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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Banco de España Building Madrid
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic neoclassical landmark in Madrid, offering guided tours of its art, history, and legendary vault.
"Step inside the Banco de España for a journey through art, history, and the secrets of its famous vault!"
🎟️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Interior (during specific tours)
Explore a curated collection of art housed within this magnificent historical structure.
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Understand Tour Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ 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.
🧐 Learn the History
Many tours delve into the building's fascinating history, including its role in 'La Casa de Papel'.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking and standing during tours, so wear comfortable footwear.
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!
🏛️ Admire the Exterior
Even if you don't tour inside, the building's stunning neoclassical facade is a must-see in Madrid.
🧐 Learn the History
Many tours delve into the building's fascinating history, including its role in 'La Casa de Papel'.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking and standing during tours, so wear comfortable footwear.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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
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.
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.
Experiencing 'La Casa de Papel' Connection
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit