Royal Palace of Madrid’s Opening Hours| When to Visit & More

Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid is open daily, except on January 1, January 6, May 1, December 24, December 25, December 31.

Apr 1 TO Sep 30 Timings Days (Apr 1 TO Sep 30)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	10:00–19:00	18:00
Tuesday	10:00–19:00	18:00
Wednesday	10:00–19:00	18:00
Thursday	10:00–19:00	18:00
Friday	10:00–19:00	18:00
Saturday	10:00–19:00	18:00
Sunday (Today)	10:00–16:00	15:00

Oct 1 TO Dec 23 Timings Days (Oct 1 TO Dec 23)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Tuesday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Wednesday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Thursday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Friday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Saturday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Sunday	10:00–16:00	15:00

Dec 24 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Dec 24 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Tuesday	10:00–15:00	14:00
Wednesday	Closed
Thursday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Friday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Saturday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Sunday	10:00–16:00	15:00

Jan 1 TO Mar 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Mar 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Tuesday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Wednesday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Thursday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Friday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Saturday	10:00–18:00	17:00
Sunday	10:00–16:00	15:00

Royal Palace of Madrid is open from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM from October to March and 10:00 - 7:00 PM from April to September.

Royal Palace of Madrid Gardens

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS
Monday	10:00–18:00
Tuesday	10:00–18:00
Wednesday	10:00–18:00
Thursday	10:00–18:00
Friday	10:00–18:00
Saturday	10:00–18:00
Sunday (Today)	10:00–18:00

Best time to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Weekday vs Weekend

Visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid on weekdays offers a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, making it easier to explore its grand rooms and exhibits without long waits. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal. Weekends attract more visitors, including locals and tourists, resulting in a busier atmosphere and longer lines. For a balanced experience, visit early on a weekend day to enjoy the palace before it gets too crowded.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Closed

Peak season vs low season

Visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid during the peak season (April to October) means enjoying longer opening hours, but it also entails larger crowds and longer waits. To avoid peak congestion, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In the low season (November to March), you'll find fewer tourists and shorter lines, making for a more relaxed visit.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

The Royal Palace of Madrid in the Spanish capital is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Construction of the Royal Palace of Madrid started in 1735, and it features the ornate baroque style architecture that prevailed in that period. The palace also houses paintings by artists such as Caravaggio and Francisco de Goya. Stay on this page to learn about the Royal Palace of Madrid’s opening hours and the best time to visit.

How long should I spend at the Royal Palace of Madrid?

The amount of time you should spend at the Royal Palace of Madrid depends on your personal preferences, interests, and the pace at which you like to explore historical sites. However, here are some general guidelines:

1 to 2 Hours: If you're planning a basic visit, exploring the main rooms, courtyards, and gardens, you can expect to spend around 1 to 2 hours at the Royal Palace.
2 to 3 Hours: If you opt for a guided tour or wish to delve deeper into the history and details of the palace, consider allocating 2 to 3 hours for your visit.
3+ Hours: If there are temporary exhibits, special tours, or specific areas of the palace that interest you, you may need more than 3 hours to thoroughly explore and appreciate everything.
Additional Time: If you enjoy photography or want to take your time appreciating the architecture, art, and surroundings, you might want to budget additional time.
Half or Full Day: If you plan to combine your visit to the Royal Palace with nearby attractions, such as the Almudena Cathedral or Plaza Mayor, you might spend half a day or a full day in the area.

Frequently asked questions about Royal Palace of Madrid opening hours

What is the Royal Palace of Madrid’s opening hours?

The opening hours of the Royal Palace of Madrid change slightly in the summer and winter seasons. From April to September, the palace is open from 10 AM to 7 PM. From October to March, it is open from 10 AM to 6 PM

Is the Royal Palace of Madrid open every day?

Yes, the Royal Palace of Madrid is open every day except on certain days of the year.

When is the Royal Palace of Madrid closed?

The Royal Palace of Madrid is closed on 1 and 6 January, 1 May, and 12 and 25 December. On 12 October, the palace is closed until 5:30 PM, and on 24 and 31 December, it closes at 3 PM.

How long should I spend at the Royal Palace of Madrid?

We suggest spending about 1 to 2 hours or more exploring the Royal Palace of Madrid.

What is the best time to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid?

The best time to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid is early in the morning when it opens.

Is the Royal Palace of Madrid open on public holidays?

Yes, the Royal Palace of Madrid is open on holidays except 1 and 6 January, 1 May, 12 and 25 December.

Should I visit the Royal Palace of Madrid on a public holiday?

Yes, the Royal Palace of Madrid is a popular destination in Madrid, well-worth a visit.

What are the Royal Palace of Madrid’s opening hours for public holidays?

There are no changes in the opening hours of the Royal Palace of Madrid during holidays. The palace is open from 10 AM to 7 PM Monday to Saturday and 10 to 4 PM on Sundays.

Can I visit the Royal Palace in the evening?

Yes, the Royal Palace of Madrid often allows evening visits, particularly during peak tourist seasons.