The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest functioning royal palace in Europe by floor area. The Spanish royal family doesn't live here anymore — they use it for state ceremonies — but the state rooms are open to visitors most days.
You won't see all 3,418 rooms. The visitor route covers the grand apartments, Throne Room, and Royal Armoury. Two hours is enough if you keep moving.
Highlights on the route
The Throne Room (Salón del Trono) is the centrepiece — red velvet, gold leaf, frescoed ceiling by Tiepolo. The Gasparini Room next door is smaller but more intricate, with carved wood and mirrors on every surface.
The Royal Armoury holds armour belonging to Charles V and Philip II. It's included in the standard ticket and often quieter than the state rooms — worth 20 minutes if you're interested in military history.
Timing and crowds
Weekend mornings between 10:00 and 12:00 are the busiest window. A weekday afternoon slot or an early Saturday opening tends to be calmer.
The palace closes for official state events with little notice. If your visit is cancelled, you'll get a refund or rebooking option — rare, but it happens a few times a year.
Before and after
Metro Ópera is a 5-minute walk from the main entrance on Plaza de la Armería. The Almudena Cathedral sits right next to the palace — free to enter, good for photos of the palace facade from above.
Sabatini Gardens behind the palace are free and open to the public. Most visitors miss them. Good spot for photos after your tour, especially in the late afternoon.