Looking for the best bike tours in Madrid, Spain? We love to explore new cities by bike so as soon as we landed in Madrid we were exploring on two wheels.
Whether you want to see the Royal Palace or explore the quaint streets of the Literary Quarter, Madrid is a great place to explore on two wheels.
However, which bike tour to choose? We loved our tour the Highlights of Madrid tour. It is our #1 choice. But if you are looking for a different experience, we have curated a list of the best Madrid bike tours.
All of the bike tours on our list provide bikes, helmets, and local guides, with the exception of the self-guided tour.
We have the 11 best bike tours in Madrid so you can find the tour that is best for you.
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Best Bike Tours in Madrid
Don’t Have Time To Read On?
Choose Our #1 Recommended Tour
The Highlights of Madrid Tour
- 5 out of 5 ⭐
- Over 850 Reviews
- A Perfect Introduction to the Sights of Madrid
1. Best Overall Bike Tour: Highlights of Madrid Tour
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 850+ Reviews |
| Duration: 3 Hours |
We loved our time on the Highlights of Madrid Bike Tour. It was truly not just our favorite bike tour but one of the best tours of Madrid.
The company, Rent and Roll, does a great job maintaining their bikes so you can just focus on the experience.
Our bilingual guide was so knowledgeable about the history of Madrid. Our guide also leads street art tours so we felt like we almost got the best of two tours.
What we really appreciated about this tour was its value for money. The tour was very affordable, but still took us to 8 stops. The number of stops was the same or more than other tours.
Even more than that, the tour stops at the Mercado la Cebada.
Most tours, including this one, will take you by Mercado de San Miguel, the most famous market in Madrid. Mercado de San Miguel, with its beautiful architecture but expensive prices, is mostly for tourists.
In addition to the Mercado de San Miguel, the Highlights of Madrid tour takes you to Mercado la Cebada, a local market.
Snacks are not guaranteed on this tour and are not listed as something you will absolutely get. However, when their partner market stall is open, you may just get surprised with some delicious local bites.
We also really appreciated that the tour starts just a block from Retiro Park, Madrid’s city park.
El Retiro, or “Madrid’s green lung,” is on most tours. Beginning near the El Retiro, with its large paved paths, allowed us to get familiar with our bikes before pedaling through Madrid’s streets.
If you are interested in an electric bike, you can rent one. The e-bike rental was $10 more than a regular bike.
2. 3 Hours Highlights Madrid
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 170+ Reviews |
| Duration: 3 hours |
We are going to keep it really real with you. There is very little difference between the 3-Hour Highlights Madrid tour and our #1 choice, the Highlights of Madrid Tour.
Both tours are top rated and both tours have lots of reviews. They are the same duration of 3 hours, are roughly the same price and they both have an e-bike option.
The only two real differences are where the tour starts and a stop at the Mercado la Cebado.
This tour begins between the Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace. So if you are staying in the historic center of Madrid this tour would be better location-wise.
If you are staying near the Prado or Retiro Park then our #1 recommendation is a better choice for you.
The other reason to choose our #1 tour, The Highlights of Madrid tour, is for the stop at Mercado la Cebado.
One of our biggest budget-saving tips is to grocery shop to save money on food. Spain has so many wonderful local mercados, where you can get the freshest produce and meat. So for us, an extra stop at a local market is perfect.
However, if you prefer more time at Madrid’s major sights without this extra stop, then this tour is for you.
Either way, you will not go wrong with our #1 and #2 choice.
3. Madrid at Night Bike Guided Small Group Tour
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 35+ Reviews |
| Duration: 2 Hours |
The same company that we loved touring with during the day, Rent and Roll, also does a 2-hour night bike tour of Madrid.
The 2-hour tour again begins near El Retiro Park.
The tour includes riding through the Puerta del Sol when it is full of nightlife. The tour also includes a stop at the Royal Palace, lit up for the night.
The tour finishes with a ride through Grand Via, the Times Square street of Madrid.
If you are looking to add a special night experience to your time in Madrid this is the very best choice!
