"Tell me: What’s this place all about? Towering over manicured gardens, a regal courtyard and the nearby Almudena Cathedral , history comes alive in this must-visit city landmark. While no longer the home of any royals, kings and queens slumbered here for centuries before relocating to a more private residence on the outskirts of town. Among its 3,000 rooms is a Royal Armory and an impressive gallery of notable Spanish masterpieces. You can’t help but adjust your posture and hold your head high as you imagine the aristocratic lifestyle of those who once strolled these halls. Tickets are required, and you can purchase them in advance online . Access is comped to European Union passport holders or citizens of most Spanish-speaking Latin American countries with identification during certain hours of the day. What’s it like being there? From the outside, the building is jaw-droppingly large and its adjoining Sabatini Gardens are a place for quiet reflection within frenetic Madrid. Inside, medieval history fans hit the jackpot with the suits of armor, shields, and antique weaponry on display. Do we need a guide? Those eager for every drop of royal gossip can hire a guide. Independent types will be more inclined to use the app available in 16 languages to guide themselves. If you forget to download it, there’s an option to rent a tablet at the ticket office. Who comes here? There is no shortage of tourists curious for a look at how the other half lives. It is a quintessential part of most city tours so prepare for lines as you’ll never have the place to yourself. Did it meet expectations? Consider this the ideal summary for those that want history, art, royalty, and architecture all in one place. This royal residence is sure to pique your interest in one of the city’s many other museums . Therefore, the Royal Palace of Madrid is a great starting point if you’re unsure how you want to spend your day. So then what, or who, do you think it’s best for? History buffs will be enamored, but those who have little interest in who ruled whom and in what century should stick to art museums like the Thyssen-Bornemisza or CaixaForum Madrid. There, you’ll find more thought-provoking contemporary exhibits that the royal residents of the palace would have never imagined possible." - Ramsey Qubein
