In cities like Paris, London, Edinburgh, and many others, there are museums offering free entry. Below, you’ll find a list of free museums in Barcelona with specific days and hours of free admission. While visiting the city, seize these opportunities to enjoy the treasures awaiting you in these museums.
1. Museu Picasso
This museum is housed in a very beautiful building in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. The permanent collection comprises over 4,000 works by a young Picasso. Art enthusiasts will discover a rich array of works from his formative years, extending up to the Blue Period.
Additionally, the museum exhibits a significant number of Picasso’s works from 1917, along with a comprehensive collection of prints.
Address: c/ Montcada, 15-23 Tel. (+34) 93 256 30 00
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 19:00, including holidays.
- Admission price: €15.
Free access:
- Thursday afternoons from 5 to 9 p.m. (advance entry recommended)
- First Sunday of each month, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Free admission on May 18th and September 24th.
Transport options:
- Metro: L4 Jaune I, L1 Arc dde Triomf
- Bus: 120, 45, V15, V17 Via Laietana – 39, 51, H14 Passeig Picasso – H14, 45, 51 Pla de Palau – 120 Princesa
- Tram: Estació de França, Estació de Sants
https://museupicassobcn.cat/en
2. Museu de la Musica
This museum features a captivating display of more than 500 musical instruments and 10,000 sound documents. Music enthusiasts will delight in witnessing the evolution of their favorite instruments from ancient to modern times.
At the end of the visit, visitors can even touch and play some of the instruments. If your kids enjoy playing, they will also enjoy this visit.
Address: L’Auditori. Lepant, 150 Tel: 93 256 36 50
Opening hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 to 18:00
- Thursday from 10:00 to 21:00
- Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00
Admission price: €6
Free access:
- Thursdays from 18:00 to 21:00
- The first Sunday of every month
- Every Sunday from 15:00
Transport:
- Metro: Marina, Glòries (L1), Monumental (L2)
- Bus: 6, 7, 54, 62, 92, V21, H12
- Tram: Clot, Arc de Triomf
- Tram T4: Auditori-Teatre Nacional
3. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)
This museum is housed in the National Palace of Montjüic and features an amazing collection of Romanesque art, considered the finest globally. It also showcases works by Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque painters. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire paintings by artists such as Fra Angelico, Lucas Cranach, Titian, Tintoretto, Canaletto, and many others.
The museum includes Spanish art with great masters like Velásquez, Zurbarán, and Goya. It also exhibits artworks by modern Spanish artists such as Gaudi, Miró, Picasso, and Dalí.
Address: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjüic Tel. (+34) 93 622 03 60
Winter opening hours:
- October to April, Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 6 pm
- Sundays and public holidays, from 10 am to 3 pm
Summer opening hours:
- May to September, Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 8 pm
- Sundays and public holidays, from 10 am to 3 pm
Closed:
- Mondays (except for public holidays)
- January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th
Admission price: €12
Free access:
- Every Saturday from 3 pm
- The first Sunday of every month
- On Open Doors days (Reservation required online in advance)
Transport:
- Metro: L1, L3 / Pl. Espanya
- Tram: R1, S8
- Bus: 109, 55, H12, H16, L80, L94, L95
- Cable Car: Metro Paral·lel (integrated fare) – Funicular de Montjuïc
https://www.museunacional.cat/en
4. Museu d’Art Contemporáni de Barcelona (MACBA)
This museum is situated in an impressive building made of white glass and aluminum in the neighborhood known as El Raval.
The MACBA contemporary art collection encompasses abstract art from the 1950s to current works by emerging artists. It showcases pieces by celebrated local artists like Joan Miró, Antoni Tàpies, and Joan Brossa, as well as international figures such as Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Moreover, the collection includes artworks from Latin American, Eastern, North African, Middle Eastern, and Arab artists, presenting a diverse and extensive array of artistic expressions.
