Bucketlist Travels logo

Travel bucket list idea:

Royal Palace of Madrid

  • Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain

Last updated: 30 December, 2024

The House of Borbon-Anjou, led by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, is the reigning royal house in Spain. Although not as globally renowned as their UK counterparts, the Spanish Monarchy remains high profile and (mostly) revered in Spain, and an integral part of the country’s culture and history.

This lavish 18th-century royal palace is their official residence (though they actually live at the Zarzuela Palace, also in Madrid). It’s an example of Neoclassical grandeur on an epic scale, with some 2,000 rooms.

Although only part of the palace is open to the public, ornate decorations bombard your senses at every turn – most opulent of all is the scarlet and gold Throne Room, with a ceiling painted by Tiepolo.

Don't miss

The fascinating armoury, where you can see elaborate weaponry and full horse armour; and seek out the incredibly grand palace pharmacy. A Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place on the first Wednesday of the month at midday – and it’s free to watch.

While you’re there 

Opposite the Royal Palace is the Almudena Cathedral, the seat of Madrid’s Catholic Archbishop. Building started in 1880 and only officially finished in 1993, when it was subsequently consecrated by Pope John Paul II. Being younger, it’s more modern than most of its centuries-old peer cathedrals, and inside it surprises inside with contemporary chapels, cupolas, statues and décor. Worth a stop, if churches are your thing.

Logistics

Price from: £8
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The nearest metro station is Opera. It’s a few minutes’ walk from there. It’s also just a 5-minute walk from Plaza Mayor.

Guided tours are only in Spanish, but there is an official app with built-in guide that you should download from the website before you go.

When to do it

The palace is open all year round, seven days a week. Arrive at opening time to avoid queues, which can be very long at peak times (during the Easter and summer holidays, particularly at weekends).

Who to go with: organised tours

11

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Madrid

This tour takes you to two of Madrid’s most famous landmarks. First, enjoy a guided visit to the Royal Palace, one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful palaces. Explore its stunning rooms and halls, learning about its rich history. Then, head towards the Prado Museum. Along the way, your guide will share interesting facts about the city. At the Prado Museum, you’ll see incredible works by artists like Velázquez, Goya, Murillo, Rubens, and Titian, and learn about their impact on art history. With skip-the-line access and expert guides, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Entrance fees are included, so you can simply relax and take in Madrid’s top sights. Don’t miss this amazing experience!

Price €68

Min age 0

Rating 4.32 / 5 [971 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >
  • Madrid

Join a 2-hour guided tour of Madrid's Royal Palace. Admire the works of art by Giordano and Goya as you explore the palace at a leisurely time during the day with an expert guide who has an in-depth knowledge of the home of Spanish royalty. Meet your guide at the Ópera metro stop located at Plaza de Isabel II in front of the Teatro Real. After a stroll through the picturesque Plaza de Oriente, take advantage of skip-the-line access to the palace. Enjoy visits to the Throne Room, the Gala Dining Room and the private royal apartments. The rooms will come alive with the lively and fascinating explanations of your professional guide. After the guided tour you can stroll through the Royal Gardens and visit other parts of the palace on your own, such as the Royal Armory and the Royal Apothecary. If you have selected the tapas tasting option, you can go on your own to Casa Ciriaco Restaurant at Calle Mayor 84, where you will be given an appetizer of typical Spanish tapas.

Price €32

Min age 0

Rating 4.38 / 5 [771 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >
  • Madrid

Get fast track access to the Royal Palace of Madrid with this guided tour. Get acquainted with the residence of the Spanish Royal Family. See the lavish Throne Room, the Columns Room and the Royal Armory. Learn about the history of the monarchy in Spain and how the palace's decorations have changed over time through your guide's informative remarks. Do not miss the opportunity to explore this area of Madrid full of history.

Price €19

Min age 0

Rating 4.22 / 5 [442 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >
  • Madrid

Explore the best of Madrid with this expertly guided walking tour featuring skip-the-line tickets to the Royal Palace, one of Europe’s most breathtaking royal residences, and to the Prado Art Musuem - the cultural jewel of Spain. If you wish, choose the Prado Early Access option when booking for a VIP experience in the Prado Museum where you'll enjoy a guided tour of the galleries one hour before they open to the public. As you make your way through the stunning galleries of the Prado Museum, through the charming historic center, and wrap up at the grandiose Royal Palace, you'll be accompanied by an insightful local guide who will decode the city's lesser-known stories and hidden secrets every step of the way. And with a small group of just 15 guests maximum, you'll enjoy a more relaxed and intimate experience with easy access to your guide so you can ask them all your burning questions.

Price €99

Min age 0

Rating 4.78 / 5 [283 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Website >