The Old Down Town Segway Tour (Excellence since 2014)

Madrid’s Old Town is a maze of history, architecture, and lively streets. For first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, seeing it on a Segway offers a fresh perspective. This tour, running since 2014 and rated perfect 5.0 with 80 reviews, is a lively, beginner-friendly way to cover the highlights in about 90 minutes. Costing around $45.28 per person, it’s an accessible choice for those eager to combine sightseeing with a dash of adventure.

What we love about this experience? First, the small group size (max 15 travelers) means personal attention from guides like Alan or Miguel, who are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Second, the flexible departure times mean you can fit this into your schedule, whether first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon. The quick training session ensures even beginners feel comfortable on the Segway before heading out.

A potential consideration? The weight restrictions (35-125 kg) might exclude some travelers, and the English-language tour may pose a challenge for non-English speakers, despite the initial desire for a German-language option mentioned in reviews.

This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of history, fun, and a bit of thrill. If you’re traveling with family, especially with kids over 9, or if you want a well-paced introduction to Madrid’s city center, you’ll find this a rewarding experience.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners with a short safety and training session.
• Includes essential safety gear, helmets, and rain protection if needed.
• Highlights Madrid’s top sights like the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de Oriente.
• Experienced guides share engaging anecdotes and detailed information.
• Flexible scheduling allows for multiple daily departures.
• Small group size enhances the personal and relaxed atmosphere.

A Detailed Look at the Old Town Segway Tour in Madrid

Starting Point and Overview

The tour begins at C. de la Escalinata, 10 in Madrid’s city center. From here, your guide will welcome you, provide helmets, and give a quick lesson to ensure everyone feels safe and confident on the Segway. The initial training, which is included in the price, is designed to make even novices comfortable, making the tour accessible for families and first-time Segway users.

Once the group is ready, the guide will lead you through some of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, blending sights with stories. The maximum group size of 15 travelers ensures that the guide can give individual attention—a big plus when navigating busy streets or assisting first-timers.

Highlights and Sights

Royal Palace and Plaza de Oriente

Your first major stop is the Royal Palace, which is the largest in Western Europe with over 3,000 rooms. The guide will point out its impressive architecture and share stories about its history. From the outside, the grandeur of the palace is palpable, and you’ll get a good sense of Madrid’s royal past.

Next, you’ll visit Plaza de Oriente, with views of the palace and the Royal Theater. As one reviewer noted, this is a prime spot for photos and to appreciate Madrid’s regal architecture. It’s also a location with an incredible sense of history, once bustling with soldiers, thieves, and mercenaries, as one guide described.

Plaza Mayor and Surroundings

Moving to Plaza Mayor, you’ll weave through the arcades and admire the lively atmosphere of Madrid’s oldest square. The guide shares anecdotes about the historic uses of these spaces—everything from markets to public executions, giving you a richer understanding of the city’s past.

Historic Streets and Lesser-Known Corners

The tour doesn’t just tick off the big sights; it also takes you through some of Madrid’s more adventurous, less touristy streets, like the Plaza de la Villa, where historical figures and legends played out. One reviewer appreciated that they saw parts of Madrid they wouldn’t have explored on foot, thanks to the Segway’s mobility.

What the Tour Feels Like

Traveling on a Segway combines ease of movement with fun. We loved the way the guide emphasized safety, going over all features and making sure everyone was comfortable before hitting the streets. The experience is lively but controlled, with plenty of time to stop for photos or ask questions.

The group is small enough for a personalized touch, and guides like Alan or Miguel are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Their stories add depth to the sights, transforming a simple sightseeing walk into an engaging history lesson.

The Experience’s Practicalities

Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect introduction or a quick overview of Madrid’s old town. With several departures daily, you can choose a time that fits your plans without hassle.

Price and Value

For $45.28, the tour offers excellent value considering the inclusion of safety equipment, training, and a knowledgeable guide. The small group size and personalized attention contribute to the feeling that you’re exploring with friends rather than in a crowded tour bus.

Accessibility and Restrictions

While most travelers can join, there are a few restrictions: children under 9 can’t ride alone, and those between 9 and 17 need to be accompanied by an adult. The recommended weight range is 35-125 kg. The tour is near public transportation, making it easy to reach the starting point.

Authentic Experiences and Testimonials

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that guides like Alan and Miguel are a highlight. They’re praised for their caution, enthusiasm, and deep knowledge. For instance, one traveler mentioned how Miguel’s caution in busy streets made the experience both safe and enjoyable, while others appreciated the fun atmosphere Miguel and Alan created.

Many reviewers highlighted how the tour helped them orient themselves in Madrid. One said, “Once learning the Segway, we were off and oh, the sites we saw,” capturing how the Segway makes sightseeing both easy and exciting.

Challenges and Considerations

Some travelers noted that despite their desire for a multilingual tour (like in German), the actual experience was in English. Also, the weight restrictions could exclude some adventurers, and the rain gear (oilskin) is only provided if necessary, so consider bringing your own if the weather looks uncertain.

The tour’s pace and structure are designed for enjoyment and ease, but those with mobility issues or very young children should plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys history with a side of adventure, this tour is perfect. It caters well to families with kids over 9, groups looking for a dynamic orientation of Madrid, or travelers wanting a fun alternative to walking. The knowledgeable guides make it especially appealing for those who love stories and local insights, rather than just ticking off sights.

For travelers with limited time or those who want to cover a lot of ground quickly, the Segway offers a unique perspective that’s both practical and enjoyable.

The Sum Up: Is the Old Town Segway Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Madrid’s historic center while enjoying the novelty and convenience of a Segway. The small group environment, expert guides, and inclusion of safety gear make it a trustworthy choice for first-timers and veterans alike. The price point is reasonable for the quality and experience offered, especially considering it’s a guided tour with personal attention.

If you’re searching for a fun, engaging, and efficient way to get to know Madrid’s Old Town, this tour ticks all the boxes. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a small group, you’ll leave with a better sense of the city’s layout, history, and atmosphere — all wrapped in a memorable adventure.

Just remember to confirm the timing and weight restrictions, and you’ll be on your way to one of Madrid’s most enjoyable sightseeing experiences.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Madrid Segway Tour

Is this tour suitable for people who have never ridden a Segway before?
Absolutely. The tour includes a training session and safety instructions, ensuring even newcomers feel comfortable before heading out.

How long does the tour last?
The guided experience takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to see key sights without feeling rushed.

What sights will I see during the tour?
You’ll pass by the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de Oriente, and explore historic streets like the Plaza de la Villa. The guide shares stories about each location to bring the sights to life.

Are helmets and safety gear included?
Yes, helmets are provided and are part of the included safety equipment. Rain protection (oilskin) is available if needed.

Can children participate?
Children under 9 cannot ride alone, and those aged 9-17 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is best suited for those within the weight range of 35 to 125 kg.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This information isn’t specified, but the tour’s focus on streets and the need for balance means it might not be suitable for wheelchairs.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15, which helps keep the experience intimate and guides attentive.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at C. de la Escalinata, 10 and ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan your day around it.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
Most participants report the tour is in English. Some reviews mention a desire for German, but the current setup appears to be in English only.

This detailed look at Madrid’s Old Town Segway Tour reveals it as a unique, engaging way to discover the Spanish capital’s history and architecture, all while enjoying the fun of a Segway. Perfect for curious travelers, families, and first-time visitors, it’s a memorable way to start exploring Madrid.