Paid 6€ with student reduced price. Totally worth it. Took me around 2 hours to get through the entire site. No photos allowed inside. Favorite part was the magnificent basilica found inside El Escorial. It is very similar to an art museum experience plus the rooms are ornate. The gardens are not particularly special, but they are well kept. Makes for a great day trip from Madrid.

The is one of the most beautiful monastery's I've ever seen!! You don't have to pay to see the basilica but to see all the corners of the monastery you do have to pay 12€. There's discounts for students, children and seniors. I really advice the visit!!!! You can't take fotos or videos inside some rooms. It take more or less 3 hours to see everything. This place has incredible paintings and frescos. High recommend a tour throughout the big place!!

Staggeringly beautiful royal site. The Basilica was so much bigger than the door would have you expect, so the volume is really breathtaking. The library is beautiful and so interesting to browse. And the royal residences are well preserved and interesting. Definitely deserves three or four hours to soak it all in.

More beautiful from outside. Many areas inside are restricted so not much to see. The most interesting areas were the church, tombs and the library.

I did this in two stages. I walked around the village the night before as well as the outside while it is quieter. It is worth getting a guided tour as there is so much to see and it is easy to miss out whole sections. There are no photos allowed on the inside but plenty of illustrated books are available. Be prepared to spend at least three hours here and consider a trip to the controversial valley of the fallen just 20 minutes away while you are in the area.

This is believed to be the largest Renaissance structure in the world. El Escorial is a complex of many buildings with different functions within one huge structure. The two major parts of the structure are the royal palace and the monastery. And within the premises of those two structures you happen upon a basilica, pantheon, library, museum, university, school, and hospital. Along the time a small town developed around the building. El Escorial served as one of the seats for the Spanish monarchy. The mood in this palace is a little bit austere and somber. The Escorial is almost 50 km from Madrid. A bus service will take there. The admission fee is 10€ (2021 prices). Keep in mind that the Escorial is closed on Mondays. After visiting the Palace and the Monastery, you can walk to the adjacent town. There you will find many nice cafes and restaurants. The prices are fair and the mood is very relaxing.

It’s only a short 50 minute train ride from Madrid. Beautiful little town that you can walk through or take the bus. The Palace/ Monastery is stunning and the self guided tour is well done. We saw so much on the tour. After we had a great lunch a block away. Great last minute day trip from Madrid.

The monastery of king Philip II, a representation of power of that time the behest empire of the world. Visit the cathedral and library is a must. Can’t show all amazing pictures as some are prohibited so is best you see it for yourself.

Beautiful place! It took us three hours to visit the whole place, and we had some lunch in the gardens. It wasn't crowded. There's a lot of bars and restaurants around, and the bus station is 10 minutes by foot.

This monastery is quite amazing, photos don't show the real magnitude and how beautiful it really is. The library was my favorite part, with over 40000 books and manuscripts, some dating back to more than 1500 years. This place took more than 20 years to be built which is also amazing, I took the scenic Tren Felipe II from Madrid which included the entrance to the monastery and I highly recommend it.

Large, monumental, spectacular, etc.,... these are the qualifying adjectives that come to mind when you are in front of this majestic work of art or monument, The monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial is also in a place of great beauty , at the foot of the northern mountains of Madrid and surrounded by meadows, trees, etc.,... in addition to visiting the Monastery you can see other nearby buildings such as the University, the Casita del Principe, the gardens, etc.,... I personally think that if you are one of those who like art, with the visit of the 5 main elements of the Monastery, such as: The basilica, the cloister, the refectory, the palace and the gardens, you will have a king size premium de lux ration top of the art range, with which you will end up more than satisfied...

A gorgeous monastery with beautiful architecture, it is huge and takes a while to cover. Since we visited on a Sunday, we could not see the church because there was mass going on. Only disappointment was that we were told time and again that we aren't allowed to take pictures, so it's kind of a bummer not having any pictures of the interior of the monastery. Carry a hand fan during summers, it tends to get warm inside. Overall, it is still stunning.

My group wanted to take advantage of the free admission hours. It was okay but really not enough time to see everything since the free hours are so limited. If you're slow like me and want to read all the signs, just buy tickets for general admission. You won't be rushed and you'll have time to enjoy everything. The location is beautiful and the buildings are fantastic. Be aware you are not supposed to take photos indoors and they're pretty strict about it, so just don't.

Beautiful. Transported back in time. Tapestries, art work, furnishings, burial areas. Just a short bus ride or drive from Madrid. Many, many stairs to climb on an unforgiving stone floor. Not friendly for those with mobility issues

Really one of the best, if not the best palace ive seen in Europe. You shouldnt miss this gem, simply because of the paintings on the walls, the collections and how majestics their buildings are! and also cross the street for a unique coffee with the view too!

