Royal Monastery of El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen

Explore the UNESCO-listed Royal Monastery of El Escorial.
Visit the Hapsburg’s Palace, Kings, and Princes Mausoleum.
Marvel at the Renaissance-style architecture and library.
Experience the Valley of the Fallen, commemorating Spanish Civil War combatants.
Witness the monumental underground church and the World’s Largest Cross.
Mobile Voucher accepted, no need to take the print!

Embark on a 5-hour journey into Spanish history, starting at the Royal Monastery of El Escorial. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century architectural complex showcases Hapsburg’s Palace, the Basilica, and more. Dive into Renaissance-style wonders with a local guide. Continue to the Valley of the Fallen, honoring Spanish Civil War fighters, where a massive cross stands tall atop an underground church.

Hop on one of the comfy, air-conditioned bus that will take you on a cool ride out of the city. Now, get ready to explore the Royal Monastery of El Escorial – a fancy name for a really old and important building. UNESCO considered it as a World Heritage Site. El Escorial is the biggest Renaissance building globally, and it serves multiple purposes as one of the Spanish royal sites. It operates as a monastery, basilica, royal palace, pantheon, library, museum, university, school, and hospital. This place was built way back in the 16th century, and it is like a symbol of how powerful the government was back then. With a guide by your side, you will get to see the coolest parts of this monument.

As you stroll around, you will see amazing stuff like the Habsburg’s Palace, the Chapter House (which sounds like a secret hideout), the Basilica (a fancy word for a big church), and a library that is probably full of old, interesting books. Once you have soaked in all the history and beauty of this heritage sites, it is time to hop back on the bus for a short drive to another cool place called the Valley of the Fallen. The Valley is closely associated with Francisco Franco, the military leader who governed Spain from the conclusion of its intense civil war in 1939 until his passing in 1975. It is about 9 kilometres away from El Escorial, nestled in a place called Sierra de Guadarrama. You can spot it from far away because there is this huge cross standing tall above it. It is so big that you can see it for miles. Now, the Valley of the Fallen is not just any regular spot – it has got an underground church built right into the mountain. And on top of it all, there is this giant cross that is known as the World’s Largest Cross. So, there you have it – a day of exploring history, cool architecture, and a giant cross in Madrid. Do not forget to enjoy every moment of this awesome adventure.

Transportation in an AC coach
Professional Guide
Bilingual Tour (Spanish & English)
Radio guide system
Admission to the Royal Monastery of El Escorial
Admission to the Valley of the Fallen and the Basilica

Hotel pick up and drop off
Meals

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.
Wheelchair or stroller accesssible : No
Voucher info : Both Mobile and Printed Voucher are accepted!
It is MANDATORY to collect the tickets at Julia Travel office in Madrid, please refer to your documentation for detailed information.
All travellers are advised to carry their Passport/ID card on the day of travel.
The tour includes walking long distances, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
Visitors are kindly requested to respect the instructions of the Security Staff.
Photography and filming are not permitted inside the exhibitions.
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers per guide.
Disclaimer : Due to traffic issues, public holidays, weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances, there might be sudden changes in the route or on the schedule. Traffic congestion and road closures - may cause delays, reduced frequency and changes to the route. We’ll do all we can to provide a smooth and frequent service! No refund will be offered for any changes or cancelations due to any unforeseen circumstances.

You must cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the start time of the activity/experience to get a complete refund.
If you cancel your booking less than 24 hours before the start time of the activity/experience, you will not be reimbursed.
Any modifications made less than 24 hours before the start time of the activity/experience will not be allowed.
The cut-off times are determined by the activity/experience's local start time.
This activity/experience is weather dependent. If it is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be given an alternate date or a full refund.