Visit Aranjuez
If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, you may have already noticed that the tourism offerings are extensive in the Spanish capital, as well as in the surrounding region. Segovia, Toledo, Chinchón… The list of towns and villages to visit nearby is long. There’s no chance of getting bored! Today, we’re off to visit Aranjuez.
Aranjuez in a Few Words
Located 42 km from Madrid, the town of Aranjuez is one of the favorite excursions for tourists visiting the Spanish capital.
Anyone who has been there knows exactly why its beauty is a true asset, attracting more and more curious visitors.
Nestled between the Tagus and Jarama rivers, a temperate and fertile valley gave birth to Aranjuez. It was during the reign of Philip V that its current layout was established.
The king granted it the title of “Royal Site” and it was under Kings Philip V and Charles III that their courts were established there.
From that era, the town inherited harmonious architecture, reflected in its palace and magnificent gardens.
These gardens earned the town recognition as a Cultural Landscape and were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001.
VISIT ARANJUEZ : MY FAVOURITE TOURS
Visit Aranjuez: 6 Must-See Attractions
The beauty of Aranjuez and its proximity to Madrid make it the perfect destination for a short getaway.
It’s no surprise that many tourists choose to explore it on a day trip.
1. Royal Palace of Aranjuez
- October to March: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- April to September: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
2. Parterre Garden
Located near the Royal Palace, this French-style garden was designed during the reign of Philip V in the 18th century.
Its geometric layout and elegant fountains lend a majestic touch to this must-see site.
The straight pathways and neatly trimmed hedges invite visitors to enjoy peaceful strolls.
Like all the gardens in the city, it’s the perfect place to escape the heat and enjoy a stunning and contemplative setting.
3. Rey Garden
Another garden located close to the Royal Palace, it was created in the 16th century during the reign of Philip II. Designed in a Renaissance style, its Italian influence is clear.
Its fountains, colorful flower beds, and decorative sculptures add even more charm to the place.
It’s yet another perfect spot for a leisurely walk, admiring the rich botanical diversity and enjoying a serene and refined atmosphere.
4. Isabel II Garden
5. Principe Garden
Venturing away from the Royal Palace, you’ll discover this other green space, created in the 18th century during the reign of Charles III.
Spanning approximately 150 hectares, it is the largest of the royal gardens in Aranjuez. Designed in an English style, it contrasts sharply with the other gardens in the area.
Beyond being a simple green oasis known for its expansive lawns and meandering paths that invite leisurely walks, it also features notable decorative elements.
These include the famous Chinese Pavilion and the Casa del Labrador.
The garden is also traversed by canals and ponds, adding an extra touch of beauty to this peaceful haven.
6. San Antonio de Padua Church
To conclude this list of things to do in Aranjuez, it’s time to mention another must-see monument: the San Antonio de Padua Church.
Dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, it is a splendid example of 18th-century Baroque architecture.
Built during the reign of Ferdinand VI, the church is distinguished by its elegant facade and impressive dome.
Inside, visitors can admire frescoes, gilded stucco ornaments, and sacred paintings and sculptures depicting biblical scenes and figures of saints.
How many days to visit Aranjuez?
When to visit Aranjuez?
The best times to visit Aranjuez are from April to June and from September to October.
During these periods, temperatures are pleasant, and rainfall is minimal, which is ideal since most of the city’s attractions are outdoors.
If you visit Aranjuez in the summer, be aware that it can get extremely hot, with temperatures rarely dropping below 30°C.
May is also a great time to explore the city as it hosts the Strawberry Festival, featuring tastings of the famous fruit and various festive activities.
In September, the Patronal Festivals take place, bringing together tourists and locals for a series of religious and cultural celebrations.
How to reach Aranjuez from Madrid?
The most convenient option for getting to Aranjuez is to take the Cercanías train departing from Atocha Station. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
The cost of the trip is very affordable, and trains run frequently. It is by far the fastest and most economical way to reach the city!
Several bus lines also connect Madrid to Aranjuez. You will need to go to the Méndez Álvaro bus station for this option. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour.
If you prefer more flexibility, especially if you plan to visit other towns and villages around Madrid, driving is the most suitable option.
The A4 freeway will get you to Aranjuez in about 50 minutes, provided traffic is light. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent one in Madrid.
For the more adventurous, you can reach Aranjuez by bike, partially following the Camino de Madrid, a scenic route that runs alongside the Tagus River.
How to get around in Aranjuez?
The places to visit in Aranjuez are very close to each other, so you can easily explore everything on foot.
If you enjoy cycling, you can also take advantage of the bicycles available for rent, allowing you not only to visit the main attractions but also to explore the surrounding areas of the city.
If you need to travel a bit farther within Aranjuez, you can use the local bus network or take taxis.
There are also small tourist trains that offer guided tours, providing a fun way to discover the iconic sites of Aranjuez.
Where to stay in Aranjuez?
The city of Aranjuez is really small, so you’ll never be far from the most important attractions.
Take advantage of this by choosing accommodation that you really like, without worrying about the distance to the main landmarks.
3 hotels where to stay overnight
Hotel Jardín de Aranjuez: Just a 5-minute walk from the Royal Palace, this hotel offers charming rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms.
NH Collection Palacio de Aranjuez: Located across from the Royal Palace, the hotel occupies an 18th-century building and offers modern rooms. Some accommodations overlook the Royal Palace. All guests have the option to relax in the peaceful central courtyard.
Hostal Castilla: Located in the historic center of Aranjuez, Hostal Castilla offers charming and bright rooms. You can also relax in the beautiful gardens of the interior patio.
Be a digital nomad in Aranjuez
Aranjuez is a small town, which means it’s not really a destination for digital nomads. Moreover, the international community there is quite limited.
However, if you’re looking to experience a quieter life away from the big Spanish cities, it might be a good destination:
- A cheaper place to stay with fewer difficulties than in large cities;
- Undeniable beauty with charming streets and magnificent tourist attractions;
- Proximity to Madrid to continue enjoying the benefits of the capital;
- Numerous parks to enjoy nature and recharge.
Aranjuez may not be the digital nomad destination of the region, but why not give it a chance?
Be a responsible traveler in Aranjuez
As everywhere else, it’s important to take care of the environment for future generations and to be able to enjoy these destinations for a long time.
As a traveler, it’s important to travel more responsibly:
- Don’t feed the various animals you may encounter in the gardens;
- Don’t pick flowers or plants in the different green spaces;
- Use trash bins to dispose of all your waste;
- Learn about the local recycling rules;
- Use a tote bag for shopping or buying souvenirs;
- Choose restaurants that use local products;
- Opt for the train to visit the city;
- Learn a few words of Spanish to communicate with the locals.
Of course, there are many other actions you can take to become a responsible traveler. These are just a few ideas!
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