Beautiful place to visit. The surrounding area is just as nice, local bars offer some nice food. The history of this place is amazing. To be able to walk the halls together with the monks that still live here. The gardens are beautiful, and on a nice sunny and clear day you have views untill forever. Definitely recommend going here

We loved this palace. Why? - the building is huge, imposing and beautiful - the rooms are splendid - the history is spectacular - it’s not over-touristed This is one of those rare places that exceeds all expectations. We took the train from Madrid (took about an hour), which was easy and convenient. Because of the distance, tourist hordes seem to stay away from this place, making it even more magical.

Laid prostrate at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama bathed in the warm glow of the Spanish sun, this simple yet historically rich 16th century palace/monastery beckons both tourists and locals alike to lose themselves within its seemingly austere stone walls. To describe this place would be wrong as I would surely but unintentionally omit a special detail or two. From a beautiful library and basilica to its original intent as a mausoleum, there’s so much to see and experience. Therefore, enjoy the pictures and allow me to provide a short list of relevant tidbits. - We took our time and saw everything, which took about 2.5 hours. - Let’s talk handicap access. The entrance and floor level is handicap accessible; however, there is no access for the deep portions of the tour such as the mausoleum and crypt. There is a way to access the library but I’m not sure how. - This tour is a lot of walking with many steep staircases. Elderly people may have an issue given their maneuverability. - Tickets are 14€ for an adult and 7€ for kids. - There is a nice parking garage near by called Aparcamiento Monasterio that charges about 3€ an hour. - They offer an audio tour guide that we did not partake in but I hear it’s mediocre. Overall, it’s an amazing historical site nestled in a quaint little town. Make a day of it and enjoy lunch or dinner after the tour. Enjoy!

Wonderful place to visit!! No photos are allowed inside. There are free lockers for backpacks and bags off the the left when you first walk in after buying your ticket and bathrooms. Give yourself at least two hours to explore. There is so much to see - cloisters, the library (across a courtyard and up a bunch of steps), then, the basilica, crypt, art, rooms, halls and so much detail! Keep your ticket handy for the library and after the basilica. They will check in both places and ask to make sure you have seen the library. So nice, definitely wouldn't want to miss that! If you have time before you leave city, walk around the the left and explore the gardens and garden views!

From the outside it looks like a little plain, but after going inside, is breathtaking. Every room etc. are beautiful. We spent a lot of time there, to see everything. The library was one of my favorite place.

Another brilliant example of the Royal Spanish legacy and heritage. The true treasure of the Spanish culture. Photos are not allowed inside.

Obviously not part of the Spanish history, that people can be proud of. But that aside, the place is definitely worth a visit. In the late afternoons, the visit is free of charge, mondays closed.

Went there in September, amazing experience. Besides the social implications of the meaning of this place, the magnificent nature of the construction is breathtaking. The sculpture work is unparalleled. Regardless of your political position, the place is a must see.

A beautiful, peaceful, mystical, and awe inspiring place of devotion to our Lord and to ALL the fallen soldiers of the brutal Spanish Civil War. The VALLE DE LOS CAIDOS (Valley of the Fallen) serves as a reminder of the struggles of the Spanish nation and its people. A labor of love from Francisco Franco dedicated to all Spaniards, and to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Sadly, the current socialist government has it in its sights for demolition. For some nefarious and dark reason, they especially have a problem with the magnificent Cross, the highest and tallest in Europe, and are slowly moving forward with their plan to tear it down. All people must unite to stop this indecent act of pure hatred. Support the Benedictine monks who for many years have served as the caretakers of this incredible place. Do not let modernity destroy a thing of true love and beauty.

This is an amazing place in the middle of no where. They have actually dug the mountain and built this great cathedral inside the mountain.

Es un parque conmemorativo, una catedral y un monasterio de guerra muertos en la guerra civil española. Es un espacio para simpatizar con los lectores del Apocalipsis de la Basílica de la Cueva. It is a memorial park, a cathedral, and a monastery of war dead in the Spanish civil war. It is a space to sympathize with the readers of the Cave Basilica Apocalypse. 스페인 내전때 전사자들의 추모공원이자 성당, 수도원이다. 동굴 바실리카 묵시록의 읽어본자들이면 공감할 공간이다. スペインの内戦時に戦死者の追悼公園であり大聖堂、修道院である。 洞窟バシリカ黙示録の読み取りボンジャしまうと共感空間である。

Great place to visit

The most extraordinary monument you can imagine

Without political background, this place is beautiful. Environment is green, building structure similar to Vatican. Big hall painting and massive statues. Awesome!!

