Day Trip to El Escorial Monastery Madrid, Spain
Explore the famous monastery near Madrid, the Escorial Monastery. Along with the key highlights of Madrid Escorial – a complex of royal palace, monastery, and a mausoleum, get tips on booking tickets, guided tours, what is inside El Escorial, best time to visit and more.
Author: Travel Blogger Indrani Ghose
Updated on October 2024.
El Escorial stands out in terms of overall architectural volume when compared to the Royal Palace of Madrid or the Alhambra Palace and Gardens. Beyond its UNESCO World Heritage status, El Escorial is also a must-visit for those looking for a perfect day trip from Madrid. Located just 57.6 km away, it can be reached in under an hour, making it an accessible and fascinating destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
You can plan to reach El Escorial from Segovia too which is at a distance of 55 km that can be covered in cool 45 minutes.
History of El Escorial Spain
El Escorial was built in the 16th century under the orders of King Philip II and stands as one of the most important architectural, cultural, and historical landmarks in Spain. It was commissioned in 1563 and completed in 1584.
Philips II built this monument to honor his father Charles V’s wish for a religious foundation in which he was to be buried beside his wife, Isabella of Portugal. They chose the site at the foot of the Guadarrama Mountains, 2 km from the town of El Escorial. The monastery is also called as The Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial as it was dedicated to San Lorenzo de la Victoria, in fulfillment of a vow made by Philip II to atone for the destruction of a church dedicated to St Lawrence at the Battle of San Quintín in 1557.
The building of El Escorial was a monumental project overseen by two key architects: Juan Bautista de Toledo, who began the design, and Juan de Herrera, who completed it after Toledo’s death. Its design is characterized by strict symmetry, clean lines, and restrained decoration, reflecting the king’s vision of combining grandeur with religious piety.
El-Escorial-interior
During its early years, El Escorial played a crucial role as both a political and religious hub. It reflected Spain’s ambitions to be both a spiritual and temporal leader of Europe, especially during the turbulent years of the Counter-Reformation.
Under Philip II, El Escorial became an artistic and intellectual centre, housing thousands of books, manuscripts, and religious artifacts. Philip himself was a patron of the arts, and many renowned artists of the time, like Titian, contributed to its collection.
Its importance as a political centre diminished over time, yet even today El Escorial remains a deeply symbolic site for Spain. In later centuries, the Escorial Palace underwent several restorations, particularly after damage during the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939). However, it has retained much of its original design and purpose.
The palace walls seem to reverberate with the echoes of history, as if each stone holds the weight of the monumental events that unfolded within. The paintings, frozen in time, silently narrate scenes from centuries past, allowing us to glimpse into the very soul of Spain’s imperial legacy. Walking through the halls, it feels as though every corner has a story to tell, a piece of the past preserved in the silence of the present.
Major Highlights not to be missed when visiting El Escorial (What to see inside El Escorial?)
El Escorial covers an area of approximately 33,000 sqm. This vast area includes the royal palace, monastery, basilica, library, and gardens. It is considered one of the most expansive Renaissance buildings in Europe. So, when visiting El Escorial, there are several major highlights that are not to be missed. I have listed here the major highlights, each offering unique insights into the rich history, culture, and architecture of the complex:
The Basilica – The grand basilica at the heart of El Escorial is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a vast dome and an imposing altarpiece. Its interior is adorned with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and intricate chapels. The basilica reflects King Philip II’s deep religious devotion. Today it serves as a place of worship for the monastery’s monks and visitors alike.
Royal Pantheon (Pantheon of the Kings)
This crypt is where many of Spain’s kings and queens are buried, including Emperor Charles V and King Philip II. I remember the Pantheon as an awe-inspiring room of polished marble and bronze, with intricate designs and a sombre atmosphere that is the resting place of 26 kings and queens. There was an eerie silence inside. The tourists were all quiet! The Kings of Spain of 4 centuries rest in peace here and only those queens who have mothered the Kings rest here. Rick Steves mentioned this as the rotting room in his book!
The Pantheon is jaw dropping craftsmanship and to think that this was done hundreds of years ago. The adjacent Pantheon of Infantes is also worth a visit where many royal family members are buried.
