A royal weekend in Aranjuez
Two days in Aranjuez: palace, gardens, the Casa del Labrador, music at the theatre, the Real Cortijo de San Isidro and Chinchón. A plan for staying the night.
The best way to get to know Aranjuez is to stay. With one night you’ll see the gardens empty first thing, the river at sunset, and have time for the Casa del Labrador, which only opens Friday to Sunday, and for Chinchón on day two.
The plan
Saturday, 10:00
Royal Palace
The big visit, at an easy pace.
Saturday, 12:00
Parterre and Island Garden
The two gardens next to the palace, before lunch.
Saturday, 16:00
Casa del Labrador
Open Friday to Sunday only, 50-minute guided tour. Book ahead.
Saturday, 19:00
Sunset by the river and a concert
A walk along the Tagus and, if there's a performance, music at the Teatro Real Carlos III. Check what's on.
Sunday, 9:00
The empty Prince's Garden
First thing, there's nobody. The Chinescos pond and the Montaña Rusa all to yourself.
Sunday, 11:30
Real Cortijo de San Isidro
Charles III's wine cellar with a tasting. Book by phone or email.
Sunday, 14:00
Lunch in Chinchón
Half an hour by car. Lamb, the Plaza Mayor and the Goya in the church.
Before you go
- Book accommodation early if your dates fall on the Mutiny Festival (first week of September) or the end of May.
- Without a car, swap Sunday for the Barge Museum and a boat or canoe trip on the Tagus.
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