4. Madrid in Electric Bike
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 125+ Reviews |
| Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes |
On this e-bike tour in Madrid, you will get to ride around the city on high-grade electric bikes, which are super convenient and make it easy to cover a lot of ground. Plus, since the tour is limited to just 15 people or less, you’ll have no trouble keeping up with your guide.
During the tour, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Prado Museum, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace. And the best part? You’ll also get to pedal through beautiful green spaces such as Madrid Rio, Retiro Park, and Casa de Campo.
It’s the perfect opportunity to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere while enjoying a refreshing bike ride.
Oh, and don’t worry about the language barrier! A bilingual guide will be leading the small group, ensuring that everyone can fully understand and appreciate the tour.
Since this tour is on e-bikes, your group will be able to travel a bit faster together, which means more time at the sights.
Ebike tours are typically a little more expensive than regular bike tours, but the trade-off is a lot less work.
5. Madrid Parks and Riverside Tour
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 10+ Reviews |
| Duration: 3 hours |
If you prefer to skip the city sights and enjoy Madrid’s green spaces the Madrid Park and Riverside Tour is the right one for you.
This small group bike tour takes you along Madrid’s scenic rivers and through its beautiful parks, including stops at Templo De Bod, The Parque del Oeste, Casa de Campo, and Parque Madrid Rio.
Your expert guide will handle the navigation, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery while listening to engaging narration about Madrid’s rich culture and history.
To keep you energized, the tour has built-in a coffee break along the way, providing the perfect opportunity to refuel and savor the moment.
This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, combining the joy of cycling, the beauty of Madrid’s landscapes, and the fascinating tales shared by your guide
6. Bike Tour Chasing the Best Sunset in Madrid
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 4+ Reviews |
| Duration: 2 hours |
Experience Madrid’s golden hour on two wheels.
Get ready for a delightful evening adventure as you pedal around Madrid, basking in the light of the setting sun.
Led by a knowledgeable guide and accompanied by a small group of just 15 people or fewer, this cycling Madrid tour offers a leisurely ride that grants breathtaking views of Madrid’s iconic landmarks bathed in golden hues.
As you pedal along, listen to insightful commentary from your guide, who will share fascinating stories about Madrid’s rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals.
During the tour, you’ll make three major stops that add even more depth to your experience.
At the Templo De Bod, marvel at the impressive architecture and learn about its historical significance.
Next, you’ll visit the majestic Royal Palace of Madrid, where you’ll be captivated by its grandeur and learn about the Spanish royal heritage.
Lastly, you’ll explore the picturesque Parque del Oeste, a serene oasis filled with lush greenery and stunning views, providing a perfect setting for a tranquil break and a chance to soak in the beauty of Madrid.
7. Self-Guided Tour of Retiro Park at Your Own Pace
| 4.5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 10+ Reviews |
| Duration: 2 Hours |
Our favorite bike tour company, Rent and Roll, is on the list a 3rd time with their self-guided tour of El Retiro Park.
For less than $10, you get a bike, helmet, and a bottle of water to explore El Retiro Park on your own. The rental is for up to 2 hours.
The tour comes with either a print map or a downloadable map for your mobile phone.
Either in print or electronic, the self-guided tour will give you all the history and local knowledge of Madrid’s most famous park with the convenience of seeing it at your own pace.
8. Best Private Guided Bike Tour in Madrid
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 30+ Reviews |
| Duration: 3 Hours |
If you want a private version of our very favorite overall bike tour then the Rent and Roll Private tour is the one for you.
With this tour, you get all the perks of Rent and Roll’s “Highlights of Madrid” tour (our #1 choice). The only difference is you pay a little bit more to make this bike tour completely private for you and your group.
This private version of the “Highlights of Madrid” tour cost about $10 more per person. However, the beauty is you can do a little more personalizing while exploring the city.
9. Bike Through Historic Madrid with Tapas
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| Reviews: 5+ |
| Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes |
Discover the rich gastronomic culture of Madrid on the Historic Madrid with Tapas. This tour is all about mixing two of our favorite things: bike and food.
