Madrid must-see museums
Madrid is a city that lives and breathes art. From world-renowned collections to intimate artist homes, its museums tell the story of Spain and beyond — through brushstrokes, sculpture, photography, and fashion. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just curious to explore, these are the museums in Madrid you simply shouldn’t miss.
Museo del Prado
Spain’s most famous museum, the Prado is a temple of European art. Housing masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, and Titian, its collection is vast, yet deeply moving. It's not just one of the best museums in Madrid, it’s one of the finest in the world.
🕒 Free entry: Monday to Saturday from 6pm to 8pm, Sundays and public holidays from 5pm to 7pm.
🖼️ Don’t miss: “Las Meninas” by Velázquez and Goya’s haunting “Black Paintings”.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
If the Prado is the past, the Reina Sofía is modern Spain. Home to Picasso’s iconic “Guernica”, this museum dives into the 20th century with works by Dalí, Miró, and countless contemporary voices. Housed in a former hospital, it’s as bold as the artworks it protects.
🕒 Free entry: Monday and Wednesday to Saturday from 7pm to 9pm, Sundays from 12:30pm to 2:30pm. Closed Tuesdays.
🖼️ Don’t miss: The bright rooftop terraces and glass lift views over Madrid.
Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza
Right between the Prado and Reina Sofía sits the Thyssen, completing Madrid’s “Golden Triangle of Art”. Its private collection bridges centuries, connecting Renaissance works to American pop art. It’s a brilliant museum for spotting artistic evolution.
🕒 Free entry: Mondays from 12pm to 4pm (permanent collection only).
🖼️ Don’t miss: Hopper, Kandinsky, and Van Gogh all under one roof.
Museo Sorolla
In contrast to Madrid’s grand institutions, Museo Sorolla is an oasis. Located in the artist’s former home, it invites you into Joaquín Sorolla’s light-filled world. His paintings of Spanish beaches, gardens, and family life capture Mediterranean warmth like no one else.
🕒 Free entry: Saturday afternoons from 2pm, and all day Sunday.
🖼️ Don’t miss: The tranquil garden it feels like you’ve stepped into one of his paintings.
Museo del Traje (Costume Museum)
Fashion lovers, take note. The Museum of Costume takes you on a journey through Spanish clothing, from traditional regional dress to 20th-century designers. It’s thought-provoking, beautifully curated, and offers a fresh lens on Spanish identity.
🕒 Free entry: Saturday from 2:30pm, and all day Sunday
🖼️ Don’t miss: The evolution of the flamenco dress and the post-war couture floor.
CaixaForum Madrid
With its vertical garden and striking architecture, CaixaForum is a contemporary cultural hub. Inside, expect exhibitions ranging from photography and design to ancient civilisations. It’s innovative, dynamic, and always surprising.
🕒 No free entry slots available.
🖼️ Don’t miss: The building itself a marvel of industrial modernism.
Museo de América
Explore the rich cultures of the Americas in this fascinating museum. From pre-Columbian artefacts to colonial-era art, the Museo de América sheds light on the deep connections between Spain and Latin America.
🕒 Free entry: Thursday from 2pm, Saturday from 2pm, and all day Sunday.
🖼️ Don’t miss: The Quimbaya Treasure goldwork that glows with history.
Plan your art-filled day with Tootbus
🎟️ Most museums offer free entry at set times.
🚌 Just hop off at the closest stop and explore at your pace.
🎨 Whether you’re in the mood for Velázquez or video art, Madrid’s museums offer a window into the country’s soul.
So bring your curiosity and maybe a sketchbook and get ready to be inspired by the best museums in Madrid.