Treat yourself to a meal at the fantastic restaurant, which is headed by two-star Michelin chef Ramon Freixa.
In front of the Royal Palace is Teatro Real, Spain's premier opera house. Inaugurated on the birthday of Queen Isabel II in 1850, it has long been a world-class venue: its acoustics are acclaimed as some of the finest around, and its decor retains a luxurious 19th century feel after a 1990s remodelling.
Having spent some time as a concert hall - it hosted the 1969 Eurovision song contest, featuring stage sculpture by Salvador Dalí - El Real has returned to its roots as a place for opera, staging around 17 productions a year, as well as some ballet titles and classical recitals. It is also home to Madrid's Symphony Orchestra.
If you're not here for a concert, there are a variety of daily tours operating in this official National Monument. An 'artistic tour' allows the public - who previously had no access to the theatre's innards - to discover where the magic happens behind an opera production, in the wardrobe and set design workshops, rehearsals and dressing rooms. The 'technical tour' covers the preparation of the stage and acoustics. There is also an atmospheric nocturnal tour.
Of course, if you are here to see a show, you can catch a wide range of operas, often featuring huge stars such as Plácido Domingo. The cheapest seats are a long way from the stage, but the acoustics are wonderful throughout, and live filming is projected on the upper walls so that everyone can get a good view of the action.
Join the fastest growing community of professional tour guides.
Use our easy to integrate toolset to include Tours & Attractions in your customer journey.