El Escorial

El Escorial is a historical site located in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial in the outskirts of Madrid, Spain. It was originally built as a royal palace, but has also served as a monastery, pantheon, and museum.

El Escorial is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays, as well as on some national holidays.

The easiest way to get to El Escorial is by train from Madrid. The journey takes around 1 hour and the train station is located within walking distance from the historical site. Alternatively, you can take a bus, drive or hire a taxi.

El Escorial offers multiple attractions including the royal palace, the monastery, the basilica and the pantheon, as well as the Library, Art Gallery, and Gardens.

There is no formal dress code at El Escorial, but visitors are asked to dress appropriately for a cultural visit. This means no swimwear, shorts, or revealing clothing.

Photography is allowed inside and outside of the building, but it is forbidden in some specific areas such as the Royal Pantheon and the Library.

Yes, guided tours are available at El Escorial. They are offered in different languages and can be booked in advance or on the day of your visit.

Yes, there is a restaurant and café at El Escorial where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a drink during their visit.

Yes, El Escorial has wheelchair access to all of its main areas including the Royal Palace, Basilica, and Monastery, as well as elevators and accessible restrooms.