If you have older teens traveling with you, the drinking age in Spain is 18.
On the tour, you’ll experience a fun, relaxed, and safe ride through the city’s iconic places.
Like many of the tours on this list, you’ll have a chance to see Retiro Park, Puerto del Sol, the Royal Palace, and more of Madrid’s sights.
However, what sets this tour apart is what it ends with.
After several hours of riding, the tour will end at an authentic, traditional bar. You will have a chance to enjoy three delectable tapas and a drink, immersing yourself in a unique Spanish experience.
Truly the end to a perfect day.
9. Historical Madrid Tour in Private Electric Tuk Tuk
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 530+ Reviews |
| Duration: 1-4 Hours |
Okay, we realize we are stretching the “bike” tour in Madrid list with these next three choices. But both TukTuk and Segway Tours are very popular in Madrid. And they are nearly bike choices, so here goes.
In general TukTuk tours in Madrid, last either 1 or 2 hours and the cost corresponds. The tour is priced by Tuk Tuk and not by the person. So for example, a 1.5-hour tour is about $130 for all four people. If there are only 3 people in your party, you pay the same price.
Unlike bike tours, TukTuk tours mostly pass by the sights. The pass-by touring model makes sense for TukTuks because the driver, unlike a bike tour guide, can give you an introduction to the sight while driving.
This Historic Madrid Tour passes by over 13 important sites, including the Royal Palace and House of Cervantes.
10. Christmas Light Tour by TukTuk
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 90+ Reviews |
| Duration: 1 hour |
If you happen to be in Madrid during the Christmas season, (and you really should consider it; we’ve been and it is truly magical), consider a TukTuk Christmas Light Tour.
The 1-hour tour weaves through Madrid’s neighborhoods and past its iconic sights to show you the best of its holiday lights.
While the tour is all about the shimmer, you will get to see so many of Madrid’s historic sights on this tour as well. You can definitely use it as an introduction not only to the city but its magical glow.
11. Private Segway Tour with Flexible Duration
| 5 out of 5 ⭐ |
| 175+ Reviews |
| Duration: 1-3 Hours |
If you don’t want to peddle, but the TukTuk feels a little too sedentary, you can also explore Madrid by Segway.
SegCity Tours offers private segway tours of the city. The tours typically last 2 hours and spend half the tour in El Retiro Park and then another hour exploring the historic center of Madrid.
The tours are private so you’ll be booking just for your immediate group.
Traveling with kids?
Children under 10 can not ride alone on a Segway. And those aged 10-17 can ride alone, but must be accompanied by an adult on the tour. In other words, a group of 13-year-olds, can not book their own segway tour.
Why Take a Bike Tour in Madrid?
There are several reasons why taking a bike tour is one of the best city tours in Madrid.
One of the best reasons to explore Madrid by bike is that it allows you to cover more ground and see more sights in a shorter amount of time than if you were walking or taking public transportation.
We love walking tours and often start our time in a new city with a walking tour. However, biking tours let us get to more of the city more quickly.
Biking tours also allow you to get a different perspective of the city, including hidden gems that might not be easily accessible by car or foot.
Biking is also a great adventure, which makes city bike tours an especially good choice if you are traveling in Spain with teens.
After a biking tour, we can always go back on our feet and explore the places from the bike tour that seemed of most interest.
Bike Tours Are Good For You
Cycling is a low-impact form of exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels.
Biking can also help to reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall mental well-being. Given that traveling should be about reducing stress, starting a trip with a bike tour can get you in the right frame of mind.
Additionally, cycling through the city can also be a fun and unique way to experience the local culture and meet new people. Meeting and learning about new people should be an important part of travel.
Bike Tours Are Environmental
Biking is an environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Choosing a bike for just 1 day reduces your carbon footprint for that one day by 67%.
We, like many of you, are ever conscious of the impact of our choices. Traveling is so important to us as a family. Yet, we are very aware of the environmental impacts of travel.
While taking a bike tour doesn’t negate the environmental impacts of our decision to travel, it does help to offset the impact.
Is Madrid a Bike-Friendly City?
