El Escorial Royal Monastery Guided Tour with Entry

The Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial was built in the sixteenth century as a monastery, palace, royal burial place and library all at once, and its scale still surprises visitors. On this guided visit you explore the complex with an expert who explains why Philip II built it, how it was used and what life was like inside.

The route typically takes in the basilica, the royal apartments, the painting galleries and the library with its painted vaults, as well as the pantheon where most Spanish monarchs since Charles V are buried. Areas open on the day can vary, and your guide adapts the route accordingly.