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Sunset

Golden Hour at El Pardo

Spend the late afternoon inside the royal hunting lodge, then step out just in time to watch the sun dip below the western horizon.

Best time: 15 OctAbout 75 min

Timeline

  1. 18:50

    Palacio Real de El Pardo

    Enter the Palacio Real de El Pardo. The late afternoon light filters through the windows, illuminating the vast collection of tapestries, some designed by Francisco Goya. With the last admission at 18:00, you have plenty of time to wander the halls before the sun goes down.

  2. 19:35

    Palacio Real de El Pardo

    Step outside as the sun sets toward the W. The golden light of 18:58 washes over the palace grounds, offering a serene view of the estate as the day ends.

  3. 20:05

    Palacio Real de El Pardo

    Take the bus 601 to head back into the city. Use this time to reflect on the history of the residence that served as Francisco Franco’s home and now hosts foreign dignitaries.

Local tip

Check the bus 601 route for the return journey. The palace is free on Wednesdays and Sundays from 15:00 to 19:00, but verify the schedule as it is closed on Mondays.

Check before you go

  • The Palacio Real de El Pardo is open Tue-Sun 10:00-19:00, with last admission at 18:00.
  • Admission is €9 for adults and €4 for reduced; free on Wednesdays and Sundays from 15:00-19:00.
  • Check the bus 601 route for transport from the palace.

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Madrid (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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