Palacio Real
Delve into the grandeur of Spanish royalty on this 1.5 hour private guided tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the most impressive palaces in Europe.
Discover the intriguing history of the Spanish royals with this 1.5-hour private walking tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid, a true architectural marvel and one of the largest functioning royal palaces in the world.
On your private tour, you will:
Follow in the footsteps of generations of Spanish royalty with a 1.5-hour private guided tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the most magnificent palaces in Europe. Your expert guide will lead you through the palace’s grand halls and private chambers, sharing tales of royal intrigue, political power struggles, and wonderful artifacts.
The palace was commissioned by King Philip V as a symbol of the Spanish Monarchy’s power and was built on the site of the Alcázar, a Moorish fortress dating back to the 9th century which was engulfed in flames in 1734. Construction of the new palacio real began in 1738 and was completed in 1755, although various monarchs have added their touches over the years. The current palace complex spans over 135,000 square meters and contains more than 3,400 rooms. It served as the home of the Spanish royal family for centuries and remains the official residence Nowadays, you are unlikely to see the current King Felipe, Queen Leticia, or princesses Leonor and Sofia wandering the halls as it is used primarily for state ceremonies and official events.
After meeting your guide, your first stop will be the iconic Plaza de la Armería, where you can get a detailed look at the palace's imposing baroque and neoclassical façade. Once your guide leads you inside, you will begin your journey around the extravagant interior that has witnessed centuries of Spanish history. You will likely pass through the luxurious Throne Room where the walls are adorned with sumptuous silk and the ceiling boasts a fresco by Venetian artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, a stunning example of the Rococo style popular in the 18th century.
The Royal Palace is well-known for its collection of artworks, including paintings by Goya, Velázquez, and Caravaggio. The palace also houses an impressive collection of tapestries, ceramics, and furniture from various historical periods. You may step into the Hall of Mirrors, a stunning gallery reminiscent of its namesake in the Palace of Versailles. This ornate enclave originally served as the dressing room of Queen Maria Luisa and reflects the immense wealth and influence of the Spanish Empire during the late 18th century. As you walk through this dazzling space, your guide will recount stories of the Bourbon dynasty and their efforts to elevate Spain to new heights of cultural and political power. You will also visit the apartments of King Charles III including the Hall of Columns, a grand space used for concerts and banquets. You will no doubt be drawn to the beautiful frescoes by Corrado Giaquinto along with sculptures by some of the finest artists of the time.
Another gem within the palace interior is the capilla real (Royal Chapel) In addition to an array of religious treasures, this place of worship houses the royal collection of exquisite musical instruments, including the famous Stradivarius violins. Depending on the particular interests of your group, your guide may show you the Porcelain Room where the ceramic-covered walls provide a unique and visually striking experience. This room, along with the Royal Pharmacy and the Grand Dining Room, exemplifies the luxurious tastes of the Spanish monarchy.
If time allows, we can also explore the Royal Armory, one of the finest collections of its kind in the world. Here, you’ll marvel at the intricately crafted armor worn by Spanish kings and knights, alongside ceremonial weapons that played a key role in Spain’s military history. As your tour concludes, your guide will lead you to enjoy the serene beauty of the Campo del Moro Gardens. These sprawling, landscaped grounds provide a tranquil contrast to the palace’s grandeur, offering panoramic views that perfectly frame the palace against the backdrop of the Madrid skyline.
This private tour will feed your curiosity and provide an informative and entertaining experience of one of Madrid’s must-see attractions. The insights of your expert guide will allow you to fully appreciate the splendor and history of one of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks.
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