Historical

El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen Half Day Trip from Madrid

4.3(37 reviews)Madrid, Spain
5h15DurationEnglish, SpanishOffered inMobile ticketTicketNot includedPickupEasyLevel

About this experience

On this half-day trip from Madrid, you will visit the Royal Monastery of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen. The tour is suitable for those interested in Spain's royal history and monumental architecture, but may not be ideal for individuals with limited mobility due to the nature of the sites. The experience includes transportation from Madrid and a professional guide. You will begin at the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established by King Philip II, where you can explore the Basilica, Royal Pantheon, Royal Library, and various royal rooms with skip-the-line access. Next, you will visit the Valley of the Fallen, which features the tallest Christian cross in the world at 150 meters. The tour includes a visit to the basilica carved into the mountain, providing insights into its history and significance. This tour lasts approximately half a day and accommodates a group size that varies.

Itinerary

1

Real Sitio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is a complex that includes the palace was the residence of the Spanish royal family, the basilica is the burial place of the kings of Spain and the monastery - founded by monks of the Order of St. Jerome - is currently occupied by friars of the Order of St. Augustine. It is one of the most unique Renaissance architectures in Spain and Europe.

2

Real Biblioteca del Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial

One of the most remarkable libraries of the Renaissance, featuring beautifully decorated ceilings, ancient manuscripts, and a unique collection of knowledge that reflects the intellectual ambition of the Spanish Empire.

3

Valley of the Fallen

The Valley of the Fallen, officially called Valle de Cuelgamuros since October 2022, is a monumental complex consisting of a Catholic basilica, an abbey and a 150 m high cross perched on the top of a cliff overlooking the surrounding valley; with the peculiarity that the basilica is subway in its entirety. Once the visit is finished , free time to explore the surroundings at your own

What's included / not included

Accompanying bilingual English & Spanish guide on the bus.Fast-track entrance and guided visit to the Monastery of El Escorial.Round trip Madrid-El Escorial-Valle de los Caídos-Madrid by air-conditioned bus.Fast-track entrance to the Valley of the Fallen and guided visit inside the Basilica.
Any not specified service

Additional information

Accessibility and comfort

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Good to know

  • The duration of the tour includes the round trip Madrid-El Escorial-Valley of the Fallen-Madrid, 2 hours
  • The duration of the tour also includes the walking from the bus to Monuments and free time, 45 minutes

Traveller reviews

4.337 reviews

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