More about: The 10 Best Museums in Barcelona
Located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is a city where art and culture are in the air. Its range of museums is one of the most varied and interesting in Europe, with spaces dedicated to both modern and classical art.
A trip is the perfect opportunity to visit some of Barcelona's museums and soak up its history, culture and personality. Here are my must-see museums and how to get tickets!
1. National Art Museum of Catalonia
If you could only visit one museum in Barcelona, this should probably be it. The National Art Museum of Catalonia not only stands out for its impressive collection of Catalan art spanning almost a thousand years of history, but also for the spectacular building that houses it, the National Palace. This palace was built in 1929 for the Universal Exhibition and is now one of the most recognisable icons of Montjuïc.
How to visit
It is one of the most visited museums in the city, so I recommend booking your tickets to the National Art Museum of Catalonia in advance to ensure access on the day you prefer. Included in the Barcelona museum pass, Articket.
What will you see?
A tour of its rooms is a unique journey through Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Modernist art. If you are passionate about Romanesque art, the frescoes of Sant Climent de Taüll are an absolute must-see: one of those pieces that remain etched in your memory. But don't forget to explore the rooms dedicated to Modernist art and Catalan Noucentisme, as well as the Spanish and European Renaissance and Baroque collections.
**Recommended if...**you are fascinated by how art evolved in Catalonia over the centuries and want to visit an iconic building.
Useful information
- Where? Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n
- How to get there: By bus (lines 55, 150) or metro (lines 1 and 3, Plaza España station).
- How long does it take? About 3 hours if you want to see everything at a leisurely pace.
2. Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum is one of Barcelona's gems and a must-see if you're interested in the Malaga-born painter. The collection covers his formative years and youth, showing the evolution of his style with nearly 4,000 works. It also has symbolic value: it was Picasso himself who promoted its creation as a tribute to a city that meant so much to him.
How to visit
You can buy tickets at the ticket office or take advantage of free admission on Thursdays from 5 pm and on the first Sunday of each month. If you prefer to be sure of a place, it is best to book online in advance. We also highly recommend signing up for the Picasso tour with tickets to the museum, which is perfect for delving deeper into the life and work of the Cubist painter. Included in the Barcelona museum pass, Articket.
What will you see?
The museum is spread over five Gothic palaces, which are worth a visit in their own right. Its rooms allow you to follow Picasso's evolution closely, from his early academic works to his most personal interpretations. It is a fascinating journey that will help you better understand his talent and his relationship with Barcelona.
**Recommended if...**you are passionate about Picasso or want to learn about a fundamental part of his artistic career.
Practical information
- Where? Calle Montcada, 15-23.
- How to get there: Metro line 4, Jaume I station.
- How long does it take? Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
3. European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM)
If you think contemporary art is always abstract or difficult to understand, the MEAM will change your mind. This museum surprises visitors with its collection of figurative and realistic art from the 20th and 21st centuries, with works that seem to jump off the canvas thanks to their level of detail.
How to visit
You can book your ticket online to ensure you get in on the day you want. The ticket includes both the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions.
What will you see?
The museum is housed in the beautiful Palau Gomis, a neoclassical building that adds to the appeal of the visit. In addition to painting and sculpture, the MEAM organises concerts, theatre and workshops that make each visit a different experience. If you like hyperrealism, you'll be amazed by some of the pieces here.
**Recommended if...**you're interested in contemporary realistic art and are looking for a quieter, less crowded museum.
Practical information
- Where: Barra de Ferro, 5.
- How to get there: Metro line 4, Jaume I station.
- How long does it take? Approximately 1 hour and a half.
4. Museum of the History of Catalonia and the terrace
If you want to gain a better understanding of Catalan identity, this museum is the perfect place. The Museum of the History of Catalonia offers a very enjoyable tour, with models and interactive spaces that explain how the history of this region has been forged from prehistoric times to the present day.
How to visit
It is advisable to buy your ticket online, especially if you plan to go up to the terrace, which is one of the most pleasant viewpoints in the port of Barcelona.
