In the summer (April to September), the Royal Palace of Madrid opens at 10 am and closes at 7 pm from Monday to Saturday.
In the winter (October to March), the palace opens at 10 am and closes at 6 pm from Monday to Saturday.
On Sundays, it continues to open at 10 am but closes early – at 4 pm.
The ticket counters close one hour before the palace.
The last entry into the palace is also one hour before its closing time.
The Royal Palace of Madrid is closed on the following days in 2024:
| Dates | Timings |
|---|---|
| 24th December | Closed from 3 pm |
| 25th December (Christmas Day) | Closed Entirely |
| 31st December (New Year’s Eve) | Closed from 3 pm |
| 1st January (New Year’s Day) | Closed Entirely |
| 6th January | Closed Entirely |
| 1st May | Closed Entirely |
Garden timings
The Campo del Moro and Sabatini gardens are open daily from 10 am to 8 pm and 9 am to 9 pm, respectively.
Royal Palace of Madrid Free Hours
During the summer months of April to September, Madrid Royal Palace allows free entry from 5 pm to 7 pm, from Mondays through Thursdays.
In the winter months of October to March, free entry is from 4 pm to 6 pm.
The free admission applies to EU citizens, residents, and holders of work permits in the EU who provide proof of nationality or a residence or work permit.
Royal Palace of Madrid Tour Hours
The cheapest guided tour of Madrid Palace is timed, with three options starting at 9.45 am and ending at 1.30 pm
You should arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow for the walk to the palace and clearance through security.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.
Best time to Visit Royal Palace Madrid
If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Royal Palace Madrid is as soon as it opens at 10 am or in the early evenings between 5 pm and 7 pm.
On weekends, the Palace gets crowded and busy, so plan your visit on weekdays.
To see the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, arrive 30 minutes before the palace opens, as crowds usually form at the gate.
The Guards change every Wednesday and Saturday at 11 am and 2 pm at the Royal Palace’s Armera Square, accessible via the Santiago Gate (Bailen Street).
From 1 July to 31 August, due to the heat, it is held from 10 am to 12 noon.
Peak Season vs Low Season
The best time to visit Madrid is in the Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November).
During Spring, the weather is mild and pleasant during this time, making it a great time to visit the palace gardens.
There are also fewer tourists in the spring, so you’ll have more time to explore the palace at your own pace.
During Fall, The weather is still mild during this time, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer.
The palace is also decorated for Christmas during this time, which can be a magical experience.
FAQs
What time does the palace in Madrid open?
The Royal Palace of Madrid opens at 10 am and closes at a different time, depending on the season.
What time does the Royal Palace in Madrid close?
The Royal Palace of Madrid closes at 6 pm in the winter and 7 pm in the summer. The last admission is one hour before closing time.
What is the best time of day to visit the Royal Palace Madrid?
The best time of day to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid is early in the morning or in the late afternoon, so there are fewer people around.
The palace is open from 10 am to 6 pm in the winter and 7 pm in the summer.
If you arrive early in the morning, you will be able to explore the palace before the crowds arrive.
How much time do you need at the Royal Palace in Madrid?
The Royal Palace of Madrid is large and complex, so it is difficult to say precisely how much time you need to spend there.
Generally, people will spend at least two hours exploring the palace.
An additional hour must be added to your visit if you want to see the ceremony marking the changing of the guard.
What are the free hours for the Royal Palace Madrid?
The Royal Palace of Madrid is open for free Monday through Thursday from 4 pm to 6 pm (October to March) and 5 pm to 7 pm (April to September).
What time is changing of the guard at Madrid Royal Palace?
The Changing of the Guard takes place every Wednesday and Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm (except on days of official events or inclement weather).
Featured Image: Tomas Martinez on Unsplash