Beautiful place. Worthy to spend your day up there.

It's nice to see the historical place where royalty used to sit down and oversee the construction of the monastery. Of course like any other touristy location there is a bar up there. The views are great. Both of the monastery and you can even see Madrid center

Excellent place to go for a walk. There's a restaurant that can get a bit busy on weekends, plus, the only issue was that as you follow the track there's a spot where there's security tape as if it's private property. Everyone went in, so, I can't really tell if you're not allowed in that area.

The views are stunning. We drove up and parked at the end of the road (I suspect that might be nearly impossible to achieve on a nice weekend). There are no public toilets nearby, so plan accordingly.

A great hike which is rewarded with an amazing view of El Escorial. You can start at the Bosque de la Herreria parking and make your way to the top in around an hour. The trail is relatively easily, with the possibility to continue hiking a different trail after you reached the top. If you want to start at El Escorial, you can first walk the Bosque de la Herreria trail and then continue to the Silla de Felipe II trail.

It's worth visiting to get a great view of El Escorial. It's only a ten-minute drive from the monastery but there's no public transportation to the monument. It can get crowded but it's a quick visit so people are usually moving through it at a good pace. So, you should be able to get as many photos as you want.

Great hike from San Lorenzo. Takes about 45 min from monistary to seat at top. Hiked it twice this week. Beautiful views from the top.

Awesome views of the valley, monastery, village and surrounding mountains from a big boulder! There is a little bar and picnic tables up there and enough parking for 5 or 6 cars. If there is no parking available, it is about a 2km walk from the parking down below each way or you can go on some of the hiking trails in the area. Great place for dogs, kids, family and fresh air!

Good for family and friends for hiking easy hike.There is a restaurant in the parking area and mirador.Beautiful place,beautiful scenery.

Great views of Escorial are to be had from here. Nice building but no entry today (Weekday in February) and not sure if there is any? Beautiful gardens but again because of the time year everything is dormant. Still it is part of the WHS of Escorial and worth a visit. No tickets/nobody on the gate.

Interesting little place. Probably not worth a special visit but good to drop by for a small walk

A great place to visit for its wonderful gardens and free entry. Just a good place to stop by and take a 10 minute walk after El Escorial.

Beautiful monument in San Lorenzo de el Escorial. It's full of history and architecture that are very well maintained. Definitely a must if you are near Madrid

Seriously one of the most beautiful views I've seen in my life. Worth the detour from the A-1 even if you weren't planning to stop to see the monestary (which you should!)

Amazing and relaxing place

Ok

Lovely little house with beautiful rooms. Worth a visit. We had the place to ourselves and the ticket person joined us for a little tour.

Well as you may see it's just one Star... really I am not proud to be mean and give only one Star ⭐... But the truth is I like nature and I love gardens and l don't mind doing 100 km to visit one. This huge, very clever designed, Which contains many long different espies of old giant pine and other trees is neglected. I guess it was a remarkable garden one day, but not today...the visit list of instructions is in alert all things you need to visit the place are forbidden, no parking lot, no especial área for kids...no access for disabled person's cars. The museum is closed and there is no notice when it will open again... The garden is very big but the capacity is limited to very small number. It's a wide big place though 200 persons are allowed only. I hope that I visit it again soon, with my best wishing for the community.

Loved walking around the gardens. 😁👍

Always great place to go for a walk and enjoy the nature this park offers you! Very peaceful and quiet place! Been coming here since I was a little boy and still, I'm loving it! Nearby there is a coffee shop which is nice to stop by and have a tapa or a coffee and some pastries.

Little treasure in the gardens. Small but with fantastic details. Loved the visit.

€5 for a tour of the house and access to the gardens. Really beautiful and interesting history! The guide was very friendly and informative.

Excellent place to stop for lunch and take it easy. Nice outdoor space in tranquil street beside the park.

The house from.outside looks simple, but the paintings, the decoration, and the furmitures inside will greatly surprise the visitor. It is worth the wait and the long walk to the Casita. The lawns and garden surrounding it are breath taking.

They didn't let me visit it! It was 17h45 and it was going to close at 18h00. I just wanted to go in to take some pictures but the staff didn't let me in because they wanted no more visitors to prepare themselves to close the park. The point is that there were other people visiting the Casita in that moment! I felt excluded. Not welcoming at all.

