Royal Palace of Madrid
Madrid, Spain · Landmark
About Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, though it is now primarily used for state ceremonies. It stands as the largest functioning royal palace in Western Europe, featuring more than 3,400 opulent rooms. Visitors from around the world come to marvel at its magnificent Baroque architecture, exquisite frescoes, and centuries of royal heritage.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the dramatic ceiling fresco by Tiepolo and the twin gilded thrones in the Throne Room.
- Explore the Royal Armory, which showcases one of the world's most historic collections of weapons and armor.
- Admire the intricate porcelain-covered walls and extraordinary craftsmanship of the Gasparini Room.
- Take in the panoramic city views across the Campo del Moro gardens from the Plaza de la Armería courtyard.
Plan your visit
Visit early in the morning right when doors open to avoid the heaviest crowds. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons to combine your palace tour with a pleasant stroll through the adjoining gardens.
Admission is paid, and booking a timed-entry ticket online in advance is highly recommended to bypass long lines. Certain free-entry hours are offered for qualifying visitors, though queues for those slots are often extensive.
The palace is located within a 10-minute walk from the central Puerta del Sol. You can also take the Madrid Metro to Opera station on lines 2 and 5, which sits just a short walk away.
Tips for visiting
- Book your tickets online well in advance to secure your preferred entry time and bypass the ticket office queue.
- Photography is allowed on the grand staircase and in the courtyards, but strictly prohibited inside the state rooms.
- Check the official schedule before visiting, as the palace closes to tourists during official state ceremonies.
- Download the palace audio guide onto your smartphone to gain rich context on the artwork and historic furnishings.
- Pair your visit with a relaxing walk around the Sabatini Gardens located right on the north side of the complex.
Royal Palace of Madrid FAQ
Does the Spanish royal family live in the palace?
No, the royal family resides in the Zarzuela Palace located on the outskirts of Madrid. The Royal Palace is now used exclusively for state receptions, ceremonies, and tourist visits.
Are visitors allowed to take photographs inside?
Photography is permitted on the main staircase and in the outdoor plazas, but strictly forbidden in the furnished state rooms. Palace guards monitor the rooms closely to enforce this rule.
Is the palace accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the palace is equipped with ramps and elevators to accommodate visitors with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs are also available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis at the entrance.
Can I watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony?
Yes, the standard Changing of the Guard takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Puerta del Príncipe. A grander Solemn Changing ceremony is held on the first Wednesday of every month, weather permitting.
More things to do in Madrid
Prado Museum Museum
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El Retiro Park Nature
Stroll lush shaded paths, rent a wooden rowboat on the lake, and visit the stunning glass-and-iron Palacio de Cristal.
Plaza Mayor Landmark
Soak in the grand 17th-century arcaded square surrounded by traditional red-brick facades and brass street lamps.
Reina Sofía Museum Museum
View Spain's groundbreaking 20th-century modern art collection, crowned by Picasso's famous Guernica.
Mercado de San Miguel Food
Sample fresh oysters, Iberian ham, and artisan cheeses inside a gorgeous restored iron-frame food market.
Temple of Debod Landmark
Catch an unforgettable panoramic sunset behind an authentic ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain.
Barrio de las Letras Neighborhood
Wander pedestrian lanes once home to Cervantes, now filled with lively bookshops, cafes, and tapas bars.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: neozenit, ybernardi on Pixabay.