The Royal Palace of Madrid stands in the city centre, across from Almudena Cathedral. Its grand exterior is only a first look: inside, a self-guided route takes you through lavish royal rooms filled with furniture and decorative detail. The Royal Armory adds a collection of weapons and armor, and photography is allowed inside. The palace is no longer the royal family’s home, but it remains an official setting for state ceremonies. Leave time for a walk in the surrounding gardens after your visit.
From the Alcázar to the palace
The Royal Palace occupies the site of Madrid’s former Alcázar, a fortress whose origins date to the ninth century. The building changed over time, including during the reigns of the kings of Castile, before a fire destroyed much of it on Christmas Eve in 1734. King Philip V ordered a new palace on the site.
The palace built for the Bourbon monarchy took shape in the eighteenth century. Charles III became the first king to live there, in 1764. Later monarchs also made it their home, but the royal family no longer lives in the building. It is still used for state ceremonies, and its rooms are open to visitors.
Rooms, art and decoration
The visitor route leads through a sequence of royal rooms, with ornate interiors, historic furnishings and detailed decoration. Look up as you move through the state rooms: painted ceilings are among the interior details that distinguish the palace. A monumental marble staircase marks the entrance, and the rooms give a sense of how the palace was used by the monarchy.
The palace also holds works of art and objects connected with royal life. Its scale is considerable, with more than 3,000 rooms across a floor area of about 135,000 square metres, though visitors see only selected areas. Photography is permitted inside, so you can capture architectural details as you go.
The Royal Armory and the gardens
Set aside time for the Royal Armory, whose collection includes medieval weapons and armor. It offers a different focus from the decorated state rooms, with objects that show the military side of royal history.
Outside, the gardens surrounding the palace give you space to slow down after the interior visit. The Sabatini Gardens are on the north side, while Campo del Moro lies to the west. The palace’s position beside Almudena Cathedral also makes it easy to take in the two landmarks together. If you are interested in the palace’s history and the stories behind its rooms, a guided tour is available; self-guided visits are another option.
Perguntas frequentes
How long does a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid take?
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the palace. Add time if you want to walk through the surrounding gardens.
Can you take photos inside the Royal Palace?
Yes, photography is allowed inside.
Is the Royal Palace of Madrid still home to the royal family?
No. The palace is no longer the royal family’s home, though it is still used for state ceremonies.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Guided tours are available, and self-guided visits are also an option.
