
The Royal Palace of Madrid, located in the Spanish capital, features a French exterior and the Italian interior, a style popular at the time. The palace boasts numerous tapestry-lined galleries, a throne room modeled after the Room of Mirrors in the Palacio de Bellusei, rooms known as the Gasparini Rooms, and Chinese-style decor, each with its own unique character. The Medicinal Museum, located near Plaza Almeria, is also a worthwhile attraction.
Suitable for all seasons;
The climate is temperate continental, with a large temperature difference between summer and winter, with severe cold in winter and scorching heat in summer.
It is recommended to play for 3 hours;
Nearby attractions: San Miguel Market, Plaza de España, Temple of Debod, Puerta del Sol, Prado Museum, etc.
Adult ticket: 12 euros for locals / 10 euros for foreign tourists; audio guide: 3 euros for locals / 4 euros for foreign tourists (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
Free admission: Children under 5 years old
10:00-18:00; Last admission: 17:00 (Monday to Sunday, October 1st - March 31st of the following year)
10:00-20:00; Last admission: 19:00 (Monday to Sunday, April 1st - September 30th)
The Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, is one of the largest and most impressive royal palaces in Europe. Built in the 18th century on the site of a former Moorish castle, it has played a central role in Spain's political history. Today, the palace is used for state ceremonies and official events.
The Royal Palace is located in the center of Madrid, near the Plaza de Oriente.
The Royal Palace is open daily except for certain holidays. It is typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon when the palace is less crowded.
Tickets cost around €13 for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, and children. Tickets can be purchased online via the official Royal Palace website or at the ticket office on-site.
While booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, it is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can book tickets online a few days in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
A visit typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the main rooms and exhibits. If you wish to explore the surrounding gardens or visit the Royal Armory, plan for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German. Audio guides are also available for self-guided tours in various languages.
The best photography spots include the palace’s main façade, the views from the Sabatini Gardens, and the central courtyards. The Campo del Moro Gardens offers beautiful panoramic views of the palace as well.
Start with the Royal Palace's grand staircase, then explore the Throne Room and the Royal Chapel. Afterward, visit the Royal Armory and finish with a stroll through the gardens.
The palace does not offer regular night visits or light shows. However, special events and concerts may take place at certain times of the year, so it’s worth checking the calendar in advance.
The Royal Palace can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times are early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays.
The Royal Palace is fully accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. There are ramps and elevators available for easier access to different levels.
Cards and mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted for purchases at the ticket office, café, and gift shop. Cash is not necessary but is still accepted.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several nearby restaurants, such as Casa Lucio. Halal food is available at select restaurants around the city, including areas near the Royal Palace.
The gift shop at the Royal Palace offers royal-themed souvenirs such as books, jewelry, and miniatures of the palace. You can also find historical books and postcards.