Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen from Madrid

San Lorenzo de El Escorial, ES
77% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (870 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Air-conditioned vehicle
  • inclusion
    Local guide
  • inclusion
    Bilingual office guide
  • inclusion
    Admission to the valley of the fallen and the basilica (if option selected)
  • inclusion
    Radio-guide system
  • inclusion
    Entrance to the royal monastery of el escorial

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • exclusion
    Food and drinks

Meeting Point

Next to Plaza Ramales

Meeting point

C. de San Nicolás, 15, Centro, 28013 Madrid , Spain

End point

End Point

Underground parking Plaza de Oriente, Level -2

Meeting point

Centro, 28013 Madrid , Spain

End point

What to expect

1

Real Sitio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Check in at our office in central Madrid 15 minutes in advance of your tour. Leave the city aboard one of our comfortable air-conditioned coaches. Enjoy a guided tour through the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, an architectural ensemble declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Built in the 16th century, it is a symbol of the power of the government at the time. Learn about the impressive Royal Mausoleum it contains and the story behind the 21 years it took to build the site. Of Renaissance style, you will marvel at the building symmetry. Listen to your guide explanations as you walk along the site visiting the Habsburg’s Palace, the Chapter House, the Basilica and the remarkable library.

Duration 150 minutes
2

Valley of the Fallen

Board your bus again at the end of the guided tour for a short drive to the Valley of the Fallen. The site is located 9km away from El Escorial, in Sierra de Guadarrama. You will be able to see it from far away thanks to the monumental cross built above the site. The monument is an underground church built into the mountain. The same is topped by the World’s Largest Cross, which can be seen from miles away.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Infants aged 5 years and under are free of charge, provided they do not occupy a seat
  • Additional information
    Operated by a bilingual guide in Spanish and English
  • Additional information
    Please keep in mind that the excursion includes several visits on foot, comfortable shoes are recommended.
  • Additional information
    The duration of the tour includes the round trip to the destination
  • Additional information
    Failure to show up at the established check-in time may entail losing the tour
Provided by Julia Travel S.L

What our experts say

  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Try local cuisine at nearby restaurants.
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    Visit the nearby town of San Lorenzo.
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    Check out the library in El Escorial.
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    Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Explore the rich history and breathtaking architecture of Spain with the Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour takes you on a fascinating journey through the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in Spanish history as you witness the grandeur of the Hapsburg’s Palace, the Kings Mausoleum, and the Basilica. Next, venture to the Valley of the Fallen, where an underground church adorned with a spectacular 152-meter cross awaits.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect a total duration of 330 minutes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen. You'll begin by checking in at the central office in Madrid before boarding a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. At the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, you'll have the opportunity to explore the impressive architecture and learn about the historical significance of this esteemed site. Your guide will take you through the Habsburg’s Palace, the Chapter House, the Basilica, and the renowned library. Afterwards, you'll head to the Valley of the Fallen, where you'll be captivated by the underground church and its monumental cross.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone who wants to delve deep into the heritage of Spain. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this experience caters to a wide range of interests and ages. Those with a penchant for exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites and understanding the cultural significance of historical places will find this tour particularly appealing. Guests are encouraged to come with an open mind and a thirst for knowledge to fully appreciate the enriching experience that awaits them.

Why book this?

Embark on this remarkable tour to witness the unparalleled beauty and historical significance of the Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen. By booking this tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore one of Spain's most renowned World Heritage Sites and gain a deeper understanding of the country's past. Your knowledgeable guide will provide captivating insights and stories, immersing you in the rich history and culture. Marvel at the splendid architecture, feel the grandeur of the kings' mausoleum, and admire the remarkable library. The Valley of the Fallen will leave you awestruck with its underground church and towering cross, making this tour a truly unforgettable experience.

Good to know

It's important to arrive at the central office in Madrid 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour to ensure a smooth departure. The tour includes comfortable transportation via air-conditioned coaches, ensuring a pleasant journey. As you explore the Royal Monastery of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking and exploring. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the magnificent sights along the way. Prepare yourself to be immersed in the rich history of Spain and come away with a newfound appreciation for its architectural marvels.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen tour have been enthralled by the experience. They rave about the fascinating insights provided by their knowledgeable and passionate guides, which bring the history of these iconic sites to life. Visitors are deeply moved by the grandeur of the Habsburg’s Palace, the Kings Mausoleum, and the Basilica in the Royal Monastery of El Escorial. The underground church in the Valley of the Fallen, topped by the World's Largest Cross, leaves travelers in awe. Overall, guests are delighted by the opportunity to explore these historic sites and highly recommend this tour for its enlightening and memorable experience.

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