International Museum Day

On 18 May, Madrid’s museums will open their doors so that both Madrileños and visitors can rediscover their collections and the stories hidden behind gallery walls. This day transforms the city into a living exhibition, where art becomes a reason for dialogue, inspiration and encounter.

In 2026, the theme of International Museum Day (DIM) is «Museums unite a divided world». This motto underlines the role of museums as spaces where different cultures and perspectives can meet, and where stories and objects act as bridges between people. The particular importance of this celebration is linked to the 80th anniversary of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), making this day a milestone for the international museum community.

On the eve of the celebration, on 16 and 17 May, European Night of Museums will take place: numerous centres will remain open until midnight, offering concerts, workshops and interactive activities for all kinds of audiences.

Museo del Prado: free admission to all exhibitions, including those of Velázquez, Goya and El Greco. It is recommended to go in the morning to enjoy the masterpieces without crowds.

Museo Reina Sofía: free access, special programmes and a live Radio 3 concert marathon (date and details to be confirmed).

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza: open collections and guided tours of more than 1,000 works of Western painting.

Galería de las Colecciones Reales: interactive activities until 20 May: storytelling, micro-concerts and exclusive guided tours.

Museo Arqueológico Nacional: extended opening hours until 20:00, workshops and access to areas usually restricted.

Museo Cerralbo: free admission from 10:00 to 15:00, also on Thursdays and Sundays.

Museo del Romanticismo: a journey through everyday life in the 19th century, free admission.

Museo de América: exhibitions and entertaining programmes for children, including «El Gran Juego Americano».

CaixaForum Madrid: free access to permanent and temporary exhibitions with extended opening hours.

Tips for making the most of the day:

Start the day at the Prado or the Reina Sofía in the morning to avoid queues and enjoy the most emblematic works.

Take a break in Retiro between visits to rest and prepare for the next stop.

For families with children, Museo de América and Museo Arqueológico offer workshops and games specially designed for children aged 4 and over.

Get around easily on foot, by metro or on BiciMAD, whose vehicles will be decorated with reproductions of museum works during the DIM week.

For the night-time visits on 16 May, book tickets in advance, especially for Templo de Debod.