25 Free Museums in Barcelona You Should Visit + FAQs & Tips
Barcelona is full of history, culture, and stunning art.
The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to experience it.
From world-class art galleries to fascinating history museums, many of Barcelona’s best museums offer free entry on certain days.
After years of discovering the city’s cultural gems, I’ve put together the ultimate guide to the 25 best free museums in Barcelona, including useful tips and answers to common questions.
Ready to uncover the cultural treasures of the Catalan capital at no cost?
Let’s go!
Short on time? Here are my Barcelona top recommendations:
✨ Barcelona Card ✨ – free entrance, discounts, and transportation
✨ Catalonia Passeig de Gràcia ✨ – superb centrally located 4* hotel
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Overview of the Free Museums in Barcelona
💡 Insider Tip: If you want to experience Barcelona without the hassle of planning, consider my custom travel itinerary service. Together, we can craft a personalized travel plan that caters to your interests. Let’s make your next Barcelona adventure magical!
| Museum | When It’s Free |
| Temple of Augustus | Always free |
| MUHBA Turó de la Rovira | Always free |
| Virreina Palace | Always free |
| Museum of Funeral Carriages | Always free |
| Picasso Museum | Winter: Thursdays after 4 PM Summer: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays after 7 PM First Sunday of the month |
| Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA) | Saturdays from 4 PM |
| Maritime Museum of Barcelona | Sundays from 3 PM |
| Center of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona (CCCB) | Sundays from 3 PM |
| Barcelona History Museum MUHBA | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| Frederic Marès Museum | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| Museum of World Cultures | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| Museum of Natural Sciences | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| Ethnology Museum | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| El Born Center for Culture and Memory (CCM) | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| Museum of Music | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| Design Museum of Barcelona | Sundays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) | Saturdays from 3 PM, First Sunday of the month |
| Museum of the History of Catalonia | First Sunday of the month |
| Palau Güell | First Sunday of the month |
| Montjuïc Castle | First Sunday of the month |
| Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes | First Sunday of the month |
| Catalan Museum of Archaeology | First Sunday of the month |
| Barcelona’s Botanic Gardens | First Sunday of the month |
| Olympic and Sports Museum | First Sunday of the month |
| Fundation Foto Colectania | First Sunday of the month |
Absolutely Free Museums in Barcelona
The following free museums in Barcelona never charge for entrance.
1. Temple of Augustus
The Roman Temple d’August is always free to visit. You’ll find the remains tucked away in the heart of the Gothic Quarter.
The ancient Roman temple was built in the 1st century BC. It once stood as a monumental structure dedicated to Emperor Augustus.
Today, only four Corinthian columns remain of the imposing building. They’re well-preserved within a medieval courtyard.
Despite its modest size, the site is a remarkable testament to Barcelona’s Roman roots and offers a unique glimpse into the city’s early history.
🎫 Free entry: always, no booking required.
2. MUHBA Turó de la Rovira
The free museum MUHBA Turó de la Rovira provides a dive into Barcelona’s wartime history.
You’ll find the small but fascinating institution on the hilltop beneath the Bunkers del Carmel. The site wasn’t actually a bomb shelter but served as an anti-aircraft battery protecting Barcelona during the Civil War (1936 – 1939).
After the war, the remains became a refuge for displaced families, evolving into a shantytown until it was cleared for the 1992 Olympics.
Today, beneath the concrete remains, the museum exhibits photos, artifacts, and personal accounts from those turbulent times.
🎫 Free entry: always, no booking required.
3. Virreina Palace
Palau de la Virreina on the lively La Rambla is one of the city’s most important cultural centers.
The 18th-century baroque palace houses La Virreina Centre de la Imatge. The gallery focuses on contemporary photography and visual arts.
It often hosts temporary exhibitions, including photography, video, and multimedia works, alongside events and workshops aimed at promoting visual culture.
Beyond its exhibitions, La Virreina Centre de la Imatge has connections to the Virreina, the wife of the viceroy of Peru, and its stunning architecture. The space itself is a work of art, with baroque interiors adorned with magnificent details.
🎫 Free entry: always, no booking required.
4. Museum of Funeral Carriages
Museu de Carrosses Fúnebres is one of Barcelona’s most unusual free museums.
Located at the entrance of the monumental Montjuïc Cemetery, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of funeral carriages, from the 19th century to the present day. It offers insight into the rituals and customs surrounding death and burial in Barcelona.