Nice

(Translated by Google) Nice place for the House of Culture (Original) Bonito lugar para la Casa de Cultura

(Translated by Google) Spectacular location, part of the monastery, I was at the exhibition of the great painter and artist José Catalá Yuste contemplating his magnificent work 👌💯👍 (Original) Espectacular ubicación, parte del monasterio, estuve en la exposición del gran pintor y artista José Catalá Yuste contemplando su magnífico trabajo 👌💯👍

(Translated by Google) A spectacular traditional Japanese harp concert (Koto) (Original) Un espectacular concierto de arpa tradicional japonesa (Koto)

(Translated by Google) The contents and container are something wonderful and will need high insurance to preserve them for a long time... (Original) El contenido y el continente son algo maravilloso y necesitarán un seguro bien alto para preservarlo por mucho tiempo...

(Translated by Google) A place to enjoy with the family. Talks, concerts, movies, music courses, art, crafts, among others. In the heart of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Every week they offer different activities, presentations by scientists, discussions and gatherings on current topics, as well as exhibitions by local artists. (Original) Un lugar para disfrutar en familia. Charlas, conciertos, películas, cursos de música, arte, manualidades, entre otros. En pleno corazón de San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Todas las semanas ofrecen diferentes actividades, presentaciones de científicos, discusiones y tertulias sobre temas de actualidad, así como las exposiciones de artistas locales.

(Translated by Google) It's very nice. It has many spaces and there are always interesting and varied exhibitions, as well as music, film and theater recitals. We really like the painting exhibitions they always have, and the shows or activities for children are also very good. They also have a table for exchanging used books; and many boards where all the activities there are announced. There is also the planning of the Luis Ceballos arboretum and references to many routes to do on foot in groups. Film series are announced, as well as the activities taught (workshops, painting, bookbinding...). There is another bulletin board for San Lorenzo businesses. There are services inside, they are always clean. And many chairs to wait sitting. In the patios it is always very calm and cool. (Original) Está muy bien. Tiene muchos espacios y siempre hay exposiciones interesantes y variadas, al igual que recitales de música, cine y teatro. Nos gustan mucho las exposiciones de pintura que siempre tienen, y los espectáculos o actividades para niños también están muy bien. Tienen una mesa también para intercambio de libros usados; y muchos tablones donde se anuncian todas las actividades que hay. Hay también la planificación del arboreto Luis Ceballos y referencias a muchas rutas para hacer a pie en grupo. Están anunciados ciclos de cine, así como las actividades impartidas (talleres, pintura, encuadernación...). Hay otro tablón de anuncios de negocios de San Lorenzo. Hay servicios dentro, siempre están limpios. Y muchas sillas donde esperar sentado. En los patios siempre se está muy tranquilo y fresco.

(Translated by Google) A nice and cozy place, with friendly staff and a very rich and competitive menu (Original) Un sitio agradable y acogedor, con un personal amable y un menú muy rico y competitivo

What a great museum/Park! I had been wanting to come for a while and it didn't disappoint. You can get a drink and a snack and have it in the gardens.

Es un lugar muy indicado para pequeños y mayores. Un gran museo dedicado a insectos y arácnidos, muy recomendable tanto para los amantes de estos pequeños animales, como para aquellos que le tenemos algo de fobia o aversión (como es mi caso), pues ayuda a aprender la importancia y la necesidad de estos seres en el entorno, así como a valorarles de igual forma que a cualquier otro. Recomendable para todos y todas, por su didáctica (hasta incluso imparten talleres), como por el acercamiento a la curiosidad de la diversidad de seres minúsculos que nos rodean. Es la cuarta vez que voy con mi familia y nunca nos cansamos de visitarlo. (Translated by Google) It is a very suitable place for children and adults. A great museum dedicated to insects and arachnids, highly recommended both for lovers of these small animals, and for those of us who have some phobia or aversion to them (as is my case), as it helps to learn the importance and necessity of these beings. in the environment, as well as to value them in the same way as any other. Recommended for everyone, for their didactics (they even give workshops), as well as for the approach to the curiosity of the diversity of tiny beings that surround us. It is the fourth time that I go with my family and we never get tired of visiting it.

I enjoyed my visit to the insect park as always. I've been back at least 3 times with my children. This last occasion we booked the activity with reptiles, and even thought it was good and it was informative, I couldn't enjoy it as the children were far too young for it. I went with a 2 and a 5 year old and it wasn't orientated towards children.

