Quick answer
From October to March the Royal Palace opens Monday to Saturday 10 am to 6 pm (last entry 5 pm) and Sundays 10 am to 4 pm (last entry 3 pm). Entry is free Monday to Thursday from 4 pm to 6 pm, with last entry at 5 pm and subject to capacity.
Royal Palace hours by season
| When | Hours | Ticket office and entry close |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Saturday, October to March | 10:00 am-6:00 pm | 5:00 pm |
| Monday to Saturday, April to September | 10:00 am-7:00 pm | 6:00 pm |
| Sundays | 10:00 am-4:00 pm | 3:00 pm |
Data from Patrimonio Nacional, checked on 19 October 2026. They can change for official events: check its website before you go.
Free entry: when and under what conditions
- October to March: Monday to Thursday, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with last entry at 5:00 pm.
- April to September: Monday to Thursday, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with last entry at 6:00 pm.
Patrimonio Nacional warns that capacity is limited for conservation reasons and that the last entry is at the stated time so the visit can be completed. Arrive early: in the free slot you get about one hour to see the palace.
Buying a ticket: better online
The Royal Palace has limited capacity and Patrimonio Nacional recommends buying online in advance, because sales at the physical ticket office are reduced. Buy at tickets.patrimonionacional.es (the official site) and not from resellers. We could not verify the ticket price today, so we do not list it here.
The Campo del Moro gardens, free
Next to the palace are the Campo del Moro gardens. From October to March they open 10:00 am to 6:00 pm through all three entrances (Cuesta de San Vicente, Cuesta de la Vega and Paseo de la Virgen del Puerto), with closures for bad weather or official events. More in free gardens in Madrid: winter hours.
How to combine it with the rest of the day
- The palace is very popular: pick the first hour or the free slot if you do not mind being rushed.
- When you come out, Plaza de Oriente and the Almudena cathedral are a few steps away.
- After the palace, see the museums with free entry.
See the palace without queuing
If you prefer to see it from outside with a driver who tells you its story, the private 1-hour tuk tuk passes the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. To plan your day, see Madrid in one day.
Frequently asked questions
What time does the Royal Palace open and close in winter?
From October to March, Monday to Saturday 10 am to 6 pm (last entry 5 pm) and Sundays 10 am to 4 pm (last entry 3 pm).
When is the Royal Palace free?
From October to March, Monday to Thursday 4 pm to 6 pm, with last entry at 5 pm and subject to capacity.
Where do I buy a Royal Palace ticket?
On the official Patrimonio Nacional website; they recommend buying online in advance because the ticket office sells little.
Can I visit the Campo del Moro gardens for free?
Yes, entry is free; from October to March they open 10 am to 6 pm.
Sources
Facts and prices checked on 19 October 2026. They can change: confirm them with the official source before you travel.