What will you see?
Outside, you'll find the historic Palacio del Mar. Inside, the museum offers a journey into the past where you can see reconstructions of different periods, try on medieval armour and even ride on an old tram. At the end of your visit, don't forget to step out onto the terrace for a drink with spectacular views of the port.
**Recommended if...**you want to learn about Catalan history in an entertaining way or are looking for something different that combines culture and views.
Practical information
- Where? Plaza de Pau Vila, 3.
- How to get there: Metro line 4, Barceloneta station.
- How long does it take? About 2 hours.
5. Joan Miró Foundation
If you are interested in contemporary art and especially the work of Joan Miró, this museum is a must-see. The Joan Miró Foundation has one of the most complete collections of the artist's work, with paintings, sculptures, tapestries and sketches that will give you an in-depth understanding of his creative evolution.
How to visit
You can buy tickets at the ticket office or book online to guarantee your place, especially during high season. Included in the Barcelona museum pass, Articket.
What will you see?
More than 14,000 pieces spanning his entire career, from his early works to his most famous pieces. The building, designed by architect Josep Lluís Sert, is a landmark of modern architecture.
**Recommended if...**you are passionate about Miró or want to discover one of Barcelona's most iconic art centres.
Practical information
- Where? Parc de Montjuïc, s/n.
- How to get there: Montjuïc funicular from Paral·lel or buses 55 and 150.
- How long does it take? About 2 hours.
6. Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA)
MACBA is the heart of contemporary art in the city. Its galleries display some of the most innovative works of the 20th and 21st centuries, with a special focus on Spanish and Catalan artists.
How to visit
I recommend buying your ticket in advance to avoid queues, especially at weekends. Included in the Barcelona museum pass, Articket.
What will you see?
A journey through minimalism, pop art, conceptual art and the most groundbreaking trends of recent decades. Its bright white building, designed by Richard Meier, has become an icon of the Raval neighbourhood.
**Recommended if...**you want to discover the latest art scene and are interested in experimental art.
Practical information
- Where? Plaça dels Àngels, 1.
- How to get there: Metro lines 1 and 2, Universitat station; line 3, Catalunya station.
- How long does it take? Approximately 2 hours.
7. Centre for Contemporary Culture of Barcelona (CCCB)
Just a few steps away from MACBA is the CCCB, a dynamic space where contemporary culture is experienced in a cross-disciplinary way. Here you will find exhibitions, debates, festivals and film series that address the major issues of our time.
How to visit
Check the programme and buy tickets online for the exhibition or activity you are interested in. Included in the Barcelona museum pass, Articket.
What will you see?
A varied programme that combines visual arts, thought, science and urban culture. The building is a mix of an old hospital and a spectacular glass façade.
**Recommended if...**you are interested in reflecting on the present and exploring new cultural formats.
Practical information
- Where? Montalegre, 5.
- How to get there: Metro lines 1 and 2, Universitat station.
- How long does it take? Between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the exhibition.
8. Egyptian Museum of Barcelona
If you are fascinated by Ancient Egypt, this museum is one of the most unique places in the city. The Egyptian Museum of Barcelona houses a private collection that is unique in Spain, with original pieces and reproductions.
How to visit
You can buy your ticket at the ticket office or book online to avoid disappointment. Included in the Barcelona museum pass, Articket.
What will you see?
Over a thousand objects that will give you an insight into the daily life, beliefs and art of Pharaonic Egypt. From sarcophagi and statues to mummies and jewellery, everything is presented with informative explanations.
**Recommended if...**you are passionate about ancient history and want to discover a different kind of museum.
Practical information
- Where: Calle Valencia, 284.
- How to get there: Metro lines 3 and 5, Diagonal station.
- How long does it take? 1 hour and a half.
9. Barcelona Maritime Museum
Located in the former royal shipyards, the Maritime Museum of Barcelona takes visitors on a journey through the city's relationship with the sea over the centuries.
