Western Europe's Largest Palace in Madrid: 3,000 Rooms, Velázquez & Goya Masterpieces Await
Western Europe's Largest Palace in Madrid: 3,000 Rooms, Velázquez & Goya Masterpieces Await
All roads in Madrid lead to the Royal Palace — or they should. The journey to reach it is one of the city's most beautiful strolls, passing through the newly pedestrianised Plaza de España and taking in the majestic facade of this European architectural treasure.

The Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real) is the largest royal palace in Western Europe, boasting over 3,000 rooms on a scale that never fails to impress. While today it serves primarily for state ceremonies, this magnificent building is open to the public, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the splendour of Spanish royalty.
The palace houses an extraordinary art collection, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Caravaggio, alongside exquisite tapestries, porcelain collections, and the Royal Library. The lavishly decorated interiors — from the opulent Throne Room to the intricate Royal Pharmacy — showcase the grandeur of Spain's Golden Age at every turn.

Beyond the palace itself, visitors can also explore the Royal Kitchen — one of the best-preserved royal kitchens in Europe. Operating continuously from the mid-18th century through the early 20th century, it was restored and opened to the public in 2017. Here you can admire centuries-old copper pots, ovens, and the pastry workshop, offering a behind-the-scenes look at royal banquet preparation.

Adjacent to the palace, the Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini) and the Moor's Field (Campo del Moro) provide a tranquil escape from the city bustle — perfect for a leisurely post-visit wander. Across from the palace, the Almudena Cathedral complements the scene with its neoclassical exterior mirroring the palace's grandeur.
Practical info: Summer hours (April–September) daily 10:00–19:00; winter (October–March) daily 10:00–17:00. Advance online booking is strongly recommended to skip the queues.