Madrid City has a bike-sharing system called BiciMad. The city has also implemented bike lanes in many areas of the city. The two additions make Madrid a relatively bike-friendly city.
Still, only a small percentage of Madrid locals use bikes as their main mode of transit.
The reason fewer Madrid locals cycle is that the city is also known for its heavy traffic, which can make biking in certain areas difficult.
Yet, Madrid is working to become more bike-friendly. Since 2013 Madrid has been building a stronger biking network.
Unlike other bikeable cities, Madrid does not offer protected lanes at the edge of traffic. Instead, Madrid has created their own model, which puts bike and scooter lanes between lanes of traffic.
The “Madrid Model” creates slow traffic lanes that are open to bikers, scooters, and even cars as long as they drive less than 19 miles per hour. And it appears that this model is actually safer for cyclists.
However, the Madrid Model of cycling down busy motorized streets definitely takes some getting used to. So if you are very new to cycling, Madrid may not be the place to start via a bike tour.
Don’t Want a Tour: Bike Rental in Madrid
The city has a bike-sharing program called “BiciMad,” where you can do a Madrid bike hire for a small fee.
To rent a bike through BiciMad, you will need to create an account on their website or mobile app.
Once you have an account, you can purchase a subscription or a single-use ticket. Then you locate a BiciMad station near you and use your account information to unlock a bike from the station.
When you are finished using the bike, you can return it to any BiciMad station.
There you have it, instant Madrid by bike.
There are numerous stations around Madrid. We were especially impressed to find so many close to tourist attractions like the Prado and Reina Sofia museums.
We definitely prefer to
Places to Bike Ride In Madrid
Although the urban center of Madrid is not as bike-friendly (yet) as other European capitals, there are still several places where you can go for a bike ride, including:
- Casa de Campo is a large park on the west side of the city that offers a variety of trails for all different abilities of riders.
- Retiro Park is a popular park in the center of Madrid that offers a variety of trails for biking, many of which are fairly flat.
- The Madrid Rio, an urban park built on the banks of the Manzanares river, offers over 10 km of paved trail. Riding through Rio Park will also ensure some great views of the Royal Palace, the Almudena, and other Madrid landmarks.
We love meeting new cities by bike.
While Madrid is not as bike-friendly as some other European capitals, choosing a great bike tour will ensure that you have a unique and rewarding experience exploring Madrid by bike.
FAQ: Best Bike Tour Madrid
Is Madrid good for cycling?
Madrid is not as bike friendly as other cities in Spain. The city has been making strides since 2013 to make the city better for cycling.
Does Madrid have bike lanes?
Madrid does not offer protected lanes at the edge of traffic.
Instead, Madrid has created their own model, which puts bike and scooter lanes between lanes of traffic. This model has been come to known as the “Madrid Model”
Is it better to take a Barcelona bike tour or a Madrid bike tour?
Barcelona is a more bike-friendly city. And yet, Madrid boasts grand boulevards, amazing parks for riding, and historic destinations like the Royal Palace. Both cities have a unique charm, so consider your interests and desired experiences to decide which tour suits you better.
Conclusion: Bike Tours Madrid
Are you on the hunt for the finest bike tours of Madrid as a part of your Madrid itinerary? As avid bike enthusiasts, we wasted no time exploring Madrid by bike. Madrid, with its Royal Palace and charming streets of the Literary Quarter, is a cyclist’s paradise.
Among the various options, our top pick is the Highlights of Madrid tour—it truly stole our hearts. However, if you seek a different experience, fret not, for we’ve curated a comprehensive list of the best bike tours in Madrid.
Each tour on our carefully selected list provides bicycles, helmets, and knowledgeable local guides, except for the self-guided tour.
With our lineup of the best bike tours in Madrid, you can easily find the one that suits your preferences perfectly. So, get ready to pedal your way through the wonders of this magnificent city!
Looking for other things to do in Madrid. If this is your first time in the country of Spain and the city of Madrid, there is definitely more to see.
We are big fans of getting outside of the city with great day trips from this capital city, especially to Segovia.
