Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Madrid - A long hallway with a bunch of paintings on the wall
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Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

4.7
·44k reviews·Madrid, Spain

A vast European art collection from the 13th to 20th centuries, bridging gaps between other major Madrid museums.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
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Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Madrid - A long hallway with a bunch of paintings on the wall

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast European art collection from the 13th to 20th centuries, bridging gaps between other major Madrid museums.

4.7
(44k reviews)

"The Thyssen is my favorite museum in Madrid. Fewer historical pieces, but the temporary collections are aways amazing."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Plan your route

The Thyssen offers a chronological journey through art history, making it easy to follow.

🎟️ Check for free entry

Enjoy free admission on Mondays! Perfect for budget-conscious art lovers. :moneywithwings:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Renaissance to Impressionism

Renaissance to Impressionism

Permanent Collection

Journey through centuries of European art, from Italian Renaissance masters to Dutch Golden Age painters and Impressionist marvels.

Modern and Contemporary Art

Modern and Contemporary Art

Permanent Collection

Explore groundbreaking movements like Cubism, Expressionism, and Pop Art, showcasing influential 20th-century artists.

Temporary Exhibitions

Temporary Exhibitions

Special Exhibition Halls

Discover critically acclaimed temporary exhibitions that often focus on specific artists, movements, or themes.

Ayako Rokkaku Exhibition

Ayako Rokkaku Exhibition

Special Exhibition Halls

Experience the vibrant, large-scale abstract works of contemporary Japanese artist Ayako Rokkaku.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Maximize Your Visit

To truly appreciate the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Many travelers suggest that the museum offers a comprehensive overview of art history in a manageable size, making it ideal for those with limited time or who find the Prado overwhelming. Reddit

Tickets and Free Entry

While purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for special exhibitions, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum offers free entry on Mondays. Reddit This is a great option for budget travelers or those looking to experience the museum without the usual admission fee. Check their official website for the most current hours and any special event closures.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Monday afternoons
Why
Free entry, still manageable
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Quieter, good for reflection
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨🖼️ MIS VISITAS GUIADAS POR EL @Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza 🖼️✨ Por fin llegaron!!! La visita guiada al museo Thyssen más crujiente que jamás tendréis! 📆 19 oct. - 16 nov. - 30 nov. 🕢 12:00h 📝 Inscripci...
@hugaceo.crujiente
78.1K likes • 486.6K views

🗺️ Plan your route

The Thyssen offers a chronological journey through art history, making it easy to follow. Reddit

🎟️ Check for free entry

Enjoy free admission on Mondays! Reddit Perfect for budget-conscious art lovers. :moneywithwings:

Si queréis saber los salseos que esconden algunas obras del Museo Thyssen en Madrid estad atentos a sus redes sociales (@Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza) #museothyssenbornemisza #museothyssenmadrid #arte #h...
@blanca_guilera
30.7K likes • 196.6K views
From around the world, pieces from 30 finalists make their way to our home city of Madrid for this year’s LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize exhibition at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Follow LOEWE and LOEWE FOUNDATION social channels for the winner announcement on 29 May. The exhibition runs from 30 May–29 June. Reserve your free ticket at museothyssen.org • Las piezas de los 30 finalist...
loewe
6.4K likes • 212.5K views

👟 Comfortable shoes are key

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the extensive collection. :athletic_shoe:

📱 Download the museum app

Enhance your visit with audio guides and detailed artwork information. :iphone:

🇪🇸Visiting Madrid in 2025? 🔒SAVE THIS VIDEO to see the FREE ADMISSION times of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art: Museo del Prado, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museo Nacional. 1. Prado Museum / Museo del Prado @museoprado This museum, one of the most visited in the world, houses a fantastic collection of European art from the 12th to early 20th century, featur...
wolvestoursmadrid
0 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Plan your route

The Thyssen offers a chronological journey through art history, making it easy to follow. Reddit

🎟️ Check for free entry

Enjoy free admission on Mondays! Reddit Perfect for budget-conscious art lovers. :moneywithwings:

👟 Comfortable shoes are key

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the extensive collection. :athletic_shoe:

📱 Download the museum app

Enhance your visit with audio guides and detailed artwork information. :iphone:

📸 Photography rules

General photography is usually allowed without flash, but check for specific exhibition restrictions. :camerawithflash:

💡 Look for hidden stories

Some artworks hide fascinating 'salseos' (gossip/secrets)! TikTok Ask staff or look for special tours. :mag:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(44k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum for its exceptional and diverse collection, offering a comprehensive journey through European art history in a manageable size. Many highlight the quality of its temporary exhibitions and its convenient location within Madrid's art triangle. Some find the museum's layout and accessibility excellent, though occasional mentions of crowded conditions during peak times or free entry days are noted.

