Palacio Real (Royal Palace of Madrid), Madrid (must see)

The Royal Palace is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, but today the palace is only used for official state events and is open for tours at other times. King Felipe VI and his family reside full time in the Palace of Zarzuela, a more modest lodging on the outside of town. The Royal Palace contains 3,418 rooms and is one of the largest palaces in Europe.

The palace is built on the location of the Royal Alcazar of Madrid, with was build between 860 and 880 by Muhammad I, Umayyad Emir of Cordoba. That castle held its position after the Moors were driven out of Toledo, and the complex had various additions and upgrades over the years as various leaders. After the War of Castillian Succession in 1476, the Alcazar was heavily damaged and needed repairs.

The Alcazar was destroyed by fire in 1734. Italian architect Filippo Juvarra laid out plans for a lavish and enormous palace to replace it, but he died before it could become a reality. His disciple, Giovanni Battista Sacchetti, completed the structure in a scaled-down way. In 1760, Charles III had a series of galleries and arcades added along the existing central courtyard. He was the first to occupy the new palace in 1764.

Why You Should Visit

Touring the palace is a tour of one of the best art galleries in the world. There are paintings by Velázquez and de Goya, along with frescos, porcelain, furniture, silver, and many other historical items of artistic beauty. Notably, the building houses the only intact Stradivarius string quintet.

Spots along the tour include the Royal Library and the Royal Armory. In particular, the Armory is considered one of the world's best, with many pieces going back to the 13th century. In the Crown Room, you can see Charles III's crown, throne, and scepter.

Tips

The palace is so large that tours are seldom the same. The route is changed every few months, with different areas and rooms highlighted. As such, if you've been before, you might see something different if you try again.

The palace is enormous, with extensive ground and many sights. Expect to spend three hours or more for the full tour. There are guided tours offered, or you can do an audio self-guided tour. Book ahead online to avoid any long lines or crowds.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am-6pm (Oct-Mar); 10am-8pm (Apr-Sep);
Box office and admission to the Palace close one hour earlier.