Things To Do
in Aranjuez

Aranjuez, Spain is a historic town located in the Madrid region, known for its stunning gardens, royal palaces, and rich cultural heritage. It has a unique blend of Spanish architecture and beautiful natural landscapes, making it a picturesque destination for travelers. The town is particularly famous for the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its lush gardens like the Jardín del Príncipe.

With a vibrant atmosphere, Aranjuez also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its deep-rooted traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Royal Heritage
morning
:

Start your day at the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, exploring its opulent rooms and beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit the Jardín del Parterre and enjoy a leisurely stroll through its manicured paths, followed by lunch at a local tapas bar.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurante La Almazara, which offers traditional Spanish dishes, and take a walk along the Tagus River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Museo de Falú and learn about the historical significance of the region, followed by a morning coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful Jardín del Príncipe and have a picnic while enjoying the scenery.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife at a bar in the Plaza de San Antonio, followed by dinner at El Rincón del Pan.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍦Ice Cream$3
🏨Hotel Night$80
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Stunning gardens and natural landscapes.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Aranjuez

Visit one of these nice places.

Royal Palace of Aranjuez

Capture the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, especially its stunning exterior and gardens.

Jardín del Príncipe

A picturesque garden perfect for nature photography, featuring fountains and expansive greenery.

Tagus River

The scenic riverbanks offer beautiful sunset views and reflections of the town's architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aranjuez

Aranjuez offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich agricultural heritage and traditional dishes that reflect the region's flavors.

Aranjuez Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Asparagus of Aranjuez

A seasonal delicacy, this tender asparagus is typically served grilled or with sauces.

Must-Try!

Fresas de Aranjuez

Renowned strawberries from the region, often enjoyed fresh or as part of desserts.

Tortilla Española

A traditional Spanish omelet made with eggs, potatoes, and onions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Abastos

A local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and artisanal products.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the town offer quick bites like churros and empanadas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aranjuez experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winters are cooler, often averaging around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is most common in spring and autumn, bringing lush greenery to the region.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a Kiss

When meeting locals, greet with a kiss on both cheeks, especially among friends.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and avoid starting to eat until everyone is served.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversations, especially with unfamiliar people.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aranjuez is generally a safe town for visitors, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas at night, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing.

Tipping in Aranjuez

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to leave small change or round up the bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Ideal for visiting as gardens bloom; temperatures are mild and perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and dry, with many festivals; visitors should stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors make it a lovely time for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold with occasional snowfall; fewer tourists but festive decorations and local celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Aranjuez at Night

Aranjuez offers a relaxed yet vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The Plaza de San Antonio is a popular gathering spot, filled with locals enjoying tapas and drinks. Live music can often be found in bars, particularly on weekends, while some venues host flamenco performances, showcasing traditional Spanish culture.

Hiking in Aranjuez

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Rasa Trail

A scenic trail offering views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

El Escorial Trail

A longer hike that takes you through beautiful forests and past historic sites.

Airports

How to reach Aranjuez by plane.

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Aranjuez, this is the main international airport serving the Madrid region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aranjuez is a walkable town with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Key attractions are within walking distance of one another, making it easy to explore the historic center on foot. Biking is also popular, with designated paths along the river and through the gardens.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Primarily composed of families and older individuals, reflecting a mix of traditional Spanish culture.

Tourists

Visitors come from both domestic and international locations, especially during the spring and summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Aranjuez, with local teams engaging in community matches.

Cycling

With its beautiful landscapes, cycling is a favored activity among both locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aranjuez is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect Aranjuez to Madrid and surrounding areas, while trains are available for longer journeys.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aranjuez.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Gluten-Free Options

While not widely available, some places cater to gluten-free diets; inquire ahead.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Aranjuez is good, with several clinics and a hospital available for both residents and tourists. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary medical treatment, while others are advised to have travel insurance.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide