Top 12+1 Free Museums in Madrid

Madrid offers culture and art for all preferences and budgets. Continue reading this post to discover the best free museums in Madrid and enjoy the best of Spain’s culture completely free.

While the capital boasts a plethora of museums, I have curated this list to feature only those truly worth visiting for tourists with limited time in Madrid. All the museums and galleries on my list are free to the public at some or all times.

Best free museums in Madrid

In the initial section of this post, I have listed the top 5 free museums in Madrid that provide permanent free admission to guests.

In the second section, you will discover the other 8 best museums in Madrid, along with the specific days and hours when admission is complimentary.

Top Museums in Madrid with permanent free entry

1. Espacio Fundación Telefónica

• Location: Fuencarral, 3
• Metro: Gran Vía
• Website: Espacio Fundación Telefónica
• Opening hours: From Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Days Closed: All Mondays and on the following days: December 25, January 1 and 6.

Permanent free entry

The main goal of Espacio Fundación Telefónica is to disseminate knowledge through exhibitions, meetings, and activities that connect innovation, creativity, and technology within society. 

The Espacio is a multipurpose facility that offers a diverse and inclusive program, free of charge, catering to adults, young people, and children alike.

This cultural space is located in one of Madrid’s most emblematic buildings. Recognized as the first skyscraper built in Europe, it has been one of the symbols of the city since its construction in 1929. 

During the Spanish Civil War, the building was an important target due to its height, proximity to the front line, and status as the country’s primary communications center. Its basements served as shelters against bombings.

Guided tours, lasting approximately 50 minutes, are available. No prior reservation is required; simply arrive at the reception and sign up between 5 to 30 minutes before the tour. Each tour is limited to 30 people.

Free audio guides are also available and you can access them on your mobile device. if you are looking for the best free museums in Madrid, this is a must.

2. Naval Museum

• Location: Paseo del Prado, 5
• Metro: Banco de España
• Website: Naval Museum
• Opening hours: From Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-19:00 (August: 10.00-15.00)
• Days Closed: All Mondays and on the following days: January 1 and 6, May 1, December 24, 25 and 31.

Permanent free entry (voluntary 3 € donation)

The Naval Museum serves as a hub for research and conservation, aiming to narrate Spain’s maritime history. It stands as one of the most interesting free museums in Madrid.

The museum offers various visit programs adapted to the interests of the visitors. While entry is free, a voluntary donation of 3 € is encouraged for maintenance purposes.

It is located on the Paseo del Prado, close to El Retiro Park, and other renowned galleries in Madrid such as the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza.

The building, featuring a blend of classical and neo-Gothic architecture, boasts an impressive grand staircase crafted from Carrara white and ochre marble. It is adorned with a tower atop the main facade.

You will explore the Navy’s evolution from the time of the Catholic Monarchs. It encompasses astronomical, scientific, and navigational instruments; models of ships and naval structures; fine and decorative arts; weaponry, flags, ethnographic artifacts; and memorabilia belonging to distinguished sailors.

The map of Juan de la Cosa is on permanent display and stands out among the most interesting historical pieces of the museum. It is the earliest preserved map of the Americas. 

For the first time, the African continent is depicted with a north-south orientation. In contrast, the representation of Asia exhibits notable inaccuracies, as it relied on less scientific sources such as Ptolemaic theories and chronicles gathered from Italian travelers like Marco Polo.

3. San Isidro Museum. The Origins of Madrid

• Location: Plaza San Andres, 1
• Metro: Latina | Tirso de Molina
• Website: San Isidro Museum
• Opening hours: From Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-20:00 (Summer 10:00-19:00)
• Days Closed: All Mondays and on the following days: January 1 and 6, May 1, December 24, 25 and 31.

Permanent free entry

The San Isidro Museum presents Madrid’s archaeological legacy, showcasing the material, social, and spiritual remnants of the cultures that once inhabited this region of Spain. 

Additionally, it highlights the art and customs associated with San Isidro, the patron saint of Madrid. It is a meeting point for those interested in the history of Spain’s capital and ranks among the must-visit free museums in Madrid.

The building dates back to the early 16th century and once served as one of the Villa’s most prominent palaces.

The Well of the Miracle sits adjacent to the courtyard and, according to legend, is where San Isidro rescued his son from drowning when the waters surged up to the edge.

4. Matadero Madrid

• Location: Plaza de Legazpi, 8
• Metro: Legazpi
• Website: Matadero Madrid
• Opening hours: From Moday to Sunday 9:00-22:00.
• Days Closed: All Mondays. December 25 and January 1.

Permanent free entry

Matadero Madrid, formerly a slaughterhouse, underwent a transformation in 2006 when the Madrid City Council decided to repurpose it into an arts and cultural center for contemporary artistic endeavors.