Excelente lugar para pasar una hora disfrutando de insectos de muchas partes del mundo, mariposas,escarabajos, arañas. Ideal para los más pequeños , preciosas y coloridas mariposas, un terrario especial para tarántulas , un lugar pequeño pero con una visita muy bonita e interesante de ver. Tienda pequeñita. Poca gente en la tarde de un día festivo. (Translated by Google) Excellent place to spend an hour enjoying insects from many parts of the world, butterflies, beetles, spiders. Ideal for the little ones, beautiful and colorful butterflies, a special terrarium for tarantulas, a small place but with a very beautiful and interesting visit to see. Tiny shop. Few people in the afternoon of a public holiday.

Very interesting place devoted to insects. The guided tour is highly recommend as you will know a lot of things. They also have some really big spiders. Maybe it's too much focused on butterlies but my kids really liked the visit

Nice place to visit with kids. Friendly staff. Lots of insects from around the globe. Something that freaks a bit is that I want able to find a couple of tarantulas... did they escape and they were watching you? 😁

Great people, interesting exponents. Good for kids but interesting for adults as well. A bit small and only accessible by car.

Small yet powerful. A great opportunity to learn about insects, spiders, butterflies with little economic effort and in a beautiful natural area..

Very nice place to visit with children, both the workshops and the museum are very well done.

Nice pictorial view.

Interesting museum which houses some of the royal carriages. Visit if you still have some spare time and also try their restaurant.

Needs better upkeep. But the lady above the main gate is surely scary

Nice food. Slow service.

Funny visit

Ok

(Translated by Google) Private collection with part of what remains of the trousseau, carriages, material and uniforms kept by the owner of the garage at the service of the Royal family of Carlos III. The museum, small as is logical, is a private effort worthy of admiration. Very attentive staff and extensive explanations presented in the detailed video with which the visit begins. It is possible to get free tickets if you have lunch in the excellent period restaurant, with a small but magnificent menu of perfect value for money, and belonging to the family. (Original) Colección privada con parte de lo que queda del ajuar, carruajes, material e uniformes guardado por propietario de la cochera al servicio de la familia Real de Carlos III. El museo, pequeñito como es lógico, es un esfuerzo privado digno de admiración . Personal muy atento y ampias explicaciones expuestas en el detallado video con el que comienza la visita. Es posible obtener las entradas gratis si se almuerza en el excelente restaurante de época , con un pequeño pero magnífico menú de perfecta relación calidad precio, y perteneciente a la familia

(Translated by Google) We discovered this museum by chance. It is small, but very interesting. We really liked it, especially the children. (Original) Descubrimos por casualidad este museo.Es pequeño,pero muy interesante.Nos ha gustado muchísimo,sobre todo a los niños.

What a great museum/Park! I had been wanting to come for a while and it didn't disappoint. You can get a drink and a snack and have it in the gardens.

Es un lugar muy indicado para pequeños y mayores. Un gran museo dedicado a insectos y arácnidos, muy recomendable tanto para los amantes de estos pequeños animales, como para aquellos que le tenemos algo de fobia o aversión (como es mi caso), pues ayuda a aprender la importancia y la necesidad de estos seres en el entorno, así como a valorarles de igual forma que a cualquier otro. Recomendable para todos y todas, por su didáctica (hasta incluso imparten talleres), como por el acercamiento a la curiosidad de la diversidad de seres minúsculos que nos rodean. Es la cuarta vez que voy con mi familia y nunca nos cansamos de visitarlo. (Translated by Google) It is a very suitable place for children and adults. A great museum dedicated to insects and arachnids, highly recommended both for lovers of these small animals, and for those of us who have some phobia or aversion to them (as is my case), as it helps to learn the importance and necessity of these beings. in the environment, as well as to value them in the same way as any other. Recommended for everyone, for their didactics (they even give workshops), as well as for the approach to the curiosity of the diversity of tiny beings that surround us. It is the fourth time that I go with my family and we never get tired of visiting it.

I enjoyed my visit to the insect park as always. I've been back at least 3 times with my children. This last occasion we booked the activity with reptiles, and even thought it was good and it was informative, I couldn't enjoy it as the children were far too young for it. I went with a 2 and a 5 year old and it wasn't orientated towards children.

Excelente lugar para pasar una hora disfrutando de insectos de muchas partes del mundo, mariposas,escarabajos, arañas. Ideal para los más pequeños , preciosas y coloridas mariposas, un terrario especial para tarántulas , un lugar pequeño pero con una visita muy bonita e interesante de ver. Tienda pequeñita. Poca gente en la tarde de un día festivo. (Translated by Google) Excellent place to spend an hour enjoying insects from many parts of the world, butterflies, beetles, spiders. Ideal for the little ones, beautiful and colorful butterflies, a special terrarium for tarantulas, a small place but with a very beautiful and interesting visit to see. Tiny shop. Few people in the afternoon of a public holiday.