"Beautiful and surprisingly large multi-level art museum filled with incredible works by the best artist's of our time. Contains a little bit of everything from Baroque & Renaissance to Abstract, impressionism/expressionism and contemporary and too many others I cant think of at this time lol. But, seriously it was very enjoyable, zen and maybe I was lucky but there was even a small flamenco concert that happened on the main level. Highly recommend"

Crystopher H

"I’m not a museum fan however still like to explore if the exhibition is interesting enough to be understood by a non-arty like me. Quite a bit of visitors without line no today. We did not get in however the gift shop has quite a number of interesting items."

Kaman Kwok

"A truly beautiful and world class collection. Well organized and displayed. My issue is that there is very little context for each work. Very few paintings have a description in the audio tour, and are not described beyond artist and date on the wall label. For such prominent works and artists, I would have appreciated more information."

Melissa-Grace French

What People Like

Comprehensive art collection
Manageable museum size
High-quality temporary exhibitions

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is conveniently located in Madrid's 'Golden Triangle of Art,' easily accessible by public transport. You can take the Metro to stations like Banco de España (Line 2) or Atocha (Lines 1, 2, 3). Several bus lines also stop nearby. TikTok Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other major attractions. Reddit

Yes, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is part of Madrid's 'Golden Triangle of Art,' situated very close to the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum. Reddit This makes it easy to visit multiple world-class museums in a single day or over a short trip. Reddit

These three major museums are within walking distance of each other, forming a compact art district. Reddit A leisurely stroll between them allows you to soak in the city's atmosphere. Alternatively, you can use the local bus services or the Metro for quicker transit. Reddit

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is generally accessible for visitors with limited mobility. It offers elevators and ramps to navigate between floors and access most exhibition areas. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for specific accessibility details. :wheelchair:

Yes, there are several public parking garages near the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, such as the Plaza de las Cortes or the Paseo del Prado parking lots. However, driving in central Madrid can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking availability, so public transport is often recommended. :car:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum vary depending on whether you're purchasing a general admission ticket or a ticket for a special exhibition. General admission typically covers the permanent collection. It's best to check the official Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing and any available discounts. TikTok

Yes, purchasing Thyssen Museum tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This allows you to secure your entry, especially for popular temporary exhibitions, and often saves you time queuing at the ticket counter. TikTok

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum offers free admission on Mondays. Reddit This is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience the museum's collection without an admission fee. Be aware that it might be more crowded on free entry days. :moneywithwings:

General admission tickets to the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum typically grant access to its extensive permanent collection, which spans European painting from the 13th century to the 20th century. Reddit Tickets for temporary exhibitions are usually separate and may require an additional fee. Reddit

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum generally opens its doors from Tuesday to Sunday. Specific opening hours can vary, so it's always best to consult the official Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum website for the most current information on operating hours and any potential closures. TikTok

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

While the entire collection is impressive, highlights include works by Van Eyck, Dürer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Dalí. TikTok The museum's chronological layout makes it easy to trace the evolution of European art. Reddit

Yes, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum can be suitable for children, especially if they have a budding interest in art. Its manageable size compared to the Prado makes it less overwhelming. Reddit Engaging temporary exhibitions and interactive elements can also capture their attention. TikTok

A typical visit to the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and interest level. Reddit If you plan to see the permanent collection thoroughly and perhaps a temporary exhibition, allocate at least half a day. Reddit

Yes, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum typically offers audio guides that provide in-depth information about key artworks and artists. These can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the collection. TikTok

Generally, photography without flash is permitted in the permanent collection areas of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum for personal use. However, specific temporary exhibitions may have stricter rules, so always look for signage or ask museum staff. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum usually has a cafe or restaurant on-site, offering a convenient place to rest and refuel during your visit. These spots often provide light snacks, meals, and beverages. Check their official website for current offerings and opening hours. :coffee:

The area surrounding the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid is brimming with dining options. You'll find everything from traditional tapas bars and casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Explore the streets around Paseo del Prado for a wide variety of culinary choices. :forkandknife:

Typically, museums like the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum do not allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks into the exhibition halls. There are usually designated areas, like the cafe or outdoor seating, where you can consume refreshments. :water_wave:

While specific menus can change, many museum cafes in Madrid are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check the current menu at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum's cafe or ask the staff upon arrival for available choices. :leafy_green:

Museum cafes can sometimes be pricier than external options due to convenience. However, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum's cafe generally offers reasonably priced snacks and light meals. For more budget-friendly options, exploring nearby streets is recommended. :euro:

📸 📸 Photography

Photography without flash is generally permitted in the permanent collection galleries of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum for personal use. TikTokInstagram This allows visitors to capture memories of their favorite pieces. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. :camerawithflash:

Yes, temporary exhibitions at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum often have stricter photography policies. Some may prohibit photography entirely, while others might allow it without flash. Look for clear signage or ask museum staff for guidance. TikTok

Beyond the artworks themselves, the museum's architecture and grand halls can be photogenic. Look for interesting light in the galleries or the striking facade of the building. The museum's location near iconic Madrid landmarks also offers great exterior photo opportunities. :cityscape:

Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to ensure the safety of the artworks and the comfort of other visitors. It's best to rely on your phone's camera or a compact digital camera. :iphone:

Many visitors enjoy photographing iconic pieces like Van Gogh's 'Les Vessenots in Auvers' or Picasso's 'Harlequin Musician.' The vibrant colors and unique styles of many 20th-century works also make for striking images. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is often recommended as a more manageable option for families with children compared to the larger Prado. Its chronological layout can help kids follow the progression of art history, and its size means less walking fatigue. Reddit Look for any family-specific tours or activities the museum might offer, as these can make the experience more engaging for younger visitors. TikTok

Consider focusing on specific periods or artists that might capture their imagination, such as the vibrant colors of Impressionism or the bold forms of Cubism. TikTok The museum's cafe also provides a convenient spot for a break and a snack, which is always a plus when traveling with children. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum offers a fantastic opportunity for free admission on Mondays. Reddit This allows you to experience a world-class collection without the usual ticket cost. Arrive early on Mondays to make the most of your visit, as it can get busy. :moneywithwings:

Beyond free entry days, consider purchasing a Madrid Art Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums, as it can offer savings. Reddit Also, take advantage of the numerous affordable tapas bars and cafes in the surrounding areas for budget-friendly meals rather than dining exclusively within the museum. :euro:

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Connoisseurs

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is a treasure trove for art lovers, offering a unique perspective on European art history that complements the Prado and Reina Sofía. Its collection is exceptionally well-curated, providing a comprehensive overview from medieval times to the late 20th century. Reddit Pay close attention to the lesser-known gems alongside the famous masterpieces, as the Thyssen is known for its depth and quality across various periods. Reddit

For a deeper dive, explore the museum's temporary exhibitions, which are consistently of a very high caliber and often focus on niche subjects or influential artists. Reddit Engaging with the museum's audio guides or guided tours can also unlock nuanced interpretations and historical context, enriching your appreciation of the collection. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through European Art History

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is renowned for its comprehensive collection that bridges the gaps between Spain's national museums, the Prado and the Reina Sofía. It offers a remarkable overview of European painting from the 13th century to the late 20th century. Unlike the Prado, which focuses heavily on Spanish masters, and the Reina Sofía, dedicated to modern and contemporary Spanish art, the Thyssen presents a more diverse international perspective. Reddit

Visitors can embark on a chronological journey, starting with early Italian and Flemish masters like Jan van Eyck and Hans Holbein, moving through the Renaissance and Baroque periods with works by Caravaggio and Rembrandt, and progressing to Impressionism and Post-Impressionism with masterpieces from Monet and Van Gogh. The collection then delves into early 20th-century avant-garde movements such as Fauvism, Expressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism, featuring artists like Picasso, Kirchner, and Dalí. TikTok This curated path provides an accessible and educational experience for art enthusiasts of all levels. Reddit

Beyond its permanent collection, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum consistently hosts high-quality temporary exhibitions that explore specific artists, themes, or periods in depth. These exhibitions are often critically acclaimed and draw significant international attention, making the museum a dynamic destination for both returning visitors and first-time art explorers. Reddit

Navigating the Thyssen: Tips from Visitors

Many visitors find the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to be a more manageable and less overwhelming experience compared to the vastness of the Prado. Its chronological layout is frequently praised, allowing for a clear understanding of art historical progression. Reddit Travelers often recommend dedicating at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the permanent collection, and more if a special exhibition is on display. Reddit

For those looking to save money, the museum offers free admission on Mondays, a tip that is frequently shared on Reddit. Reddit However, be prepared for potentially larger crowds on this day. Some visitors also suggest downloading the museum's app or utilizing audio guides to gain deeper insights into the artworks, enhancing the overall learning experience. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider that the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is part of Madrid's 'Golden Triangle of Art,' making it easy to combine with visits to the Prado and Reina Sofía. Reddit Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking, and check the museum's website for current exhibition details and opening hours before you go. TikTok

Contemporary Art and Special Events

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum actively engages with contemporary art through its special exhibitions and programming. Recent highlights include exhibitions featuring artists like Ayako Rokkaku, whose vibrant, large-scale abstract paintings have captivated audiences. TikTok These temporary shows offer a fresh perspective and introduce visitors to cutting-edge artistic expressions. TikTok

The museum also collaborates with brands and organizations for unique events. For instance, the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize exhibition has been hosted at the Thyssen, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and innovative artistic practices. TikTok+1 These events demonstrate the museum's commitment to showcasing diverse forms of art and design, extending its reach beyond traditional painting. TikTok

Furthermore, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum has been proactive in attracting younger audiences. Initiatives like guided tours tailored for a younger demographic and discussions on how to make museums more appealing to youth highlight their efforts to remain relevant and engaging for all ages. TikTok+1 This forward-thinking approach ensures the museum remains a vibrant cultural hub in Madrid.

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