Royal Escorial Palace
Philip II’s private quarters offers a glimpse into the personal life of the king austere. His bedroom, where he spent much of his later life, offers a direct view into the basilica, a reflection of his deep faith.
The Library in El Escorial
The library of El Escorial is one of the most beautiful and significant in Europe. It houses over 40,000 volumes of ancient manuscripts, maps, and books on religion, science, and history, some dating back to the Middle Ages. The library’s ceiling is adorned with exquisite frescoes, depicting themes such as the seven liberal arts, philosophy, and theology, making it both an intellectual and artistic treasure.
Some steps inside to get to the library and down into the Patheon crypt. Best parts are the Library (incomparable to Coimbra’s library though) and the Royal crypt in the basement.
The Hall of Battles (Sala de las Batallas) – This grand hall features impressive frescoes depicting key battles of the Spanish Empire, including victories over the Moors and the French. The murals stretch across the entire hall, vividly narrating Spain’s military triumphs.
(Here and there walking through the passages, where security guards weren’t present and where other tourists too were clicking I have taken some pics. But these pictures don’t give any idea of the splendour or sombreness of the interiors of the rooms.)
The Courtyard of the Kings (Patio de los Reyes) – Named after the six statues of biblical kings (David, Solomon, Josiah, Hezekiah, Jehoshaphat, and Manasseh) that stand at the entrance, this courtyard provides a majestic view of the façade of the basilica and the grand scale of the complex.
The Monastic Cloisters – These peaceful cloisters offer visitors a serene space to walk and reflect, showcasing the contemplative monastic life of the monks who lived here. Throughout the cloisters, you’ll find religious paintings and sculptures that highlight Spain’s rich artistic heritage.
The Art Collection – El Escorial is home to an extraordinary collection of art, including works by Titian, El Greco, Rubens, and Velázquez. The collection ranges from religious iconography to portraits of the royal family, offering a rich visual history of Spain’s artistic legacy.
The Chapter House – This ornate hall was used for important religious and political meetings. Its richly decorated walls feature large paintings and tapestries that illustrate biblical and historical scenes. There are some incredible collection of oil paintings, ceiling paintings, frescos, furniture.
The Gardens (Los Jardines de los Frailes) – The gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Symmetrically laid out and filled with cypress trees, they reflect the Renaissance ideal of harmony between nature and architecture. From here, you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the monastery, and the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
Royal gardens – Trip to El Escorial Madrid
Architecture of El Escorial Spain
As I walked through El Escorial, I was struck by the austere beauty and monumental scale of its architecture. The design reflects a blend of religious devotion, royal power, and Renaissance ideals, all of which seem to come alive within these walls. Every corner of El Escorial tells a story, making it one of the most significant monuments I’ve visited in Spain and Europe.
What fascinated me the most was the architectural style known as Herrerian, named after the principal architect Juan de Herrera. The simplicity of its geometric forms, without excessive ornamentation, perfectly embodies King Philip II’s desire for austerity and piety. The lack of embellishments didn’t diminish its grandeur; instead, it enhanced the feeling of quiet power and spiritual significance.
As I explored further, it became clear why El Escorial is often hailed as a masterpiece of the Spanish Renaissance. The complex combines Renaissance ideals of balance, harmony, and geometry with deeply religious symbolism. Walking through the grounds, I could see how everything—from the royal palace to the basilica and monastery—was arranged in a symmetrical, grid-like layout, reflecting a sense of order and purpose.
The sheer size of the monument is overwhelming. From a distance, its large façades and towering spires are visible, asserting their presence on the landscape. Covering over 33,000 sqm and boasting more than 4,000 rooms, El Escorial is one of the largest buildings in Renaissance Europe. The grey granite, quarried from the nearby Sierra de Guadarrama, gives the structure its distinct austere appearance—something that struck me as both imposing and timeless.
Another one of the highlights for me was the basilica, with its grand dome that soars 92 meters above. Inspired by Michelangelo’s St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, the dome symbolizes the link between heaven and earth, which fits perfectly with the spiritual purpose of the complex.
