Things to Do in Madrid: Exclusive Experiences for a Luxury Trip
Madrid balances regal elegance with contemporary creativity, offering travelers a refined yet energetic cultural landscape. From private access to royal palaces and world-renowned art collections to culinary journeys led by celebrated chefs, the city invites you to explore its history, cuisine, and design in ways only possible with insider guidance.
Use this guide alongside our full Madrid Travel Guide and curated Madrid Experiences for essential insights on where to stay, eat, and explore.
This curated selection of high-end experiences has been crafted for those seeking more than sightseeing—each moment is tailored for depth, quality, and a sense of place.
Private Tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid
Duration: 2 hours | Ideal Time: Morning or early evening
Step beyond the velvet ropes with an expert guide for a private visit to the Royal Palace—Europe’s largest functioning royal residence. Wander through the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Armory, and the grand throne room without the usual crowds.
Insider Tip: We can arrange an extended visit including access to areas not open to the public.
Tapas & Wine Crawl with a Madrid Sommelier
Duration: 3 hours | Ideal Time: Early evening
Embark on a personalized culinary tour of historic La Latina and Chamberí, savoring elevated tapas and expertly paired Spanish wines with a local sommelier.
Optional Add-on: Include a private visit to a century-old sherry bar or a vermouth masterclass.
Early Access at the Prado Museum
Duration: 1.5–2 hours | Ideal Time: Morning before opening hours
Enjoy a serene, private-viewing-style experience of Spain’s most iconic artworks. Your art historian guide will tailor the visit to your interests—whether Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s Black Paintings, or Italian Renaissance masterpieces.
Why It Matters: With no crowds, this visit feels like an intimate dialogue with centuries of European art.
Dinner at a Michelin-Starred Chef’s Private Table
Duration: 2–3 hours | Ideal Time: Evenings only
Gain access to a closed-door dining experience hosted by one of Madrid’s top chefs. These exclusive dinners are often held in private homes or atelier-style studios and feature seasonal, market-driven tasting menus.
Availability: Limited. Requires advance request.
Discover more in our Madrid’s food and cuisine guide (coming soon)
Architectural Walk Through Madrid’s Design Eras
Duration: 2 hours | Ideal Time: Morning or sunset
A private architecture-focused walk reveals Madrid’s rich layers—from the Habsburg-era Plaza Mayor and Art Deco banks to the clean lines of contemporary art galleries in Lavapiés.
Led By: A local architect or design historian, this walk offers a different lens through which to appreciate the city.
Behind-the-Scenes at Teatro Real (Royal Opera House)
Duration: 1.5 hours | Ideal Time: Midday or afternoon
Enjoy VIP backstage access at Spain’s top opera house. Explore the main stage, costume department, and royal box. Combine with premier show tickets for a fuller experience.
Ideal For: Lovers of music, theater, and architectural acoustics.
Pair with a luxury stay at Madrid’s most elegant hotels.
A Private Day Trip to Toledo or Segovia by Chauffeured Car
Duration: Full day | Ideal Time: Depart by 9:00 AM
Escape the capital for a tailored excursion to the historic cities of Toledo or Segovia. Visit cathedrals, palaces, and local artisans’ workshops with a private guide and a chauffeured luxury vehicle.
Tip: In Segovia, opt for a farm-to-table lunch overlooking the Roman aqueduct.
Let’s Design Your Luxury Madrid Trip
Whether it’s private palace tours, curated cuisine, or insider cultural access, Avelia will tailor every moment of your Madrid journey to reflect your style and interests. Fill out the form below, and one of our travel specialists will be in touch within 24 hours to begin planning your personalized itinerary.