Very interesting place devoted to insects. The guided tour is highly recommend as you will know a lot of things. They also have some really big spiders. Maybe it's too much focused on butterlies but my kids really liked the visit

Nice place to visit with kids. Friendly staff. Lots of insects from around the globe. Something that freaks a bit is that I want able to find a couple of tarantulas... did they escape and they were watching you? 😁

Great people, interesting exponents. Good for kids but interesting for adults as well. A bit small and only accessible by car.

Small yet powerful. A great opportunity to learn about insects, spiders, butterflies with little economic effort and in a beautiful natural area..

Very nice place to visit with children, both the workshops and the museum are very well done.

Nice pictorial view.

Amazing historical theater. Comfortable. Great coffee shop.

Ancient and renovated. Great choice of contemporary plays, concerts, performances. And also classics

Great show.Amazing place as always

Possibly the prettiest theatre in the world!

(Translated by Google) I signed up for the free theatrical tour and it was spectacular, the theater is small and beautiful, full of history and narrated by Charles III himself (William 😉), excellent interpretation and explanation. Stepping onto the stage full of history is an impressive experience. I recommend a visit to everyone, it is a beauty 😍 (Original) Me he apuntado a la visita teatralizada gratuita y ha sido espectacular, el teatro es pequeño y precioso, lleno de historia y narrado por el mismísimo Carlos III (Guillermo 😉), excelente interpretación y explicación. Pisar el escenario lleno de historia es una experiencia impresionante. Recomiendo a todo el mundo la visita, es una belleza 😍

(Translated by Google) Visit to the Royal Coliseum of Carlos III with an exceptional guide, His Majesty King Carlos III. A hidden gem of San Lorenzo del Escorial, ordered to be built by Carlos III and inaugurated in 1771. Wonderful guided tour. There is a program of theatrical performances throughout the year. (Original) Visita al Real Coliseo de Carlos III con un guía de excepción, Su Majestad el rey Carlos lll. Una joya oculta de San Lorenzo del Escorial, mandado construir por Carlos lll e inaugurado en 1771. Maravillosa visita guiada. Hay un programa de representaciones teatrales a lo largo del año.

(Translated by Google) Guided tour with an extraordinary actor who plays Charles III and takes you with extreme interpretation, elegance and humor throughout the theater. At 12 noon. (Original) Visita guiada con un actor extraordinario que interpreta a Carlos III y te lleva con extrema interpretación, elegancia y humor por todo el teatro. A las 12 h.

Great views of El Escorial and part of La Sierra. There is a nature trail, with plant species indicated, plus a bit of history with Felipe II seat. It was an seat excavated in the stone from where he used to oversee the construction of his palace. There is a nice Bar at the top too!!

A beautiful area of mixed woodland and open, wild flower meadow. Depending on the season, you will enjoy different wild life, insects and plants. Great view of L'Escorial from below to be seen half way round the circular walk.

This is very beautiful park.. You can breathe here perfectly.

Beautiful forest to walk through. Great to get away and have a picnic.

A beautiful place in all seasons, all weathers, to blow the cobwebs away...

Nature, beautiful place, almost plain

I love it

Paid 6€ with student reduced price. Totally worth it. Took me around 2 hours to get through the entire site. No photos allowed inside. Favorite part was the magnificent basilica found inside El Escorial. It is very similar to an art museum experience plus the rooms are ornate. The gardens are not particularly special, but they are well kept. Makes for a great day trip from Madrid.

The is one of the most beautiful monastery's I've ever seen!! You don't have to pay to see the basilica but to see all the corners of the monastery you do have to pay 12€. There's discounts for students, children and seniors. I really advice the visit!!!! You can't take fotos or videos inside some rooms. It take more or less 3 hours to see everything. This place has incredible paintings and frescos. High recommend a tour throughout the big place!!

Staggeringly beautiful royal site. The Basilica was so much bigger than the door would have you expect, so the volume is really breathtaking. The library is beautiful and so interesting to browse. And the royal residences are well preserved and interesting. Definitely deserves three or four hours to soak it all in.

More beautiful from outside. Many areas inside are restricted so not much to see. The most interesting areas were the church, tombs and the library.

I did this in two stages. I walked around the village the night before as well as the outside while it is quieter. It is worth getting a guided tour as there is so much to see and it is easy to miss out whole sections. There are no photos allowed on the inside but plenty of illustrated books are available. Be prepared to spend at least three hours here and consider a trip to the controversial valley of the fallen just 20 minutes away while you are in the area.