What truly amazed me was how El Escorial integrates so many functions within its walls. It serves as a monastery, a royal palace, a basilica, a library, and a mausoleum—all seamlessly organized. Each area serves its purpose without disrupting the others, allowing the monks, the royal family, and others to coexist in this vast, symbolic space. It’s a testament to the brilliance of the architectural planning that such a complex could function with such harmony.
In every aspect, El Escorial stands as both a spiritual sanctuary and a political statement. It embodies the unity of church and state that was central to Spain’s identity during this period.
Timings of visit to El Escorial Madrid
The Monastery and Royal Palace
October to March: 10 AM to 6 PM
April to September: 10 AM to 8 PM
All set to book your Madrid Escorial tickets? (How much do El Escorial tickets cost in 2024?)
When we visited in 2015, we purchased the tickets at site at 10 € per person. There was some student concession for kids. There are discounts for seniors (65+), children and students (25 and under). Audio guide cost us 3 €.
Pre-booking your tickets to monuments and museum ahead of your visit helps you plan your tour itineraries better. Having said that, the mighty challenge remains: Where and how to book the Escorial Monastery tickets in advance? Here are some helpful links:
The general entrance to the Monastery of El Escorial costs about 14.77 € (with booking fee). You can visit all the buildings in which the complex is divided.
Standard Admission – 14 €
Audio Guide (onsite tablet) – 5 €
Audio Guide (on your phone) – 3 €
If you have not purchased your tickets in advance, you can still buy them directly at the ticket office when you arrive at El Escorial. However, keep in mind that during busy tourist seasons there can be long lines and limited availability.
Book online tickets for El Escorial Spain directly on their official website here: Royal Site of San Lorenzo of El Escorial
To get the most out of your visit, consider joining a guided tour
This is another helpful link from Viator: Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen Tour from Madrid
Yet another, from Get your Guide: From Madrid: El Escorial and Valley’s Basilica Half Day Tour
Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links. A purchase through my link means that at no cost to you, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting me with this.
Time required to tour El Escorial Monastery
Allow yourself at least three hours to take it all in. Most of El Escorial is not open to the public, as it still functions as a monastery, among other uses, and many areas remain off-limits. Despite these sections being closed, the complex is so vast that the areas open to visitors still take quite a while to explore fully.
Escorial Monastery Spain-Pics from Patrimonio Nacional
When to Visit El Escorial? (Best time to visit Escorial Spain)
El Escorial is one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting over half a million visitors each year to its royal and religious complex. I expected it to be crowded, and I wasn’t wrong. However, thanks to the vastness of the site, it never felt overwhelmingly packed.
If you visit during the summer, expect to encounter the busiest crowds. If you find yourself there during peak season, try to visit on a weekday—weekends naturally bring in more foot traffic.
Given its location in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, winters at El Escorial can be quite chilly. The only reason you might consider visiting in winter is for the chance to capture stunning views of the monument surrounded by snow, which can add a dramatic touch to the landscape.
For the best experience, I recommend visiting in spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are much smaller than during the summer. These shoulder seasons allow you to enjoy the complex at a comfortable pace, with fewer people around.
One thing to keep in mind is the closing times. During the fall and winter months, El Escorial closes at 6 PM, while in the spring and summer it stays open until 8 PM. Arriving early will help ensure you have enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
How to Travel to El Escorial
There are several convenient options depending on your preferred mode of travel from Madrid to El Escorial.
By Train: The Cercanías C3 line runs frequently from Madrid’s Atocha, Sol, or Chamartín stations to El Escorial station. The journey takes about 1 hour. Trains are affordable and run regularly, making this the most convenient option for day-trippers.
By Bus: Bus 664 or Bus 661 departs from Moncloa Station in Madrid to San Lorenzo de El Escorial. The bus ride takes approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour.
By Car: (We did this.) Driving from Madrid to El Escorial is straightforward. The distance is around 57.6 km (35.8 miles), and the journey takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour via the A-6 and M-505 highways.
Escorial Spain Trivia
- This monument is considered the 8th wonder of world by Spaniards
- The plan of El Escorial is an inverted griddle pattern. The symbolic side to this is that the grid iron was used as the dreadful instrument of torture when St. Lawrence was martyred (according to a well-known legend, he was slowly roasted!).