It is located close to the Madrid Rio area, a huge recreational and cultural space adjacent to the Manzanares River, and one of the most popular green areas in Madrid. If you are on the lookout for popular free museums in Madrid, Matadero is a must-visit.

More than just a museum, Matadero Madrid is a dynamic creative space that accommodates various forms of artistic expression, including performing arts, cinema, music, design, architecture, urban planning, and landscape design.

It has become one of the main channels of promotion for artists and collectives in Madrid. There is always something going on in El Matadero, so make sure to check their activities calendar. Moreover, you will find several areas to grab a drink, enjoy a bite, and unwind.

5. Geological and Mining Museum (Museo Geominero)

• Location: Rios Rosas, 23
• Metro: Ríos Rosas
• Website: Museo Geominero
• Opening hours: 9:00-14:00.
• Days Closed: December 24, 25, and 31, January 1 and 6.

Permanent free entry

A visit to the Geological and Mining Museum is highly recommended, especially if you are traveling with kids. For many locals, this museum is regarded as one of the top museums in Madrid that offer free admission.

The museum’s primary aim is to conserve, research, and share the wealth and variety of geological, paleontological, and mineralogical heritage. It offers extensive collections of minerals, rocks, and fossils from across Spain, former colonies such as the Philippines or Cuba, and other notable sites worldwide.

The extensive museum collection is showcased in 250 display cases on the ground floor of the building and across three perimeter balconies. 

The permanent exhibition comprises several collections, including mineral systematics, mineral resources, rocks, meteorites, and fossils. Also beautiful gems, highlighting ruby, sapphire, emerald, and aquamarine, in addition to 14 replicas of famous diamonds.

Best Museums in Madrid with free entry days

6. Prado Museum

• Location: Ruiz de Alarcón 23
• Metro: Banco de España | Estación Arte
• Website: Prado Museum
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00–20:00. Sundays and holidays 10:00-19:00.
• Days Closed: January 1, May 1, and December 25.

Free entrance: Mon-Sat 18:00-20:00. Sun & holidays 17:00-19:00.

What days is the Prado Museum free for the general public?

Free entry times to Prado Museum are from Monday to Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Is the Prado Museum free for students?

Yes, Prado Museum is one of the free museums in Madrid for students between 18 and 25 years old.

Prado Museum is probably the most relevant art gallery in Madrid and one of the most famous worldwide, housing unique masterpieces by outstanding painters like Titian, El Greco, Rubens, Velázquez, and Goya. 

• The Prado Museum is aware of how time-consuming can be a full visit, so they recommend the following selection of 15 masterpieces for a 1-hour visit:

• “The Crucifixion” by Juan de Flandes (1509-19)
• “The Nobleman with his Hand on his Chest ” by El Greco (ca. 1580)
• “Las Meninas” by Diego Velázquez (1656)
• “Jacob’s Dream” by José de Ribera (1639)
• “The 3rd of May 1808 in Madrid” or “The Executions” by Goya (1814)
• “The Annunciation” by Fra. Angelico (1425-26)
• “The Cardinal” by Raphael (1510-11)
• “Emperor Charles V at Mühlberg” by Tiziano (1548)
• “The Immaculate Conception” by Tiepolo (1767-69)
• “The Descent from the Cross” by Weyden (before 1443)
• “The Garden of Earthly Delights Triptych” by H. Bosch (1490-1500)
• “The three Graces” by Rubens (1630-35)
• “Self-portrait” by Durero (1498)
• “Judith at the Banquet of Holofernes” by Rembrandt (1634)
• The sculpture of “Castor and Pollux” (ca. 10 b.C.)

However, being one of the most significant museums in Europe, it is no surprise that long lines are common during free admission hours.

Therefore, if you want to avoid wait times, you may consider purchasing Skip-The-Line tickets.

7. Reina Sofía Museum

• Location: Santa Isabel, 52
• Metro: Estación del Arte
• Website: Reina Sofia Museum
• Opening hours: Monday and Wednesday to Saturday 10:00–21:00. Sunday 10:00-14:30.
• Days Closed: All Tuesdays. January 1 and 6, May 1 and 15, November 9, December 24, 25 and 31.

Free entrance: Mon & Wed-Sat 19:00-21:00.  Sun 12:30 to 14:30. All day: April 18, May 18, October 12, December 6.

Close to the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum is one of the 3 most renowned art museums in Madrid. 

The Reina Sofia’s permanent collection includes excellent pieces of the most remarkable 20th-century painters in Spain, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí.

“Guernica” is one of Picasso’s most recognized works, and it is probably the most famous masterpiece in the Reina Sofia Museum.

