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Royal Palace of Madrid tickets
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Why visit Royal Palace of Madrid

A palace bigger than Versailles

At over 135,000 square meters, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest in Western Europe -- even larger than France’s Versailles! With more than 3,400 rooms, it’s packed with history, splendor, and centuries of royal legacy.

About Royal Palace of Madrid

Step inside Spain’s royal history

Once the official residence of the Spanish monarchy, the Royal Palace still hosts state ceremonies today. Booking a ticket means stepping into a space that helped shape Spain’s history..

A showcase of Baroque brilliance

This palace is the textbook example of Baroque architecture in Spain. Grand facades rise above the historic Plaza de Oriente, gilded halls stretch on for days, and marble staircases set the scene from the moment you step in. The palace is as much a feat of design as it is a seat of royal tradition.

See works by Goya, Velázquez, and Caravaggio

Art lovers will want to pay close attention. Inside, you’ll find an exceptional collection of classical paintings, frescoes, sculptures, and tapestries. Look out for original works by Velázquez, Goya, and Caravaggio, many of which still hang in their original settings.

Inside views that take you by surprise

From the red velvet and gilded finishes of the Throne Room to the vast stone sweep of the Grand Staircase, each space is built to impress. You’re not just seeing a museum, you’re walking through active royal spaces still used for ceremonial functions today.

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Peaceful gardens just steps away

Once you're done exploring inside, take a walk through the Sabatini Gardens and Campo del Moro. Both offer lush landscaping, fountains, and some of the best spots for palace photography, especially around golden hour.

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Things to know before booking Royal Palace of Madrid tickets

  • If you want to avoid waiting in line for hours, the basic Skip-the-line tickets is the fastest and most efficient way to get inside. You’ll head straight into the palace and explore the grand halls at your own pace, with nothing holding you back. Pro tip: Try to arrive 20–30 minutes early for skip-the-line tickets to ensure you’re ready to enter at your allotted time.
  • Want the freedom to explore at your pace but still know what you’re looking at? Then go for the Skip-the-Line Tickets + Audio Guide. It’s like having a historian in your pocket, whispering stories in your language while you wander. If you’d rather follow an expert who brings every room alive, pick the Skip-the-Line guided tour instead, same skip-the-line perk, but with a real human leading the way.
  • Some people walk through the palace and leave. Others find the hidden door to the royal kitchens. If you want the full behind-the-scenes experience, with skip-the-line access, this upgraded version, Skip-the-Line Tickets to the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Royal Kitchen, is your secret pass. It gives you access to a part of the palace most miss--and trust us, it’s worth it. Note: The kitchen tour is only in Spanish, so if you don’t speak the language, you can pair it with the official app for English audio. Just bring your own headphones and you’re all set.
  • If you're a fan of art go for the Royal Palace + Royal Collections Gallery Tickets. combo. This is highly recommended as they both are just 4 minutes (350 meters) apart!
  • If you're a fan of Flamenco shows, go for the Torres Bermejas Flamenco Show + Royal Palace of Madrid Skip-the-Line Tickets which includes access to a 1- hour long Flamenco show.
  • If you're a first-time visitor to Madrid we recommend the Madrid Panoramic Bus Tour + Royal Palace of Madrid ticket which allows you to view 30+ landmarks in Madrid.
  • And for those focused on art and museum visits, the Paseo del Arte 3 Museum Pass gives you entry to three of Madrid’s top museums: Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen. You can use it over multiple days within a year. Just keep in mind, this pass doesn’t include entry to the Royal Palace.
  • EU citizens and residents can enjoy free entry from Monday to Thursday between 5pm to 7pm in summer (April to September) and 4pm to 6pm in winter (October to March). Bring valid ID or residence proof to avail of this benefit. Note that during these hours, the palace can get crowded, and you might not be able to explore at your own pace.

