Skip the Line Royal Palace + Prado Museum

Madrid is a city steeped in history and culture, and two of its most iconic attractions are the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum. This guided tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of these renowned sites, skipping the lines and delving into their rich narratives. Whether you’re a history buff or an art enthusiast, this experience promises to transport you to the heart of Spain’s captivating past. Prepare to be enchanted as you uncover the secrets of Madrid’s most celebrated landmarks.

Key Points

• This half-day morning tour offers priority access to the Royal Palace and Prado Museum, allowing you to skip the line.
• The tour includes guided visits at both attractions, providing insight into the key highlights and history.
• Transportation between the Royal Palace and Prado Museum is provided, with a brief city tour included on the way.
• The tour is 4 hours long and priced from $72.09 per person, with flexibility for cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options.
• Visitors should arrive punctually, as late arrivals cannot be accommodated, and the itinerary may be adjusted due to operational reasons or crowd levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This half-day morning tour allows visitors to experience two of Madrid’s premier attractions – the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum.

Priced from $72.09 per person, the 4-hour tour includes guided visits to both sites. At the Royal Palace, guests will explore the grand interiors and key areas like the throne room.

Priced from $72.09 per person, the 4-hour tour includes guided visits to both the Royal Palace and its grand interiors.

Then, it’s a quick 15-minute bus ride to the Prado Museum for a guided tour of its world-renowned art collection.

With free cancellation and a reserve-now-pay-later option, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Madrid’s top sights.

Itinerary Details

The tour starts at either Julià Travel Tours & Tickets or Julià Travel locations.

Travelers will begin with a guided tour of the Royal Palace, lasting 1.5 hours, followed by 35 minutes of free time.

Next, they’ll travel by bus or coach to the Prado Museum, with a 10-minute city tour pass along the way.

At the Prado, guests will enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour.

The total walking time from the Royal Palace to the Prado Museum is approximately 1 hour.

The tour lasts 4 hours in total.

Royal Palace Highlights

The Royal Palace is the largest palace in Western Europe, covering an impressive 135,000 square meters.

Built in the 18th century in a classicist Baroque style, it was once the official residence of the Spanish monarchy.

Key areas of the palace include:

• The Main Square, a grand and imposing entrance

• The Grand Staircase, a lavish and ornate architectural feature

• The Throne Room, where important receptions and ceremonies are held

Today, the Royal Palace hosts significant events and receptions, showcasing its rich history and impressive grandeur.

Prado Museum Highlights

Houses over 1,000 works from four centuries, the Prado Museum features masterpieces by renowned artists like Velázquez, Goya, Sorolla, El Greco, and El Bosco.

From the iconic Las Meninas to the captivating Third of May 1808, the museum’s collection is a treasure trove of Spanish art.

Visitors can’t take photos or film inside, but they’ll be mesmerized by the museum’s world-class exhibits.

With nearly 1.3 million annual visitors, the Prado’s popularity is well-deserved.

Those who book the tour will enjoy a guided visit to this renowned institution and its exceptional artworks.

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Important Information

Although the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers per guide, visitors should be aware that possible delays may occur due to crowds or security protocols.

The tour may also be canceled or modified due to events or operational reasons. Plus, some artworks may not be available, and the itinerary may be adjusted accordingly.

• Admission staff may require documentation for children’s age verification.

• Photography and filming aren’t permitted inside the Prado Museum.

• Visitors should arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour can’t wait for late arrivals.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Reaching the meeting point for this tour is straightforward. The starting locations are either Julià Travel Tours & Tickets or Julià Travel, both conveniently located in central Madrid. Travelers can easily navigate to these spots using public transportation or by walking.

| Transportation | Directions |

| — | — |

| Metro | Take the Red Line (2) to Opera station |

| Bus | Take buses 1, 202, or 44 to Plaza de España |

| Walking | The meeting points are within a 10-minute walk from Plaza Mayor |

With clear directions and accessible meeting points, getting to the beginning of this tour is simple and hassle-free for visitors.

What to Bring

To make the most of your tour, it’s recommended to bring a few essential items.

First, wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be significant time spent on your feet exploring the Royal Palace and Prado Museum.

Second, bring a small backpack or purse to carry any snacks, water, and personal items you may need throughout the day.

Lastly, don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning architecture and renowned artworks you’ll encounter.

With these items in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to fully learn about the rich history and culture of Madrid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Food and Drink Allowed Inside the Palace and Museum?

Food and drink are generally not allowed inside the Royal Palace and Prado Museum, as they can damage the historic artifacts and artwork. Visitors are advised to consume any food or beverages before or after the tour.

Can I Take a Small Backpack or Purse on the Tour?

Small backpacks and purses are generally allowed on the tour. However, it’s best to avoid bringing large bags or luggage, as they may be subject to security checks and restrictions at the venues.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Photos at Each Site?

The tour provides limited time for photos at each site. At the Royal Palace, there’s 35 minutes of free time after the guided tour, allowing some photo opportunities. At the Prado Museum, photography is not permitted during the guided tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Palace and Museum Visits?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but visitors should dress respectfully for the royal palace and museum. Casual, comfortable clothing is generally acceptable, though you may want to avoid overly casual or revealing attire.

Are the Tours Available in Multiple Languages?

The tour offers guided visits in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German. Participants can opt for the language that suits them best when booking their tour.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour allows visitors to experience the grandeur of Madrid’s Royal Palace and the renowned Prado Museum without the hassle of long lines. With efficient transportation and skip-the-line access, travelers can fully enjoy the art and history of these iconic attractions, making the most of their time in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: