Visit El Escorial: Tips, Itinerary & Local Experiences

Getting to El Escorial from Madrid

By train

Hop on a train from Madrid’s Moncloa or Atocha stations for a smooth, comfortable ride. You’ll pass rolling hills, quaint villages, and stretches of green countryside that feel like a mini escape from the city. Trains drop you near the town center, so you can step off and immediately start exploring El Escorial’s charming streets.

By bus

Buses run frequently from Madrid’s city center and deliver you close to the main plaza. This is a budget-friendly option that also lets you enjoy glimpses of the Guadarrama foothills along the way. Keep in mind that during weekends and holidays, buses can get crowded, so booking in advance or traveling early is a smart move.

By car

Driving gives you ultimate flexibility, stop wherever you like, explore mountain viewpoints, or detour to nearby trails. The route is scenic, with winding roads, charming villages, and leafy landscapes that make the journey part of the adventure. Parking is available near the town’s center and along trailheads, making it easy to mix sightseeing with nature walks.

Mix and match

Combine modes for the perfect day trip: take the train into town, wander cobblestone streets and plazas, then hop on a bus or taxi to reach Monte Abantos or other nearby hiking trails. This approach gives you convenience, flexibility, and a chance to enjoy both the town’s vibe and the surrounding natural beauty without rushing.

Know before you go

Charolés

A Michelin-listed restaurant renowned for its traditional Spanish cuisine. Don't miss their hearty cocido stew, available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Must-try: Cocido madrileño, roasted lamb chops, and Segovian-style tripe (callos).

Asador del Rey

Specializes in meats cooked over firewood, offering dishes like roast lamb and suckling pig. From their terrace, you can enjoy views of the monastery!

Must-try: Cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), cordero asado (roast lamb), and judiones de La Granja (giant white beans).

Vesta Taberna

Offers a modern twist on traditional Spanish dishes, perfect for those seeking innovative flavors in a cozy setting.

Must-try: Octopus with potato foam, Iberian pork cheeks in red wine reduction, and creative tapas plates.

Mesón Los Candiles

A local favorite serving classic Spanish dishes. Known for its warm ambiance and traditional recipes, it's a great spot to experience authentic flavors.

Must-try: Segovian chorizo, sopa castellana (Castilian garlic soup), grilled meats, and ponche segoviano (local dessert).

Fonda Genara

Set in an 18th-century building, this restaurant serves a mix of traditional and creative cuisine. Their white beans with matanza and stewed lentils are highly recommended.

Must-try: White beans with matanza, stewed lentils, slow-cooked oxtail in red wine, and venison stew (seasonal).

Al Punto Hambgourmet

Elevates the classic burger with high-quality meats and homemade sauces. A must-visit for burger enthusiasts.

Must-try: Iberian ham and manchego burger, blue cheese and caramelized onion burger, truffle mayo burger, and loaded fries.

The town is relaxed and welcoming; locals enjoy long lunches and evening strolls in the plazas.
Silence and respect are appreciated inside monastery spaces, chapels, and museums.
Weekends are lively: families gather in plazas, markets buzz, and musicians sometimes play in the streets.
Tipping is polite but not obligatory; rounding up the bill is common.
A “hola” goes a long way in starting conversations—locals appreciate the effort.

Main streets and plazas are pedestrian-friendly, perfect for casual strolling and photography.
Some mountain trails, alleys, and cobbled streets can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
The town has ramps and accessible entrances in many public areas, but older historic sites may have limited access.
Public transport within the town.
Plan ahead if you’re visiting during busy festivals or market days, as streets may get crowded.

Romería de Nuestra Señora de la Virgen de Gracia (Second Sunday of September)