Explore two of Madrid’s top sights in just half a day on this immersive, informative tour. In the morning, meet your guide outside the Monument to Felipe IV, enter with skip-the-line tickets, and discover the masterpieces of the Prado Museum. After the museum, continue on to the Madrid Royal Palace, where you’ll bypass the long queues and delve into the history and opulence of the Spanish monarchy. This guide will help you plan your visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1. Choose the Best Time to Visit

When planning your tour to the Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace, it’s important to consider the best time to visit. Both attractions can be quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid large crowds and long lines, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Consider checking the opening hours of the two attractions and plan your visit accordingly.

2. Purchase Skip-the-Line Tickets

To save time and ensure a hassle-free experience, it’s highly recommended to purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance for both the Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace. By doing so, you can bypass the long queues and enter directly, maximizing your time to explore the wonders within these iconic landmarks. You can book your skip-the-line tickets through reputable tour operators or through the official websites of the attractions.

3. Dress Comfortably

Both the Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace require a fair amount of walking, so it’s essential to dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet for an extended period. Additionally, since you’ll be visiting cultural attractions, it’s recommended to dress modestly and respectfully. Both places may have specific dress codes, so check their websites for any guidelines.

4. Bring Essentials

To make the most of your tour, there are a few essentials you should bring along. Consider packing the following items:

• Sunscreen: The sun can be strong in Madrid, especially during the warmer months. Protect your skin with sunscreen.
• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the tour by carrying a water bottle.
• Camera: Capture the stunning architecture, artworks, and beautiful views with a camera or smartphone.
• Map or Guidebook: Get acquainted with the layout of the Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace by bringing a map or guidebook.

5. Know the Highlights

Before visiting the Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace, familiarize yourself with their major highlights. This will help you prioritize your time and focus on seeing the most significant works and areas:

Prado Museum Highlights

• The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch
• The Annunciation by Fra Angelico
• Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez
• The Third of May 1808 by Francisco de Goya
• The Descent from the Cross by Roger van der Weyden

Madrid Royal Palace Highlights

• The Royal Armory
• The Throne Room
• The Royal Pharmacy
• The Royal Chapel
• The Gardens of Campo del Moro

6. Plan Your Itinerary

When planning your itinerary, allocate sufficient time to explore each attraction thoroughly. Keep in mind that the Prado Museum houses a vast collection, so plan to spend at least two to three hours there. The Madrid Royal Palace can also take a couple of hours to fully appreciate its grandeur. It’s advisable to leave some buffer time between the two attractions to account for any unforeseen delays or detours.

7. Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips to enhance your Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace experience:

• Use a guided tour: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights and learn interesting facts about the artworks and history of both attractions.
• Download a museum app: Some museums offer official apps with audio guides and additional information. Check if the Prado Museum has a mobile app to enhance your visit.
• Respect the no photography areas: Note that some areas within the Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace may prohibit photography. Adhere to the rules and respect the artworks and the privacy of other visitors.

8. Book Your Prado Museum & Madrid Royal Palace Guided Tour

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Prado Museum and Madrid Royal Palace? Secure your spot today by booking your guided tour through Viator. Don’t wait, as availability may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons. Prepare for an enchanting exploration of art and history in the heart of Madrid!