17 Free Museums in Madrid
Are you planning a trip to Madrid and eager to explore its rich culture and history without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! Madrid boasts an array of free museums that provide a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, art, and heritage. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through 17 free museums in Madrid that you can’t afford to miss.
1. Andén 0
Are you a metro enthusiast fascinated by its history? Andén 0 is your destination. This unique museum comprises six spaces, three of them designed by the renowned architect Antonio Palacios. Explore the Nave de Motores, the Pacífico lobby, and the ghost station of Chamberí, a relic from Madrid’s metro history.
Did you know that the first Metro line in Madrid opened in 1919? Chamberí was one of the eight stations on this historic line, and visiting it feels like a journey back to 1960s Madrid. You can even join free guided tours, subject to availability.
Location:
- Nave de Motores de la Estación de Pacífico: Calle de Valderribas, 49
- Estación Fantasma de la Estación de Chamberí: Plaza Chamberí, s/n
- Exposición de Trenes Clásicos de la Estación de Chamartín: Calle Agustín de Foxá s/n
- Los Caños del Peral de la Estación de Ópera: Plaza Isabel II, 1
- Yacimiento Paleontológico en la Estación de Carpetana: Vía Carpetana, 141
- Antiguo Vestíbulo de la Estación de Pacífico: Calle Dr. Esquerdo con Av. De la Ciudad de Barcelona.
2. Casa Museo Lope de Vega
Explore the life and work of the notable writer Lope de Vega by visiting his former residence, now a museum. Located on Calle de Cervantes 11, in the heart of the Barrio de Letras.
The poet and playwright spent the last 25 years of his life in what he described as “… my little house, my quiet place, my small garden, and my study.” Despite sounding modest, the house was quite prominent in its time. In 1935, it was declared a historic-artistic monument and opened to the public, coinciding with the 300th anniversary of Lope de Vega’s death.
It’s a must-visit if you want to get up close to the inspirational haven of one of Spain’s most renowned writers from the Golden Age, who happened to be from Madrid!
Location: Calle de Cervantes, 11
Opening Hours: Free every day, Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays). Visits are scheduled every 35 minutes, with the last tour at 5:00 PM. To book, call +34 91 429 92 16 or email [email protected] (indicate the preferred day of the week, preferred time slot, contact phone number, the number of visitors, and language preference: Spanish, English, Italian, or French).
3. Museo Arqueológico Nacional
If you’re passionate about archaeology and eager to learn more about ancient civilizations, the Museo Arqueológico Nacional is the place to be. Located on Calle Serrano, this museum offers not only exhibitions but also lectures and concerts.
It boasts an extensive permanent collection covering Prehistory, Roman Hispania, Al-Andalus, the Christian Kingdoms of the Middle Ages, the Near East, and all the way to the Modern Era. In addition, there are temporary exhibitions, such as one focusing on Paleolithic art in the Duero Valley, available until February 12, 2023.
Location: Calle de Serrano, 13
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:00 PM, Sunday mornings, and holidays (April 18, May 18, October 12, December 6). Also free every day for visitors under 18 and over 65, large families, Carné Joven holders, students aged 18 to 25, and legally unemployed individuals.
4. Museo de la Biblioteca Nacional
Not only does the Biblioteca Nacional (National Library) house a vast collection of incunabula, but it’s also housed in a stunning building on Paseo de Recoletos.
The Exhibition Halls and the Museum of the Library, where various cultural exhibitions and activities take place, are open to the public. You can find exhibitions on literature from Hispanic America, Africa, and, of course, Spain.
But the most precious treasure of the National Library of Spain is its extensive collection of manuscripts, drawings, photographs, and other historically valuable documents.
Location: Paseo de Recoletos 20-22.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
More Information: Visit their website.
5. Museo Casa de la Moneda
Perhaps it took the arrival of “Money Heist” in our lives to finally pay a visit to the Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre (National Mint and Stamp Factory). Inside, you’ll find the Museo Casa de la Moneda, inviting the public to explore the history of money from its origins through various production methods throughout history.
Visiting its rooms, you can view important collections of numismatics, philately, pre-philately, banknotes, and other means of payment, as well as a historical library, an art collection, machinery, and tools used by the National Mint and Stamp Factory.
Additionally, the Museo Casa de la Moneda hosts other activities such as storytelling for school groups, evening concerts, and temporary exhibitions that you can check on their website.
Location: Calle Doctor Esquerdo, 36
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday to Sunday and holidays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Free admission upon presentation of ID.
6. Museo Cerralbo
The Cerralbo Museum is a unique museum that has preserved its period aesthetics, filled with furniture, antiques, and paintings. In fact, the building itself was designed more as a visitable gallery and party venue than a typical residence.
In this museum, you’ll find various collections and exhibitions. Famous works like El Greco’s San Francisco, Tintoretto’s Portrait of a Gentleman, or Zurbarán’s La Inmaculada adorn the walls of the Museo Cerralbo. Moreover, there’s an extensive collection of sculptures, photographs, prints, books, and other historically valuable items.
Location: Calle Ventura Rodríguez, 17
Opening Hours: Free admission on Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Sundays and holidays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Free admission every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
7. Museo del Prado
Would you believe it if we told you that you can visit the renowned Prado Museum for free under certain conditions? Well, it’s true!