How to visit
You can buy tickets directly at the ticket office or book them online.
What will you see?
A collection of models, maps, navigational instruments and replicas of historic ships, including a full-scale reproduction of a 16th-century royal galley.
**Recommended if...**you're interested in naval history and want to visit a building with centuries of history.
Practical information
- Where: Avenida de les Drassanes, s/n.
- How to get there: Metro line 3, Drassanes station.
- How long does it take? 1 hour and a half.
10. Barcelona Modernism Museum
If you're into Catalan modernism, this museum is the perfect place to learn more about this movement beyond Gaudí. The Museum of Modernism has furniture, paintings and sculptures by the leading modernist artists.
How to visit
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office or booked online to avoid waiting.
What will you see?
A carefully curated collection that traces modernist art and design with works by artists such as Ramon Casas, Santiago Rusiñol and Josep Llimona. There are also decorative art pieces that show what life was like at the time.
**Recommended if...**you want to learn more about modernism and discover some lesser-known gems.
Practical information
- Where: Calle Balmes, 48.
- How to get there: Metro lines 1 and 3, Catalunya station.
- How long does it take? 1 hour and a half.
Barcelona Museum Pass (Articket)
If you fancy spending a few days exploring Barcelona's cultural offerings, the Articket is the best option. This pass allows you to skip the queues at six of the city's most outstanding museums: the Picasso Museum, the MNAC, the Joan Miró Foundation, the MACBA, the CCCB and the Antoni Tàpies Foundation.
As well as saving time, you'll get a good discount on individual tickets. If you're travelling with children, remember that most of these museums offer free admission for children under 16.
**Recommended if...**you want to immerse yourself in art and visit the city's great museums with a single pass.
Organise your visit to Barcelona's museums
Opening days and times
- Most museums in Barcelona open between 9:00 and 10:00 and close between 18:30 and 20:00, depending on the season.
- Almost all museums in Barcelona are closed on Mondays, so be sure to visit them on any other day of the week (and if possible, avoid weekends, as this is when they receive the most visitors).
- All museums are closed on 25 December and 1 and 6 January for religious holidays.
Tips for your visit
- If you can't decide on just one museum, I think the Picasso Museum is the most worthwhile for its large collection and the opportunity to explore the artist's work in depth.
- If you decide to visit the National Art Museum of Catalonia, bear in mind that it is located at the top of Montjuïc, the city's mountain, from where you can see beautiful sunsets. It might be a good idea to go up in the afternoon, explore the museum and the area, and end the day watching the sunset.
- Allow between 45 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes to visit the museum of your choice, unless you want to take an in-depth tour that will take up all morning or part of the afternoon.
- In addition to the museums mentioned here, which in my opinion are the most outstanding in Barcelona, the city has many others that may interest you because of their specific exhibitions. Some examples of other museums in Barcelona are the Erotic Museum, the Design Museum, the Chocolate Museum, CosmoCaixa and the Olympic Sports Museum, to name a few.
Other visits that may interest you
On your trip to Barcelona, most of your visits will be related in one way or another to Gaudí's architecture. Of course, the Sagrada Familia is an absolute must-see, so I have written a guide that Barcelona Sagrada Familia Tickets and Tours that will surely be very useful when it comes to getting your tickets.
I also recommend that you read my guide to Park Güell in Barcelona Tickets and Tours to learn all the tricks for visiting it. And while you're at it, take a look at my guide to La Pedrera in Barcelona Tickets and Tours and Barcelona Casa Batlló Tickets and Tours, with the best tips for exploring these two architectural gems of the city.
For football fans, visiting the Spotify Camp Nou is an experience that can be very interesting, as the Spotify Camp Nou Experience allows you to explore the trophy gallery, a space dedicated to Messi, a very interesting audiovisual area and, of course, the stands, the changing rooms and the press room. Find out how to visit here: Barcelona Spotify Camp Nou Stadium Tours.