CaixaForum Madrid
A Herzog & de Meuron architectural marvel housing diverse, engaging exhibitions in a former power station.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
CaixaForum Madrid
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Herzog & de Meuron architectural marvel housing diverse, engaging exhibitions in a former power station.
"A stunning architectural gem with ever-changing, captivating exhibitions."
Check Exhibition Schedules
Exhibitions change frequently! Always check the CaixaForum Madrid website for current and upcoming shows before your visit. :calendar:
Combine with Nearby Museums
CaixaForum Madrid is conveniently located near other major museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía. Plan a museum-hopping day! :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Herzog & de Meuron Architecture
Exterior and interior
Marvel at the iconic, gravity-defying design that separates the building from the ground, creating a unique urban space.
Rotating Exhibitions
Various galleries
Discover a diverse range of temporary exhibitions, from art and photography to science and history. Always something new to explore!
The Vertical Garden
Exterior wall
Admire the stunning living wall, a vibrant green facade that adds a unique natural element to the modern architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Comfortable Shoes Are a Must
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Exhibition Schedules
Exhibitions change frequently! Always check the CaixaForum Madrid website for current and upcoming shows before your visit. :calendar:
Combine with Nearby Museums
CaixaForum Madrid is conveniently located near other major museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía. Plan a museum-hopping day! :world_map:
2 days in Madrid, 3 great museums
Kid-Friendly Exhibits
Look out for family-focused exhibitions like dinosaurs or Pixar, which are often a hit with younger visitors. :child:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfortable footwear is key to enjoying your visit to the fullest. :athletic_shoe:
Going to Madrid
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Exhibition Schedules
Exhibitions change frequently! Always check the CaixaForum Madrid website for current and upcoming shows before your visit. :calendar:
Combine with Nearby Museums
CaixaForum Madrid is conveniently located near other major museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía. Plan a museum-hopping day! :world_map:
Kid-Friendly Exhibits
Look out for family-focused exhibitions like dinosaurs or Pixar, which are often a hit with younger visitors. :child:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfortable footwear is key to enjoying your visit to the fullest. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
CaixaForum Madrid is highly praised for its stunning, innovative architecture by Herzog & de Meuron and its consistently engaging, diverse temporary exhibitions. Visitors appreciate the unique design that integrates art with urban space and the quality of the shows, making it a cultural highlight in Madrid. Some find ticket prices for special exhibitions a bit high, but the overall experience is considered well worth it.
"I make a point to visit CaixaForum whenever I’m in Madrid and absolutely love it—it’s one of those cultural gems that feels effortlessly cool and accessible. You’ll typically find 2–3 exhibitions running at the same time, and the great thing is that one ticket usually gets you into all of them. The exhibitions vary a lot—everything from historical retrospectives to cutting‑edge multimedia art—and they consistently bring in content from around the world.
For example, last year they hosted a phenomenal Pixar exhibition. It was a total delight, showcasing the studio’s creative process, iconic characters, storyboards, and behind‑the‑scenes artwork. This year, the highlight for me was the Alice in Wonderland exhibit. It offered a fresh, imaginative take on Lewis Carroll’s classic tale—with illustrations, interactive installations, and modern artist interpretations that brought Wonderland to life in unexpected ways.
The space itself is really appealing: an old power station repurposed with sleek, contemporary design. The contrast between industrial architecture and refined exhibit design gives the whole place an artsy, urban vibe. It’s clean, well‑signposted, and easy to navigate—even with multiple exhibitions running at once.
I also always make a point to visit the gift shop. It’s small, but it’s packed—lots of clever, well‑designed souvenirs related to the current show, and others that nod to past exhibitions and art in general. Whether you’re after a quirky postcard or a beautiful coffee‑table book, you’ll find something that catches your eye.
Tickets are relatively inexpensive—especially for the quality and variety of the exhibitions on offer. Plus, being right in the city center means it’s an easy cultural stop between tapas or museum‑hopping. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit. Always something new, well curated, and thought‑provoking."
Summer A.