- The estimated doors more than 1,200, windows going over 2,500 and the corridors running up to 16 km inside the palace!
Disappointing experience: No photography was allowed when I visited in 2015. I wish they had allowed photography inside excluding just the Royal Pantheon. Today when I look back and try to recollect what I had seen my mind is blank. While I spent 10 euros per person I couldn’t bring anything back and that is so disappointing.
Update 2024: Photography is now allowed inside El Escorial Monastery and palace.
Tips for Visiting El Escorial, Spain
- Bag Restrictions: Large bags are not allowed inside El Escorial. Make sure to leave them behind or store them in a locker. Luckily, we had time to return to our car and drop off our mini backpacks, which had cameras—just to be on the safe side.
- Footwear & Elevation: Situated at more than 3,000 feet above sea level, the elevation of El Escorial means there’s a bit of a climb involved. Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour requires a lot of walking. Take it slow when navigating the steps and slopes of the complex and the surrounding town.
- Arrival Time: During fall and winter, aim to arrive early, as the complex closes earlier during these seasons.
- Best Transportation Option: If you’re short on time, taking the train from Madrid is the quickest and easiest way to get to El Escorial.
- Book Tickets in Advance: It’s a good idea to book your tickets online ahead of time, especially during the peak season, to avoid long queues at the entrance.
- Consider a Guided Tour: To get the most out of your visit, consider joining a guided tour. It’s a great way to gain deeper insights into the history and architecture of this monumental complex.
What else to see after visit to Escorial Complex?
San Lorenzo de El Escorial and El Escorial (town) nearby in the vicinity are definitely worth visiting, and they are generally considered safe for tourists. Both towns are closely linked to the Royal Site and offer visitors different experiences and perspectives on the history surrounding El Escorial.
San Lorenzo de El Escorial town developed around the monastery and is located on the northern side of the complex. It is now a popular tourist destination, offering picturesque streets, beautiful views of the Sierra de Guadarrama, and attractions like the Casita del Príncipe, a small royal residence.
El Escorial (Town), situated on the southern side, predates the monastery and served as a traditional settlement. While San Lorenzo developed as a royal and monastic hub, El Escorial maintained more of a local, community-oriented character. It has a more residential feel, and though quieter than San Lorenzo, it shares the region’s rich cultural and historical significance.
Escorial Palace with Gardens
FAQ for Visit to Escorial Spain
Where is El Escorial?
El Escorial is located about 57.6 km (36 miles) northwest of Madrid, in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama.
Who built El Escorial?
It was commissioned by King Philip II of Spain and designed by Juan Bautista de Toledo and Juan de Herrera, completed in 1584.
Is El Escorial worth visiting?
Yes, El Escorial is worth visiting for its rich history, stunning architecture, and significance as both a royal palace and monastery.
What is El Escorial?
El Escorial is a vast complex that serves as a royal palace, monastery, basilica, library, and mausoleum, symbolizing Spain’s political and religious power in the Renaissance era.
Is El Escorial free?
No, entry to El Escorial requires a ticket, but there are discounts for students, seniors, and free admission on certain days like Wednesdays and Sundays for EU residents.
What is the famous monastery near Madrid?
The Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, located near Madrid, is the most famous monastery in the area.
Why is El Escorial famous?
El Escorial is famous for its historical significance, stunning Herrerian architecture, and being the burial site of many Spanish monarchs.
How long does it take to visit El Escorial?
A visit typically takes 2-3 hours to explore the main areas, but if you plan to see everything in detail, allocate about half a day.
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I am a huge Renaissance period fan. It was probably the best period for Europe when it comes to creativity. I too would choose this monastery to visit for the same reason. I didn’t know it is one of the largest religious establishments in the world.
Oh El Escorial is sooo beautiful! We visited back in 2006: Kerstin loved the library and I was in love with their gardens! Unfortunately we didn’t have enough time to go back there when we were in Madrid last year. But since Madrid is not far away, we’ll certainly visit again and spend a couple of days in El Escorial next time!
