Madrid Beyond the Landmarks: Chamberí, Malasaña and Conde Duque

If you already know the Prado, the Royal Palace and the Puerta del Sol, this tour shows you a different side of Madrid. Instead of the grand boulevards, it focuses on residential neighborhoods, city palaces and smaller collections where you can take your time.

The day begins in Chamberí at the home of the painter Joaquín Sorolla, whose studio and garden have been preserved almost unchanged. From there, you walk to the restored pelota court Beti Jai and on to the Modernista Palacio Longoria. At the Museo del Romanticismo, you step into the domestic life of the 19th century before your route takes you through Malasaña toward the Gran Vía for lunch. In the afternoon, you move on to the Conde Duque district: the Museo Cerralbo presents an aristocratic mansion with its original furnishings, while the Palacio de Liria houses the collection of the Dukes of Alba. To round off the sightseeing, you explore the courtyards of the former Conde Duque barracks.

The evening winds down with a cocktail and Galician cuisine near the Opera. The tour suits repeat visitors who enjoy exploring on foot, have an interest in art and city history, and would rather see a few places in depth than many in a rush.