Royal Palace of Madrid
An 18th-century architectural marvel, the Royal Palace of Madrid offers a glimpse into Spain's royal past with its vast art collections and lavish roo...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds during midday meal
Royal Palace of Madrid
Best Time
Fewer crowds during midday meal

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18th-century architectural marvel, the Royal Palace of Madrid offers a glimpse into Spain's royal past with its vast art collections and lavish rooms.
"A breathtaking masterpiece with stunning royal collections and a rich history, a must-see in Madrid!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Skip the long queues by purchasing your Royal Palace of Madrid tickets online in advance.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided vs. Guided
Choose a self-guided tour for flexibility or a guided tour for in-depth historical insights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Royal Palace Architecture
Exterior and interior
A breathtaking masterpiece of Baroque and Neoclassical design, one of Europe's largest palaces.

Throne Room
Interior
Marvel at the opulent Throne Room, adorned with rich tapestries and intricate details.
Royal Armoury
Interior
Explore one of the world's most extensive collections of historical armor and weaponry.

Campo del Moro Gardens
Adjacent to the palace
Enjoy stunning views of the palace from these beautiful, landscaped gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Timing is Key for Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Skip the long queues by purchasing your Royal Palace of Madrid tickets online in advance.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided vs. Guided
Choose a self-guided tour for flexibility or a guided tour for in-depth historical insights.
💰 Free Entry Hours
Visit during the last two hours for free entry and a more magical experience.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning palace views from the Campo del Moro gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Skip the long queues by purchasing your Royal Palace of Madrid tickets online in advance.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided vs. Guided
Choose a self-guided tour for flexibility or a guided tour for in-depth historical insights.
💰 Free Entry Hours
Visit during the last two hours for free entry and a more magical experience.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning palace views from the Campo del Moro gardens.
🗺️ Consider the Gallery
The 'Galería de las Colecciones Reales' is a separate, newer museum worth considering.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Royal Palace of Madrid for its stunning architecture, opulent interiors, and rich historical significance. Many highlight the impressive art collections and the grandeur of the state rooms. However, some find the ticket pricing for combined experiences a bit steep, and the queues can be a significant deterrent if tickets aren't booked in advance.
"Truly fantastic experience.
The rooms were all very splendid and varied in decoration
I especially liked viewing all the glass cases with the pottery
The dining hall where all the important people sit and dine at was also one of my favorites to look at.
Overall great! Marvelous grandeur. You really get to feel the history of this place as you walk through it.
What a great example of “power architecture” all over the rooms, with immense symbolism as well"
Eric
"Gorgeous palace with an impressive display of rooms more prettiest the one to the other, as well as great display of silverware and tables cutleries and plates.
This is the perfect sized exhibit, as you see enough without being overwhelming and repeating itself. Very diverse
To be done absolutely in the visits of Madrid.
I would recommend going early to avoid the crowds"
Aymeric S
"Really great walking tour. We stood in the queue and bought tickets on the day but it’s probably a better idea to buy online as there are separate queues for buying online and buying on the day, in order to get into the palace. Otherwise it was very interesting and I enjoyed the tour."
Hannah Jo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Palace of Madrid is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Metro stations are Ópera (Lines 2, 5, and R) and Sol (Lines 1, 2, 3, and R). Several bus lines also stop nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
While there isn't direct parking at the palace, several public parking garages are located within walking distance, such as Plaza de Oriente and Plaza de las Descalzas. However, using public transport is generally more convenient.
Yes, the Royal Palace is centrally located and within walking distance of many other popular Madrid sights like Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour.
If you're in the city center, walking is a pleasant option. Alternatively, the Metro is very efficient. For example, from Sol, you can take Line 2 directly to Ópera, which is a short walk away.
Consider purchasing a multi-day public transport pass if you plan on using the Metro and buses frequently. This can be more cost-effective than single tickets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission tickets for the Royal Palace of Madrid typically cost around €14. However, there are often options for combined tickets with the Royal Armoury or the Galería de las Colecciones Reales, which may vary in price.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the ticket office on the day of your visit, but it's strongly advised against due to potentially very long queues. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to save time.
Yes, the Royal Palace of Madrid offers free entry during the last two hours of its opening time, Monday through Thursday. This is a great way to experience the palace with fewer crowds and no cost.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Online booking ensures you skip the long ticket purchase lines and guarantee your entry.
The 'Self-Guided Visit' ticket grants access to the Royal Palace itself. The 'Palace + Gallery' ticket includes access to the Royal Palace and the nearby Galería de las Colecciones Reales, a newer museum showcasing royal collections.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Opening hours for the Royal Palace of Madrid can vary seasonally. Generally, it's open from around 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
A typical visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and interest. If you opt for a guided tour or wish to explore the gardens thoroughly, allow more time.
Both options have their merits. A guided tour offers in-depth historical context and stories from an expert, while a self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace and linger in areas that capture your interest. Many visitors find value in both experiences.
Key highlights include the opulent Throne Room, the Royal Armoury, the stunning Hall of Mirrors, and the various state apartments filled with art and antiques. The Royal Pharmacy is also a unique and fascinating area.
Yes, audio guides are typically available for rent at the Royal Palace of Madrid, providing detailed information about the palace's history, art, and architecture in multiple languages.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Royal Palace of Madrid for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks and artifacts. Always look for signage indicating specific restrictions in certain rooms.
The exterior facade, especially from the Plaza de la Armería, offers grand photo opportunities. Inside, the Throne Room and the Hall of Mirrors are particularly photogenic. The Campo del Moro gardens provide a beautiful backdrop with the palace in the distance.
Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited in and around historical monuments and public spaces in Madrid, including the Royal Palace, due to safety and privacy regulations.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the interiors are well-lit. Visiting during the free entry hours might offer unique photographic opportunities with fewer people.
Professional photoshoots typically require special permits and advance arrangements with the palace administration. Casual personal photography is usually allowed, but commercial shoots are restricted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Tickets and Entry
A significant perk for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a less crowded experience is the free entry offered during the last two hours of the day, Monday through Thursday. This allows visitors to explore the palace's grandeur without an admission fee, though it might mean a slightly more hurried visit. It's always advisable to check the palace's official website for the most current pricing, hours, and any special conditions before your visit, as these can change seasonally.
Experiencing the Palace: Guided vs. Self-Guided
Conversely, a guided tour provides invaluable insights from knowledgeable guides who can bring the palace's rich history to life. They often share anecdotes, historical details, and context that might be missed on a self-guided visit, enriching the overall experience. Some visitors even suggest doing both: a guided tour to learn the stories, followed by a self-guided revisit to absorb the details and take photos. Regardless of your choice, the Royal Palace of Madrid is a treasure trove of art, history, and architectural splendor, promising a memorable visit.
Beyond the Palace Walls: Gardens and Views
Adjacent to the palace is the Plaza de la Armería, a grand open square that serves as the main entrance and offers impressive views of the palace's imposing facade. This area is perfect for capturing iconic exterior shots of the Palacio Real Madrid. For a more complete experience, consider visiting the Galería de las Colecciones Reales, which is a separate museum but often bundled with palace tickets, offering a deeper dive into Spain's royal heritage.
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