Madrid Royal Palace
The largest royal palace in Western Europe - a vast baroque residence of gilded state rooms in the heart of Madrid, still used for ceremonies.
Updated 20 October 2026
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The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest royal palace in Western Europe, a vast baroque residence of some 3,400 rooms built for the Spanish crown, still used for state ceremonies though the royal family lives elsewhere. Its opulent state apartments of frescoed ceilings, tapestries, porcelain and the throne room, and its armoury, make it one of the grandest palaces in Europe.
The main sights
- The state apartments - the gilded, frescoed royal rooms and the throne room.
- The Royal Armoury - one of the finest collections of arms and armour.
- The grand staircase - the ceremonial marble stairway.
- The plaza and cathedral - the square and the Almudena Cathedral beside it.
When to go
Year-round; a fully indoor palace, good in any weather, though it may close for state functions. Book ahead and go early to avoid the queues.
Good to know
It is very popular, so queues and crowds are common; book ahead. As a working ceremonial palace, it can close on short notice for state events. The state rooms are opulent but a set route, seen in a couple of hours.
Nearby
The Almudena Cathedral is beside it; the Plaza Mayor, the Prado and central Madrid are a walk away.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q171517, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Madrid Royal Palace
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Modest clothing - Shoulders and knees covered - the single most common requirement. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A scarf or shawl - To cover the head or shoulders on entry; women especially at mosques. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
