Madrid isn’t only lived on the surface. Beneath its bustling streets, nestled between squares and historic buildings, lies another Madrid. One that doesn’t appear on tourist maps, yet is steeped in legends, secrets, forgotten tunnels, and corners that only the most curious dare to explore.
And the best part? You can begin this underground journey from a privileged spot. Hotel Victoria 4, located quite literally next to Puerta del Sol, is the perfect starting point to dive —almost literally— into the city’s most enigmatic side.
First stop: the ghost station of Chamberí
Imagine a platform frozen in time. Trains that no longer pass. Advert tiles from the 1920s. That’s Chamberí’s ghost station, a hidden gem from Madrid’s old metro system. Closed in 1966, it now forms part of the Andén 0 museum. Walking through its platforms feels like opening a time capsule.
The Royal Palace’s underground galleries
Beneath the grand Royal Palace, there’s more than just basements. Several sections are open to the public, offering a glimpse into old tunnels, storerooms and the structural framework that holds up one of Madrid’s most iconic buildings. A journey underground among columns, stonework and echoes of amazing stories about monarchy.
Kilometre Zero… underground
Everyone looks up at the clock above Puerta del Sol, but few know what lies below the Real Casa de Correos. Hidden underneath are underground chambers that once served as prisons, particularly notorious during Franco’s regime, and the symbolic heart of Spain’s road network: Kilometre Zero. Mystery, history and symbolism, all right beneath your feet.
Crypts with stories: Almudena and San Ginés
Just steps from the Royal Palace lies the Crypt of the Almudena, a monumental underground temple with over 400 columns and the air of a Roman basilica. Even closer is the Crypt of San Ginés, tucked beside the famous chocolatería, an overlooked treasure brimming with local history.
Here lie, among others, the remains of Pilina, a girl who died from illness after devoting her final days to Jesus, and who is now a candidate for beatification — a beloved figure in the city. Also buried here are Ramón Areces, founder of El Corte Inglés, and his nephew and successor, Isidoro Álvarez.
An intriguing journey through the city’s past and some of its most well-known personalities.
The wartime shelter in El Capricho Park
It’s not easy to access, but if you manage it, you won’t forget it. The air-raid shelter in El Capricho Park is one of the best-preserved from the Spanish Civil War. Fifteen metres underground, with capacity for over 200 people, it offers a haunting experience.
Visits must be booked in advance. A perfect addition for a second day of underground discovery.
The secret passage of the Descalzas Reales
Legend has it that a secret passage once linked the Monastery of the Descalzas Reales to the Royal Palace. Used by queens and nuns in past centuries, the tunnel still fuels the imagination of historians and the curious alike. Its purpose was to allow members of the royal family to move around safely and discreetly, which has given rise to countless legends and speculations…
Tirso de Molina and the hidden bones
And if you want to end your day with a chill, head to Tirso de Molina metro station. Beneath its stairs, behind the blue and white tiles, lie the bones of the monks who once lived in the old convent upon which the station was built. Unsettling, isn’t it?
After a day beneath the city… return to the light
Exploring underground Madrid is thrilling — but also tiring. That’s why there’s nothing better than returning to the surface and resting where your journey began: at Hotel Victoria 4, your sanctuary in the heart of Madrid.
From its unbeatable location beside Sol, you can plan more routes, relax in modern, comfortable rooms, and continue uncovering the city’s secrets — step by step… or tunnel by tunnel.
Book your stay today via the official website
and begin your journey into a different Madrid — starting from the best place possible: the surface of mystery.