Architecture of El Escorial is like a maze. Pictures me the maze runner movie. Lol tho it’s very gorgeous. El Escorial is a place I haven’t heard of before. Of course I know Spain but based on your trips, Spain has wonders and beautiful gems like El Escorial, museums and library. Spaniards are highly creative humans, they were also the ones who introduce the Catholic in our country, the Philippines. I really love to visit Spain and this place is one of the places I’d love to see when I get the chance there. It’s nice to visit not so touristic but historical places like El Escorial, isn’t it? 🙂
It’s a shame that they don’t allow photography there. From the few pics you included here, I have an idea how stunning the architecture is from the inside though!
Can You believe that I just came back from Madrid? I didn’t know about this place. I can understand the feeling when you can’t take any photo. We visited a palace in Vienna and We were not allowed to take photos or videos
A monastery, royal palace, museum, and school all rolled into one! WOWW I have already told you how much I like your posts on European architecture. This one is another off beat gem! Loved the artsy ceilings and the museum of paintings! Such a pity that photography is not allowed in most of these places 🙁 The door lover in me is happy!! The estimated doors more than 1,200! Wow 🙂
I can understand how disappointing it is when you visit a place and they don’t allow photography! Having said that, I wouldn’t necessarily exclude it from my list of places to see just because of that reason because many amazing places don’t allow photography but are still worth seeing. El Escorial also sounds like one of those places. Madrid is on my list for this summer and I hope I can make it there, I’ll definitely add El Escorial on my list for one of the day trips to take from there, thanks!
I have been to Madrid but skipped this place. Whatever photos you could click, they show its a grand place. I also sulk where photography isn’t allowed. How are we going to remember things or write articles?
St. Lawrence was roasted???? The thought itself is killing me!
I never even heard of this place when I was in Madrid a few years ago and now I wish I had. But hang on, I should be going back there again very shortly so I will try and make it there. Fantastic read and thanks for bringing this to my attention as I love visiting monasteries and similar buildings like this place. The monastery in the photo sure looks quaint and peaceful.
I haven’t been to Madrid in ages and I always tell my husband I’d love to get back for more! I remember quite well Segovia and Toledo (SO beautiful), but I never visited El Escorial monastery! Yet it’s not optimal that they don’t allow photography… thank you for being so honest about your experience!
What an incredible place to visit: so rich in history! That garden is just so well kept and beautifully manicured!
I am bummed I only made it to Barcelona while in Spain. This looks like a stunning location with a lot of beauty.
I love reading about monasteries and palaces, but this place is quite pleasantly different. The architecture and the interiors especially are eye-catching. Kudos to you on finding El Escorial.
This monastery looks fab! I loved Barcelona and always wanted to head to Madrid. You have solidified that wish more so I think I will need to book a ticket 🙂 Monasteries are such peaceful places and your pictures back up my theory!
Wow, it’s such a huge building!! I was really impressed by the ceiling frescos. Never heard about it, but definitely a must see in Spain!
You’re adding more and more reasons to visit Madrid! The architecture is understated but full of history. I can imagine there would be a few sore necks when painting the ceilings though!
Love the pictures, even if they don’t allow them on the inside. I’d probably start with the El Escorial library. I would love to be surrounded by that many books. Everything else can wait 😀
I’m sorry that there were so many restrictions against taking pictures. It’s also a bummer that there weren’t more budget friendly restaurants. But the photos you do have are beautiful! I would love to see El Escorial and visit for myself.
El Escorial sounds amazing ! and so beautiful.I dislike places with the no photography rule.The rotting room sounds very interesting.Love that it is a UNESCO site.Thanks for sharing this.
We can guess from the few mural painting you shared that the interior must have been exquisitely remarkable. Agree it is disappointing when you don’t get to click pictures which are the actual souvenirs we bring back 🙂 Madrid is on the list and we will make sure to visit this monastery.
Loved the architecture of this monastery and would love to visit here as it looks so peaceful! I visited the last monastery in Lumbini, Nepal a few years ago, where Lord Buddha was born and that was amazing!
I was always wondering how did they manage to do those amazing drawings on the ceilings?! They are breathtaking!
