From Madrid: Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen

Community of Madrid, Madrid



Join a tour from Madrid to visit the Royal Monastery of El Escorial and the Basilica of the Valley of the Fallen. Travel through the time of Felipe II to today, and learn about the Spanish Civil War.

Highlights

  • Visit the Basilica of the Valley of the Fallen near Madrid
  • Take the only guided tour to the Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial
  • Explore Spanish history from Felipe II’s reign to modern democracy
  • See a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Learn about the Spanish Golden Age through iconic architecture

Description

This guided tour includes skip-the-line entry to the Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial and the Basilica of the Valley of the Fallen. Depart Madrid in the morning for the 50-minute journey to San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

Begin with a visit to the historic baths before exploring the monastery. Discover the history of Spain during Felipe II’s reign and see the building that embodies the ideological and cultural aspirations of the Spanish Golden Age, designated a World Heritage Site.

Tour key sites including the Patio de Reyes, Cloister, Chapter Rooms, the Basilica (closed Sundays), the Pantheon of Kings and Infants, and the Royal Rooms.

Next, travel to the Valley of the Fallen located in Peña de Cuelga Muros. Explore the basilica carved into the rock that serves as the burial site for 33,847 people who died in the Spanish Civil War. Note the massive granite cross visible from kilometers away.

Includes

  • Round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus
  • Wi-Fi on board
  • Professional guide
  • Skip-the-line entry tickets to the Monastery of San Lorenzo and Valley of the Fallen
  • Headsets for easy listening

Excludes

  • Tips
  • Food and drinks

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book morning departures to avoid crowds and bring comfortable walking shoes for the extensive tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes San Lorenzo de El Escorial Monastery with access to the Patio de Reyes, Cloister, Chapter Rooms, Basilica, Pantheon of Kings and Infants, Royal Rooms, and the Valley of the Fallen monument.
It takes approximately 50 minutes to travel from Madrid to San Lorenzo de El Escorial by coach.
No, the Basilica is closed on Sundays, so it may not be accessible during weekend tours from Madrid.
Yes, the tour includes skip-the-line access to the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial to avoid waiting in queues.
The Valley of the Fallen is located about 50 kilometers northwest of Madrid and is included in this guided day trip.
Yes, the tour includes guided commentary at the Valley of the Fallen to explain its historical significance.
The full guided tour from Madrid usually lasts around 7 to 8 hours, including transportation and site visits.
Bring a valid ID and your booking confirmation; tickets are provided as part of the tour package departing from Madrid.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but parental discretion is advised due to some historical content and walking involved.
Check the official website for current hours and seasonal availability, as some areas close periodically and weather can affect the visit.

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