Exploring the rich history of Spain is a captivating experience, and the private half-day tour of El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the country’s past. With round-trip transportation, expert commentary, and personalized attention, this tour promises an intimate and engaging journey through the stunning Gothic architecture and significant monuments that have shaped Spain’s narrative. However, the true essence of this excursion lies in the ability to reflect on the country’s turbulent history, as the visit to the Valley of the Fallen provides a poignant reminder of the Spanish Civil War.
Good To Know

- This private half-day tour from Madrid takes visitors to the El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, an expert guide, and admission to the El Escorial Monastery.
- Visitors have approximately 2 hours to explore the El Escorial Monastery and 1 hour at the Valley of the Fallen.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seat accommodations are available upon request.
- The tour has a maximum group size of 10 travelers, allowing for a personalized experience.
Tour Overview

This private half-day tour from Madrid takes visitors to explore the renowned El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen.
Included is round-trip transport from central Madrid, ensuring a stress-free experience. An expert guide will provide insights into Spain’s rich history as you discover these significant historical sites.
With a rating of 4.5 stars based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this tour offers a well-regarded opportunity to explore Spain’s past.
The tour includes admission to El Escorial Monastery, while entrance to the Valley of the Fallen is at an additional cost.
Hotel pickup in the city center is available upon request, subject to traffic restrictions.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Madrid
Itinerary Details
The tour first stops at the El Escorial Monastery, where visitors spend approximately 2 hours exploring the site.
They’ll discover the Gothic cemetery, the basilica, and the monastery founded by St. Jerome.
Next, the tour visits the Valley of the Fallen, a monument commemorating Spanish Civil War victims.
Visitors have around 1 hour to explore this site, though admission isn’t included.
The tour then concludes with the return trip to the meeting point in central Madrid.
Throughout the experience, an expert guide provides insights into Spain’s rich history and the significance of these important landmarks.
Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation from central Madrid, as well as the admission fees to the El Escorial Monastery.
However, it doesn’t cover the entrance fee to the Valley of the Fallen monument. Travelers will also need to cover the cost of their own food and drinks during the tour.
Plus, there’s a possibility that access to the monuments may be restricted due to official events, which isn’t included in the tour.
The tour can accommodate strollers and infant seats, but they must be requested in advance.
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Pickup Information

Pickup can be arranged from hotels in central Madrid; travelers need to specify their preference at the time of booking.
The meeting point for this tour is the corner of Julio Camba and Alcalá streets in Madrid.
Please note that direct hotel pickup may not be possible due to traffic restrictions in the area. Travelers should plan to meet the guide at the designated meeting point.
The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, so it’s important to book early to secure your spot.
Pickup and drop-off locations are subject to change based on traffic conditions on the day of the tour.
Accessibility and Group Size

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though stroller and infant seats are available if requested in advance.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers. This small group size allows for a more personalized experience and ensures everyone can hear the guide clearly.
Visitors should be prepared for some walking, as the tour explores historical sites on foot. Those with mobility concerns may want to consider alternatives or inquire about accessibility prior to booking.
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Cancellation Policy

Guests can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience. This allows for flexibility in case plans change or unexpected events arise.
Key points about the cancellation policy:
- Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the tour start time.
- There’s no charge for cancellations made within this timeframe.
- This ensures guests can book with confidence and adjust their plans if needed.
- The tour operator give you a hassle-free experience, accommodating changes when possible.
Pricing Information

The tour’s pricing starts at $597.76 per person and can vary depending on the size of the group.
This private half-day excursion from Madrid includes round-trip transportation, an expert guide, and admission to the El Escorial Monastery.
The Valley of the Fallen monument is an optional stop, with its entrance fee not included in the tour price.
The tour accommodates up to 10 travelers maximum.
Hotel pickup in central Madrid can be arranged, though traffic restrictions may prevent direct pickup at some locations.
Travelers have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.
Additional Traveler Tips

Travelers should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and infant seats can be arranged in advance.
This private half-day excursion has a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
It’s important to keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or admission to the Valley of the Fallen, and there may be occasional closures of monuments due to official events.
To avoid any inconvenience, it’s a good idea to check for updates prior to the tour date.
Finally, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for travelers.
- Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible
- Strollers and infant seats available upon request
- Tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or admission to the Valley of the Fallen
- Potential closures of monuments due to official events
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
The tour is available in multiple languages. According to the details provided, the tour includes a private guide, so the guide can accommodate the language needs of the travelers. However, the specific languages offered are not explicitly stated.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking, with approximately 2 hours spent exploring the El Escorial Monastery and 1 hour at the Valley of the Fallen. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully experience these historical sites.
Are Audio Guides Provided for Self-Exploration?
Audio guides aren’t provided, but the tour includes an expert guide to provide detailed insights during the visits. Guests can explore the sites independently, with the guide available to answer questions and share information along the way.
Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional sites. Travelers can discuss options with the guide and arrange customized add-ons, though this may incur extra fees and require prior coordination with the tour provider.
What Should I Bring for the Best Experience?
For the best experience, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and water. They should also consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic landscapes at the tour sites.
The Sum Up
This private half-day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Spain’s rich history. Visitors will experience the grandeur of El Escorial Monastery and the poignant Valley of the Fallen, with insightful commentary from an expert guide. The small group size ensures a personalized and engaging experience. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to learn about Spain’s cultural heritage, this tour is a must-do.
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