Royal Palace of Madrid | History snapshot

  • 9th century: The site originally housed a Moorish fortress, built as part of the city’s defense when Madrid was under Muslim rule.
  • 1561: King Philip II chose Madrid as the capital of Spain and transformed the old fortress into the royal residence, known as the Alcázar.
  • 1734: A devastating fire on Christmas Eve destroyed the Alcázar, wiping out centuries of art and architecture.
  • 1738: Construction of the new Royal Palace began under King Philip V. The Italian architect Filippo Juvarra designed the original plans, later adapted by Juan Bautista Sachetti.
  • 1764: The palace was completed, and King Charles III became the first monarch to live here, He filled the rooms with art, fine furniture, and the latest luxuries of the time.
  • 1808–1813: During the Peninsular War, French troops occupied Madrid. Napoleon’s brother, Joseph Bonaparte, briefly used the palace as his residence.
  • Late 19th century: The palace hosted state functions, royal weddings, and important ceremonies, but the Spanish royal family gradually spent less time living here.
  • 1931: With the establishment of the Second Spanish Republic, the palace ceased being the official royal residence, though it still served for ceremonial events.
  • Today: The Royal Palace of Madrid remains the largest in Western Europe. It is open to the public and used for state ceremonies, official banquets, and royal receptions. Inside, you’ll find original art, historic armor, and lavish rooms that tell the story of Spain’s monarchy.

​ Royal Palace of Madrid history

Which Royal Palace of Madrid ticket is best for you?

Skip the line tickets

Duration: Flexible duration
Guide: Audioguide (optional)

  • Discover the Royal Palace of Madrid in all its grandeur, free from the frustrations of enduring lengthy ticketing lines. Immerse yourself in the opulent history and intricate artistry that this landmark offers.
  • A skip-the-line tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid is hassle-free and extremely convenient.
  • For an enriched experience, consider opting for an audioguide, accessible in 16 languages. This companion will provide you with deeper insights into the palace's rich history, its architectural marvels, and the stories woven within its walls.

Recommended Tours:

  • Royal Palace of Madrid Skip-the-Line Tickets

Guided tours

Duration: 1.5- 5 hours
Skip-the-line Access: Yes

  • Opt for the guided tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid, and let a seasoned expert guide illuminate the intricate details and hidden gems that make this palace a true treasure.
  • Choose to have the guided tour conducted in either English, Spanish, or both, ensuring that you connect with the history and heritage of the Royal Palace

Recommended Tours

  • Royal Palace of Madrid Guided Tour with Skip-the-line access

Combo tours

  • Enjoy fast-track entry to top attractions like the Royal Palace of Madrid and combine your visit with a Flamenco show!
  • Discover Spain’s royal heritage with a combo ticket to the Royal Palace and Royal Collections Gallery.
  • Go on a panoramic bus tour, providing an overview of Madrid's most famous landmarks, including Retiro Park, Prado Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Recommended Combos:

  • Royal Palace of Madrid and Flamenco Show
  • Royal Palace of Madrid and Panoramic Bus Tour
  • Royal Palace of Madrid and Royal Collections Gallery Tickets
  • Paseo del Arte 3 Museum Pass: Museo del Prado + Thyssen Bornemisza + Reina Sofia Entry Tickets

Photo gallery & virtual tour | Inside Royal Palace Madrid

Royal Armoury
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Royal Armoury

History lovers head straight to the Royal Armory, located in a wing off the main courtyard. It’s one of the finest collections of royal arms in the world, with displays ranging from medieval armor and jousting lances to ornate parade shields. Some of the suits of armor once belonged to Charles V and Philip II. This is the spot for close-up shots of intricately etched helmets and swords, all carefully preserved in climate-controlled glass cases.

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Royal Chapel

Tucked into the eastern side of the palace, the Royal Chapel is a jewel box of Baroque design. Its altar glows with gilded woodwork, while a dome painted with biblical scenes pulls the eye upward. The chapel houses centuries-old paintings and religious relics collected by Spanish monarchs. When sunlight filters through the stained glass, the space comes alive with color. Photos here capture the detail of gold leaf, marble, and delicate frescoes.

State Rooms

The palace boasts a stunning array of state rooms, each decorated with opulent furnishings and artwork. Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors (Salón de los Espejos), and the Gala Dining Room (Comedor de Gala), which showcase the palace's lavish Baroque and Neoclassical interiors.

