The Madrid Palace is very lovely. It's not as elaborate as other Palaces or Castles. It's reminiscent of Buckingham Palace. Located very close to Almudena Cathedral. I think that Almudena would have made a better royal palace. Nonetheless, a palace is a palace and better than anything I've ever lived in! Ha ha read more

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This was a nice museum , but was so disappointed that I couldn't take any photos. It is a huge museum and I was able to see the famous Goyas and Velasquez s. read more

I think the one thing that struck me most about visiting the Royal Palace - the state of disrepair! From far away, the Palace is amazing, beautiful and ominous, but up close, you really see that it's starting to decay...it's rather sad. We opted not to do the audio tour, and I don't think we missed out. I loved the armory the most. Seeing the weapons and armor of the royal Spanish family fascinated me. I was most struck by how small the men were - and I'm not talking about the children's armor, because they had that too. Even their feet were tiny! The palace itself was huge, and access is limited to only a few key parts. I loved the chapel - so grand and opulent. Certainly a must see while visiting Madrid! read more

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I visited this place on my second day in Madrid and everything I think about it, I get withdrawals. This place is breathe taking and makes history, traditions and a different culture outside of what I am use to so much more real and intriguing! The Palace and its view of green hills, is so romantic! Spanish royalty had taste! A MUST SEE, it is worth it! read more

Don't buy tickets in advance online. We did, showed up 15 minutes late because of arrival flight delays, and wasn't allowed in. Told to come back the next day. The next day we were treated horribly ...and told to enter we must buy tickets again. Front entrance staff extremely rude, such a horrible experience read more

Worthy place to go for all the history and background of Madrid and Spain. Compared to all the attractions I went to in Paris (France) though, this one was about the same price for not that much real estate. Plus, you're not allowed to take pictures once you get up to the second floor. The map of the palace only comes in Spanish but the audio guides and tour guides are available in many other languages for 4€ more. Each room also has descriptions in Spanish and English. I would also come early as the lines get long quickly it even come 1hr before closing the day before to get tickets so you can pass the line. Check the website if anyone in your group is eligible for discounted or free tickets. Also, there are free times throughout the year you can visit but I imagine those lines would be even longer. I arrived at around 10:30am (30 minutes after opening) and waited in line for probably 30 minutes. read more

This is a real palace! It was absolutely beautiful and amazing! Carvings and art pieces were so detailed. It's only 10 euros to get in...so, it's pretty reasonable. We didn't pay for autoguides, but looking and walking through the Palacio Real was just just stunning. it was crowded...yes there were tour guides too. If you listen carefully, you can listen to the tour guides talk about the history of the palace and what each room was used for. You can't take pics inside, but outside you can take as many as you want! read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Outside of Palacio Real - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

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I really liked this place!! It's a huge palace with tons of beautiful rooms, furniture, interior decorating (hehe), etc! I loved walking through it and seeing all the gorgeous rooms here. This place is free for teachers (hollaaaa! They really appreciate teachers here, I love it :D) and for everyone else on certain days (Mon-Thurs) after 6pm. So there's no reason not to check it out!! read more

Not a good choice if you don't like crowds. Make sure you buy your tickets a few months ahead of your visit, or you may be disappointed. It was worth the price, but would have been better if they had more English placards describing the various rooms. read more

The Royal Palace was my favorite thing to see in Madrid! Tickets are 10 euros (5 for students), and you can buy them online to avoid the line. The Palace is very beautiful to see. The path walks you through the palace, letting you ogle the grandiose rooms, each different and unique in their own ways. I really enjoyed this because it's a "museum" you can enjoy even without reading everything or having an audio tour. All the history aside, each room was a work of art. Highly recommend. read more

The Palacio Real or Royal Palace is your typical European palace but on a more manageable scale than Versailles for example. Great if you haven't been to other royal residences in Europe and probably less expensive. We hadn't been to Europe since living there, so we decided to play uber tourist and go. We also paid and additional 5 euros to see the royal book exhibition, which was actually quite interesting. The cafeteria in the palace is quite good actually and the shop has some great unique gifts that are better than the average cheesy souvenir. read more

Love palaces! Love everything about this place. It's just full of OHHHS, and AHHHS, no photo taking please! Our tour guide mentioned about the Philippines several times. They showed it on their ceiling mural, they showed it on the Jesus Christ cross. I love that each room have different themes but if you go, better go with a tour guide. You just do not want to miss a thing! For those doing it alone, that's like having cake without frosting in the middle. When you go, visit the Cathedral next to the palace, even if you're not a Catholic! We have a mass everyday, in different Cathedrals, given by one of our priest that we went with our group, but this one we were special and we had the mass in one of the chapels, closed for the viewing, but open for our mass (for us only). Actually, no one was even allowed inside this chapel, and you don't even recognize it from the outside, it's all painted black and gated. read more

