How to Get to the Descalzas Reales
By metro from central Madrid
The nearest stations are Sol and Callao, both on the city centre lines. If you are at Sol, walk north along Carretas and turn right onto Espíritu Santo; it is a five-minute walk. Plaza de las Descalzas is small and unobtrusive; look for the plain brick front. If you are at Callao, you are a few blocks away toward the square. Ópera station is also relatively close but requires a longer walk northeast. All three are on metro lines 1, 2, 3, or 5.
By bus
Buses 3, 25, 39 and 148 all pass near the square. The exact stop depends on the route and direction. Ask the driver or check the route before boarding.
By foot from the airport
Barajas airport is outside the city. Do not drive; metro is cheaper and simpler. Take metro line 8 from any terminal to Nuevos Ministerios, change to line 10 to Tribunal, then change to line 1 heading toward Sol. Get off at Sol. Total time is roughly 30–45 minutes depending on waiting and changes. Alternatively, take the airport express bus to Cibeles and walk from there (about 15 minutes). Do not try to drive into central Madrid; parking does not exist near the monastery and the square is pedestrian-only.
On foot from other parts of Madrid
If you are at the Royal Palace, the Descalzas is about ten minutes' walk east; Puerta del Sol is two minutes further on. If you are at Plaza Mayor (ten minutes' walk south), head north through the old town and you will hit the square. The city center is very walkable. You can reach the Descalzas on foot from almost anywhere in the centro.
The square itself is small and quiet and you can easily walk past it if you are not looking for it. Look for the plain brick facade on a small plaza between Puerta del Sol and Callao metro.
Frequently asked questions
What is the address of the Descalzas Reales?
Plaza de las Descalzas, s/n, 28013 Madrid. It is on a small pedestrian square two minutes from Puerta del Sol. Book your timed visit slot in advance.
What is the nearest metro station?
Sol (lines 1, 2, 3) is a five-minute walk. Callao (lines 3, 5) and Ópera (lines 2, 5) are also close. Check hours before you go.
How do you get from the airport to the monastery?
Take metro line 8 from the terminal to Nuevos Ministerios, then line 10 to Tribunal, then line 1 to Sol. From Sol, walk five minutes to the square. Total time is 30–45 minutes. Or take the airport express bus to Cibeles and walk from there.