This is believed to be the largest Renaissance structure in the world. El Escorial is a complex of many buildings with different functions within one huge structure. The two major parts of the structure are the royal palace and the monastery. And within the premises of those two structures you happen upon a basilica, pantheon, library, museum, university, school, and hospital. Along the time a small town developed around the building. El Escorial served as one of the seats for the Spanish monarchy. The mood in this palace is a little bit austere and somber. The Escorial is almost 50 km from Madrid. A bus service will take there. The admission fee is 10€ (2021 prices). Keep in mind that the Escorial is closed on Mondays. After visiting the Palace and the Monastery, you can walk to the adjacent town. There you will find many nice cafes and restaurants. The prices are fair and the mood is very relaxing.

It’s only a short 50 minute train ride from Madrid. Beautiful little town that you can walk through or take the bus. The Palace/ Monastery is stunning and the self guided tour is well done. We saw so much on the tour. After we had a great lunch a block away. Great last minute day trip from Madrid.

The monastery of king Philip II, a representation of power of that time the behest empire of the world. Visit the cathedral and library is a must. Can’t show all amazing pictures as some are prohibited so is best you see it for yourself.

Beautiful place! It took us three hours to visit the whole place, and we had some lunch in the gardens. It wasn't crowded. There's a lot of bars and restaurants around, and the bus station is 10 minutes by foot.

This monastery is quite amazing, photos don't show the real magnitude and how beautiful it really is. The library was my favorite part, with over 40000 books and manuscripts, some dating back to more than 1500 years. This place took more than 20 years to be built which is also amazing, I took the scenic Tren Felipe II from Madrid which included the entrance to the monastery and I highly recommend it.

Large, monumental, spectacular, etc.,... these are the qualifying adjectives that come to mind when you are in front of this majestic work of art or monument, The monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial is also in a place of great beauty , at the foot of the northern mountains of Madrid and surrounded by meadows, trees, etc.,... in addition to visiting the Monastery you can see other nearby buildings such as the University, the Casita del Principe, the gardens, etc.,... I personally think that if you are one of those who like art, with the visit of the 5 main elements of the Monastery, such as: The basilica, the cloister, the refectory, the palace and the gardens, you will have a king size premium de lux ration top of the art range, with which you will end up more than satisfied...

A gorgeous monastery with beautiful architecture, it is huge and takes a while to cover. Since we visited on a Sunday, we could not see the church because there was mass going on. Only disappointment was that we were told time and again that we aren't allowed to take pictures, so it's kind of a bummer not having any pictures of the interior of the monastery. Carry a hand fan during summers, it tends to get warm inside. Overall, it is still stunning.

My group wanted to take advantage of the free admission hours. It was okay but really not enough time to see everything since the free hours are so limited. If you're slow like me and want to read all the signs, just buy tickets for general admission. You won't be rushed and you'll have time to enjoy everything. The location is beautiful and the buildings are fantastic. Be aware you are not supposed to take photos indoors and they're pretty strict about it, so just don't.

Beautiful. Transported back in time. Tapestries, art work, furnishings, burial areas. Just a short bus ride or drive from Madrid. Many, many stairs to climb on an unforgiving stone floor. Not friendly for those with mobility issues

Really one of the best, if not the best palace ive seen in Europe. You shouldnt miss this gem, simply because of the paintings on the walls, the collections and how majestics their buildings are! and also cross the street for a unique coffee with the view too!

Beautiful place to visit. The surrounding area is just as nice, local bars offer some nice food. The history of this place is amazing. To be able to walk the halls together with the monks that still live here. The gardens are beautiful, and on a nice sunny and clear day you have views untill forever. Definitely recommend going here

We loved this palace. Why? - the building is huge, imposing and beautiful - the rooms are splendid - the history is spectacular - it’s not over-touristed This is one of those rare places that exceeds all expectations. We took the train from Madrid (took about an hour), which was easy and convenient. Because of the distance, tourist hordes seem to stay away from this place, making it even more magical.

Laid prostrate at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama bathed in the warm glow of the Spanish sun, this simple yet historically rich 16th century palace/monastery beckons both tourists and locals alike to lose themselves within its seemingly austere stone walls. To describe this place would be wrong as I would surely but unintentionally omit a special detail or two. From a beautiful library and basilica to its original intent as a mausoleum, there’s so much to see and experience. Therefore, enjoy the pictures and allow me to provide a short list of relevant tidbits. - We took our time and saw everything, which took about 2.5 hours. - Let’s talk handicap access. The entrance and floor level is handicap accessible; however, there is no access for the deep portions of the tour such as the mausoleum and crypt. There is a way to access the library but I’m not sure how. - This tour is a lot of walking with many steep staircases. Elderly people may have an issue given their maneuverability. - Tickets are 14€ for an adult and 7€ for kids. - There is a nice parking garage near by called Aparcamiento Monasterio that charges about 3€ an hour. - They offer an audio tour guide that we did not partake in but I hear it’s mediocre. Overall, it’s an amazing historical site nestled in a quaint little town. Make a day of it and enjoy lunch or dinner after the tour. Enjoy!

