Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial Guided Tour

About this activity

Skip the line - Do not wait in line at the entrance

Smartphone tickets accepted
Duration: 2 hours
English
Immediate confirmation
FREE Cancellation
From
S$57 S$52
FREE Cancellation
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  • This activity is in your language
  • This option has FREE cancellation: book it without any risk!

Experience Highlights

Explore one of the most emblematic monuments in Spanish history with this guided tour of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, also known as 'the eighth wonder of the world'. Just a few kilometres from Madrid, this imposing Renaissance complex houses the remains of kings, a unique library and architectural gems.

During this 2-hour tour, an expert guide will take you through the most significant areas of the monastery, from the Basilica to the Royal Pantheon, not forgetting the Battle Room, the Palace of the Habsburgs and the majestic Library of Philip II. An essential experience to understand the history and legacy of the Spanish monarchy.

Choose between a guided tour in Spanish or English when booking. The meeting point is the group entrance to the Monastery, where your guide will be waiting for you with a blue umbrella.

  • Gain access to one of the most important monumental sites in Europe.
  • Discover the history of the Spanish kings with an expert guide.
  • Explore iconic rooms such as the Basilica, the Pantheon and the Library.

What’s included

  • Entrance to the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
  • 2-hour guided tour with a professional guide in English or Spanish

Select date and time

Keep in mind you need to arrive 15 minutes before start

Step by Step

Situated at the foot of the Guadarrama mountain range, the Royal Monastery of El Escorial was built in the 16th century by order of King Philip II. His intention was to create a symbol of the power of the monarchy and the Catholic faith in Spain. With its imposing architecture and historical value, the monastery has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During this 2-hour guided tour, you will visit the main areas of the complex. You will start with the Basilica, a masterpiece of the Renaissance, before entering the majestic Battle Room, decorated with frescoes depicting military victories of the Spanish Empire.

Next, you will visit the Royal Pantheon, where the remains of most of the Spanish monarchs since the 16th century rest. This royal crypt is one of the most solemn and awe-inspiring places in the complex. You will also have the opportunity to see the private rooms of the Hapsburg Palace, where Philip II lived.

The visit culminates in the Royal Library, one of the most important libraries of the Renaissance, which houses thousands of ancient manuscripts and scientific, religious and philosophical volumes. Philip II spent long hours reading here, and the place reflects his deep interest in knowledge.

Accompanied by a professional history guide (in Spanish or English), this experience offers a complete immersion into Spain's imperial past, ideal for both national and international visitors.

Departure and Return

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