What are the Royal Palace of Madrid Opening Hours?
What are the Seasonal Timings of the Royal Palace of Madrid?
- Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays
- Last entry: One hour before closing time.
If you like to explore in the late afternoon, these longer hours are perfect. The palace's complex facade looks great when the sun sets late and the golden hour lights it up.
- Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sundays and holidays: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Last Entry: One hour before closing time.
These times are great for coming in the cooler months because they let you tour the insides comfortably and stop by a local café for a warm drink.
Best Time to Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid is best visited on weekdays when the palace is less crowded. On weekends, the palace bustles with both locals and tourists, thus resulting in long waiting lines. It is recommended to visit during the morning at 10 AM as soon as the palace opens, or by late afternoon after 4 PM. During these hours, you can explore the grand rooms and exhibits of the palace without having to wait in line for a long time. Royal Palace of Madrid free hours are the busiest periods with long queues, so it is better to arrive at least 45 minutes early.
The best time to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid is during the off season in the winter months of November to March.This is when you can witness fewer tourists and shorter waiting lines. Visiting the palace during the summer months of June, July, and August ensures longer opening hours but entails waiting in lengthy queues amidst huge crowds.
The amount of time you wish to spend at the Royal Palace of Madrid depends on your personal preferences, schedule and the pace at which you would like to explore the palace.
- Most people spend about 1.5 to 2 hours strolling through the extravagant chambers, courtyards and gardens of the palace.
- If you are a history buff or an art enthusiast who wishes to learn more about Spanish architecture, you can opt for guided tours. These tours are 3 hours long but will let you appreciate every corner of the palace like the stunning Throne Room, Royal Pharmacy and Hall of Mirrors.
Royal Palace of Madrid – Essential Visitor Information
Days When the Palace is Closed
While the palace is open most days of the year, but it does close on some particular days:
- 1st January (New Year's Day)
- 6th January on Epiphany.
- 1st May on Labour Day.
- 25th December on Christmas Day.
The palace also closes early at 3:00 PM on several days:
- Christmas Eve, December 24
- New Year's Eve, December 31
The ticket box office shuts at 2:00 PM on days when it closes early, so make sure to prepare ahead!
Special Closures (Official Ceremonies or Events)
The Royal Palace is still used for state occasions, hence it is often closed to the public for official events. We suggest visiting the official website shortly before your visit because these events may not always be published far in advance.
These closings can have an effect on:
- Access to the main halls
- Viewing the Royal Armoury or the Throne Room
- Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Always double-check to avoid last-minute disappointment!
Royal Palace of Madrid Free Entry Hours
April to September (Summer):
- Monday to Thursday- 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
October to March (Winter):
- Monday to Thursday- 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Entry is granted up to 1 hour before closing. Only self-guided visits are allowed during these hours.
Dates Closed in 2025
- May 18 (International Museum Day)
- October 12 (Spanish National Holiday)
Here’s a quick snapshot of closure dates for 2025:
Date, Occasion and Status
- January 1- New Year’s Day- Closed All Day
- January 6- Epiphany- Closed All Day
- May 1- Labour Day- Closed All Day
- October 12- Spanish National Holiday- Closed until 5:30 PM
- December 24- Christmas Eve- Closed from 3:00 PM
- December 25- Christmas Day- Closed All Day
- December 31- New Year’s Eve- Closed from 3:00 PM
Always check the official calendar for additional closures due to royal events.
Dates Closed in 2025
- May 18 (International Museum Day)
- October 12 (Spanish National Holiday)
Here’s a quick snapshot of closure dates for 2025:
Date, Occasion and Status
- January 1- New Year’s Day- Closed All Day
- January 6- Epiphany- Closed All Day
- May 1- Labour Day- Closed All Day
- October 12- Spanish National Holiday- Closed until 5:30 PM
- December 24- Christmas Eve- Closed from 3:00 PM
- December 25- Christmas Day- Closed All Day
- December 31- New Year’s Eve- Closed from 3:00 PM
Always check the official calendar for additional closures due to royal events.
Last Entry Time and Duration of Visit
Know Before You Go
- Ticket Lines Can Be Long- Book online in advance to skip queues.
- Audio Guides Are Worth It- Available in multiple languages, with options for kids, express tours, or detailed commentary.
- Changing of the Guard- Happens daily at noon at Plaza de la Armería (except January, August, and September).
- Big Bills Not Accepted- Avoid using €200 or €500 notes for on-site payments.
- Accessibility- The palace is wheelchair accessible and staff can assist if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of the Royal Palace of Madrid?
The opening hours of Royal Palace of Madrid are:
Summer Hours (April to September):
- Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays
- Last entry: One hour before closing time.
Winter Hours (October to March):
- Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sundays and holidays: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Last Entry: One hour before closing time.
How can avail free entry to the Royal Palace of Madrid?
Free entry is available Monday to Thursday, from 4 pm to 6 pm (October to March) and 5 pm to 7 pm (April to September). It is granted to citizens or residents of the EU and Latin American countries who present valid identification. The offer is valid for self-guided visits only.
On which days is the Royal Palace of Madrid closed?
The Royal Palace is closed on January 1, January 6, May 1, and December 25. On December 24 and 31, it closes early at 3:00 pm, with the ticket office closing at 2:00 pm. Additional closures may occur for official state ceremonies or institutional events.
What time is free entry to the Royal Palace of Madrid?
Free entry is available from 4 pm to 6 pm between October and March, and from 5 pm to 7 pm between April and September, Monday to Thursday. It applies to citizens and residents of the EU and Latin American countries with valid ID. The offer covers only self-guided access to general areas.
Is it worth it to go inside the Royal Palace of Madrid?
Yes, it is worth going inside the Royal Palace of Madrid. The palace offers access to lavish halls, the Royal Armoury, and rare artefacts including Stradivarius instruments and frescoes by artists like Goya. A typical visit lasts around 45 minutes and gives a well-rounded insight into Spanish royal heritage, architecture, and state functions.
How long is the queue for Royal Palace Madrid?
Queues for individual entry are usually manageable. Wait times are generally under 30 minutes, especially for self-guided visitors. Delays may occur during peak hours or free-entry periods, so arriving early is recommended. Tickets can also be booked online to minimise waiting at the entrance.