Madrid, as Spain’s capital, is the country’s center for art and culture. Knowing that, it comes as no surprise that there are countless places to learn more about Spanish culture. Madrid boasts theaters, museums, concert halls, and so much more. If you’re looking to dip into Spain’s culture, start in the city’s museums. Here you have a quick summary of the best museums in Madrid!

Museo Nacional del Prado

The Museo del Prado is at the top of the best museums in Madrid
Photo by marcp_dmoz on VisualHunt

The Museo de Prado is probably the most famous museums in the country, a massive collection of classical Spanish art. The Prado first opened its doors as an art gallery in 1819, and since then has made its name as the national art gallery in Spain. You’ll see works by big names in classic Spanish art like El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya. The museum has free admission Monday-Saturday from 18:00-20:00, and Sundays from 17:00-19:00. While free admission is great, be prepared for a long line!

Address: Paseo del Prado, s/n
Opening hours:
Mondays-Saturdays 10:00-20:00
Sundays 10:00-19:00
Buy tickets: Official website

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

One of the best museums in Madrid for modern art in the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. If you love 20th-century art from big names like Picasso, Dalí, and Miró, you have to stop by the Reina Sofía for a visit. The museum also has a library that’s open to the public, which features books and media related to art. Most of the museum’s collection is Spanish art, but you can see works by other modern, international artists.

Address: Calle Santa Isabel, 52
Opening hours:
Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays 10:00-21:00
Sundays 10:00-19:00
Tuesdays closed
Buy tickets: Official website

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Right down the street from El Prado is the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, another authority on art in Madrid. As one of the city’s best museums, the Thyssen has a large art collection that features schools and works not found in El Prado or the Reina Sofía. This museum has more than 1600 paintings, which makes it one of the largest private collections in the world!

Address: Paseo del Prado, 8
Opening hours:
Tuesdays-Fridays & Sundays 10:00-19:00
Saturdays 10:00-21:00
Mondays 12:00-16:00
Buy tickets: Official website

CaixaForum Madrid

CaixaForum Madrid is always one of the best museums in Madrid
Photo by pdbreen on VisualHunt

Part art museum and part cultural center, CaixaForum Madrid is a can’t-miss when you’re in the Spanish capital. On the famous Paseo del Prado, this center is recognizable from the outside for its iconic Vertical Garden. The CaixaForum hosts rotating exhibitions, activities, and workshops that are fun for all ages. The CaixaForum holds many different exhibitions that feature art, history, science, and more. The building itself is quite a work of architecture, and worth the visit alone!

Address: Paseo del Prado, 36
Opening hours:
10:00-20:00 Every day (Holidays might affect opening hours. Please consult the official website)
Buy tickets: Official website

Palacio Real

he Royal Palace is a top contender for the best museums in Madrid
Photo by campra on VisualHunt

The Palacio Real is one of the residences of the royal family, but is also open to the public for visits. Guests can tour sections of the palace and learn more about the history of the royal families throughout the centuries. Take a tour of the armory to see antique sets of armor and weaponry from Spanish battles, as well. It’s the largest royal palace in Western Europe, which is apparent in its elegance and splendor.

Address: Calle de Bailén, s/n
Opening hours:
10:00-20:00 every day
Buy tickets: Official website

Museo Sorolla

Museo Sorolla is the former home of the Spanish artist Joaquín Sorolla, and features many of his works. Sorolla worked with several different mediums, and the different rooms in the house showcase his vast collection. Check out the museum’s website so that you can see the different activities and visits that are available. Enjoy the art and the beauty of Sorolla’s traditional Spanish home, all in one visit!

Address: Paseo del General Martínez Campos, 37
Opening hours:
Tuesdays-Saturdays 9:30-20:00
Sundays 10:00-15:00
Mondays closed
Buy tickets: Official website

La Casa Encendida

La Casa Encendida is a cultural center in the center of Madrid that features artistic, philosophical, educational, and environmental activities. This center focuses on offering activities that enrich the community as well as stimulate the mind and spirit. Entrance is free, and La Casa Encendida is right around the corner from the Reina Sofía, a convenient location. Stop by to enjoy the workshops, screenings, concerts, and so much more.

Address: Ronda de Valencia, 2
Opening hours:
Tuesdays-Sundays 10:00-21:45
Mondays closed

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