The painting reflects the suffering of people during the bombing of Guernica, and experts consider the canvas one of the most remarkable anti-war paintings in history. 

“Guernica” has become a universal and powerful symbol warning humanity against the suffering and devastation of war.

8. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

• Location: Paseo del Prado, 8
• Metro: Banco de España
• Website: Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
• Opening hours: Monday 12:00–16:00. From Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-19:00.
• Days Closed: January 1, May 1 and December 25

Free entry: Mondays, and Saturdays 21:00-23:00

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum boasts one of the most outstanding art collections, featuring over 1,500 masterpieces spanning seven centuries of art.

Rubens, Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Monet, Degas, Renoir, Cezanne, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Titian, Kandinsky, Picasso, and Hopper are some of the renowned artists whose works are present in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.

Here are some of the most remarkable artworks in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum:

• “Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee Around a Pomegranate a Second Before Awakening” by Salvador Dalí
• “Swaying Dancer” by Edgar Degas
• “Portrait of Giovanna degli Albizzi Tornabuoni” by Domenico Guirlandaio
• “Les Vessenots en Auvers” by Vincent Van Gogh
• “Charing Cross Bridge” by Claude Monet
• “Saint Catherine of Alexandria” by Caravaggio
• “Mata Mua” by Paul Gauguin

The Thyssen Museum is situated across the street from the Prado Museum and completes the trio known as the Madrid Art Triangle, alongside the Prado and Reina Sofia. 

9. Royal Palace of Madrid

• Location: Bailén, s/n
• Metro: Ópera
• Website: Royal Palace
• Opening hours: April to September: 10:00-19:00. October to March: 10:00-18:00. Sundays 10:00-16:00.
• Days Closed: January 1 and 6, May 1, October 12, December 25

Free admission: May 18 and October 12. From Monday to Thursday, 17:00-19:00 (16:00-18:00 in Winter), for European Union citizens.

The Royal Palace stands as one of the city’s most stunning landmarks, located near the Royal Opera and overlooking the Sabatini Gardens. When looking for the top-rated free museums in Madrid, the Royal Palace is a must!

While the Royal Palace of Madrid serves as the official residence of the Spanish Royal family, it is predominantly used for official ceremonies nowadays.

It holds the distinction of being Europe’s largest functioning royal palace and boasts over 3,000 rooms adorned with exquisite paintings, sculptures, and decorations.

The Painting Gallery contains countless works of art, including Virgin with Child by Luis Morales, Portrait of Isabella the Catholic by Juan de Flandes, Salome with the Head of John the Baptist by Caravaggio and works by such artists as Velázquez, Goya, and Sorolla.

The Royal Armory is one of the most significant collections of its kind, housing weapons and armor worn by the kings of Spain and other members of the Royal family since the 13th century. 

The splendid Royal Kitchen is one of the oldest and best-preserved kitchens in a royal residence, notable for its size and the excellent condition of its accessories.

Changing of the Guard

The Solemn Changing of the Guard lasts almost an hour and, in total, 400 people and 100 horses take part in the spectacle. It takes place the first Wednesday of the month at noon (except January, August, and September).

The weekly Changing of the Guard ceremony is a much smaller, but just as meaningful, tradition. It takes place every Wednesday and Saturday at 11:00 (in July and August from 10:00 until noon).

Additionally, every 10 minutes the mounted sentinels march in front of the palace.

Campo del Moro Gardens

The Palace Gardens, also known as the “Campo del Moro,” are a must-visit when exploring the Royal Palace. Situated just behind the Palace, the entrance is always free and open to the public during the same hours as the palace.

10. National Archaeological Museum

• Location: Serrano, 13
• Metro: Serrano | Retiro
• Website: National Archaeological Museum
• Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday 9:30-20:00. Sundays & holidays 9:30-15:00.
• Days Closed: All Mondays. January 1 and 6, May 1 and 15, December 24, 25 and 31.

Free entrance: Saturday from 14:00 and Sunday mornings.  All day: April 18, May 18, October 12, and December 6.

The National Archaeological Museum is a must for all those interested in ancient civilizations, and one of the free museums in Madrid on Sundays.

The museum aims to provide the general public with an engaging interpretation of objects from various cultures that inhabited the Iberian Peninsula and the Mediterranean region, spanning from Prehistory to the Early Modern Age.

Moreover, it houses collections from outside of Spain, particularly from Ancient Greece and Ancient Egypt.

One of the most outstanding items is the Lady of Elche, an Iberian sculpture renowned for her lovely features, rich attire, and mysterious identity. 

Other valuable pieces on display are the Lady of Baza, the Treasure of Guarrazar, the Bull of Osuna, Mausoleum of Pozo Moro, and a collection of Greek vases, considered by specialists to be one of the best in the world.

