Things to do in El Escorial

Activities, attractions and tours

A large, historic building with multiple domes and towers, surrounded by trees and mountains in the background.
A grand historical building with two prominent towers and a central dome.
A large historic building with a prominent entrance and a clock tower.
A historic building with a tower and a well-manicured garden.
A city with a prominent cathedral and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Things to do

Panoramic view of San Lorenzo de El Escorial in Spain

Royal Monastery of El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen

RM299
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Royal Monastery of El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen
El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen Half Day Trip from Madrid

El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen Half Day Trip from Madrid

RM303
per adult
El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen Half Day Trip from Madrid
Horse Riding Madrid Natural Park

Horse Riding Madrid Natural Park

RM353
per adult
Horse Riding Madrid Natural Park
San Lorenzo de El Escorial: Monastery and Site Guided Tour

San Lorenzo de El Escorial: Monastery and Site Guided Tour

RM179
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
San Lorenzo de El Escorial: Monastery and Site Guided Tour
Private VIP visit El Escorial Palace, Monastery and Gardens

Private VIP visit to El Escorial Palace, Monastery and Gardens

RM521
per adult
Private VIP visit to El Escorial Palace, Monastery and Gardens
Soaring the sky early morning

Hot-Air Balloon Ride over Madrid’s Guadarrama Regional Park

RM928
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Hot-Air Balloon Ride over Madrid’s Guadarrama Regional Park
See the Stars in Madrid and Sierra de Guadarrama

See the Stars in Madrid and Sierra de Guadarrama

RM181
per adult
See the Stars in Madrid and Sierra de Guadarrama
Madrid: Night sky observation with an expert astronomer

Madrid: Night sky observation with an expert astronomer

RM181
per adult
Madrid: Night sky observation with an expert astronomer
PRIVATE VIP tour: El ESCORIAL Monastery & Palace & Library

Private VIP Tour: El Escorial Monastery & Palace & Library

RM893
per adult
Private VIP Tour: El Escorial Monastery & Palace & Library
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What to do in El Escorial

Stay near popular El Escorial attractions

Church of San Bernabe

8.0/10 (1 review)
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.
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Where to stay in El Escorial

Find the best El Escorial areas for the activities you enjoy most.

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 Real Club de Golf La Herreria and La Silla de Felipe II, a few notable attractions nearby.

Navalquejigo

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Navalquejigo and surrounding area, you can visit El Real Coliseo de Carlos III Theater and Centro Comercial Los Valles.

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 kilometres 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.