The Royal Palace of Madrid serves as both the official residence of the King of Spain and a vibrant cultural hub, hosting audiences, official ceremonies, and numerous public activities under the management of Patrimonio Nacional. As the largest royal palace in Western Europe, it uniquely stands as an official Head of State residence open to visitors, blending historical grandeur with lively events like the changing of the guard.

Originating as a medieval fortress, the site transformed over centuries from the Alcázar of Madrid to the grandiose palace we see today. The transition began under Philip II in 1561, making it the royal residence. A devastating fire in 1734 paved the way for its current incarnation, with King Philip V commissioning Filippo Juvarra and later Giambattista Sacchetti for its design. This ensured a fire-resistant structure, completed between 1738 and 1751, that could accommodate the extensive needs of the royal household and government.

Charles III's reign marked the palace's golden era, attracting renowned artists like Giambattista Tiepolo and Anton Raphael Mengs to adorn its interiors with exquisite frescoes. The palace's decor evolved with each monarch, from Charles III's rococo influences to Ferdinand VII's French chandeliers, culminating in Alfonso XII's last decorative overhaul in 1879.

Visitors today can explore the richly decorated quarters of Charles III, the opulent Throne Room, and the Gasparini Chamber, among other neoclassical and rococo masterpieces. The Royal Armoury, alongside Vienna's, ranks as one of Europe's finest, showcasing the Habsburgs' legacy since its relocation next to the Alcazar by Philip II and its move to the current pavilion in 1891.

The Royal Palace of Madrid not only encapsulates the evolution of Spanish royal tastes but also stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Spain's monarchs and their influence on the cultural and artistic heritage of the country.

DURATION 

• Visit without guide to Halls: forty-five minutes.

• Visit without guide to Royal Armoury: thirty minutes.

LOCATION

Calle de Bailén, s/n, Madrid, 28071

TICKET ENTRANCE TIME

10:00 - 17:30, every 15 minutes

VISITING TIMES

• Winter (October to March). Monday to Friday from 10:00 - 18:00, and Sundays from 10:00 to 16:00

• Summer (April to September). Monday to Friday from 10:00 - 19:00, and Sundays from 10:00 to 16:00

• The venue (and lockers) are closed 1 hour early

DATES CLOSED IN 2024

• January 1: closed all day

• January 6: closed all day

• May 1: closed all day

• October 12: closed all day

• December 24: closed from 15:00 (lockers close at 14:00)

• December 25: closed all day

• December 31: closed from 15:00 (box office closing at 14:00)

• In addition to the closures already planned, there may be additional closures also due to the celebration of official events.

CANCELLATION POLICY

• These entrance tickets are not eligible for refunds.