Different guided tours in Madrid: discover cultural corners that go beyond the typical

When we think about what to do in Madrid, we usually think of such iconic places as the Prado Museum, the Retiro Park or the Plaza Mayor. However, the capital also offers a wide range of unique visits in Madrid which allow us to discover their cultural heritage from another perspective. these alternative tours in Madrid are perfect both for those who visit the city for the first time and for locals who want to rediscover it.

The Liria Palace: a unique experience inside a living palace

One of the great examples of cultural experiences in Madrid is the visit to the Liria Palace. The historic residence of the Casa de Alba, this building is one of the most important private palaces in Spain and preserves a valuable artistic legacy.

Unlike other museum spaces, Liria is still an inhabited house and, as you walk through it, you can perceive that dual identity: living heritage and historical collection. A trait that makes it one of the unique visits in Madrid and in an essential plan for those looking for What to do differently in Madrid.

Book your visit to the Liria Palace and enjoy this cultural experience.

What's included in the visit: art collection, library, inhabited space

The guided tour of the Liria Palace allows you to delve into more than five centuries of history. Its main attractions include:

Art Collection: with works by great masters such as Goya, Velázquez, Murillo, Rubens or Ingres, together with classical sculptures, tapestries and decorative arts.
Library: it houses more than 18,000 volumes, including jewels such as the first edition of Don Quixote.
Inhabited Palace: the Liria Palace is the official residence of the 19th Duke of Alba, Don Carlos Fitz-James Stuart and Martínez de Irujo

This set of features makes the palace one of the most complete experiences for lovers of art, history and architecture.

Why is it different from other visits in Madrid?

What sets Liria Palace apart from others alternative tours in Madrid is its “living palace” character. It's not just about contemplating artistic pieces, but about understanding the legacy of the Casa de Alba and its relationship with the history of Spain.

In addition, the combination of collecting and everyday life, and the well-kept environment of its rooms and gardens make the experience incomparable. For this reason, for many visitors, this visit becomes one of the most memorable of their time in the city.

Other original guided tours for culture and art lovers

If you are looking What to do differently in Madrid, there are other spaces that offer a different approach to heritage:

Cerralbo Palace

The residence of Don Enrique de Aguilera y Gamboa, Marquis of Cerralbo, this palace-museum preserves the intact atmosphere of a 19th century aristocratic house. Paintings, porcelain, armor and furniture coexist in an authentic and evocative environment.

Temple of Debod‍

A unique monument in Spain: an Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BC moved stone by stone from Nubia and rebuilt in the center of Madrid. Visiting it is a journey through time and space, perfect for those looking for unique cultural experiences.

Slaughterhouse Madrid

Contemporary space dedicated to cultural creation and innovation. Exhibitions, films, performing arts and experimental projects are scheduled here. An essential stop for those who want to discover the most current facet of the Madrid art scene.

Tips for planning an alternative cultural route

Combine the classic with the alternative: visit the Prado or the Thyssen, but also reserve time to discover places such as Liria or Cerralbo.
Take advantage of the schedules: many palaces and museums offer guided tours at specific times; plan your route so you don't miss anything.
Download audio guides or take part in specialized tours: they will allow you to better understand the historical and artistic context of each place.
Book in advance: some spaces have limited capacity, so it is advisable to secure your ticket in time.

Visits for locals: rediscover Madrid as if it were the first time

You don't have to be a tourist to enjoy these experiences. Many people from Madrid find in these unique visits in Madrid the opportunity to learn more about your city and to connect with its history from a new perspective.

Rediscovering the Liria Palace, touring the Temple of Debod at dusk or exploring the contemporary proposals of the Slaughterhouse are plans that transform everyday life into something extraordinary.

In short, Madrid is full of cultural experiences who invite you to go out of the ordinary. If you are looking alternative tours in Madrid, the Liria Palace and other unique corners of the city offer you the opportunity to travel back in time, better understand the present and enjoy a city in constant dialogue with its heritage.

👉 Book your visit to the Liria Palace and discover a different Madrid, full of history, art and culture.

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