On Mondays to Saturdays from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Sundays and holidays from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the Prado Museum offers free access to its rich collection of European art. Keep in mind that this free access applies to the permanent collection, not temporary exhibitions.
The Museo del Prado boasts works by some of the world’s most celebrated artists, including Velázquez, Goya, El Bosco, Tiziano, and Rubens, among others.
Location: Paseo del Prado, s/n
Opening Hours: Check their website for details.
8. Museo de Historia de Madrid
Immerse yourself in the history of Madrid by visiting the Museo de Historia de Madrid. Located in an impressive 17th-century building, this museum provides a comprehensive look at the city’s past, from its origins to modern times.
Explore its various rooms, which showcase archaeological finds, paintings, maps, and other artifacts that tell the story of Madrid’s development. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events that shed light on different aspects of the city’s history.
Location: Calle Fuencarral, 78
Opening Hours: Free admission every day, except for Mondays, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
9. Museo Sorolla
Enter the world of the famous Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla by visiting his former residence, now the Museo Sorolla. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Chamberí, this museum showcases a remarkable collection of Sorolla’s works, including his iconic beach scenes and portraits.
Wandering through the museum’s rooms, you’ll gain insight into the artist’s life and artistic evolution. The museum also features beautiful gardens that provide a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Location: Paseo del General Martínez Campos, 37
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:30 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
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10. Museo de la Ciudad
The Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) offers a captivating journey through Madrid’s history, from its origins to the present day. Housed in a former military arsenal, this museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks that illuminate the city’s development.
Discover the evolution of Madrid’s urban landscape, the lives of its inhabitants, and the key events that shaped the city’s identity. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural activities related to Madrid’s heritage.
Location: Calle Príncipe de Vergara, 140
Opening Hours: Free admission every day, except for Mondays, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
11. Museo Nacional de Antropología
Experience the richness of world cultures at the Museo Nacional de Antropología. Located in a historic building, this museum showcases a diverse collection of ethnographic artifacts from different continents.
Explore exhibits on indigenous peoples, traditional crafts, rituals, and customs from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania. The museum’s displays provide insights into the cultural diversity and heritage of human societies across the globe.
Location: Calle Alfonso XII, 68
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:00 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
12. Museo de América
Embark on a journey through the history and cultures of the American continent at the Museo de América. Located in a striking neoclassical building, this museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks from indigenous American civilizations.
Explore exhibitions on pre-Columbian cultures, colonial history, indigenous art, and contemporary indigenous peoples. The museum’s displays provide a fascinating glimpse into the diverse and complex history of the Americas.
Location: Avenida Reyes Católicos, 6
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:00 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
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13. Museo del Traje
If you have an interest in fashion and clothing history, don’t miss the Museo del Traje. This museum is dedicated to the evolution of clothing and fashion in Spain from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Explore a rich collection of costumes, textiles, accessories, and historical garments that provide insights into changing fashion trends and styles over the centuries. The museum also hosts exhibitions and educational programs related to the world of fashion.
Location: Avenida de Juan de Herrera, 2
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:30 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
14. Museo del Romanticismo
Step back in time to the Romantic era at the Museo del Romanticismo. Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace, this museum offers a glimpse into the art, culture, and lifestyle of the Romantic period in Spain.
Explore the museum’s rich collection of paintings, decorative arts, furniture, and personal belongings of prominent figures from the Romantic era. The museum’s elegant rooms and exhibits transport visitors to the enchanting world of 19th-century Spain.
Location: Calle de San Mateo, 13
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:30 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
15. Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas
Discover the beauty of decorative arts at the Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas. Housed in a magnificent palace, this museum showcases a diverse collection of decorative objects, including furniture, ceramics, glassware, textiles, and more.
Explore exhibitions that highlight the craftsmanship and artistic achievements of different time periods and styles. The museum’s displays offer a visual feast of intricate designs and exquisite craftsmanship.
Location: Calle de Montalbán, 12
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:30 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
16. Museo de Artes y Tradiciones Populares
Immerse yourself in the folk traditions and cultural heritage of Spain at the Museo de Artes y Tradiciones Populares. Located in a historic building, this museum showcases a diverse collection of traditional crafts, costumes, musical instruments, and everyday objects.
Explore exhibitions that celebrate the rich tapestry of Spain’s regional cultures
and customs. The museum’s displays provide a captivating insight into the traditions and way of life of different Spanish communities.
Location: Calle de Segovia, 17
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:30 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
17. Museo de San Isidro
Experience the history of Madrid at the Museo de San Isidro. Housed in a historic building, this museum tells the story of the city from its origins to the present day.
Explore exhibitions on archaeology, urban development, and daily life in Madrid throughout the centuries. The museum’s displays provide a fascinating journey through the city’s evolution and cultural heritage.
Location: Plaza de San Andrés, 2
Opening Hours: Free admission on Saturdays from 2:30 PM, Sundays, and holidays. Also free every day for visitors under 18, over 65, and EU citizens upon presentation of ID.
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These 17 free museums in Madrid offer a wealth of cultural experiences and insights into the city’s history, art, and heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about Madrid’s past, these museums are sure to enrich your visit to the Spanish capital in 2023. Enjoy your exploration of Madrid’s cultural treasures!