Royal Kitchen

The Royal Kitchen occupies the first basement of the Palace. The first chamber, the Ramillete Room, was used for creating sweets, chocolates, biscuits, and beverages. Notable features include the 1844 Ramillete oven. The Pastry Workshop, originally the main entrance, remains a chamber dedicated to making Easter eggs and ice cream.

Throne Room

The Throne Room is the palace’s most iconic space, still used for state ceremonies and official audiences. Walls are upholstered in deep red velvet, accented with gold leaf and massive mirrors that amplify the grandeur. Above, a sprawling ceiling fresco by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo tells the story of Spain’s power. Look for the twin velvet thrones set beneath a canopy, framed by two gilded lions. This room sits at the heart of the first floor, and if you visit early, you’ll get photos without the crowds.

Hall of Columns

Used for royal banquets and official acts, the Hall of Columns is a long, sunlit gallery lined with Corinthian columns and sparkling chandeliers. The hall features enormous tapestries, ornate stucco work, and large windows looking out toward the Plaza de Oriente. Stand at one end for the classic “infinite columns” photo.

Gasparini's Hall

Named after the Chamber Painter Mattia Gasparini,  this chamber served as the King's dressing room. Interestingly, during Carlos III's reign, the room's walls were adorned with tapestries from the Royal Factory in winter and with masterpieces by Diego Velázquez, including "La Fragua de Vulcano," "Las Hilanderas," and "Los Borrachos," as well as works by Murillo, Ribera, and Titian during summer.

Grand Staircase

Your visit starts with the Grand Staircase, a dramatic entrance designed by Francesco Sabatini. Seventy sweeping marble steps rise under a vaulted ceiling, flanked by statues of Roman and mythological deities. The staircase isn’t just impressive for its size—it’s a masterclass in symmetry and light. As you walk up, you’ll catch natural light pouring in from above, making every shot feel regal. This space is just inside the palace’s main entrance, setting the tone for everything that follows.

Royal Pharmacy

Hidden on the ground floor, the Royal Pharmacy feels like a secret museum within the palace. Shelves are lined with blue and white apothecary jars, filled with herbs and old medicines. Glass-fronted cabinets display 18th-century scales and handwritten recipe books. There’s even an original laboratory with antique glassware. This chamber reveals the science and ritual behind royal healthcare. If you want a unique photo, focus on the vintage labels and the hand-painted jars.

Changing of the Guard

Visit on a Wednesday or Saturday morning and, you’ll see the ceremonial Changing of the Guard outside the main gates. Royal guards in 19th-century uniforms march in formation, sometimes with cavalry and brass bands. It’s a free spectacle and a favorite for photographers. Stand by the main entrance for the best shots as the soldiers swap places and the music echoes across the courtyard.

Plan your visit to Royal Palace of Madrid

timings to Royal Palace of Madrid

During summers (April to September): Open from 10am to 7pm between Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday.

During winters (October to March): Open from 10am to 6pm, and 10am to 4pm on Sunday.

Closed: The Royal Palace of Madrid is closed on 1 and 6 January, 1 May, 12, and 25 December. On 12 October, it is closed until 5:30pm, on 24 and 31 December it is closed from 3pm.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Madrid Palace is during the off-season, between October to March. However, the site can get a little crowded towards the end of December due to the Christmas holidays.

Royal Palace of Madrid opening hours

Address: C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain
Find on Map.

You can get to the Royal Palace of Madrid by either driving down, or using public transport like bus, underground metro, or train.

