Banco de España Building, Madrid - A large white building sitting on the corner of a street
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Banco de España Building Madrid

4.3
·738 reviews·Madrid, Spain

A majestic neoclassical landmark in Madrid, offering guided tours of its art, history, and legendary vault.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Banco de España Building, Madrid - A large white building sitting on the corner of a street

Banco de España Building Madrid

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic neoclassical landmark in Madrid, offering guided tours of its art, history, and legendary vault.

4.3
(738 reviews)

"Step inside the Banco de España for a journey through art, history, and the secrets of its famous vault!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tours Online

Guided tours are essential for interior access. Book your tickets well in advance online to guarantee your spot!

🏛️ Admire the Exterior

Even if you don't tour inside, the building's stunning neoclassical facade is a must-see in Madrid.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Impressive Neoclassical Facade

Impressive Neoclassical Facade

Exterior

Admire the grandeur of this iconic building's architecture, a true Madrid landmark.

The Vault and Gold Reserve

The Vault and Gold Reserve

Interior (during specific tours)

Discover the secrets of the bank's historic vault and its legendary gold reserves.

Art Collection

Art Collection

Interior (during specific tours)

Explore a curated collection of art housed within this magnificent historical structure.

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Visit in Advance

The Banco de España Building offers guided tours, but these require advance booking. Popular times fill up quickly, so plan ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check their official website for tour schedules and booking procedures.

Understand Tour Options

Tours of the Banco de España Building focus on its history, architecture, and art collection. Be aware that access to certain areas might be restricted depending on the tour type. Familiarize yourself with what each tour covers to choose the best fit for your interests.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon tours
Why
More tour availability
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@blanca_guilera
202.1K likes • 2.4M views

🎟️ Book Tours Online

Guided tours are essential for interior access. Book your tickets well in advance online to guarantee your spot! TikTok

🏛️ Admire the Exterior

Even if you don't tour inside, the building's stunning neoclassical facade is a must-see in Madrid. TikTok

👇🏽Buena o mala idea esto en Madrid? jajajjajaj 💸 Dura 1h y cuesta 11€ 🕒 El check-in es solo entre las 15h y las 00:00 🛀🏻 Hay baño y es compartido 🛏️ Puedes elegir entre literas o habitación Si te que...
@planesconbarbygant
123.8K likes • 2M views
La Casa de Papel llega a Banco de España #madrid #planesmadrid #casadepapel #bancodeespaña
@madrid4u
63K likes • 1.4M views

🧐 Learn the History

Many tours delve into the building's fascinating history, including its role in 'La Casa de Papel'. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a fair amount of walking and standing during tours, so wear comfortable footwear. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tours Online

Guided tours are essential for interior access. Book your tickets well in advance online to guarantee your spot! TikTok

🏛️ Admire the Exterior

Even if you don't tour inside, the building's stunning neoclassical facade is a must-see in Madrid. TikTok

🧐 Learn the History

Many tours delve into the building's fascinating history, including its role in 'La Casa de Papel'. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a fair amount of walking and standing during tours, so wear comfortable footwear. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(738 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Banco de España Building for its stunning neoclassical architecture and the fascinating historical insights offered during guided tours. The connection to 'La Casa de Papel' is a major draw for many, adding an element of excitement. However, access is strictly limited to pre-booked tours, and some find the tour content to be very specific to banking history.

"There's a museum inside it which had free entrance. The building is beautiful, not the same as La Casa de Papel"

Muhammad Anas

"Stunningly beautiful! Definitely deserves a lot of photos to be clicked here. Can see lot of tourists strolling around here. It's a huge building."

Sujay Sreekumar

"Enjoyed the architecture of Adaro exhibit. It was free, informative and I was given a useful book to take home. The security guard was very friendly and encouraged me to come in to look. Wish I could have see the interior."

Mark Ozipko

What People Like

Impressive architecture
Historical insights
'La Casa de Papel' connection

What People Dislike

Tour-only access
Specific historical focus

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Banco de España Building is centrally located in Madrid. You can easily reach it via the Metro, with the Banco de España station (Line 2) being the most convenient. Several bus lines also stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from other major attractions like Puerta del Sol or Gran Vía. TikTok

While there isn't dedicated visitor parking directly at the building, several public parking garages are located within a short walking distance. However, using public transport is generally recommended due to traffic and parking costs in the city center.