11. Cerralbo Museum

• Location: Ventura Rodríguez, 17
• Metro: Plaza de España
• Website: Cerralbo Museum
• Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday 9:30-15:00 (also 17:00-20:00 just on Thursdays). Sundays & holidays 10:00-15:00.
• Days Closed: All Mondays and on January 1 and 6, May 1, December 24, 25 and 31.

Free entrance: All Sundays, Thursday 17:00-20:00. April 18, May 18, October 12, and December 6.

The Cerralbo Museum stands out as one of the few examples of a 19th-century mansion that has preserved its original décor. 

Visitors will be amazed by the impressive collection, which encompasses over 50,000 pieces, including antique numismatics, bibliographic materials, and documents.

The extensive array of objects includes European paintings, sculptures, drawings, clocks, coins, medals, archaeological artifacts, weapons and armor, as well as bibliographic collections. 

Additionally, there is a wide representation of decorative arts spanning various eras and styles, such as watches, lamps, jewelry, ceramics, furniture, rugs, and tapestries.

In order to respect the original appearance, there are no elements in the rooms with information on the objects on display. For this reason, a guide with information is provided for the visit.

12. Sorolla Museum

• Location: Paseo General Martínez Campos, 37
• Metro: Iglesia | Rubén Darío | Gregorio Marañón
• Website: Sorolla Museum
• Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday 9:30-20:00. Sundays & holidays 10:00-15:00.
• Days Closed: All Mondays and on January 1 and 6, May 1, November 9, December 24, 25 and 31.

Free entrance: Saturdays 14:00-20:00 and Sundays 10:00-15:00.

The Sorolla Museum aims to increase awareness and appreciation of Joaquín Sorolla’s legacy by showcasing the majority of the objects he collected throughout his lifetime.

The museum primarily features Sorolla’s artworks, comprising mainly paintings and drawings, making it the most comprehensive and representative collection of the artist’s work.

The museum is housed in the former family home of the artist, where collections are exhibited throughout the perfectly preserved space. 

In addition to being one of the top free museums in Madrid, it boasts one of the best-preserved artist studios still in existence. Visitors can view Sorolla’s original work utensils and some of his most renowned artworks on display.

12+1. Museum of Romanticism

• Location: San Mateo, 13
• Metro: Alonso Martínez | Tribunal
• Website: Museum of Romanticism
• Opening hours: Winter (1 Nov – 30 Apr): From Tuesday to Saturday 9:30-18:30. Sundays & holidays 10:00-15:00. Summer (1 May – 31 Oct) From Tuesday to Saturday 9:30-20:30. Sundays & holidays 10:00-15:00.
• Days Closed: All Mondays and on January 1 and 6, May 1, November 9, December 24, 25 and 31.

Free entrance: Sundays, and Saturdays from 14:00. All day: April 18, May 18, October 12, and December 6.

Built in 1776, the former palace of the Marquis of Matallana now hosts a captivating collection of 19th-century paintings, furniture, and decorative art. This collection beautifully encapsulates the cultural, political, and everyday life of Madrid during that era.

The collection features works by Goya, ceramics, jewelry, porcelain dolls, pianos, imperial and Isabelline furniture, and even the pistol Larra used to commit suicide.

The Magnolia Garden is particularly noteworthy, featuring four avenues with different trees, including a magnolia, and a circular fountain in the center.

Visitors will also discover the Museum’s Café, an exceptional spot to unwind and indulge in a wide variety of homemade cakes.

What Madrid museums are free on Sundays?

Certainly, visiting Madrid museums during the weekdays, from Monday to Friday, is more convenient when most locals are at work. However, it can also be an enjoyable indoor activity for the weekends.

Moreover, as mentioned in my previous list, the following Madrid museums offer free admission on Sundays for the general public:

• Prado Museum (from 17:00 to 19:00).
• Reina Sofía Museum (from 12:30 to 14:30).
• Espacio Fundación Telefónica (Permanent free entry).
• Sorolla Museum (10:00-15:00).
• Naval Museum (Permanent free entry, only a voluntary 3 € donation).
• San Isidro Museum (Permanent free entry).
• National Archaeological Museum (from 9:30 to 15:00).
• Matadero Madrid (Permanent free entry).
• Cerralbo Museum (All Sundays).
• Geological and Mining Museum (Permanent free entry).
• Museum of Romanticism (All Sundays).

In my opinion, these are the best free museums in Madrid, so make sure you save some time in your planning to visit them. 

However, the capital of Spain is much more than culture, check the best things to do in Madrid section and my comprehensive Madrid travel guide to save time and money, and make the most of your vacations in Spain.

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