  • By Bus: Use bus routes 133, 146, 147, 148, 3, 65, or 74 to reach the Royal Palace of Madrid. Santo Domingo is the closest bus stop
  • By Train: If you’re taking the train, alight at Principe Pio Station
  • By Metro:  if you’re using the underground metro, you can use Lines 5 and 2, and alight at the Opera Station.
Royal Palace of Madrid directions
facilities
  • Lockers: You can store large bags and luggage at the storage facility at the Royal Palace of Madrid.
  • Wheelchair Accessibility: The Royal Palace of Madrid is fully wheelchair-accessible.
  • Gift Shop: Offering a selection of souvenirs, books, and royal-themed merchandise. It's a great opportunity to find unique gifts and mementos to commemorate your visit.
  • Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available for visitors' convenience, situated at various locations within the palace complex. They are well-maintained and easily accessible throughout the visit.
Inside Royal Palace of Madrid
Tourists with a guide exploring the ornate interior of the Royal Palace of Madrid.
  • EU citizens and legal residents can visit the Royal Palace of Madrid for free from Monday to Thursday in the final two hours of opening, 5pm to 7pm in summer (April to September) and 4pm to 6pm in winter (October to March). To qualify, you need to show a valid EU passport or residency proof at the ticket counter.
  • Arrive at least 45 minutes early. Lines are long and spots are limited, especially in peak months. Free entry is first come, first served. Once capacity is reached, no more visitors are allowed, even if you are in line.
  • With free entry, you can access the main palace rooms, but some areas, like the Royal Kitchen or special exhibitions, are not included. Guided tours are not part of the free ticket. If you want a quieter experience, visit earlier in the day with a standard ticket.
  • Kids under 5, people with disabilities and their companions, teachers accompanying school groups, and large families (familia numerosa) can also get in free with valid documentation.
  • Bring your ID, expect a wait, and plan for a shorter, more crowded visit during free hours.
Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid
restaurants

Agra Palace: This Indian restaurant offers a wide variety of curries, grilled meats, and other Indian specialities.

​Cafe de Oriente: This historic cafe is located just across from the Royal Palace and is a great place to enjoy a coffee or tea and people-watch.

Dans Le Noir: This unique restaurant offers a dining experience in complete darkness. You will be served a delicious meal by blind waiters, and you will have to rely on your other senses to enjoy the experience.

Royal Palace of Madrid restaurants

Beyond Royal Palace of Madrid

Prado Museum

Home to one of the world's finest collections of European art, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.

Distance from Royal Palace of Madrid: 2 km away (approx 27 minutes by walking)

Explore Prado Museum

Royal Collections Gallery

Showcases a breathtaking array of artworks, furniture, and decorative objects from the Spanish royal family's extensive collection.

Distance from Royal Palace of Madrid: 350m away (approx 4 minutes by walking)

Explore Royal Collections Gallery

Liria Palace

An architectural gem in Madrid, housing a private collection of art, manuscripts, and historical artifacts belonging to the House of Alba.

Distance from Royal Palace of Madrid: 1.2 km away (approx 15 minutes by walking)

Explore Liria Palace

Insider secrets & tips | Royal Palace of Madrid

  • Try to visit before 11am or after 3pm to avoid the tour group rush. The Throne Room and Royal Armory are the first to get crowded.
  • Skip heels or loud shoes—the palace has marble floors that echo, and some rooms require a lot of walking or standing.
  • If you're planning to visit during the free entry hours (Mon–Thurs, late afternoons), arrive at least 45–60 minutes early. The queue can wrap around Plaza de Oriente, and entry is not guaranteed if capacity is reached.
  • Photography is not allowed inside. Guards will remind you firmly. You can take photos in the courtyards, the grand staircase, and the outside gardens.
  • The Royal Kitchen is only accessible with select tickets. If you want to see it, make sure your ticket explicitly mentions access—most general entries don’t include it.
  • There’s no café inside the palace. The nearest options are along Calle de Bailén and Plaza de Oriente. If you want a quiet sit-down, head to Café de Oriente across the square.
  • The Changing of the Guard happens on Wednesdays and Saturdays (around 11am) at the Plaza de la Armería. It lasts about 30 minutes and draws a crowd. Get there 15–20 minutes early if you want front-row views.
  • Restrooms are limited inside. Use the facilities near the main entrance before starting your tour.
  • If you're doing a combo tour with Prado Museum or Royal Collections Gallery, plan for a full day. All three are walking distance, but it’s too much to rush in under 3–4 hours.
  • The palace has multiple entry gates. Most visitors enter through Calle de Bailén. Look for the security line even if you’ve pre-booked—timed entry doesn’t mean instant access.

Frequently asked questions and answers about Royal Palace of Madrid tickets

Construction of the palace began in 1738 and was completed in 1764, making it over 250 years old.