Madrid: Prado Museum Entry Ticket
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Non smoking
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Reservations
History
The Prado Museum opened its doors in 1819 as the Royal Museum of Painting and Sculpture, originally built to showcase the Spanish Royal Collection. Over time, it grew into the Museo Nacional del Prado, today regarded as one of the most important art museums in the world. Its collection reflects the power and taste of the Spanish monarchy, featuring masterpieces from the Golden Age of Spanish art, along with significant works from Italian, Flemish, and other European schools. With over two centuries of history, the Prado continues to stand as a guardian of European cultural heritage.
Highlights
- Discover the world’s largest collection of Spanish paintings
- Admire masterpieces by Rembrandt, Dürer, Titian, Velázquez, and Goya
- Explore 900 sculptures and 200 fragments within the Prado’s collection
- Learn about European art schools from the 15th to 19th centuries
- Stroll through galleries to see the royal Dauphin’s Treasure
Full Description
Opened in 1819, the Prado Museum stands as Spain’s most important cultural institution and one of the world’s leading art museums. Originally founded as the Royal Museum of Painting and Sculpture, it was created from the Spanish Royal Collection, and over the years, it has evolved into the Museo Nacional del Prado.
Today, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of around 7,600 paintings, 1,000 sculptures, 4,800 prints, 8,200 drawings, and countless historic documents. Its permanent exhibitions include masterpieces spanning from the Romanesque period to the 19th century, offering visitors a deep journey through the history of European art.
With your ticket, you gain access to over 1,300 works currently on display in the museum’s main building. For a more structured visit, the Prado organizes three thematic routes that highlight its most iconic works, including creations by Bartolomé Bermejo, Pedro Berruguete, Sánchez Coello, El Greco, Ribera, Zurbarán, Murillo, Alonso Cano, Velázquez, and Francisco de Goya.
For a deeper experience, you can also purchase an audio guide (optional) that will direct you to key highlights while sharing background stories, techniques, and artistic influences that shaped these masterpieces.
Includes
- Entry ticket to the Prado Museum
- Booking fee
Meeting Point
The Prado Museum has 3 entrances. Visitors must go to Entrance 4 – Puerta de los Jerónimos, located on the eastern side of the museum. During peak dates, access may be redirected to the Velázquez entrance.
Price
From $21 per person
Traveler Reviews
- Great experience but due to visitor schedules it felt a bit short. The guide was exceptional, loved all the details.
- Highly recommended! Impossible to miss it if you travel to Madrid. Easy access, very well organized, and the museum itself is breathtaking.
- Worth seeing while in Madrid. The collection is incredible, with some of the finest artwork you’ll ever see.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
How long should I plan for a visit to the Prado Museum?
Most visitors spend around 2–3 hours exploring, but art lovers may easily spend half a day. The museum offers suggested routes to ensure you see its most important works without feeling overwhelmed.
Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography without flash is permitted in some areas of the museum. However, in rooms with sensitive artworks, photography may be restricted to protect the pieces. Always check signage inside.
Are guided tours available with this ticket?
This entry ticket does not include a guided tour. However, guided tours and audio guides can be purchased separately inside the museum for a more informative experience.
Can I re-enter the museum on the same ticket
No, the ticket allows single entry only. Once you exit the museum, re-entry is not permitted. It is best to plan your visit carefully and enjoy all sections before leaving.
What is the best time to visit the Prado Museum?
Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, while weekends and public holidays tend to be busy. Visiting early in the day or during late afternoons offers a quieter experience to enjoy the artworks.