I think this is one of the most popular tourist attraction in the city, and after visited this place I know the reason why. My hubby and I was here on the very beginning of out trip in Madrid. We weren't planing to visit this place at the first day. We just visited the Catedral de la Almudena and came out of the building. Palacio Real was already right in front of us. It was a bit late for visiting, altought we saw that, There was still quite a lot visitors inside. But then entrance was already closed. We looked up the open timing of this place. So we noticed that if the visitor came the after 18:00, then it free to visit the whole place. Which we came to this place next day around 18:00. There were already long line waiting there. So we just got on the line. It moved much faster than I thought. It took maybe about 20 minutes, We were already inside the palace. I just walked in to this place and already fell in love with this place. The outside of the building already looked fantastic. But inside was just marvellous. Oh, one thing, don't forgot to leave your bag in the locker first. I forgot about it, So I had to turn back and left the bag, they are actually really close to the entrance. And it wasn't allowed to take any pictures when we reached the upper floor. It was quite a pity. Well, we had a great time there anyway and I mean, It was free anyway. It made me happy already that I could visit this place. It's totally worth to visit. read more

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We booked a guided tour which got us in without a line . The Palace itself was spectacular and as you would expect very opulent. I was disappointed that you are not allowed to take pictures so you have to buy a book afterwards read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

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Easily worth the 10 euro admission. Palacio Real is separated into three distinct arenas - the pharmacy, the salon and the armory. There is a great deal of Roman influence in the design of the salon, and the entire layout of the palace is quite beautiful. Audio guides are 4 euros, or a small pamphlet with additional information is 1 euro. I opted for the pamphlet, and while it didn't provide a wealth of new information, it was nice to learn more about each of the rooms, especially in the salon. There is a "free day" on Wednesdays from 3-6pm for EU citizens, but I'd actually discourage from visiting then. The lines are huge, even in winter, and given how tight some of the rooms are, it's worth it to pay to have a bit more breathing room. read more

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This review I can keep short & sweet since we didn't make it inside. If u want to go inside u have to pay. They do offer free entry between 4-6pm we tried to return during the free time but didn't quite make it so we just walked around in the surrounding area & it was just fine for us. It really is an amazing building , beautiful structure. Makes for great pictures if u r In the area nice place to visit. read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

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This place is beautiful! Inside and outside. Unfortunately they don't let you take pictures once you're inside. Boo. I would recommend the Palacio Real as one of the things to see while you're in Madrid. If you're coming here, I would recommend coming early. This is one of the more popular tourist attractions. Because of this, the lines are super duper long to get in. It can take about half an hour of waiting in line! read more

A monumental building, lavishly decorated inside and a vast formal garden on the ground. There are plenty of masterpiece paintings and sculptures and murals to see, the finest gold, silver, porcelain, velvet, crystals, and mirrors accumulated over the years, and exquisite mosaic tiles and tapestries. All are impressive and regal. But what makes this Palace even more worth-visiting is the Royal Armoury (probably the best weapon collection in the world for that period), Royal Pharmacy (medicine flasks used back then didn't look too different), and the largest Stradivarius collection in the world. Anyone remember the movie The Red Violin and that Stradivarius? read more

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The Palace is massive, and a must see for a sightseeing tour of Madrid. The history of the palace makes the visit even more interesting. The palace grounds have become more or less a publoc park area that is well used. This was an enjoyable part of my visit to Madrid. read more

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A must see in Madrid! Tickets for adults are typically €12 but if you go on weekdays during peak season between 6-8 pm, it's free! I recommend getting in line at 5:30 or not shortly after 6 as the line gets long - but it does move quick! You can tour the building rather quickly or take your time with tours/guided tours available. Apart from the entrance, photos are prohibited and strictly enforced. You can get great photos in the courtyard that overlooks the city. They also offer a separate ticket to go inside the royal kitchen. Make sure to see the palace! read more

I visited Palacio Real in February 2011 when I was in Madrid. "Great" Features 1. It is so beautiful inside the 3 buildings - the architecture, the walls, the pictures, statues, plates, armory . There are so many beautiful things to be seen in the Royal palace of Madrid. They are all so amazing. You got to see it for yourself. 2. The architecture outside of Palacio Real is definitely Photo Opportunity especially in a Sunny day 3. Guided tour either with a real person or audio recorded for additional fee 4. There are specific days that you can get in for Free - check their website. Be aware that there's going to be a very long line of people wanting to get in for Free "Not So Great" Features 1. Entrance fee is €10 2. Taking pictures inside is not allowed read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Only Picture I took as I walk inside Palacio Real because taking pictures is not allowed - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

