Free walking tours in Aranjuez and what to see

Must-sees

Aranjuez was one of the Royal Sites of the Spanish monarchy, and its Cultural Landscape is a World Heritage Site. The Royal Palace, beside the river Tagus, was the court's spring residence and keeps rooms such as the porcelain cabinet. Next to it is the Parterre garden and, across the channel, the Jardín de la Isla, with fountains and tree-lined walks by the water.

The Jardín del Príncipe is the largest, and in it are the Casa del Labrador, a small pleasure palace, and the Museo de Falúas Reales, with the boats the kings used on the river. The town centre, with its straight streets, has the Plaza de San Antonio and corrala houses. The town is also known for its strawberries and asparagus, and for Joaquín Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez.

Free tours and guided visits

Pay-what-you-like free walking tours in Aranjuez usually cover the outside of the palace, the Plaza de San Antonio and the historic centre, with explanations about the court, the Mutiny of Aranjuez and the town's layout. A guided visit inside the Royal Palace is the most recommended paid option. There are also tourist train rides through the gardens and combined trips with nearby Chinchón. The Tren de la Fresa, a historic train from Madrid, runs in some seasons.

How long to spend

Aranjuez is easily seen in a day. Spend the morning on the Royal Palace and the Parterre, have lunch in the centre and spend the afternoon strolling through the Jardín de la Isla and the Jardín del Príncipe to the Casa del Labrador. The gardens are large, so wear comfortable shoes. If you want to see everything at leisure or add Chinchón, allow two days.

Where to stay

The most practical choice is to stay in the centre, near the Plaza de San Antonio and the palace, so you can walk to the gardens and have restaurants all around. The streets of the historic centre are quiet at night. If you arrive by train from Madrid, the station is a few minutes' walk from the centre. For car trips, some hotels on the outskirts make parking easier.