Frequently asked questions

Where is the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso?

It sits in the town of Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, in the hills near Segovia in central Spain, about 80 km (50 miles) north of Madrid and roughly 15 minutes by road from Segovia.

How do I get to La Granja from Madrid?

It is about a 90-minute drive northwest of Madrid. By public transport, take a train or bus to Segovia, then a regional bus or taxi to San Ildefonso. The Segovia-Guiomar high-speed station connects to Madrid in under 30 minutes.

What is included in the Adult ticket?

Skip-the-line entry to the palace State Rooms, access to the formal gardens on open days, a free self-guided audio companion, an instant mobile e-ticket, and multilingual support before you travel.

Who qualifies for the Reduced ticket?

The single reduced category covers children aged 5-16, visitors aged 65 and over, and accredited students up to 25 with a valid student card. Bring photo ID and proof of eligibility, as it is checked on the day.

Do you have separate senior and student tickets?

No. The monument uses one combined concession category, so we offer a single Reduced ticket that applies to eligible children, seniors and students alike.

Are the gardens free to visit?

The gardens are generally free to enter on ordinary days. On scheduled fountain-display days an additional garden or fountain ticket may apply, and those dates are limited and popular, so plan ahead.

When do the fountains run?

The monumental fountains operate on a published seasonal schedule, typically spring through autumn, with only a few days each year when every fountain plays at once. Check the current display calendar before choosing your date.

Is the palace open on Mondays?

No. The palace is closed every Monday, and on a small number of public holidays. We recommend planning your visit for Tuesday through Sunday.

What are the opening hours?

Generally Tuesday to Sunday, with longer summer hours (around 10:00-19:00, April to September) and shorter winter hours (around 10:00-18:00, October to March). The palace and ticket desk close about an hour before the stated closing time.

How long should I plan for my visit?

Allow around 2.5 to 3.5 hours: roughly an hour for the State Rooms and longer to explore the vast gardens, especially if the fountains are flowing.

Is there a guided tour option?

Yes. Our Guided Palace and Gardens experience adds a live expert guide who shares the story of the Bourbon court and the Versailles-inspired gardens, with the audio companion included for the rest of your visit.

How will I receive my ticket?

Your e-ticket is delivered by email within seconds of booking. Just show it on your phone at the palace entrance on Plaza de Espana; there is no need to print anything.

Do I need to pick a time slot?

Yes, entry is by timed slot to manage capacity inside the palace. Choose your date and time at checkout and arrive a few minutes before your slot.

Can I get a refund if my plans change?

Tickets are time-specific, so we cannot always refund a change of plans, but if the monument fails to honour a valid ticket we will refund you in full. Contact our support team and we will help wherever we can.

Is the palace accessible for visitors with reduced mobility?

Many ground-floor State Rooms offer step-free access, but some historic areas and garden paths involve steps, gravel and slopes. Contact us before booking and we will share detailed guidance for your visit.

Is this the official ticket website?

No. We are an independent concierge ticket service that bundles skip-the-line entry, instant delivery, a free audio companion and human support into one easy booking. We are not the monument or its operator.

What should I bring on the day?

Bring your mobile e-ticket and, for any reduced or free ticket, photo ID plus proof of eligibility in the same name as your booking. Comfortable shoes and a light layer are wise for the gardens.