This palace is a great insight into the history of Madrid. The first part is dedicated to the armory, which, if that interests you, is extremely thorough. The rest of the palace is beautiful and it is amazing to see the architecture and decor of the palace. One note: If you are the type of person that reads all the placards, make sure you rent the audio guide! The armory is only in Spanish; only some of the descriptions in the rest of the palace are in English. read more

I have visited the Royal Palace many times. It's so beautiful outside and even grander in person. Remember that you can't take photos on the second floor. I recommend taking a tour or getting an audio guide as there is so much history and I learn something new each time I visit this place. Be prepared for a long line to get inside, but it does go by quickly and you'll have plenty of time to explore and see more of Madrid! read more

Just had the worst experience here ever. We went to rent an audio tour, and they were out of headphones somehow. They handed us tablets and told us we could simply listen to them through the speaker. As we went through the museum, their security guards, apparently unaware of this policy, berated us for using the speakers and would not let us use them. One of the people in our party had her Bluetooth headphones with her, but when she tried to pair it with her tablet the guard told her she couldn't do that either. The staff very rude about all of this and had no sympathy for the fact that the museum themselves did this to us. Early in the tour, we were asked to wear our backpacks on our front sides presumably to prevent us from accidentally knocking things over. Later, however, another guard told us we were not allowed to enter without checking our bags into a locker. What the hell?! I hate this place. We later discovered that the audio tour is available for purchase on your phone for less money than renting a tablet here. read more

Seeing as we had a view of the Palacio Real from our hotel room down the road on the Paseo del Florida, it was one of the first places we headed to when we landed in Madrid. This stunning palace, built during the mid-1700s, is the official residence of the King of Spain and is the place where all the official ceremonies and engagements take place. The neo-classical-style architecture, all huge columns and grand gates, is absolutely stunning. Unfortunately, due mainly to bad timing on our part, we weren't able to actually get inside because of either ceremonial national events or because the queue was so damn long we'd have wasted half the day standing in it. On a four-day city break, that just wasn't something we were prepared to do. Still, standing on the Plaza de Oriente, we got to witness the commemoration of the execution of the defenders of Madrid in 1808 (where every type of Spanish guard, police officer and soldier paraded in full costume) and a ceremonial changing of the guards. It was all the royal pomp and ceremony we could have wished for. Unfortunately, due to our non-existent grasp of Spanish we hadn't the slightest idea what was going on at the time, but it was impressive nonetheless! read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

The Royal Palace is get beautiful but just not the most exciting place to visit. I would suggest buying a ticket online instead of waiting in the line. I actually brought me ticket while waiting in the line. It's 10 euro for a standard ticket. You walk through the rooms, say ooohhh that's pretty to yourself, then you keep walking and quickly realize that there is nothing else to do but say ooohhh that's pretty to yourself over and over again. The palace is one of those places that you can't take pictures of 99 percent of the inside. It also doesn't take that long to walk through. It's ok but I would have been fine just taking pictures from the outside. read more

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This is something definitely worth seeing in Madrid. Just walking around the outside of it is more exciting than other major sights. The lines did not seem long when we got there and there was no problem entering. It could be a quit confusing as to where the tour starts and where all you can go once inside. Try not to miss any of the rooms or the armory near the church. The adjacent church is also a worthy stop and offers great views of the palace and the city. Must climb steps for views. read more

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If I am not mistaken it's the second largest palace in Europe. Beautiful to see. Must visit if you are in Madrid

The palace has free entry to citizens of EU and Latin American countries after 5pm. Being an American I paid €11, plus an extra €4 for a guided tour. I highly recommend a guided tour, it is only €1 more than the audio tour, and they are able to answer questions and tell you thing that the audio tour or even going on your own couldn't. You are only allowed to take photos in the exterior, and main corridor. Once you are in the rooms, please be respectful and put your cameras away. On the tour you are able to view 23 of the palaces 3,000 rooms. They are each unique and beautiful. The decor is very similar to the rooms at buckingham palace, but the rooms are not as large. I would recommend going to the palace if you enjoy history, decor, and anything Royal. read more

The ticket line was much shorter than I thought and it only took us a few minutes to get in. The courtyard is my most favorable part of the place where you have the beautiful view of the palace itself and and garden down west. The palace only partially opens to public. The exhibition, I mean the daily thing, are not as attractive as its view from outside. There are no bathrooms though, while you have to walk all the way to the outside and use the one at the gate. I agree with owner as I would not lend my personal royal toilet paper to the the visitors if I were him. All the furnitures are kind of old and dirty. And wondering why don't they clean it up routinely. read more

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We loved our day at the Palacio Real! On the outside, it is stunning and awe-inspiring. The inside takes it to another level-- silk wallpaper, large extravagant tables to host dinner parties, the intricate paintings on the ceilings. You don't see beauty like this in America. If you're traveling through Madrid, this is definitely a recommended stop! read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