"Whether you're an art enthusiast, a family looking for educational activities, or simply someone interested in unique architectural spaces, CaixaForum Madrid offers a rich and engaging experience. Its combination of innovative design, diverse programming, and central location makes it a must-visit destination in Madrid"
Γιώργος Παπαγγελόπουλος
"The building itself is very cool and feels futuristic and very unique. I went for the dinosaurs of Patagonia exhibit and found it to be very reasonably priced and I was able to see all the other exhibits that were in the building. I just walked in and bought a ticket for the exhibit without any wait and the service was very friendly. It is worth just walking by and admiring the architecture of the outside even if you don't want to see an exhibit."
Joe Desourdie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
CaixaForum Madrid is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Metro stations are Atocha (Lines 1 and 5) and Estación del Arte (Line 1). Several bus lines also stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from Atocha train station.
Yes, it's located in the 'Golden Triangle of Art' in Madrid, making it a great stop between the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.
Absolutely! If you're staying in the city center or arriving by train at Atocha, walking to CaixaForum Madrid is a great way to see the city.
From Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), you can take the Metro (Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios, then change to Line 10 and then Line 1) or an airport express bus to Atocha, followed by a short walk or bus ride to CaixaForum.
While there are public parking garages nearby, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to traffic and parking costs in central Madrid.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For general entry and permanent collections, it might be free or low-cost. However, special temporary exhibitions often require a separate ticket, and booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Opening hours can vary depending on the exhibition and day of the week. It's best to check the official CaixaForum Madrid website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special closures.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the CaixaForum Madrid website or inquire at the ticket counter for eligibility and pricing.
While the building's architecture is impressive from the outside, access to exhibitions and the interior requires a valid ticket.
Ticket prices vary depending on the exhibition. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and any potential package deals if you plan to see multiple shows.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary per exhibition. Generally, personal photography without flash is permitted in most areas, but always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
Yes, the exterior architecture by Herzog & de Meuron is a major draw, and visitors are encouraged to capture its unique design.
The exterior, especially the contrast between the old power station and the new structure, and the vertical garden are prime photo opportunities.
Tripods and professional photography equipment are usually not allowed inside exhibitions to avoid disruption and damage. Check the specific exhibition rules.
The morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exterior, while late afternoon might offer interesting shadows and light play on the building.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, CaixaForum Madrid typically has a cafe or restaurant where you can enjoy refreshments and light meals. It's a good spot to take a break between exhibitions.
The cafe usually offers a selection of coffees, pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. It's a convenient option for a quick bite.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition spaces. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering.
The area around CaixaForum Madrid, particularly along Paseo del Prado and in the Huertas neighborhood, offers a wide variety of restaurants, tapas bars, and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets.
Prices at museum cafes can be slightly higher than average, but they offer convenience. You can find more budget-friendly options in the surrounding streets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot to explore. The unique architecture itself can be a point of interest for kids, and the vertical garden offers a splash of nature. Consider visiting during weekday afternoons to avoid the largest crowds and allow children to explore at their own pace.
🏛️ Art & Architecture Enthusiasts
Beyond the architecture, the center consistently hosts high-caliber temporary exhibitions covering a broad spectrum of artistic expression. Whether you're interested in contemporary painting, photography, or avant-garde design, you're likely to find a compelling show. Plan your visit to coincide with exhibitions that align with your specific interests.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Herzog & de Meuron's Design
This bold design choice not only adds a dramatic visual element but also serves a functional purpose, providing a sheltered area and a unique entrance. The contrast between the historic industrial building and the contemporary addition is a key aspect of its appeal. The building itself is often considered an exhibition piece, showcasing how old and new can coexist harmoniously.
Beyond the floating effect, the exterior is adorned with a striking vertical garden, a living wall that adds a splash of vibrant green and a touch of nature to the urban landscape. This integration of green space is a signature element that has garnered significant attention and admiration.
Exploring the Exhibitions: What to Expect
Visitors often praise the quality and variety of the shows. From major retrospectives of renowned artists to explorations of niche cultural phenomena, there's always something new to discover. It's highly recommended to check the official CaixaForum Madrid website before your visit to see what exhibitions are currently on display and to book tickets in advance, as popular shows can sell out.
Some exhibitions are particularly family-friendly, featuring interactive elements or themes that appeal to younger audiences, such as dinosaur or Pixar-themed displays. This makes CaixaForum Madrid a great option for visitors of all ages looking for a cultural experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit