Be amazed by the lavish royal palaces and sprawling gardens in Aranjuez. The city is set on the River Tagus and was once a summer playground for Spanish kings and queens. As you explore the city, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a UNESCO Cultural Landscape. Day trip into Madrid to admire fine art at Museo Nacional del Prado, stroll around El Retiro Park and sip sangria in Plaza Mayor.
Things to do in Aranjuez
Retrace the footsteps of Spanish kings and queens at Palacio Real. Inspired by the lavish Palace of Versailles in France, the summer retreat features hundreds of lavishly decorated rooms. The gardens are magnificent and feature exotic plants from around the world. Within the tree-shaded grounds, you’ll find bubbling fountains, ornate pavilions and gems like Casa del Labrador. The handsome Neoclassical mansion is filled with royal artefacts.
Ride the popular Tren de la Fresa “Strawberry Train” between Aranjuez and Madrid. The beautifully restored heritage train has been running since the 1850s and treats you to beautiful views of the Iberian countryside. Your ticket includes guided tours of Palacio Real and the gardens.
Swap tourist traps in Madrid for authentic cafes, restaurants and tapas bars in Aranjuez. Find the best establishments in the atmospheric historic quarter. It’s centred around Plaza de La Constitución, a sunny square framed by colourful buildings. Wrap up a day of sightseeing with a glass of wine and a “bocadillo de calamares” squid sandwich, a local specialty in Madrid.
Stock up on supplies at Abastos Market. In addition to towers of fresh fruit and vegetables, it’s a great place to find cheese, meat, dry goods and ready-to-eat meals.
Getting around Aranjuez
Aranjuez is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is 45 minutes from Madrid by car or train. The train station is a 10-minute walk from the palace. Madrid-Barajas Airport is a 45-minute drive away.