The Best Pubcrawl Walking Guided Tour Experience in Madrid

If you’re planning a night out in Madrid and want to avoid wandering aimlessly from bar to bar, this guided pub crawl might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally tried it ourselves, we’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to dive into Madrid’s vibrant nightlife without the hassle of figuring out where to go or waiting in lines.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are its cost-effectiveness and the guided support. With a very reasonable price of just under $20, you get quick entry into five venues plus free shots at each stop — that’s a lot of bang for your buck. The presence of multiple guides also means you’ll have plenty of support and opportunities to meet fellow travelers, which can turn a simple night out into a memorable social occasion.

One consideration is that this tour seems to cater mainly to a younger, party-oriented crowd, which might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed or mature vibe. Also, the tour’s energy level can be quite high, with crowded venues and a lively scene, so it’s worth thinking about whether that atmosphere matches your style.

This pub crawl is likely best suited for young travelers or anyone wanting to experience Madrid’s nightlife in a social, energetic setting. If you love meeting new people, enjoy a party atmosphere, and want an easy, guided way to explore the city after hours, this experience could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $17.38 per person, you get entrance to five venues with free shots, making it a good deal for a night out.
• All-Inclusive Perks: Skip lines, avoid cover fees, and enjoy drink deals at each stop.
• Multiple Guides: Several guides come along to help support the group and keep the energy lively.
• Social Atmosphere: It’s designed for travelers looking to meet others and party in Madrid’s bustling scene.
• Varied Venues: The tour takes you through a mix of bars and clubs, ending in a large club near Puerta de Sol.
• Potential Crowds: The reviews suggest the scene can get very crowded, especially at certain venues, which might not appeal to everyone.

Diving Into the Details: What to Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: Cats Hostel Madrid Sol
Your night kicks off at the famous Cats Hostel in Madrid’s lively city center. Known as the “party hostel,” it’s a natural starting point for an energetic night. Here, you’ll find a bar and a Cave bar where beer games, dancing, and mingling are in full swing. This initial meet-up is an excellent way to get acquainted with your fellow crawlers and set the tone for the night ahead.

From this lively beginning, the group will move on to three bars and one large club, all with free entrance and a shot included at each spot. The venues are selected to give you a taste of Madrid’s nightlife scene, with the final destination being a big club open until 6 a.m., near Puerta de Sol. Each venue contributes to a different facet of Madrid’s evening culture, from casual pubs to high-energy clubs.

Specific stops vary by day: for example, on Mondays, you’ll visit “Fuckin Mondays,” while other nights are booked at venues like Samsara, FITZ Club, ICON Club, or Manamá. This rotation keeps each night fresh and offers a variety of atmospheres — from lively to more upscale.

The Experience at Each Venue

Once inside, the experience is all about quick entry, so you won’t waste time waiting in lines. The free shots serve as a good icebreaker, although some reviews note that the quality might be quite basic (cheapest tequila). Still, they do their job in helping you loosen up and start the night.

The venues themselves seem to attract a youthful crowd, with many reviews noting the lively, party-vibe scene. As one reviewer mentioned, “It delivers what it says,” but also pointed out that the crowd can be quite young — mostly in their 20s. If you’re older than that and prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be your scene.

Guides and Group Support

The presence of multiple guides is a definite plus. Travelers have appreciated how organized and supportive the team is, helping to herd the group and keep things running smoothly. This is especially helpful in a busy nightlife environment, where keeping everyone together and informed can make all the difference.

According to reviews, the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, adding value by sharing tips or just keeping the energy high. One reviewer praised Lucia, mentioning her as especially welcoming and fluent in French, which can be a bonus if you’re a multilingual traveler.

The Cost and What You’re Paying For

At just over $17, this tour offers very good value. It’s not just about the free shots and skip-the-line entry — it’s also about saving time and avoiding the stress of managing a night out solo. For a relatively small upfront cost, you get a curated experience, a guided group, and access to some of Madrid’s most popular nightlife spots.

However, be aware that the free drinks are often cheap liquor, as some reviews pointed out, which might not appeal to those who prefer quality over quantity. Still, they do help get the party started.

Crowd Size and Atmosphere

This tour can attract up to 150 travelers, so expect a lively, bustling scene. As noted by some reviewers, the second bar can get very crowded, which might be overwhelming if you prefer more intimate venues. But if you’re there for the vibe and social interaction, that’s part of the fun.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This pub crawl is best for younger travelers or those in their 20s and 30s who want to meet new people and party in a lively environment. If you’re after a chill evening or a more mature crowd, you might want to look for something more subdued. Also, if you’re traveling solo and enjoy guided social experiences, this is a good pick. Conversely, if you’re traveling as a couple or in a small group seeking more relaxed venues, it might feel too hectic.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This guided pub crawl in Madrid offers a fun, sociable way to experience the city’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s budget-friendly, well-organized, and provides access to popular venues with little fuss. The energetic crowd and lively scenes are definitely highlights but could also be a downside if you prefer quieter, more mature settings.

The knowledgeable guides play a key role in making the experience enjoyable, helping you navigate the busy scene and meet fellow travelers. The included shots, quick entry, and drink deals add value, especially if you’re looking to maximize your night out without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a fun, social introduction to Madrid’s nightlife and don’t mind the energetic, sometimes crowded vibe, this is a solid choice. Just keep in mind the age and atmosphere when deciding if it’s the right fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the pub crawl?
It costs about $17.38 per person, which covers entry to five venues, free shots at each stop, and skip-the-line access.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Cats Hostel Madrid Sol, located on Calle de los Cañizares, right in the city center.

What is included in the tour?
You get quick entry to five different venues, a free shot at each, and the support of multiple guides who help keep the group moving and energized.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 8 hours, starting at 10:30 pm, depending on how long you stay at each location and the final club.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers are in their 20s and 30s, the tour is most enjoyed by those who like a lively, party scene. All participants should wear long pants to enter the final club, and IDs are required.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Are there any dress code restrictions?
Yes, all guys must wear long pants to gain entry into the final club.

What should I bring?
Bring ID or a document with your photo and date of birth. If not available, a photo of your passport on your phone works too.

Is this tour safe for solo travelers?
Based on reviews, travelers felt safe and enjoyed the social atmosphere, especially with guides supporting the group.

Whether you’re looking to kick off a night of exploring Madrid or just want an easy way to meet people and enjoy the city’s nightlife scene, this pub crawl offers a lively, affordable option. Just be ready for a high-energy night and a crowd that loves to party.