If you could measure a royal palace by floor space, then Madrid's Palacio Real would come out on top. With 3,400 rooms, it's easily the largest in Europe. But the Royal Palace has more than size to commend it. There are the cool glades of the Sabbatini Gardens, the intricate formality of the Plaza de Oriente, which opens out on to the Royal Theatre, and the elegant grandness of the Plaza de la Armería, facing onto the Almudena Cathedral.This 18th century palace isn't the first to share this prime spot in Madrid. It was the Moors, over a thousand years ago, who first built a fort on this bluff, overlooking the Manzanares river. They called it mayrit, 'place of life-giving water', and in that moment, Madrid was born. A Castile castle (or alcázar) was built here in the 16th century, added to and rebuilt by the Spanish kings that followed. That burned down in 1734, and from its ashes the present Palacio Real arose.It was designed by a veritable host of famous Baroque architects, under the guidance of King Charles III. He finally moved into it in 1764, and the new palace became a very European demonstration of wealth and patronage. Fine furniture, and finer art were installed throughout its thousands of rooms, some of which are still on display today. The Royal Palace is only occasionally used by today's royal family, and is open to public.So you'll be able to see eminent works by famed artists like Caravaggio, Goya and Velázquez. And with centuries of extravagant collecting by Spain's monarchs – much of which survived the Spain's revolutions, rebellions, and civil wars – the Palace has some fascinating corners. The Royal Armoury has rare armour and weapons made personally for Emperor Charles V, while the Royal Pharmacy has an incredible collection of potions, powders and herbs – each labelled and stored in its own gilded drawer. It may be that the Royal Palace commands your attention through its immense size and grandeur – but it's the intricate detail inside that will keep you fascinated, as you explore its endless corridors.
Royal Palace of Madrid Tours and Activities
Visit Royal Palace of Madrid
Attractions
See all 18 activitiesOpens in new tabReal Madrid Bernabeu Tour - Flexible Ticket (Ticket Only)
Tours & day trips
See all 711 activitiesOpens in new tabDay Tour to Toledo, Segovia & optional visit to Avila. 3 cities in 1 day
Private & custom tours
See all 193 activitiesOpens in new tabMadrid: Private City Tour by Electric Tuk Tuk
Shows & concerts
See all 43 activitiesOpens in new tabMadrid: Live Flamenco Show with Food and Drinks Options
Classes & workshops
See all 33 activitiesOpens in new tabSpanish Cooking Class: Paella, Tapas & Sangria in Madrid
Popular places to visit
Plaza de Oriente
Framed by grand works of architecture and decorated with pretty gardens, this regal square is an oasis of calm within a busy tourist area of Madrid.
Plaza de España - Princesa
Find out about the history of Madrid with a stop at Plaza de España - Princesa. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
The Madrid of the Austrians
You can learn about the history of Madrid with a visit to The Madrid of the Austrians. Experience the fascinating museums and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.
Sabatini Gardens
Maze-like hedges, marble sculptures and colorful flower beds adorn this historic royal garden, where the palace’s stables and carriages once lay.
Almudena Cathedral
Madrid's elegantly poised cathedral, paired opposite the Royal Palace in the west of the city, is a somewhat recent addition to this timeless city.
Royal Monastery of the Incarnation
You can find out about the history of Madrid with a stop at Royal Monastery of the Incarnation. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and shops in this vibrant area.
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- Gran Via
- Plaza Mayor
- Puerta del Sol
- Parque Warner Madrid
- Prado Museum
- El Retiro Park
- Madrid Zoo Aquarium
- WiZink Center
- Cívitas Metropolitan Stadium
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
- Plaza de Cibeles
- Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
- Paseo de la Castellana
- Plaza de España - Princesa
- U.S. Embassy