Address: Plaça dels Àngels, 1
Opening hours:
- Mondays to Fridays from 11:00 to 19:30 (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Saturdays from 10:00 to 20:00
- Sundays and holidays from 10:00 to 15:00
Admission price: €10.80 online, €12 at the box office
Free access:
- Every Saturday from 16:00
- On specific local holidays:
- 12th February from 19:00 to 15:00
- 15th April from 10:00 to 20:00
- 16th April from 10:00 to 15:00
- 13th May (Night of the Museums) from 18:00 to 01:00
- 18th May (International Day of Museums) from 11:00 to 19:30
- 24th September from 10:00 to 20:00
Transport:
- Metro: L1, L2, and L3
- Bus: 7, 22, 24, 47, 52, 54, 55, 59, 62, 63, 67, 120, V13, V15, H12, H16, D50, L94, L95, Aerobús, and Touristic Bus
- Tram: FGC and RENFE (Plaça de Catalunya)
5. MUHBA Museu d’Historia de Barcelona
This museum is headquartered in Plaza del Rey, at the center of old Barcelona. It manages several other heritage centers distributed throughout the city.
A visit to the center at Plaza del Rey is akin to a journey to ancient Barcino, spanning 4,000 square meters of underground Roman excavations. Barcino was the name given by the Romans to Barcelona when they founded it around 27 B.C.
For comprehensive information on all sites, locations, and schedules, please visit their website at https://www.barcelona.cat/museuhistoria/en.
Entrance to the museum is free every Sunday from 3 to 8 p.m., and on the first Sunday of the month, admission is free all day (applicable to all Muhba sites, except Park Güell). Moreover, the museum celebrates Open Days on September 24th and May 18th.
6. Centre de Cultura Contemporánia de Barcelona (CCCB)
The CCCB in Barcelona hosts exhibitions, debates, festivals, and film series, fostering innovation, promoting art, and sparking discussions on city life and modern themes.
It nurtures creativity through new technologies, supports artistic research in multimedia, and explores various exhibition formats.
The center also shares its productions with other cultural centers and museums worldwide, initiating lively discussions on urban life, public spaces, and pressing contemporary issues.
Address: Montalegre, 5 Tel: (+34) 93 306 41 00
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sundays from 11:00 to 20:00, except on Christmas and New Year.
Admission: €6
Free access:
- Sundays from 15:00 to 20:00 (limited capacity, pre-booked ticket required)
- International Museum Day, Museums Night, and La Mercè Holidays
Transport options:
- Metro, Tram FGC, and Tram Rodalies (Universitat or Plaza Catalunya Stations): L1, L2, L3, L6, L7, R1, R3, R4, R12, RG1, S1, S2, S5, S6, S7
- Bus lines (Universitat or Plaza Catalunya): 7, 24, 41, 50, 54, 55, 59, 62, 63, 66, 67, 91, H12, H16, V13, V15, 120, L94, L95, E95, E15.1, E16, E11.1, E11.2, C3, C4, C6, L850
7. Royal Monastery of Santa Maria of Pedralbes
This Gothic-style monastery was constructed in the 14th century by order of the Spanish queen for the Poor Clare nuns’ order.
The building stands as an exemplary model of Catalan Gothic architecture, featuring a church and a three-story cloister notable for its spaciousness and harmony.
Its rich artistic heritage provides insight into customs, fashions, religious, and secular life, shedding light on the community’s cloistered existence until 1983, when the monastery was transformed into a museum.
Visitors can explore various parts of the monastery, including the cloister, chapel, the queen’s tomb, dining room, kitchen, abbey, church, mural paintings, and more. It’s like a journey through time surrounded by art and beauty.
Address: Baixada del monestir, 9 Tel. (+34) 932 563 434
From October 1st to March 31st:
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 to 14:00
- Saturdays and Sundays: 10:00 to 17:00
- Holidays: 10:00 to 14:00
From April 1st to September 30th:
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 to 17:00
- Saturdays: 10:00 to 19:00
- Holidays: 10:00 to 14:00
Admission Price: €5
Free access:
- Every Sunday from 15:00
- The first Sunday of every month
Transport options:
- Metro: L3 (Maria Cristina, Palau Reial)
- Bus: 22, 63, 64, 75, and 78
- Touristic bus: Blue Line
http://monestirpedralbes.bcn.cat
8. Museu Frederic Mares (MFM)
Frederic Mares was a Spanish sculptor who assembled an extensive sculpture collection spanning from the ancient world to the 19th century.
In 1946, he donated his collection to the city of Barcelona. Two years later, it was housed in part of the old Royal Palace of the Counts of Barcelona, situated in the Gothic Quarter, where it has been admired since then.
