About Prado Museum Madrid

The Prado Museum houses masterpieces like Velázquez's "Las Meninas," Goya's "The Third of May 1808," and Bosch's "The Garden of Earthly Delights." Home to over 8,600 paintings, it's a journey through centuries, highlighting Spanish, Italian, and F...

Also Known As

Museo Nacional del Prado

Quick Information

ADDRESS

C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid, Spain

Timings

10:00–19:00

TICKETS

From $25.99

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

Did you know?

Commissioned by Charles III in 1785, Prado Museum was originally designed by Juan de Villanueva as a natural science museum. King Ferdinand VII and Queen Maria Isabel of Braganza later opted to use it to house the royal paintings, and the Museo Nacional Del Prado opened its doors in 1819.

Prado Museum boasts one of the most extensive collections of Francisco de Goya’s works, including over 150 paintings, over 600 drawings, over a 100 handwritten documents, and a selection of prints.

The most famous painting in the museum is Velázquez’s Las Meninas, one of the largest canvases from the Sevillian painter. Considered controversial for its defiance of genre, this snapshot of life at the Spanish court is as unsettling as it is captivating.

Book your tickets

Museo del Prado Tickets with Optional Audio Guide

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Guided tour

‌

Check availability

Museo del Prado Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

1 hr. 30 min. - 2 hr.

‌

Check availability

Paseo del Arte 3 Museum Pass: Museo del Prado + Thyssen Bornemisza + Reina Sofia Entry Tickets

Extended validity

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

‌

Check availability

Museo del Prado & Royal Palace of Madrid Guided Tour

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

5 hr.

‌

Check availability

The Prado Museum is one of Madrid's most iconic cultural landmarks, housing an extensive collection of European art dating from the 12th to the early 20th century. Renowned for its masterpieces by artists like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, the Prado Museum attracts art lovers from around the world.

With over 8,000 paintings and 700 sculptures, it is a treasure trove of Western art history, offering visitors a chance to explore centuries of artistic evolution. Located in the heart of Madrid, the museum is a must-visit for anyone keen to experience the city's rich artistic heritage.

Plan your visit to Prado Museum

Why visit Prado Museum?

World-class art collection: The Prado Museum houses one of the most significant collections of European art, making it a must-visit for art lovers. Visitors can admire works by renowned masters like Velázquez, Goya, Bosch, and Rubens, offering an unparalleled journey through the history of Western art.
Masterpieces by Spanish artists: As the home of Spain’s greatest painters, the Prado Museum boasts an extensive collection of works by Spanish masters, including Diego Velázquez’s Las Meninas and Francisco Goya’s The Third of May 1808. This makes it an essential stop for anyone interested in Spanish art and culture.
Unique historical and artistic insight: Visiting the Prado Museum offers an educational experience, allowing visitors to gain insight into the historical contexts and artistic movements that shaped European art over the centuries. The museum provides a deep dive into Baroque, Renaissance, and Romanticism periods.
Architecture, to be marveled at: Not only is the Prado Museum an art lover's dream, but the building itself is an architectural landmark. Designed by architect Juan de Villanueva in 1785, it combines neoclassical design with modern renovations, creating a beautiful and functional space for exploring art.
Variety of exhibitions and collections: In addition to Prado Museum's permanent collection, it hosts rotating temporary exhibitions, which showcase lesser-known works and contemporary interpretations. This ensures that repeat visitors can always experience something new.
Strategic location in Madrid: The Prado Museum is conveniently located in the heart of Madrid, near other key cultural attractions such as the Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. It’s easy to make a full day of exploring Madrid’s rich art scene, with the Prado as the central highlight.

How did the Prado Museum come to be?

The Prado Museum, originally commissioned by King Charles III in 1785 as a natural history museum, was transformed into an art gallery by King Ferdinand VII in 1819. Opened as the Museo Real de Pinturas, it showcased the Spanish monarchy's extensive art collection, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Zurbarán. Over time, acquisitions and donations expanded its collection, turning it into one of the world’s top art institutions.

During the Spanish Civil War, its treasures were protected by temporarily relocating them. The museum underwent renovations in the 20th century to accommodate its growing collection. Today, it is a global symbol of Spanish art and culture.

History of Prado Museum

Architecture of Prado Museum

The Prado Museum’s architecture fuses neoclassical beauty with modern elements. Originally designed by Juan de Villanueva in 1785, it features a grand facade with clean, symmetrical lines. Recent expansions by Rafael Moneo add a contemporary touch while respecting the historic design. The spacious, well-lit interiors create a serene environment, enhancing the visitor experience while maintaining the building's classic charm.

Who built the Prado Museum?

The Prado Museum was designed by architect Juan de Villanueva in 1785, reflecting the neoclassical style commissioned by King Charles III. Although initially intended as a natural history museum, Villanueva's elegant, symmetrical design perfectly suited its later use as an art gallery. After Villanueva’s death, architects like Antonio López Aguado completed the structure, maintaining its architectural integrity while adapting it to house Spain’s vast art collection.

Plan your visit to Prado Museum

Frequently asked questions and answers about Prado Museum

What are the different ticket options available for the Prado Museum?

The Prado Museum offers a variety of ticket options, including general entry tickets, guided tours, and combo tickets that include the Royal Palace of Madrid. Prices start from €20 for a standard ticket, with guided tours costing from €29.25 and combo tickets starting from €34.20.

Do Prado Museum tickets include skip-the-line access?

Yes, many ticket options, including combo tickets and guided tours, come with skip-the-line benefits, allowing visitors to avoid long queues at the entrance.

Are guided tours available at the Prado Museum?

Yes, guided tours are available, ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours. These tours offer insights into the most iconic artworks of the museum, like Velázquez's "Las Meninas" and Goya's "The Third of May 1808."

Is there a time limit for visiting the Prado Museum with a general entry ticket?

No, general entry tickets offer flexible duration, allowing you to explore the museum at your own pace.

Can I take photographs inside the Prado Museum?

Photography is generally not allowed inside the museum to preserve the artworks. However, there are specific areas where photos may be permitted.

Is the Prado Museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the museum provides accessibility services, including wheelchair access and visual and hearing aids.

What transportation options are available to get to the Prado Museum?

The museum is located in central Madrid and can be easily reached by metro, bus, or taxi. The closest metro station is Banco de España.