflects its bohemian spirit. It’s also an ideal place to enjoy a bar in Malasaña, whether for an evening drink or a night out among iconic venues and modern cocktail bars. Calle Fuencarral and its surroundings offer fashion, gastronomy, and unique spots to explore at your own pace. As for Malasaña how to get there, the easiest option is the metro: Tribunal, Noviciado, Bilbao, or Gran Vía stations leave you just minutes from the liveliest areas. Once there, the best plan is to wander the streets and let the neighborhood surprise you with its mix of history, creativity, and local life.

Plaza del Callao is one of the most iconic spots in callao madrid, strategically located between Gran Vía and the city’s main shopping area. Known for its historic cinemas, large screens and cosmopolitan atmosphere, plaza callao in Madrid is a meeting point for both locals and visitors. Walking through gran via plaza callao means diving into the most vibrant side of Madrid, surrounded by theatres, shops and landmark buildings. Plaza callao is also a key stop to explore the city on board the Madrid sightseeing bus. The Madrid City Tour route allows you to enjoy this area from a panoramic perspective thanks to its hop on hop off Madrid City Tour service, ideal for getting on and off at your own pace. The hop on hop off bus is one of the most comfortable ways to reach Callao and continue discovering Madrid’s main attractions without rushing.

Gran Vía is one of the most important and symbolic arteries of downtown Madrid, and in few places will you experience the hustle and bustle of this busy street. Lined with theatres, hotels, restaurants and cafés, thousands of residents and tourists stream along its pavements every day. Being located in the busy heart of Madrid it also has many souvenir shops, selling typical craft items, and traditional goods such as lace, mantilla shawls and fans.