In addition to this, there is a diverse assortment of 19th-century items, including clocks, jewelry, photographs, toys, pipes, and more.
Address: Plaça de Sant Iu, 5 Tel. (+34) 932 563 500
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 to 19:00
- Sunday and Holidays: 11:00 to 20:00
- Closed on Mondays, except for Holidays.
Admission Price: €4.20
Free access:
- Every Sunday from 15:00 to 20:00
- First Sundays of the month from 11:00 to 20:00
- International Museum Day on May 18th, February 12th, and September 24th.
Transport options:
- Metro: L4 (Jaime I); L3 (Liceo)
- Bus: v15; v17; 47; 120
- Touristic bus: Ruta Sur (Barri Gòtic)
- Tram: Renfe and FGC (Plaza de Cataluña Station)
http://www.barcelona.cat/museumares
9. Museu Disseny de Barcelona
The Design Museum houses over 70,000 objects, a collection merged from other museums such as Museu de les Arts Decoratives, Museu de Ceràmica, Museu Tèxtil y d’Indumentària, and Gabinet de les Arts Gràfiques.
Focused on “From decorative arts to design,” this museum explores object culture, encompassing conception, manufacturing, everyday use, aesthetics, functionality, and museum display, all viewed through a 21st-century lens.
The building boasts a distinctive architectural design, projecting its overhangs and facades onto the Plaza de las Glòries. It offers diverse spaces and services, aspiring to become Catalonia’s leading design center, accessible to all.
The museum features Barcelona’s newest event spaces, including a 3,800 m2 room with cutting-edge LED technology, standing 7 meters tall, and a 320-seat auditorium adaptable for various events.
Address: Disseny Hub Barcelona, Plaza de les Glories, 37
Tel. (+34) 93 256 67 13
Opening hours: Monday from 3:30 pm to 9 pm (holidays from 9 am to 9 pm), Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 9 pm. Closed on January 1st, May 1st, June 24th, and December 25th, as well as Mondays (except holidays). Special closing time at 3:30 pm on December 24th and 31st.
Admission Price: €6.00
Free access:
- Sunday afternoons from 3 to 8 pm
- First Sunday of each month
- February 12th
- September 24th
Transport options:
- Metro: Line 1 (Glories)
- Bus: Lines 7, 192, V23, V25, H12, and X1 (from Monday to Friday, stop c. Badajoz)
- Tram: T4, T5, T6 – La Farinera (last stop)
https://www.dissenyhub.barcelona
10. Museu de Ciencies Naturals de Barcelona (BLAU)
As an institution, this museum has existed since 1882. The present building, considered one of Barcelona’s most emblematic structures, was constructed in 2004.
Within the museum lobby, there’s a special exhibit featuring a whale skeleton discovered on Llançà beach in 1862. It was named Brava through a public vote.
The museum’s primary exhibit explains the Earth’s current workings, showcasing the interaction between the planet’s chemical and physical environment with living organisms. The exhibit utilizes touch screens and display cases filled with the museum’s collections—fossils, animals, plants, algae, minerals, and rocks.
Additionally, there are sections dedicated to fungi and the microscopic world, exhibiting replicas of viruses and microbes. Out of over 4 million items in the museum, about 4,500 are on display for visitors.
Address: Plaza Leonardo da Vinci, 4-5
Opening hours:
- October to February: Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 to 17:00, Saturdays from 10:00 to 19:00, Sundays, holidays, and open days from 10:00 to 20:00.
- March to September: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 19:00, Sundays, holidays, and open days from 10:00 to 20:00.
- Closed on January 1st, May 1st, June 24th, and December 25th.
Admission Price: €6
Free access:
- The first Sunday of every month
- Sundays throughout the year from 15:00
- February 12th
- May 18th (International Museum Day)
- September 24th
Transport options:
- Metro: L4 Maresme-Forum station (Rambla Prim exit)
- Tram: T4, Maresme-Forum stop
- Bus: H16 (Forum), 7 Diagonal Mar stop
- Touristic bus: Green line (operates from April 15th to September 25th)
11. Montjüic Castle
This castle was originally built in the 17th century as a military fortress to protect the city and played a pivotal role during the War of Spanish Succession in the 18th century. Later, it became a symbol of oppression during various periods of Spanish history.