And those gardens are a dream… Someday I want to have a house with a very big garden.
You took beautiful photos.
I am not sure about Spaniards considering that the 8th wonder of the world, I would say it is more true about people from Madrid. I have been there before but I never felt like entering the palace. I thought it was a bit too “imperial” for me. Anyway, nice post!
I love your honesty about the place, the pros and cons, and not just about the photography ban but about the cost and lack of good nearby eating places. Blogs too often simply rave about a place without the downside practicalities, so thanks much for that.
I have never been to a monastery and would love to visit this place. But then i have never been to Spain either. So, this ones on my list of places to see while in Spain. 🙂
I have never been to madrid, it is a place that is high up on my list. The Basilica looks amazing, the ceilings are gorgeous. Great pictures, thanks for sharing your journey with us!
Sad that photography is not allowed. The Pantheon sounds interesting . Definitely a place I know I would have enjoyed
I had thought about visiting El Escorial as a day trip from Madrid when I was in Spain but my plans fell through. Looks like a massive complex. It is disappointing indeed that no photography was allowed inside. I agree, taking pictures definitely helps me remember places more.
The Museum of Paintings is truly stunning! Colors are so vivid and lively, it would be perfect backdrop for your portraits (that is, if they would allow).
Crisp and concise information. Love monuments of Spain. They have a certain quality about them that is difficult to describe. Nice post
Amazing the feeling I had when I went to this place, the beautiful stone edification, the roofs, the details. While I was there they had an exposition of “El Greco” these painting inside of the building was just beautiful. The Surroundings of El Escorial are definitely a beautiful place to take a stroll.
Cool half day trip from Madrid- i have to say I’m tapped out on monasteries after a year in Italy and spending time in so many in France and Northern Spain but we are always looking for ways to escape the city for the day so we have El Escorial on our list just to see something different! We’ve done Aranjuez (not impressive), Toledo (nice), Segovia (awesome), and hiking up in the forest/mountain areas only an hour away (really awesome! clean air! so needed after Madrid)
how long are you in Madrid?
Hi Brooke, thanks for the wonderful elaborate comment. You have done a lot of traveling there. This visit is from 2015. And yes I agree Segovia is awesome!
Gorgeous pictures. Well narrated with historical background:)
So vintage! It’s really unfortunate that photography isn’t allowed.
26 Kings and queens :O
Beautiful clicks especially I love the paintings on ceilings .. colourful it is.
Facts of doors, windows and corridor is interesting.
Gorgeous. I just love these Spanish frescoes…
I also sulk around places where photography is not allowed!
Striking buildings. The murals on the ceilings are quite a sight too.
This place, rich in history is so interesting, but no photography is disappointing!
Lovely paintings and looks like an interesting place. Loved all of your captures.
I hate arriving somewhere only to find that photos are not allowed. I don’t see the problem if you don’t use a flash. It’s pretty difficult to blog about a place without photographs. No being able to find affordable food is also difficult. The hedges in the garden look very close together, but beautiful just the same.
Beautiful beautiful place….and the history associated with it. Loved the tapestries and the whole legend of the resting place of Queen mothers and King. Intriguing indeed.
Magnificent architecture…no wonder it is an eighth wonder for Spaniards.
I have been to Madrid two times and I haven’t been able to visit El Escorial. Last time, we decided to do day trips to Segovia and Toledo. I have heard there is a palace close to Segovia (La Granja). Apparently, that one is not that touristy and it is very beautiful.
Beautiful photos,. and nicely written too..
Grand and gorgeous. shots are very nicely taken. wish one day i will visit this place.
Amazing , Thanks for sharing 🙂
It is so impressive. Looks impenetrable. I love the garden, is that considered English garden?
Wow, love this! I can definitely understand why Spaniards consider El Escorial the 8th wonder of the world. Another place to visit, hopefully soon!
Wow, this monastery is simply gorgeous. Beautiful photos and tour. Enjoy your day and the weekend ahead!
Sounds truly remarkable although it looks simple, plain and neat architecture! The ceiling paint works is quite marvelous… Glad u able to take some photos despite the prohibition