Teatro Real Madrid: tours, opera and tickets

Updated on October 9, 2026

Teatro Real stands between Plaza de Oriente and Plaza de Isabel II, opposite the Royal Palace. Inaugurated in 1850 and restored to opera in 1997 after major alterations, it can also be explored outside performance times. An audio-guided visit is suitable for seeing the public spaces; technical and artistic tours explore other aspects of theatre work. A tour ticket and a performance ticket are separate purchases.

Highlights

The façade facing Plaza de Oriente

From the gardens, look at the theatre's composition opposite the palace. This viewpoint helps explain its position within royal Madrid. Continue your walk to the Royal Palace of Madrid.

The building on the Ópera side

Walk around to Plaza de Isabel II to see the other façade and locate your entrance. Inside, the audio-guided visit includes spaces such as the foyer, reception rooms and terrace; the main auditorium may be closed for technical or organisational reasons.

The work behind opera

The technical tour focuses on the stage, scenery and machinery, while the artistic tour looks at preparations for performances. Choose your tour when booking: an audio-guide ticket does not automatically include backstage access.

Practical info

Tips

Prices checked in October 2026: audio-guided visit €10, reduced €9 for over-65s, under-26s and large families; free for children under 5. The audio guide on your phone is available in French, English and Spanish; bring headphones. Technical tour: €23, reduced €18, minimum age 10. Artistic tour: €20, reduced €17. Dates are released monthly; book through the Teatro Real's official ticket office. Rehearsals may alter the route, and the 12:00 visit does not include the main auditorium. Opera ticket prices vary by production and seat: check visibility and surtitles for your chosen performance.

How to get there

Plaza de Isabel II, s/n, 28013 Madrid. Metro Ópera (lines 2 and 5, Ramal shuttle). The theatre has entrances on both Plaza de Isabel II and Plaza de Oriente: use the one stated on your ticket, distinguishing between the ticket office, tours and performances.