Barcelona is full of culture and art, and this is evident in its plethora of museums and galleries throughout the city. If you’re visiting Barcelona, chances are that visiting a few of these museums might be on your list of things to do. But with so many to choose from, which museums are worth the time and money? These museums in Barcelona are some of the most popular and frequented, and often bring people back for more than one visit!
Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya
One of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona is the Museu Nacional d’Art de Cataluna (MNAC). Sitting on Montjuïc, overlooking the Font Màgica, a trip to MNAC is worth it simply to climb up the steps and see the view of Barcelona from above. This museum houses classical art, with a focus on Catalan artists. However, MNAC has an extensive collection of European art from the Renaissance, as well as temporary exhibitions that change frequently. Also, entry is free the first Sunday of the month, like most public museums in Barcelona, and every Saturday after 3 PM!
Address: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc
Museu Picasso
One of the most popular museums in Barcelona is the Museu Picasso, a gallery dedicated to one of the world’s most famous artists, Pablo Picasso. Picasso called Barcelona home early in his career and produced many amazing works during this time. The collection is spread across 5 beautiful houses built between the 13th-15th centuries. These buildings demonstrate Catalan architecture of the time, and have survived the test of time. Be sure to arrive early since this museum is always buzzing! You can also buy tickets online in advance.
Address: Carrer Montcada, 15-23
CaixaForum
The CaixaForum is an exposition center with rotating collections and exhibitions of varying themes. It is also located on the beautiful Montjuïc mountain, which by itself is a delight to discover. CaixaForum also offers activities and workshops that are fun for the whole family and kid-approved. Check out CaixaForum’s website to consult the calendar of exhibitions and activities.
Address: Avinguda de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 6-8
CosmoCaixa Barcelona
Want to be amazed by the natural world? Head on over to CosmoCaixa, a natural science museum where the natural world comes to life. Many of the installations and exhibits are hand-on and interactive, which appeals to visitors of all ages. You can also visit the museum’s indoor rain forest, complete with plants and animals! Discover why this is one of the top museums in Barcelona, and fun for kids and adults alike!
Address: Carrer d’Isaac Newton, 26
Museu Etnològic i de Cultures del Món
Want to learn more about and understand Catalan culture? Explore this and other world cultures at the Museu Etnològic i de Cultures del Món (MUEC). This museum gives visitors a look at cultures from places near and far through their extensive collection of art and objects. Additionally, the museum itself is housed in a beautiful building in the historic city center, a stone’s throw away from the Museu Picasso. Plan your visits right and you can see both in one day!
Address: Carrer de Montcada, 12-14
Museu Blau
Museu Blau is another natural science museum, and a favorite of both tourists and locals alike. The main collections focus on the natural world, with a focus on the natural history of Catalonia. There are temporary exhibitions as well, that change every few months. Additionally, be sure not to miss the museum’s botanical garden for some fresh air and marvelous plant life.
Address: Plaça Leonardo da Vinci 4-5
Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona
The Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) is a must-see for art-lovers. Explore modern European art from the 1950s on, by both Catalan and foreign artists. The museum’s collection will push the limits of your imagination and make you think outside the box. MACBA is also a popular hangout for skateboarders and photographers, so you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the mix of people that meet here daily.
Address: Plaça dels Àngels, 1
Museu d’Historia de Barcelona
To understand the history of Barcelona, you should visit the Museu d’Historia de Barcelona (MUHBA). The museum explores the city’s Roman past and brings the visitor though the centuries up until modern times. You will learn about the history, see the city’s ruins, and explore many artefacts from Barcelona throughout the ages. MUHBA is the place to go to discover the long and interesting story of Barcelona as we know it today.
Address: Plaça del Rei, s/n
Museu de la Xocolata
The Museu de la Xocolata is without a doubt one of the sweetest museums in Barcelona! Kids and adults can both enjoy this magical museum, where a bar of chocolate serves as your entry into the museum. Not only will you learn about chocolate production, you will delve into the works of traditional Catalan chocolatiers. You won’t believe your eyes at some of the things that can be created from this sweet treat!
Address: Carrer del Comerç, 36
Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona
Last but not least in the Centre Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB), a cultural center with various exhibits, activities, and facilities. Right behind the MACBA, this center hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, as well as courses, workshops, festivals, and concerts. CCCB promotes a variety of activities related to the fine arts that entertain as well as astonish. Consult CCCB’s website for the calendar of exhibitions and activities.
Address: Carrer de Montalegre, 5
It’s important to note that all of Barcelona’s public museums are free on the first Sunday of the month. Public museums are usually free on holidays like May 18th (International Museum Day) and September 11th. Private museums may not adhere to this policy, so don’t hesitate to check online or call first if in doubt!
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If you’re visiting Barcelona soon, make your travel planning easy and come stay with us at Olala Homes!
