These museums feature some of Europe’s and Spain’s finest works of art, culture, and history and must not be forgotten or overlooked on a visit to the city. However, the multitude of museums in Madrid might be overwhelming to choose from especially if only in Madrid for a short period of time, so below I leave you with a sneak peek and take you on a Madrid museum tour of a few of the most memorable museums and must see exhibitions within them. Let’s begin!

 

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

The Museo Reina Sofia also known as the Queen Sofia Museum is a true gem. Located just blocks away from Madrid’s famous and sprawling Retiro Park, the museum is home to one of Spain’s finest collections of 20th century art. Some of Spain’s most famous artists of the early 20th century such as Salvador Dalí, Juan Miro, and Pablo Picasso line the exhibits of the Reina Sofía as well as more contemporary artists such as Spanish painter Ángela Garcia Codoñer.

By reserving your tickets online, you can save 2€ by paying 8€ instead of the 10€ for sale upon entry into the museum. For a complete information and visiting guide, click here.

 

Museo Arqueológico de Madrid

The Madrid Archeology Museum is home to one of the world’s most famous antique collections. Upon arriving at the museum, one is immediately greeted by the neatly organized columns and arches very typical of neoclassical architecture as well as the detailed artwork that lines its facade. The building was designed by Spanish architect Francisco Jareño in the 19th century. The architecture is just one reason to visit this gem of a museum located in the heart of Madrid’s trendy and hip Salamanca district.

The museum has three primary floors with exhibitions well organized throughout them according to time period. Entry into the museum is 3€ but admission is free before 2pm on Saturdays and Sunday mornings.

For more information, click here and watch this video to get an inside sneak peak of the museum’s most valued treasures.

 

Museo del Prado

Founded in 1819 as a museum of paintings and sculpture, it has become the most visited museum in Madrid and one of the most visited in the world. We could say that the Prado Museum is like the Louvre of Madrid and packed with tourists on any given day making the museum perhaps overwhelming for any foreigner. 

Inside, the grand hallways and gallery rooms are filled with Spain’s and Europe’s most important artistic works spanning from the 12th to 20th centuries highlighting artists such as Raphael, El Greco, Francisco Goya, and Velázquez. Arguably the most famous painting in the museum is Velázquez’s work titled Las Meninas and as such, the museum highlights more about his work as an artist and accomplishments.

While the museum is a bit more expensive than the others mentioned in this article, on certain days discounted tickets for 7,5€ are available instead of the normal 15€ priced admission ticket. For more information about the Prado Museum, click here.

 

As a student visiting Madrid, these 3 museums are a must. Ultimately, the city of Madrid is filled with many more lining the city's parks, streets, and neighborhoods and be sure not to give them a pass. As you plan your visit to Madrid, be sure to incorporate these cultural and historical gems for Spain, Madrid, Europe, and the world!