Let’s get to know the free museums in Madrid 🏢 🌆
Immerse yourself in the artistic heartbeat of Madrid, a city where world-class art and history are accessible to all. Among Madrid’s most enticing attractions are the numerous museums dotted throughout the city, many of which open their doors to the public for free. Madrid’s museums, ranging from timeless classics to modern marvels, showcase the city’s dedication to art, history and more.
Ready to explore for yourself? Keep reading for our guide to free museums in Madrid.
Free Museums in Madrid: Museo de Historia de Madrid
The Museo de Historia de Madrid, located in the former Royal Hospice of San Fernando, offers a journey through Madrid’s history from the 16th century to the present. Its collection includes paintings, models, and photographs that depict the evolution of the city. The museum’s highlight is the Allegory of the Villa de Madrid, a painting by Francisco de Goya. Visitors can also explore temporary exhibitions that delve into various aspects of Madrid’s history and culture.
- Entrance: Free
- Address: Calle de Fuencarral, 78
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Espacio Telefónica
The Telefónica Building, constructed between 1926 and 1929, was originally the headquarters of the National Telephone Company of Spain. In the 21st century, the building underwent a significant transformation to become Espacio Telefónica. The space hosts exhibitions that blend art, science, and technology, offering a unique perspective on the digital world. The museum’s interactive displays and multimedia installations make it a fascinating visit for tech enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
- Entrance: Free
- Address: Calle de Fuencarral, 3
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Museo Geominero
The Museo Geominero, housed in the Instituto Geológico y Minero de España, presents a stunning collection of geological treasures. Visitors can marvel at minerals, rocks, and fossils from Spain and its former colonies. The museum’s architecture, with its grand staircase and beautiful stained glass, adds to the experience. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in geology or natural history.
- Entrance: Free
- Address: Calle Ríos Rosas, 23
- Opening Hours: Every day of the week from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Museo del Aire (Air Museum)
The Museo del Aire, located at the former Cuatro Vientos Airport, offers a fascinating exploration of aviation history. This museum provides an extensive collection of aircraft and aviation-related artifacts. Visitors can see over 150 aircrafts, ranging from early flight models to modern jets, including fighters, bombers, and transport planes. The museum also features engines, weapons, and uniforms, giving a comprehensive view of aviation technology and its impact on history.
- Entrance: Free
- Address: Carretera de Extremadura A-V, Km 10,700
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Museo Sorolla
Although not technically free, Museo Sorolla comes close with an extremely-low cost of 3€.
Dedicated to the works of Joaquín Sorolla, this museum is located in the artist’s former home and studio. It offers an intimate glimpse into Sorolla’s life and art, showcasing his luminous, impressionist-style paintings. The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens, also designed by Sorolla, providing a peaceful retreat in the city. His works, primarily focused on landscapes, portraits, and social themes, reflect the light and color of the Mediterranean.
- Entrance: 3€
- Address: Calle General Martínez Campos, 37
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm; Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Museo del Romanticismo
The Museo del Romanticismo, set in a restored 19th-century palace, offers a glimpse into the Romantic era in Spain. It houses a collection of furniture, paintings, and decorative arts from the 19th century, reflecting the lifestyle and customs of the period. The museum’s highlights include works by Goya and Madrazo, as well as a recreated Romantic-era garden.
- Entrance: 3€
- Address: Calle San Mateo, 13
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Free Museums in Madrid: Museums with Select Free Hours
In addition to the free museums in Madrid, there are certain museums which open their doors for free during specific hours. This ensures that Madrid’s wealth of art and history is accessible to all, democratizing the cultural experience.
Prado Museum
One of the world’s premier art galleries, the Prado Museum houses an impressive collection of European art. It features works by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch – just to name a few!
- Free Entry Hours: Monday to Saturday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and Sundays and holidays from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Reina Sofía Museum
The Reina Sofía Museum, focusing on 20th-century art, is home to Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ and other modern masterpieces.
- Free Entry Hours: Monday and Wednesday – Saturday from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, plus Sundays from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Offering a comprehensive overview of Western art, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum showcases works from the medieval period to the late 20th century.
- Free Entry Hours: Mondays from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Museo Nacional de Arqueología
The National Archeology Museum provides a journey through Spain’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the modern era.
- Free Entry Hours: Saturdays from 2:00 pm and Sunday mornings.
Museo Sorolla
Celebrating the work of Joaquín Sorolla, the Museo Sorolla also has select free hours. As mentioned before, you can explore the beautiful space which showcases the luminous works of Joaquín Sorolla.
- Free Entry Hours: Saturdays from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and Sundays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
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Photo Credits:
- All photos used through the Canva Free Media License