Wonderful place to visit!! No photos are allowed inside. There are free lockers for backpacks and bags off the the left when you first walk in after buying your ticket and bathrooms. Give yourself at least two hours to explore. There is so much to see - cloisters, the library (across a courtyard and up a bunch of steps), then, the basilica, crypt, art, rooms, halls and so much detail! Keep your ticket handy for the library and after the basilica. They will check in both places and ask to make sure you have seen the library. So nice, definitely wouldn't want to miss that! If you have time before you leave city, walk around the the left and explore the gardens and garden views!

From the outside it looks like a little plain, but after going inside, is breathtaking. Every room etc. are beautiful. We spent a lot of time there, to see everything. The library was one of my favorite place.

Another brilliant example of the Royal Spanish legacy and heritage. The true treasure of the Spanish culture. Photos are not allowed inside.

(Translated by Google) Hermitage located in the Herrería forest area. With a tradition since the 16th century, the Virgin of Grace has a large number of followers. The current carving is by Mariano Benlliure. The pilgrimage is celebrated on the second Sunday in September. (Original) Ermita situada en el paraje del bosque de la Herrería. Con una tradición desde el siglo XVI, la Virgen de Gracia tiene un gran número de seguidores. La talla actual es de Mariano Benlliure. La romería se celebra el segundo domingo de septiembre.

(Translated by Google) Because of the area it is, for walks, nature and rest, it is perfect. The bad thing is that it is difficult to see inside the hermitage. Only designated days. Lately what I have found very nice is that it is illuminated so that from the outside you can see it perfectly even if you cannot enter. (Original) Por la zona que es, para paseo, naturaleza y descanso es perfecto. Lo malo es que es complicado ver por dentro la ermita. Solo días señalados. Últimamente lo que me ha parecido muy bonito es que está iluminada con lo cual desde fuera se puede ver perfectamente aunque no se pueda entrar.

(Translated by Google) Nature place in Madrid, for families or individual past. Viewpoints to the escorial and mountains of Madrid. With a multitude of trash cans and picnic areas, so you have no excuse to eat, talk or have a thermos coffee with the tranquility of the forest. If you like cycling there are many routes, but respect the speed as they are not for racing and may cause a pedestrian to be hit. (Original) Lugar de naturaleza en Madrid, para familias o pasado individuales. Miradores al escorial y sierra de Madrid. Con multitud de papeleras y merenderos, para no tener escusa de comer, conversar no tomar un café de termo con la tranquilidad del bosque. Si te gusta la bici hay multitud de rutas, pero respeta la velocidad que no son para hacer carreras y genera un atropello a un peatón

(Translated by Google) Beautiful and very pretty. Herreriano style, based on cubic shapes, straight lines and absence of decoration. The surroundings are incredible to spend the day or to stay for a while, eat and enjoy the surroundings. It is easy to park and it is well connected to get there without problems. This hermitage is only open throughout the year, on the second weekend of September and coincides with the Pilgrimage of the Virgin of Gracia. (Original) Preciosa y muy bonita. De estilo Herreriano, basado en formas cubicas, líneas rectas y ausencia de decoración. Los alrededores son increíbles para pasar el día o para estar un rato, comer y disfrutar del entorno. Es fácil aparcar y está bien comunicado para llegar sin problemas. Está ermita solo se abre en todo el año, el segundo fin de semana de septiembre y coincide cona Romería de la Virgen de Gracia.

(Translated by Google) Small hermitage at the beginning of the route that goes up to the Felipe II chair and the La Herrería forest. (Original) Pequeña ermita en el comienzo de la ruta que sube a la silla de Felipe II y el bosque de La Herrería.

(Translated by Google) Good. Is closed. There is a pilgrimage I think at the end of August (Original) Bien. Está cerrada. Hay una romería creo que a finales de agosto

(Translated by Google) Very nice place, next to the road, with a picnic area and plenty of parking space. From there you can climb into Philip II's chair without much effort. (Original) Paraje muy agradable, junto a la carretera, con zona de picnic y bastante espacio para aparcar. Desde allí puede subirse a la silla de Felipe II sin mucho esfuerzo.