Royal Palace of Madrid: Fast Track Entry Ticket + Digital Royal Guide
Wander Europe's biggest royal residence at the Madrid Palace
- Royal Palace of Madrid: Fast Track Entry Ticket
- Downloadable booklet featuring information about Royal Palaces in and around the city
- Digital and interactive Audio Guide on a tablet (if selected)
Royal Palace of Madrid Tickets and Information
- Royal Palace of Madrid Address: s/n,Calle de Bailén, 28071, Madrid
- Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10:00 - 19:00. Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00
Is the Royal Palace of Madrid Worth Visiting
- As Europe’s biggest royal residence and one of the most popular attractions in Madrid, we definitely think so, yes!
What You Can See At The Royal Palace of Madrid
- The Royal Palace, art, the Royal Armoury, the Crown Room & more.
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About The Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain. The building was originally used as a fortress to help defend the city but King Felipe II converted it into a royal household. A fire then destroyed the Alcázar in 1734 and at that point, during the reign of King Felipe V, he commissioned the new Royal Palace in 1738, but it wasn't fully completed until the reign of Charles III in 1764 and he was the first monarch to actually live there.
Joseph Bonaparte (brother of Napoleon) actually lived at the palace for a short period during the Peninsular War which happened between 1808 and 1813, whilst the French army occupied Madrid. The palace stopped being the official residence of the royal family in 1931.
The palace is a great example of Baroque architecture and is one of the biggest palaces in Europe by floor area. It has a symmetrical design and is covered with intricate decorations, statues, and artworks. The facade is grand and imposing, which reflected the power and wealth of the Spanish monarchy during its construction. The inside is just as impressive with it’s lavishly decorated rooms, halls, and chambers.
You can see various sections of the palace including:
- The Throne Room: One of the most famous rooms in the palace and still used for state ceremonies.
- The Royal Chapel: You can enjoy art and other relics and artefacts in this room as well as the beautiful alter.
- The Hall of Mirrors: A hall full of gilded mirrors, chandeliers and art.
- The Royal Armory: Houses an extensive collection of weapons and armour.
The Royal Palace is still used for official ceremonies and state events, but it is primarily a tourist attraction and museum today. The Spanish royal family doesn’t reside there anymore, instead preferring the more modest Palacio de la Zarzuela on the outskirts of Madrid.
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The Royal Palace of Madrid FAQs
- When was the Royal Palace of Madrid built?
- They started the construction of the Royal Palace of Madrid in 1738 and it was completed in 1764.
- Are you allowed to take photos in the Royal Palace of Madrid?
- Photos are only allowed in designated areas only in the Royal Palace of Madrid.
- Is it possible to have a guided tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid?
- Absolutely. Click HERE for details of guided tours of the Royal Palace of Madrid.
- Is the Royal Palace of Madrid accessible for wheelchairs?
- Yes, the Royal Palace of Madrid is accessible for wheelchair users and other disabilities. There are ramps and lifts available throughout the palace and restroom facilities.
- Do I need to purchase tickets in advance for the Royal Palace of Madrid?
- We always strongly suggest you book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of Madrid’s most popular tourist attractions and tickets can sell out.
- Does the Royal Palace of Madrid have a gift shop?
- Yes, the Royal Palace of Madrid has a small gift shop where you can buy souvenirs from your visit.
Royal Palace of Madrid Fun Facts
- Largest in Western Europe: The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest royal palace in Western Europe by floor area! It has over 3,400 rooms and 135,000 square meters of space.
- Still Used for Ceremonies: Although the royal family doesn’t live there anymore, the palace is still used for official state ceremonies, receptions, and royal events.
- Built on a Moorish Fortress: The palace stands on the site of the former Alcázar of Madrid, which was a Moorish-era fortress that was destroyed by fire in 1734.
- Takes Inspiration from Versailles: The design of the palace was influenced by Versailles in France, aiming to reflect Spanish power and prestige!
- An Architectural Mix: Its architecture blends Baroque and Classicism, and features impressive statues, sweeping staircases, and opulent interiors.
- Home to a Rare Stradivarius Collection: The palace is home to a rare set of five Stradivarius instruments which include two violins, two violas, and a cello.
- Stunning Royal Armoury: The Royal Armoury inside the palace displays one of the most significant collections of medieval armor and weaponry in Europe.
- Royal Pharmacy Onsite: The palace has its own Royal Pharmacy, which is complete with 18th-century bottles, jars, and recipes for remedies once used by royalty!
- Famous Grand Staircase: The grand staircase inside was designed by Francesco Sabatini and was carved from a single block of San Agustín marble! Just imagine if they had made a mistake!
- Paintings by Masters: The palace has artworks by Velázquez, Goya, Caravaggio, and Tiepolo hanging on its walls, which makes it a true gallery of Spanish and European art!
- Changing of the Guard: Every Wednesday and Saturday, you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony in the palace courtyard.
- Royal Chapel with a Secret: The palace chapel which is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, once secretly held Mozart’s manuscripts which were gifted to the Spanish court!
Useful Information About the Royal Palace of Madrid
Tips for Visiting
- Book Tickets Online: The Royal Palace of Madrid is a very popular tourist attraction, especially during the summer months, so we strongly suggest that you book tickets online before you go as this can save you time from having to queue at the ticket office.
- Combination Tickets: See our range of combination tickets that includes access to the Royal Palace of Madrid! Click HERE for options.
How to get there
- Royal Palace of Madrid, s/n,Calle de Bailén, 28071, Madrid
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 10:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 10:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 10:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 10:00 - 19:00
- Saturday: 10:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00
