Magpie
4.3(1,095 reviews)

Escorial Monastery & Valley Tour

From€66
5.5 hours
Madrid, Spain

About this activity

Discover Spain's rich history with a guided tour of El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen, including round-trip transportation from Madrid.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic El Escorial Monastery
  • Marvel at the monumental Valley of the Fallen
  • Enjoy scenic Spanish countryside views
  • Learn about Spain's rich history and architecture
  • Experience a comfortable round-trip journey from Madrid

Full description

Step back in time and immerse yourself in Spain's rich history with this captivating day trip from Madrid. Begin your journey with a guided tour of the El Escorial Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. Next, visit the Valley of the Fallen, a monumental complex that honors those who perished during the Spanish Civil War. Throughout the excursion, enjoy comfortable round-trip transportation, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenic Spanish countryside. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and comfort, making it an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of El Escorial Monastery
  • Visit to the Valley of the Fallen monument
  • Round-trip transportation from Madrid
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Check in at our office in central Madrid 15 minutes in advance of your tour. Leave the city aboard one of our comfortable air-conditioned coaches. Enjoy your visit through the Royal Monastery of El Escorial, an architectural ensemble declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Built in the 16th century, it is a symbol of the power of the government at the time. Accompanied by your guide, you will discover the most important areas of the monument. Of Renaissance style, you will marvel at the building symmetry as you walk along the site visiting the Habsburg’s Palace, the Chapter House, the Basilica and the remarkable library.

Duration: 2h 30mAdmission: YES
2

Visit the Valley of the Fallen, get back on the bus for the short journey to the next destination. The Valley of the Fallen is located 9km away from El Escorial, in Sierra de Guadarrama. You will be able to see it from far away thanks to the monumental cross built above the site. The monument is an underground church built into the mountain. The same is topped by the World’s Largest Cross, which can be seen from miles away.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Confirm the tour's departure time and location in advance.
  • Be aware that the tour operates in English; verify language options if needed.
  • Review the cancellation policy before booking.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Infants Required On Laps

Good to know

  • Please note this is a walking tour on arrival at the site. Wear appropriate attire.
  • Julià Travel reserves the right to modify or cancel the tour itinerary without prior notice due to force majeure reasons.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers per guide.
  • In accordance with the regulations of the Valley of the Fallen, the guide will not be able to give explanations inside the basilica. All information will be given outside and the visit will be on your own.
  • Patrimonio Nacional reserves the right to modify the itinerary and the access to some parts of its monuments.

Traveler reviews

4.3
1,095 reviews
5
643
4
244
3
80
2
95
1
33

A full day out exploring Spain's monarchy in a day trip from Madrid

We took a bus up to El Escorial from Madrid and had a brilliant day out, high in the mountains, in winter with snow on the ground. Despite the cold, it was sunny and clear with great views and lovely gardens which must be beautiful in spring and summer. The palaces and grounds are well worth exploring. The town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial should also be explored with its lovely streets, shops and cafes before returning to the city.

RothburyLadyJun 29, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Fascinating historical trip.

Very enjoyable and interesting trip. Our guide was great. Very knowledgeable. We were the only non-Spanish speakers on the trip but she ensured we were not left out. Thank you.

Coastal10032590386Jun 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

La mejor es Susana

Thanks to Susana Very professional and excellent service.We highly recommend Gracias

gmgaviJun 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Good experience

Very good experience. The guide (Susana) patiently explained everything.

CarlosTimossiJun 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Vacation in El Escorial.

It was a fantastic experience, and the guide Susana was very professional, friendly, and did an excellent job translating between English and Spanish. I also really liked that the schedules were followed.

A7768TOadrianacJun 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Infants aged 5 years and under are free of charge, provided they do not occupy a seat Operated by a bilingual guide in Spanish and English Please keep in mind that the excursion includes several visits on foot, comfortable shoes are recommended. The duration of the tour includes the round trip to the destination Failure to show up at the established check-in time may entail losing the tour
Book Now