Overview
The Reina Sofia Museum is Spain's national museum of 20th-century art. It's famous for housing Picasso's Guernica and works by other Spanish masters.
It's one of the most important modern art museums in the world, with a focus on Spanish art.
Location
Address
Calle de Santa Isabel 52, Madrid
Neighborhood: Barrio de las Letras
Coordinates
40.415500, -3.689600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • outdoor sculptures
- • gardens
summer
hot
- • extended evening hours
- • outdoor installations
autumn
cool
- • fall-themed exhibitions
- • cozy indoor spaces
winter
cold
- • holiday decorations
- • festive exhibits
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online in advance
- Bring a valid ID
- Check the weather and dress accordingly
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (lots of walking and stairs)
- • be prepared for walking on uneven surfaces and stairs
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit/debit cards, cash
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate or offensive clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week in advance for peak seasons
- • official Reina Sofia Museum website
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available for purchase online
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Museo Reina Sofía
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket purchase, Event calendar, Exhibition information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Public areas
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport
Distance: 12 km
Travel Time: 25-30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a place of national pride, showcasing the best of Spanish art and artists.
Historical Significance: The museum is housed in a former hospital, which has its own historical significance. It's also a hub for understanding the evolution of Spanish art and culture.
Insider Tips
- The museum is free for EU residents and free for everyone on certain days and hours. Check the official website for details.
- The best food options are near the exit on the ground floor, offering a mix of traditional and modern Spanish cuisine.
Local Recommendations
- • Try a coffee and churros at the café on the terrace
- • Ask for a guide who speaks both English and Spanish for a more detailed experience
- • Visit the nearby Prado Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum for a complete art experience in Madrid
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the dramatic entrance
Result: Great shot of the modern facade
Courtyard
Best Time: Midday
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the architecture
Result: Impressive photos of the open courtyard
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Prado Museum
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Art Museum
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Distance: 700m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Art Museum
Retiro Park
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
Plaza Mayor
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Historic Square
Reviews
Based on 25,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online to skip the line"
- "Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience"
- "Don't miss Picasso's Guernica"
- "Take time to explore the outdoor areas and the courtyard"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (15)
Prado Museum with Reina Sofia Museum Guided Tour
Madrid Art Fusion in Reina Sofia and Prado Museum
Guided visit to Reina Sofia Museum
2 in 1 Madrid Art Tour Prado and Reina Sofia Museums
Prado Museum Guided Tour and Optional Reina Sofia
Culture Unveiled: Reina Sofía Guided Tour
Reina Sofia Museum Madrid Exclusive Guided Tour
Prado & Reina Sofia Madrid Exclusive Guided Museum Tour
Reina Sofia Museum Guided Tour Semi-Private 6ppl Max
Prado & Reina Sofia Guided Museum Tour Semi-Private 6ppl Max
Madrid Evening Walking Tour and optional Flamenco Show
Best Madrid Customizable Private Tour with Hotel Pick up
Kosovo and North Macedonia in 2 Days from Sofia
Guided Visit to Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Plovdiv and Thracia Valley with Wine Tasting
Quick Info
Available Tours
82
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
25,000
Adult Entry
€12