VISIT ARANJUEZ

A must-see symbol near Madrid
Aranjuez is famous for its royal palace and splendid gardens, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Situated on the banks of the River Tagus, this city was chosen by the Habsburgs and then the Bourbons as their spring residence. Its town planning, parks and architecture reflect the refinement of the Spanish monarchy.

Why visit?
The royal palace, inspired by Versailles, surprises with its richly decorated rooms and art collections. The gardens, adorned with fountains and statues, offer an unforgettable stroll through nature and architecture. Aranjuez is also associated with music, thanks to Joaquín Rodrigo's famous Concierto de Aranjuez.

A brief history and anecdotes
The Royal Palace of Aranjuez was built in the 16th century under Philip II and extended by the Bourbon kings. Anecdote: in 1808, Charles IV signed the "Abdication of Bayonne" here, paving the way for Napoleon's invasion. The city was also one of the first places in Spain to be linked by train, with the Madrid-Aranjuez line inaugurated in 1851.

What can you do there?
- Visit the royal palace and its luxurious rooms
- Stroll through the Prince's, Île and Parterre gardens
- Discover Casa del Labrador, an elegant neoclassical villa
- Stroll along the Tagus and admire its monumental fountains
- Taste the famous Aranjuez strawberries, a local speciality

Where is it?
📍 Aranjuez, Community of Madrid, Spain
👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice
- Accessible by Cercanías train from Madrid (approx. 45 minutes)
- Ideal to visit in spring, when the gardens are in bloom
- Allow several hours for the palace and parks
- Discover the city in a horse-drawn carriage or by boat on the Tagus River

To discover around
- The Prince's Garden and the Falúas Reales (Royal Boats) Museum
- Carlos III Royal Theatre
- Plaza de Toros d'Aranjuez
- Classified agricultural landscapes (strawberries and asparagus from Aranjuez)

Audioguide
🎧 Listen to our immersive description of Aranjuez on History Guide City Madrid !
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