Throughout the 20th century, the castle served as a military prison and witnessed significant events, including executions during the Spanish Civil War. Today, it stands as a historical site, offering panoramic views of Barcelona.
Visitors have the chance to learn about the history of Catalonia while walking around and enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle’s viewpoint. They can even arrange for a picnic in the moat. Visiting the castle is also a great activity for families with kids.
Address: Ctra. de Montjuïc, 66 Tel. (+34) 932 564 440
It opens every day of the week: From March 1st to October, from 10:00 to 20:00, and from November 1st to February 28th from 10:00 to 18:00. Closed on Christmas and New Year.
Admission Price: €12
Free access: First Sunday of every month all day and every Sunday from 15:00.
Transport Options:
- By Cable Car: From Avinguda Miramar, with 3 stops: Avenida Miramar (start), Plaza de la Sardana, and Castle (end). The price of the cable car service does not include entry to the Castle.
- By Bus 150: It starts from Avenida de la Reina Maria Cristina and ends at Montjuïc Castle. The journey from Plaza de España takes about 20 minutes, and the descent from the Castle to the starting line also takes approximately 20 minutes. This bus also connects with the Montjuïc Funicular at the Avinguda de Miramar-Estació del Funicular stop.
- Walking: From the Funicular and Cable Car station, the walk takes about 20/25 minutes, overcoming a constant slope that is quite steep in some points. The walk allows you to enjoy various mountain gardens, such as Joan Brossa or Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer.
https://ajuntament.barcelona.cat/castelldemontjuic/en
12. Museo Etnologic y de Cultures del Món (MUEC)
The Ethnological and World Cultures Museum invites visitors to explore various societies through a vast collection of over 70,000 tangible cultural heritage items gathered from different parts of the globe.
The MUEC aims to serve as a space for preserving, studying, displaying, and sharing significant ideas and objects. It focuses on delving into the history of items within the museum collection, unraveling their significance and meanings.
The primary goals of the MUEC are to preserve, restore, and manage the items it safeguards. It analyzes, interprets, and disseminates information about these items to enhance understanding, ensure accessibility to everyone, and create a platform for discussing vital topics.
Address: Passeig de Santa Madrona, 16-22, Parc de Montjuïc
Tel. (+34) 93 256 34 84
Opening hours:
- From May 1st to September 30th: Tuesdays to Sundays 10:00 to 20:00
- From October 1st to April 30th: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10:00 to 19:00, Sundays, and Holidays 10:00 to 20:00
Admission Price: €5
Free access: Every Sunday from 15:00 to 19:30 and the first Sunday of every month from 10:00 to 19:30.
13. Botanical Garden
Located on the gentle slopes of Montjuïc Park, the Barcelona Botanical Garden offers unique walks in every season, featuring vegetation from five global regions with a Mediterranean-like climate.
The garden’s primary goal is to preserve and showcase collections of Mediterranean plants from around the world. Its main objectives involve conserving and documenting Catalonia’s natural heritage, promoting botanical and nature awareness, and fostering understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
Address: Dr. Font i Quer, 2 Tel. (+34) 932564160
Opening hours:
- November to January: 10:00 to 17:00
- February, March: 10:00 to 18:00
- April, May, September, October: 10:00 to 19:00
- June, July, August: 10:00 to 20:00
Admission Price: €5 Combined admission Museu de Ciències Naturals – Jardí Botànic: €7
Free access: The first Sunday of every month, all day; and Sundays throughout the year, from 15:00. Also on February 12, May 18, and September 24.
Transport:
- Metro: L1 (red line) and L3 (green line). Station: Plaça Espanya. From Plaça Espanya, there is a 2.5 km walk taking around 35 minutes. Buses are also available.
- Bus: 150 from Plaza Espanya/Maria Cristina stations, get off at the stop on Av. de l’Estadi Olímpic (with a 5-10 minute walk to the Botanical Garden). L13 has a stop in front of the Botanical Garden, while 55 stops at Viver Tres Pins (a 5-10 minute walk to Jardí Botànic).
- Touristic bus Red route (operates from April 15 to September 25)
- Cable Car: The funicular connects to Metro lines L3 and L2. There is a 10-15 minute walk to the Botanical Garden.
