Madrid Royal Palace Guided Tour with Skip the Line Tickets

On this guided tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid, you’ll discover one of the capital’s most important landmarks. Built in the 18th century on the ruins of the old Alcázar following a devastating fire, the palace was commissioned by Philip V, who wanted a monumental building inspired by French style, similar to Versailles. Today it is the largest royal palace in Western Europe, covering an area of 199,000 m² and comprising 3,478 rooms.

During the tour, your guide will explain how this enormous project was the work of several architects and how almost the entire building is constructed from white stone with marble decorations. You’ll stroll through halls with frescoed ceilings, marble floors and magnificent chandeliers, whilst learning about the history of the Spanish monarchy and the major events that have taken place within its walls.

You’ll see the collection of Stradivarius Palatinos instruments (two violins, a viola and a cello), as well as paintings, sculptures and tapestries that demonstrate Spain’s significance in the history of European art. You’ll also discover rooms such as the Throne Room, guarded by lions and enormous candelabra, the Banqueting Hall, the Hall of Columns, the Royal Library, the Armoury and the Royal Pharmacy, which looks as though it’s straight out of an old film with its shelves full of bottles and jars.

Throughout the tour, the guide will help you imagine what life was like in the palace when the royal family lived there, and will explain its current representative role, as well as interesting facts such as the ceremonial changing of the guard, which takes place on certain days in front of the palace.

After the palace tour, you’ll enjoy a walking tour through the centre of Madrid, taking in some of the city’s most iconic sights:

In this second part of the tour, your guide will place the palace’s history in the context of the city’s own, weaving together anecdotes, secrets and interesting facts about royalty, politics and life in Madrid, so that you end the tour with a comprehensive understanding of Madrid and its past.