How to Plan Your Madrid Royal Palace Private Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit one of its most significant landmarks: the Royal Palace (Palacio Real). With over 3,000 rooms, it’s one of the biggest palaces in Europe and has played a significant role in the Spanish monarchy’s history.

Our partner, Raph, offers a private tour of Madrid’s Royal Palace that provides you with a unique opportunity to explore the palace’s highlights in just 90 minutes. To help you plan your Madrid Royal Palace private tour, we’ve prepared a step-by-step guide that covers everything you need to know.

Step 1: Book Your Madrid Royal Palace Private Tour

To book your private tour of the Royal Palace, head over to the Viator website and look for the tour titled “Madrid Royal Palace Private Tour.” This tour is operated by Raph, and with fast-track entry, you’ll save lots of time.

When you make a booking, you’ll receive an email confirmation along with the meeting point’s details and the tour guide’s contact information.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Madrid Royal Palace Private Tour

Before heading out on your tour, you’ll want to make sure that you’re prepared to make the most of your experience. Here are some things to consider:

What to wear

As you’ll be visiting a royal palace, it’s essential to dress appropriately. Men should wear long pants, and women should avoid short skirts or dresses. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be standing and walking for the duration of the tour.

What to bring

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some fantastic shots of the palace’s highlights. You may also want to bring a bottle of water, although there are several water fountains throughout the palace, so you can refill your water bottle as needed.

Step 3: Arrive at the Meeting Point

Your private tour of the Royal Palace will begin at the Plaza de Isabel II in Madrid. This location is easy to reach via public transportation, so you’ll have several options.

Once you arrive, you’ll meet your tour guide, who will have your skip-the-line tickets ready. This means that you won’t have to wait to enter, saving you time and ensuring you get the most out of your 90-minute tour.

Step 4: Explore the Royal Palace’s Highlights

Once you’re inside the Royal Palace, your dedicated guide will lead you through a curated itinerary of the palace’s most significant rooms and works of art. During the tour, you’ll learn about the palace’s history, architecture, and artwork, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and move at your own pace.

Some of the most impressive highlights of the Royal Palace include the Grand Staircase, the Throne Room, and the Porcelain Room. You’ll have the opportunity to explore these rooms, among others, and learn about their significance and importance in Spanish history.

Step 5: End Your Tour Back at the Meeting Point

After 90 minutes of exploring the Royal Palace’s highlights, your tour will end back at the meeting point of Pl. de Isabel II. Here, you’ll have the chance to say goodbye to your tour guide, ask any remaining questions, and take some final photos.

Conclusion

A private tour of Madrid’s Royal Palace with Raph is the perfect way to explore one of the city’s most significant landmarks in just 90 minutes. With the help of a dedicated guide, skip-the-line tickets, and a carefully curated itinerary, you’ll be able to see the most impressive rooms and works of art while learning about the palace’s rich history.

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, book your Madrid Royal Palace private tour today and experience the Royal Palace’s highlights like never before. Book the tour here.

Insider’s Guide to Madrid: More Than Just the Tourist Spots

Madrid is a city known for its rich history, art, culture, and delicious cuisine. Many tourists flock to the popular tourist spots, but to experience the city truly, you need to explore beyond the beaten path. In this guide, we have rounded up some hidden gems, unique experiences and mouth-watering food venues for you to discover.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While the Royal Palace, the Retiro Park and Plaza Mayor are must-visit spots in Madrid, there are some quirky and exciting hidden gems that you should explore. Visit the Barrio de las Letras, a neighbourhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and literary history. You can find plaques with quotes from famous Spanish writers, like Cervantes, Huertas or Lope de Vega on the streets. The Mercado de San Miguel is another spot not to miss. A vibrant food market, it serves traditional dishes and delicious tapas in an authentic Spanish setting.

For those interested in art and history, visit the Sorolla Museum devoted to the famous painter, Joaquín Sorolla or Casa Árabe, a cultural centre where you can learn about Spain’s connections with the Arab world and their influence on Spanish culture.

Dining Spots: Food Culture

Madrid’s culinary scene is robust, and there are numerous places to savor authentic Spanish cuisine. While the famous paella and churros are must-try dishes, you can also explore the local gastronomy by visiting some of the lesser-known “Tabernas” or tascas, cosy and friendly typical Spanish bars where you can try the famous “tostas”, small toasted bread with different ingredients on top, like Spanish omelette, bacalao or chorizo. Head to the charming neighbourhood of La Latina and try the local favourite Cocido Madrileño, a hearty stew with chickpeas, meats and vegetables. End your meal with the famous churros at Chocolateria San Gines, founded in 1894, where they are served with a cup of thick, hot chocolate.

Cultural Experiences

Madrid is a city with a rich cultural heritage. You can attend a flamenco show at a local theatre or take a street art tour through the Malasaña neighbourhood to explore the vibrant urban and graffiti art scene. Participate in one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year. The most famous one is San Isidro, a religious and cultural festival that takes place in May where Madrilenians honour the city’s patron saint. You can experience the Spanish bullfighting tradition at Las Ventas Bullring, the third-largest in the world.

Local History

Madrid has a fascinating history, and there are many stories you can discover. Visit the site of the Spanish Inquisition headquarters, where you can learn about the dark side of Spanish history. Casa Gallardo and Casa del Pastor are two beautiful buildings that survived the fire that destroyed much of Madrid in 1794, revealing a unique story of resilience and rebirth. The Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that was disassembled and rebuilt in Madrid, is a must-see for those interested in archeology and history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

If you are seeking one-of-a-kind experiences in Madrid, climb to the top of the Faro de Moncloa, an observation tower attached to the university campus, offering spectacular views of the entire city. Visit the Parque del Capricho, an English-style garden that is one of the least known attractions of Madrid. Its stunning landscapes and neoclassical fountains make it a place of unique charm. Shop at the Mercado de Motores, a flea market held in a former train station, selling everything from vintage books to vinyl records.

In conclusion, Madrid has so much to offer beyond the typical tourist trail. With this guide, you can explore the hidden gems and enjoy unique experiences. So, book your tour of the Royal Palace and discover the best-kept secrets of Madrid!