I recently planned a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid and compiled some practical information about opening hours and visiting tips to share with everyone.
Basic Opening Hours
The Royal Palace of Madrid adjusts its opening hours according to the season. Winter hours are typically from 10 AM to 6 PM, while summer hours extend until 8 PM. However, it’s important to note that on the first and third Monday of each month, the palace closes early, with last entry around 4 PM. Additionally, during national celebrations or royal events, the Royal Palace of Madrid may be temporarily closed, so it’s best to check the official website before your visit.
Below is a reference guide for visitor traffic throughout the week:
| Time Slot | Monday to Friday | Weekend |
|---|
| 10:00-12:00 | Moderate crowd | Very crowded |
| 12:00-14:00 | Crowded | Extremely crowded |
| 14:00-16:00 | Less crowded | Crowded |
| 16:00-18:00 | Moderate | Busy |
Tickets and Booking Recommendations
Ticket prices are approximately 12 euros, with discounts available for students and seniors. I strongly recommend booking online in advance, as this saves you from waiting in line on-site. Last time I didn’t book ahead and ended up waiting nearly an hour at the entrance. If you want to visit the Royal Armory or Royal Pharmacy at the Royal Palace of Madrid, you’ll need to purchase additional tickets, though I personally think they’re worth seeing if you have time.
There are several days each week when admission is free, usually during afternoon hours from Monday to Thursday, but specific times change frequently, and the queues during free admission periods at the Royal Palace of Madrid can be incredibly longexceptionally long. If you don’t mind waiting, it’s a great way to save money.
Visiting Tips
I recommend visiting on weekday late mornings or early afternoons to avoid tour group peaks. Flash photography is not allowed inside the palace, and some areas prohibit photography entirely. The entire visit takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, so remember to wear comfortable shoes.
If you’re particularly interested in history and art, consider renting an audio guide, which is available in multiple languages. The nearby Almudena Cathedral and Plaza de Oriente are also worth exploring, as they’re very close and can be included in the same day’s itinerary.
