Travel bucket list idea:
Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Madrid
Price €39
Min age 0
Rating 4.37 / 5 [1042 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Madrid
Price €65
Min age 0
Rating 4.25 / 5 [803 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Madrid
Price €32
Min age 0
Rating 4.41 / 5 [647 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Madrid
Price €35
Min age 0
Rating 4.20 / 5 [407 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Madrid
Price €89
Min age 0
Rating 4.75 / 5 [194 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
