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    El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen from Madrid
    506 reviews

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    Overview
    Experience the grandeur of Spain on a guided half-day visit to El Escorial monastery and the Valley of the Fallen monument from Madrid. Discover why the Baroque-style El Escorial complex was considered the eighth wonder of the world, and admire the poignant sculptures of the Valley of the Fallen monument, erected in memory of the millions who died in the Spanish Civil War. You’ll gain insights into Spain's intriguing history at these symbolic monuments, reflecting the Spanish monarchy, church and 20th-century conflict, and have the option to include a half-day city tour of the highlights of Madrid.
    Highlights
    • Stress-free tour of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen
    • Eliminate the hassle of car hire or public transportation
    • Ideal for history buffs and first-time visitors to Madrid
    • Learn more on a guided tour of El Escorial monastery
    • Morning tour leaves the rest of the afternoon free for sightseeing 
    What to Expect
    Your half-day tour begins in central Madrid in the morning. Following the journey from the capital, embark on a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered a striking symbol of 16th-century Spanish power.
    Inside the basilica, admire religious relics and a Baroque dome. See the marble tomb of Charles V and the final resting place of Isabella of Portugal before exploring the Pantheon of Kings and the Weapons Room.
    Then, continue to the Valley of the Fallen, home to a colossal granite cross and a basilica carved into the mountain’s side. Learn about the effects of the Spanish Civil War and descend to a vaulted crypt.
    Your tour concludes with drop-off at your original departure point in the afternoon.
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    Reviews (506)
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    1 - 5 of 16 reviews
    Reviewed 3 days ago via mobile
    Some improvements

    The tour was ok and locations were interesting, but check in could have been improved. Made everyone stand cramped inside office and guide quietly announced and walked off,there were several different groups and confusion. Guide was also a bit aloof and unfriendly. Could have spent...More

    Date of experience: August 2019
    Thank Rohan B
    Reviewed 1 week ago
    Well worth a visit, historically and from a religious point of view

    1 hour coach ride from Madrid. Interesting history, great guide, lots of facts, fabulous basilica. Short further drive to valley of the Fallen. Breath takingly magnificent. A must see. Plenty of steps to climb so bear that in mind if that is an issue for...More

    Date of experience: August 2019
    Thank gordonpatricia
    Reviewed 3 weeks ago via mobile
    A must visit

    A great place with a lot of history, my 8 year old boy really enjoyed it, the tourist office was easy to find it is near the El palacio Real, our guide was very knowledgeable, worth the price and you come back in time for...More

    Date of experience: July 2019
    Thank bearocky2010
    Reviewed 11 July 2019
    Huge, and it gets better and better as you proceed.

    A massive place, it really helps to explain the power and strength behind Spain and its dynastic development. The basement has tombs and monuments that are really creepy. The display of bourbon power is important too. Allow plenty of time. Surprisingly there is a working...More

    Date of experience: June 2019
    Thank JerryFn
    Reviewed 19 June 2019
    El Escorial

    Great place to visit, and really impressive. It is worth the trip, which is not too long. Unfortunately I was not able to have the audio tour, but having been there, I would recommend either the audio tour or the guided tour.

    Date of experience: June 2019
    Thank martinsmith578
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    Questions & Answers
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    BLBChicago
    5 May 2018|
    Answer
    Response from msjg | Reviewed this property |
    El Escorial involves a great deal of walking and many stairs. The Valley of the Fallen has some stairs, but can be toured at your own pace if you prefer on this tour.
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