What to do in El Escorial

Activities, attractions and tours

El Escorial
El Escorial
August 15th every year. FIreworks are launched at midnight as a closing ceremony of the San Lorenzo festivities, which take place the week before that last day. Everybody stands at the big open area next to the Royal Palace and Monastery, while the show begins, by the rythm of music. It is a great and exiting entertainment, located in a beautiful place! Must watch ;) #lifeatexpedia #fireworks #lights #novembercontest #elescorial
El Escorial was built by King Philip II in the late 16th century to serve as both a royal palace and as the seat of the Catholic Church in Spain. In addition to the palace the complex includes a basilica, a convent, a school, a library, and a pantheon. While El Escorial is impressive from the outside, we actually found it a little austere on the inside. In many ways it felt more like a fine art museum than a typically elaborate European palace (such as Versailles). That said, there are some impressive sights, including works by El Greco, Bernini, and Giardini. The library was also quite beautiful, with richly carved wood shelves, a marble floor, and a colorful fresco ceiling by Pellegrino Tibaldi. For me, the highlight of the tour was the 180ft long (55m) Hall of Battles – a barrel-vaulted room where the walls were completely covered in frescos depicting Spain's military victories over the Moors and the French. All aspects of the battle field were portrayed (when you have 180ft, that is quite doable), and the artist employed an interesting trick whereby the more distant, smaller scenes were less saturated, and the background mountains and landscape were set in hues of blue. Overall I'd say El Escorial is worth a visit, but you probably won't need more than a couple of hours to enjoy it.
This is the Courtyard of the Kings and the entrance to the Basilica. By European standards we found the Basilica a bit boring. The two highlights were a gorgeous life-size white marble sculpture of Christ on the cross by Cellini (originally meant for the sculptor’s own tomb) and the Giordano ceilings, which he frescoed when he was his late 50s.
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What to do in El Escorial

Popular places to visit

Church of San Bernabe

After visiting Church of San Bernabe, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in El Escorial. While in the area, you can find time to visit its temples.

Church of San Bernabe

Prince's House

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Prince's House in El Escorial. While in the area, you can find time to visit its temples.

Prince's House

Explore areas of El Escorial

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Navalquejigo

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Navalquejigo and surrounding area, you can visit Auditorio San Lorenzo de El Escorial Theater and El Real Coliseo de Carlos III Theater.

Navalquejigo
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Peralejo

The coffee shops and casinos are a few reasons travellers visit Peralejo. Though there aren't many top sights in the neighbourhood, you can visit Auditorio San Lorenzo de El Escorial Theater and Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a few notable attractions nearby.

Peralejo

Frequently asked questions

Is El Escorial worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in El Escorial is explore Auditorio San Lorenzo de El Escorial Theatre. Tick this leading attraction off your to-do list, then discover more of the area's views and history.
How do I spend a day in El Escorial?
Abantos and Forestal Park Madrid-Guadarrama are two excellent places to start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in El Escorial while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in El Escorial?
The top tourist attraction in El Escorial is Auditorio San Lorenzo de El Escorial Theatre, so be sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in El Escorial?
Three days in El Escorial is plenty of time to visit the city's major highlights. Many guests book for three days on average. Auditorio San Lorenzo de El Escorial Theatre, El Real Coliseo de Carlos III Theatre and Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Madrid.
Is El Escorial a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your kind of getaway, El Escorial is a great place to visit. Find top attractions, such as Auditorio San Lorenzo de El Escorial Theatre, within walking distance of downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Peralejo, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 5 kilometers from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in El Escorial with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our ideas for what to do in El Escorial with kids.

What to do in El Escorial for adults?
La Silla de Felipe II is one of the top things to do in El Escorial. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in El Escorial?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in El Escorial is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can visit without getting your cash out. Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.