If you’re a fan of art and want to explore masterpieces in person, Madrid, Spain, is the place to be. The city boasts several impressive art museums to visit. Starting with the Golden Triangle of Art located in Paseo Del Prado, you can easily access the three key museums: the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofia, and the Museo Thyssen Bornemisza. These museums house incredible collections spanning various art periods, including works by European masters—a dream come true for many art enthusiasts. Do note that these three museums are closed on Mondays, but you can purchase a Special Bonus ticket for a budget-friendly way to visit all of them.

For the best experience, plan to spend a full day at the Museo del Prado and half a day each at the other two museums. The Museo del Prado, renowned across Spain and globally, is one of the greatest art galleries ever. Opened in 1819, it originally served as the Natural History Cabinet but was transformed into an art museum filled with royal collections by the reigning king of the time. This museum features works by artists such as Goya and Velázquez, including the famed black paintings and Majas.

The Reina Sofia Museum, inaugurated in 1992, focuses on 20th-century art. It features works from Spanish artists like Picasso, Francis Bacon, and Georges Braque. The Museo Thyssen Bornemisza contains a family collection from the 20th century, showcasing impressive pieces of Impressionism and Expressionism by artists like Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.

Madrid’s rich array of museums makes it an essential destination for art lovers. Planning your visit ahead of time will ensure you make the most of your experience in this vibrant city.