Absolutely! The impressive neoclassical facade of the Banco de España Building is a prominent landmark and can be admired from the street at any time. It's particularly striking when lit up at night. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, to access the interior and see the art collection or vault, you need to book a guided tour in advance. Tickets are typically purchased online through the official Banco de España website. TikTok

Ticket prices can vary depending on the tour type and any special exhibitions. It's best to check the official Banco de España website for the most current pricing information. Some tours might have a nominal fee. TikTok

Tour availability and timings vary. Tours are usually offered on specific days and times, often during weekdays. It's crucial to check the official website for the current schedule and book your preferred slot. TikTok

The exterior of the building is always accessible. However, to explore the interior, including the art collection and vault, a guided tour is required. Spontaneous visits inside are not permitted. TikTok

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or other groups is usually detailed on the official booking page. It's advisable to check the website for any available concessions when purchasing your tickets.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you can explore the building's rich history, admire its stunning architecture, and view its impressive art collection. Some tours also offer a glimpse into the secure vault where gold reserves were historically kept. TikTok

Tours usually last around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the specific itinerary and the guide's presentation. This allows ample time to cover the key highlights and answer visitor questions. TikTok

Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted in designated areas, but it's essential to follow the guide's instructions and any posted signage. TikTok

Accessibility can be a concern in historic buildings. While efforts are often made, it's recommended to contact the Banco de España directly or check their website for specific information regarding accessibility for visitors with mobility issues. TikTok

The Banco de España's gold reserve was famously stored in a vault located beneath the Cibeles spring. This unique historical detail is often highlighted during tours, adding to the mystique of the building. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, the Banco de España Building does not have public dining facilities. However, its central location means there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and tapas bars in the surrounding area to enjoy before or after your visit.

The area around the Banco de España is bustling with culinary options. You can find everything from traditional Spanish tapas and fine dining restaurants to international cuisine and casual cafes. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire exterior facade offers fantastic photo opportunities. For a wider view, consider standing across the street on Paseo del Prado. Inside, specific areas might be designated for photography during tours. TikTok

Photography inside the vault is usually restricted due to security and preservation reasons. Always follow the guide's instructions regarding photo permissions within sensitive areas. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Banco de España Building might seem more suited for adults, families can still find it engaging, especially if children are interested in history or the 'La Casa de Papel' series. Tours often include fascinating stories about the building's past and its famous vault, which can capture a child's imagination. TikTok

Tip: Opt for tours that emphasize historical narratives or the 'Money Heist' connection, as these are more likely to hold a child's attention. Ensure children are comfortable with walking and listening for the duration of the tour. The impressive exterior is also a great photo opportunity for the whole family.

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by Spain's economic and architectural history, the Banco de España Building is a must-visit. The guided tours offer in-depth information about the institution's role through different eras, its architectural evolution, and the engineering marvels of its vault. TikTok

Recommendation: Look for specialized tours that focus on historical aspects or architectural details. Reading up on the bank's history prior to your visit can enhance the experience, allowing you to appreciate the context of the stories shared by the guides.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Architecture

The Banco de España Building is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture, designed by architects Adolfo Fernández Casanova and Emilio Boix. Construction began in 1891 and was completed in 1927. Its imposing facade, adorned with intricate sculptures and grand columns, makes it a significant landmark in Madrid's cityscape. The building's design reflects the power and prestige of the institution it houses. TikTok

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Banco de España has played a crucial role in Spain's economic history. Tours often highlight its historical significance, including its function during various economic periods and its role in safeguarding the nation's gold reserves. The famous vault, located deep beneath the building and even under the nearby Cibeles fountain, is a testament to its secure and vital operations. TikTok

Visitors can expect to learn about the architectural details, the evolution of the building, and its historical context. The art collection within the building also adds another layer of cultural richness, featuring works that complement the grandeur of the structure itself. It's a journey through both art and finance. TikTok

Experiencing 'La Casa de Papel' Connection

For fans of the hit Netflix series 'La Casa de Papel' (Money Heist), the Banco de España Building holds a special allure. The building served as a key filming location and inspiration for the dramatic heist sequences in the show. The fictional heist depicted in the series, involving the gold reserves, draws heavily on the real-world mystique of the bank's vault. TikTok+1

During guided tours, guides often share anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights related to the show's filming. This connection adds an exciting dimension for many visitors, allowing them to visualize the iconic scenes taking place within or around this historic structure. It's a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between fiction and reality. TikTok

While the show is fictional, the real Banco de España's vault is a marvel of engineering and security. Learning about its actual history and the security measures in place provides a fascinating contrast to the dramatic events portrayed on screen. It’s a popular talking point for visitors interested in the series. TikTok

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