Madrid is a city of layers, where the echoes of the 17th century harmonize perfectly with the vibrant energy of the 21st. Whether you are wandering through cobblestone alleys or exploring sleek, contemporary galleries, the city offers a unique blend of centuries-old establishments and exclusive contemporary experiences. To help you plan your journey through the Spanish capital, we have curated a guide that takes you from the city’s legendary past to its most modern adventures.

Step Back in Time: Madrid’s Century-Old Icons

The historic heart of Madrid is home to landmarks that have shaped the city’s identity for hundreds of years. One cannot visit Madrid without stepping into Botín, established in 1725. Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest restaurant in the world, this legendary inn has a fascinating history—it even once employed the famous artist Francisco de Goya. To experience the culinary history of this iconic spot and others like it, you can [book a historic tavern and tasting tour here].

Just a short walk away, you will find a piece of living history where you can actually spend the night. Posada del Peine, which dates back to 1610, holds the title of Spain’s oldest hotel. It was originally opened to accommodate travelers arriving at the Court in the 17th century, making it a cornerstone of Madrid’s hospitality history. If you want to walk the same halls as centuries of travelers past, you can [check availability and book your stay at the historic Posada del Peine here].

For those interested in the soulful sounds of Spain, the Guitarras Ramírez workshop is a mandatory stop. Founded in 1882, this fifth-generation shop is world-renowned for its craftsmanship. They are credited with inventing the tablao guitar, a specific design created to solve sound projection issues for flamenco artists performing in loud venues.

Experience the Now: Exclusive Madrid Adventures

While its history is captivating, modern Madrid offers exclusive, high-end experiences that allow you to see the city through a different lens. The Prado Museum is globally famous, but for a truly unique experience, you can arrange an exclusive visit to see its masterpieces in private after hours. This allows you to stand face-to-face with some of the world’s greatest art collections without the usual crowds. You can [reserve your private, after-hours Prado Museum tour through this link].

The city’s culinary scene has also evolved into a playground for “insiders.” Beyond the traditional tapas, you can embark on a foodie tour that focuses on hidden gourmet bars and specialist food stores where you can savor authentic wines and flavors that most tourists miss. To find these secret culinary gems, [sign up for an insider’s gourmet wine and food excursion here].

Finally, for those who want to leave their own mark on the city, Madrid’s thriving street art scene offers a hands-on opportunity. You can unleash your creative side in a graffiti experience with a well-known local artist, learning the techniques behind the murals that decorate the city’s modern districts. If you are ready to pick up a spray can, [book your street art workshop with a graffiti guru here].

Nightlife: clubs, jazz, and late‑night scenes

Madrid’s nightlife is legendary, with options ranging from glamorous nightclubs to intimate jazz lounges and rooftop bars that stay open well into the early hours.​

• Nightclubs and late‑night bars:
  • Teatro Barceló and Sala Cool are popular spots for electronic and pop music, often drawing international DJs and a stylish crowd.​
  • Kapital is a multi‑floor club known for its themed rooms and energetic atmosphere, ideal for travelers who want a full‑on Madrid night out.​
• Jazz and live music venues:
  • Moe Jazz Club: Opened in 1999, this two‑floor venue in the city center hosts live jazz, funk, and blues acts in an intimate setting. It’s a favorite among locals and visiting musicians.​
  • Café Central: A long‑standing jazz club near the Plaza de Santa Ana, this venue offers nightly live performances in a cozy, old‑school atmosphere.​
  • Jazz Corner and La Vía Láctea are other well‑regarded spots for listening to both Spanish and international jazz artists.​

Why private guides make the difference in Madrid

While Madrid is easy to navigate on your own, traveling with private guides we work with transforms a standard visit into a deeply personalized experience.

• Neighborhood deep‑dives: Guides can tailor walks through Malasaña, Chamberí, or Salamanca to focus on architecture, street art, or local food markets, revealing layers of the city that most tourists never see.
• Museum and art tours: Instead of rushing through the Prado or Reina Sofía, a private guide can craft a themed route—for example, focusing on Spanish masters, women artists, or specific historical periods—while explaining context and stories behind the works.​
• Luxury experiences: From private tastings at gourmet restaurants to after‑hours visits to palaces or museums, our guides can open doors that are not available to the general public.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family trip, or a corporate incentive program, we can design a fully curated Madrid itinerary that leverages these private guides, luxury hotels, and exclusive dining and nightlife experiences to match your group’s style and budget.

For our clients, we can arrange VIP table reservations, private transfers between venues, and custom nightlife itineraries—whether you want a relaxed evening of jazz and cocktails or a high‑energy club crawl with a local insider. Our private guides fluent in English are native to Madrid.

Please look at our tour of Madrid designed to show the places in the heart of the city, from the Prado Museum and Buen Retiro Park ( former Royal Gardens) to the Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace including fresh produce Mercados ( markets) and the grand boulevards like Passeo del Prado and Gran Via. Your local Madrid guide that lives in madrid will also show you places they love to hangout with friends and family when not being a tour guide!