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El Real de San Vicente to El Escorial

Updated: March 31, 2024 10:00 AM
El Escorial

El Escorial Day Trip from Madrid

Language

The official language of Spain is Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including El Escorial.

Currency

The currency of Spain is the euro (€). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels.

Distance

El Escorial is located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) northwest of Madrid. The drive takes about 1 hour.

How to Reach

There are several ways to get to El Escorial from Madrid:

  • By train: The Renfe C-8 train line runs from Madrid's Atocha station to El Escorial station. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around €10.
  • By bus: The bus company ALSA operates buses from Madrid's Plaza de España to El Escorial. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around €7.
  • By car: If you have a car, you can drive to El Escorial in about 1 hour. There is a parking lot at the monastery where you can leave your car.

Expenses

The cost of a day trip to El Escorial will vary depending on how you choose to travel and what you choose to do. However, here are some general estimates:

  • Train: €10 round-trip
  • Bus: €7 round-trip
  • Car: €10 for gas and parking
  • Entrance fee to the monastery: €10
  • Lunch: €15-20
  • Snacks and drinks: €5-10

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit El Escorial is in the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the weather is mild. However, the monastery is open year-round, so you can visit it any time.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants in El Escorial where you can try traditional Spanish cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:

  • Cocido madrileño: A hearty stew made with chickpeas, meat, and vegetables
  • Callos a la madrileña: Tripe stew
  • Tortilla de patatas: Spanish omelet made with potatoes and eggs
  • Croquetas: Fried balls of ham, cheese, or fish
  • Churros: Fried dough pastries

Where to Go

In addition to the monastery, there are several other places to visit in El Escorial, including:

  • The Casita del Príncipe: A small palace built for the Prince of Asturias
  • The Casita del Infante: A small palace built for the Infante Don Gabriel
  • The Royal Gardens: The gardens of the monastery
  • The Town of El Escorial: The town where the monastery is located

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about El Escorial:

  • How long does it take to visit El Escorial?
  • You can visit the monastery in about 2-3 hours. However, if you want to visit the other attractions in El Escorial, you may want to allow for more time.
  • Is El Escorial worth visiting?
  • Yes, El Escorial is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important historical and architectural monuments in Spain. It is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in history, architecture, or art.
  • Can I visit El Escorial on a day trip from Madrid?
  • Yes, it is possible to visit El Escorial on a day trip from Madrid. The train journey takes about 1 hour, and there are several tours that include transportation from Madrid.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

Trips from El Real de San Vicente

Trips to El Escorial