Escorial Monastery & Valley of the Fallen: Madrid Day Trip Review

Thinking about taking a trip out of Madrid, like to the Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen? So, it’s almost one of those tours that pops up when you’re figuring out what to see near Madrid. It’s certainly got a bit of history and, in a way, some strong feelings connected to it. This review really takes a closer look at what the trip’s actually like, what to keep in mind, and whether or not it’s right for you.

Why Choose This Day Trip, Basically?

Lots of travelers wonder why visit these two locations together, right? Well, the Escorial Monastery, is that it used to be where Spanish kings chilled out, and the Valley of the Fallen, is that it’s this monument that was made to remember those who perished during the Spanish Civil War. Going to both in one day gives you a look at the royal side of things and then, too it’s like facing a pretty sensitive time in Spain’s past. You get, arguably, a whole picture, almost, of Spain’s history and, really, how it all connects. Anyway, some people really dig learning history this way, in that case a day trip really works.

Getting There and Getting Around, Seemingly

So, you’ve got options for making this trip, right? There’s, arguably, the bus tour thing, which is likely what you’ll see advertised, which can be easy if you want everything sorted for you. Then, there’s the train and bus route if you prefer to do things a little, a little bit by yourself, it’s almost cheaper. I want to highlight to remember to, literally, check the schedules for transport, and buy tickets early, that’s actually a pretty good idea. When you’re there, in fact there’s buses that link the Escorial to the Valley of the Fallen, that’s helpful.

First Stop: The Mighty Escorial Monastery

Now, about the Monastery – it’s actually huge. Very big. Philip II wanted this super big place made and is that it ended up having a bit of everything, that it had a monastery, a palace, too it’s a library and, yes, a mausoleum. You, arguably, spend hours walking around, that in itself is exercise. Take a moment to stare at the library; so it has loads of books and some super old documents, basically a book lover’s dream. Then, go down to the crypt where they hold the remains of Spanish royalty, now that’s intense. Keep an eye out for the artwork as you’re going from room to room, honestly the building is spectacular. It shows you how they lived back then, or in a way, the vibe of how royalty saw things. To, basically, enjoy this, think about reading a little, actually just a bit, beforehand so you understand everything better. Maybe even grab a guide so you don’t just walk through.

Second Stop: Valley of the Fallen, Sort of

Alright, this place really stirs things up, or just causes controversy. This huge monument, it’s very, really tall, was built to respect people who perished from both sides in the Spanish Civil War, alright? Now, here’s the slightly odd bit – Francisco Franco, the dictator, he is buried there too. I am telling you, the inside of the basilica really gives you chills. Being there forces you to remember a bit of a sorrowful, so important time in Spain’s story, still Spain’s story. A bunch of people may have very powerful, actually strong feelings when they come to this spot and in a way, that is actually important. It would be advisable to go with information in hand about what went down back then, that way things are that much easier to, literally, put in perspective. It’s very thoughtful.

What You’ll Get Out of It, Virtually

So, what, literally, will you feel once you’ve done both of these places, right? The Escorial gives a look into the luxurious past of Spain, you know the power they had at one time. Then, there’s the Valley of the Fallen that makes you think concerning just how very complex history could be. They mix really well for the person hoping to join in, perhaps get closer to some parts that help one understand Spain a bit better. Nevertheless, if large, actually huge, religious places do little for your soul, and controversial memorials give a somewhat bitter taste, perhaps it makes more sense to visit other destinations that are near Madrid. As a matter of fact, Toledo perhaps.

What Should Be Brought

To take pleasure in these places with maximum comfort and attention, keep these suggestions handy. Very useful if followed:
1. Comfy Shoes: So, you might be doing, basically, a ton of strolling, just bring trainers. It would be a mistake not to.
2. Water and snacks: Really there are options to get some drinks and nibbles around the Monastery. Yet bringing something along for when going between the places means it’s really simple, especially when it’s very sunny.
3. Camera: Loads of things here have that, that kind of beauty that is photo-ready – be ready.
4. Money: In order to, maybe, purchase trinkets and/or lunch, carry some euros with you.
5. Sunscreen and head covering: Loads of your tour might be in the open sun. Safeguard your epidermis.
6. Respectable Outfit: This means for those entering the Basilica – be thoughtful!

Photo Opportunities Are Almost Everywhere, So

Alright, so prepare that photographic equipment for what’s, honestly, pretty awesome picture-taking. The views that, frankly, come from the Valley of the Fallen – oh my god!. Besides that you may be interested in snapping images when in El Escorial in the accompanying locations:
* Primary Patio:
Ideal shot place to begin with, honestly. The layout shows well starting from that vista and looking at all of it, is great.
* Basilica: You’ll capture lots once inside – the dome that will almost certainly make you drool!
* Library – Be very watchful. With permission to image do so and yet be wary, this place has that something about it that demands caution!
* Valley Perspective
Ensure you go on to seek what this viewpoint grants – great photo opportunities there I’m pretty certain!. Seriously. Now you need to grab something hot and go rest for a spell, now right?.!

Is the Trip For you, Potentially?

Okay, consider these, almost, pretty frank questions to, you know, find out:
* Do I Care About How the Royalty Used to Live and Their Places – When So What’s There To Dislike?.!
* Am I Alright with Destinations that Might stir strong Emotions?.! or should I forget all of it?
* Are Large Amounts of Visitors Good For My Trip?.! This makes you wonder…
* Should I Know Spain’s Backstory Before I Do It?! – This Is Often, Literally Very Overlooked Indeed…
Should you prefer calm excursions away from hordes and destinations free from difficult backstory or circumstances – don’t select this excursion I now really have told you!

Other Recommendations of Destinations Nearby. Very Handy Stuff…

Okay, just so you’re covered, here’s multiple alternate day visits I want to basically just sort of give you:
* Toledo:
Rightly popular and famed – take in Toledo’s sights instead. It is packed by historical spots but moreover carries amazing landscape plus art. The whole family likes it I reckon and honestly just really feels very right!. The mix is spot on!
* Segovia:
Notice Rome’s engineering by this massive aqueduct and after explore around that enchanting quaint-village near to the aqueduct – worth going to almost!.
* Aranjuez:
Notice Aranjuez, basically. Well-known by royal house and beautiful garden.
Think of your heart when choosing!. If places like this thrill, pick places near there.

So Some Handy Conclusions

• Dual Sites Exploration: You view two different significant sites in just one journey.
• Record of Culture: Learn information related to past monarchs along with memory sites linked by the nationwide battles throughout the time.
• Complicated Experiences: Be wary. Experiences over at places such as memorial park could trigger tough sensation occasionally.

Whether regarding record coupled with significant exploration one can acquire it coming by one tour. Keep emotions in balance whenever one attends sites holding governmental plus private conflict memories so, I mean, go and grab this now – I mean go if something draws anyone near… You recognize?!. Enjoy it there.!
Safe Travels to all – and all enjoy. Hashtags attached below!:
#EscorialMonastery #ValleyOfTheFallen #MadridDayTrip #SpainHistory #TravelReview #HistoricalSites