Castles & palaces
Palace of Zarzuela
Palace of Zarzuela
Located on the outskirts of Madrid, this palace serves as the official residence and primary workplace of the King of Spain. Unlike the Royal Palace of Madrid, which is used for state ceremonies, this site is the center of the royal family's daily life and administrative duties.
Getting There
The palace is situated outside the city center. Visitors typically reach the site via taxi or rental car, as it is not located within the primary urban transit hub. The journey from central Madrid generally takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Visit Duration
Because the site is a working residence with restricted access to the interior, most visitors spend approximately 1 to 2 hours exploring the accessible exterior areas and surrounding grounds.
When to Visit
The palace is located in a quieter area compared to the city center, so it does not experience the same level of crowding as major downtown monuments. Visiting during the spring or autumn is recommended to avoid the extreme summer heat of the Madrid region.
Nearby Attractions
The location can be combined with other historical sites and parks in the western area of the city:
- Royal Palace of El Pardo (4.8km)
- Palace of Moncloa (7km)
- Casa de Campo Park (7.7km)
- Museum of the Americas (8.4km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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