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Madrid - The Royal Palace of Madrid (Ratings: 4.6/5)

The Royal Palace of Madrid, or Palacio Real de Madrid, is one of the largest palaces in Europe, covering over 135,000 square meters with 3,418 rooms. It serves as the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although it is now primarily used for state ceremonies.


Website Ratings:

Google: 4.7/5

TripAdvisor: 4.5/5


Main Positive Reviews:

Many visitors rave about the stunning architecture and the grandeur of the palace.
The palace is rich in history, which is a big draw for history buffs.
The palace grounds are expansive and well-kept, providing a pleasant experience.
The interior decor and artwork are often highlighted as impressive.
The location offers beautiful views of Madrid.
Ideal for learning about Spanish history.
Spectacular architecture with interesting stories. Best to visit at any time.
A must-visit for every tourist. Recommended to go with a guide.
This is a must-see attraction that will leave an indelible mark on your memory.
Romantic view and atmosphere at evening.
Found out that after 5 PM the visit is free. We queued for a bit before they opened for free entry, but once opened, it was quick.

Main Negative Reviews:

Some visitors have complained about long wait times to enter.
The palace can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A few reviews mention that the entry fee is on the higher side.
Certain parts of the palace are off-limits, which can be disappointing.
Some visitors reported that the lack of English explanations was a downside.
Very unfriendly staff at the ticketing counter, shouted at one visitor for no rhyme and reason. So rude and racist.
2 hour wait time in the blazing 35 degree sun with no shade, line never moves, can't book a day in advance you need to book 2 days in advance and even when you do it's another 1 hour wait in the sun.
One visitor had reduced fee admission (student >25yo) but nobody speaks English and he had to pay 14 dollars to enter. Unacceptable for a national monument. The woman working at the desk was outrageously incompetent.
Even with pre-purchased tickets for a specific entry time, some visitors still had to queue for more than 45 minutes at the entrance (there are two lines at the entrance, one for those with tickets and one without, but both move at the same speed). Despite nobody being at the security checkpoint, they wouldn't let them in.
The queue system which doesn't work.

Overall Analysis

Cost: The average cost for entry is approximately €15. Guided tours may cost more, ranging from €25 to €30.


Is it Worth Visiting:

Visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid is generally considered worth it due to its architectural beauty, historical significance, and well-maintained interiors. However, the experience can be marred by long lines, crowding, and the relatively high entry fee.


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