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An amazing stop in the city. A must see. The murals, floors, ceiling, furniture, walls (the plaster room!!!!) china and scale of the building are beautiful. read more

This palace is incredible... a lush display of power and wealth. Inside, it is beyond grand. One of the best royal palaces you'll ever see. Do the kitchen tour as an add on to your ticket as it's well worth the extra cost. You can take photos on the kitchen tour and on the grand entry staircase to the palace, but afterward, put your camera away as no photos are allowed inside. Be sure to buy tickets online to shorten your wait. After your tour, take a 6 minute walk to Mercado de San Miguel for a great choice of tapas to regain your energy. read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

This is a review for Viator Tours - Worst experience of our whole trip. Spent over $100 to see the Royal palace in Madrid and were 5 minutes late due to blocked roads and the tour guide would not give us our tickets even though we arrived before she got to the entrance. Spoke to her in person and she was rude and inconsiderate of our situation. She turned away another family also--couldn't believe it after we spent all that money for $12 tickets that we had to stand in line for an hour to repurchase. Had been using another tour company before this called Headout that were so much better with 24-hour in person customer service. Viator only has chat and email customer service. After emailing them, they refused to reimburse our money. Worst experience of our whole Europe trip. Book with headout instead--great customer service and better prices. They pocket your money for profit and don't compromise at all or make any effort to retain your business. Beware! read more

Well first I never give a scathing review in yelp, but I fell that I must on this one. Please be aware that you can't touch or take pictures of anything inside the little rooms inside the palace, the staff inside gave an almost sixth-sense if you take a picture or touch anything, that part was a total surprise to me especially after you pay a fee to go inside and enjoy the area. That part was not enjoyable at all, but the area was interesting and very architectural pleasing, but the staff have no Spanish charm whatsoever. read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

Tickets bought online, but still have to get in line to get the audio guide. The grounds are beautiful and great views. Once you do have the audio guide its great. Walks you through and gives more background on what your experiencing. Don't try and take any pictures though. Don't know what thats all about except maybe to keep people from lingering too long. read more

Palacio Real de Madrid - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Madrid, M

This place is breathtaking and an absolute requirement for any tourist who appreciates history, armory, culture, and a whole lotta expensive palace decorations. We came here at 11am and was almost fooled at the beginning by the changing of the guard that it was the only visitable site, boy was I wrong! After walking around the castle, we were able to find the ticket office and commence one of the most extravagant palace tours I have ever been in. I won't spoil the details, but you have to visit the armory before setting foot into the palace itself. My wife and I were on a tight schedule, so we couldn't take the extra time to listen in on the audio tour guide, but I would strongly recommend that for any future visitors. The palace decors exceeded anything I could imagine a single person to experience in a lifetime. If it weren't for the not-so-ideal life expectancies and absence of healthcare during that time period, I would certainly love to have dined a meal in the palace. Long story short, come here early, get tickets and an audio tour. read more

While we didn't take an actual tour inside the palace, we got to experience the beautiful exterior just meters away.

This was my first time to Madrid, so I didn't know what to expect. The Palacio Real is definitely, definitely worth the visit. If you are able, order your tickets in advance so you don't have to wait in any lines. The group entrance/pre-ordered ticket area is much nicer than the regular entrance. The Palacio Real is open on Easter, which was really great for us since we were a student group traveling over that weekend. Easter visitation of the Palacio is awesome because the noon bells of the cathedral on site are amazing. Worth just standing around and listening for 10 or 15 minutes if you can. Hire a private guide or get the audio tour when you enter. There's a LOT going on in the Palacio and you really want to hear about all of it. We really enjoyed our private guide and we learned a ton about the formation of the country of Spain, the creation of the capital and the Spanish royal family (most of which we, as Americans, know nothing about). There's a lot of beautiful art, decor and sculpture here. This is also where the Spanish royal family still holds state dinners, so you get a nice viewing of the dining room that hosts world leaders like Barack Obama, Francois Holland, Angela Merkel, etc. Such a great tour in the middle of Madrid. There's history aplenty and bunch of beautiful objects and architecture to see while you're visiting. read more

A BEAUTIFUL PALACE, can't believe it's still currently being used by the King of Spain. There were many magnificent rooms that were lavishly designed with painted portraits and pictures by famous artists, beautifully hand sculpted models. Unfortunately, you're not allowed to take pics in the second floor, or where the insides of the palace are. Be very careful of your belongings here (hard to believe), but yes, there are gypsies here and they work in fours and are professional pick pocketers. I caught some weird glances of suspicious individuals when I was walking in there. My tour guide says that he sees the same gypsies most of the times he brings a tour to Spain, so BE CAREFUL. Spain, probably has ge most professional pickpocketers in all of Europe. read more