Inside, you can admire ornate decorative carriages. The collection also includes historical pieces, such as horse-drawn hearses and luxury carriages used by the city’s elite.
🎫 Free entry: always, no booking required.
Museums in Barcelona Free During the Week
5. Picasso Museum
One of the most famous art museums in Barcelona, Museu Picasso, offers free entry on the first Sunday of the month and during the week depending on the season.
You’ll need to pre-book a ticket due to limited capacity.
The collection boasts over 4,000 pieces from one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Picasso’s works in the museum are mostly from his early years and include paintings, drawings, and ceramics with the artist’s signature style.
💡 Tip: To make the most of your experience, I recommend joining a guided tour. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Pablo Picasso’s artistic journey and his deep connection to Barcelona.
🎫 Free entry (pre-booking required):
- First Sunday of the month
- November 1 – April 30: Thursdays after 4 PM
- May 2 – October 31: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays after 7 PM
6. Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA)
Museu d’Art Contemporani (MACBA) occupies a striking modern building by architect Richard Meier.
The sleek white façade and expansive glass windows create a bright, open space that enhances the experience. The collection spans art from the second half of the 20th century to today, with a focus on contemporary issues such as feminism and the body in art.
MACBA also hosts rotating exhibitions that will continuously refresh your experience.
🎫 Free entry (pre-booking required): Saturdays after 4 PM.
Barcelona Museums Free on Sundays
7. Maritime Museum of Barcelona
If you’re into naval history, make sure you visit Museu Marítim de Barcelona.
Housed in the vast former shipyards, the interactive museum offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s maritime past.
The engaging exhibits will transport you into the world of sea exploration and trade routes, with cutaway shipping containers and digital recreations bringing the stories to life.
The highlight of one of the best free museums in Barcelona is the replica of the royal galleon from the 1571 Battle of Lepanto.
💡 Tip: A visit to the Maritime Museum includes entry to the Santa Eulália, a historic schooner docked at Port Vell. Built in 1918, it’s one of the oldest functional sailing ships in the Mediterranean.
🎫 Free entry: every Sunday after 3 PM, no booking required.
8. Center of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona (CCCB)
Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB) is a cultural hub where art, media, and ideas converge.
Situated in El Raval, the multidisciplinary space hosts various exhibitions, screenings, festivals, and performances. They focus on contemporary topics such as urbanism, social issues, and the relationship between technology and culture.
CCCB is known for its thought-provoking displays, often blending visual art with other forms of media. Its open and modern architecture complements the experimental exhibitions, making it one of the most unique free museums in Barcelona.
🎫 Free entry: Sundays after 3 PM, booking required.
9. Barcelona History Museum MUHBA
MUHBA Museu d’Història de Barcelona is a doorway to the city’s Roman roots.
The flagship site is at Plaça del Rei in El Gotico.
One of the top free Barcelona museums lets you walk through ancient Roman ruins, including streets, workshops, and the remains of a dye factory.
The museum is housed in several historical buildings and includes part of the Roman city walls and an underground archaeological site that will teleport you back to the Roman period of Barcino.
🎫 Free entry: every Sunday after 3 PM and on the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
10. Frederic Marès Museum
Museu Frederic Marès is one of the most fun free museums in Barcelona.
The museum displays collections of items gathered by sculptor Frederic Marès. They are arranged in the stunning Royal Palace of the Counts of Barcelona in the Gothic Quarter.
Inside the unique museum, you’ll find the most peculiar collectibles you might never expect to see in one place, from centuries-old religious statues to tens of thousands of objects from all walks of life.
Imagine ancient weapons, intricate fans, decorative smoking pipes, early cameras, and ornate clocks, all gathered in one place. Each mini-collection is thoughtfully curated and stunningly displayed to enhance the experience.
🎫 Free entry: Every Sunday after 3 PM and on the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
11. Museum of World Cultures
You’ll find the beautiful Museu de Cultures del Món in a historic palace in El Born.
One of my favorite free Barcelona museums invites you on a captivating cultural journey around the world. It offers a deep dive into the art and traditions of cultures from all continents.
The collection includes intricate masks, ceremonial objects, religious sculptures, and everyday items, giving you insight into the customs and beliefs of diverse communities throughout history.
🎫 Free entry: Every Sunday after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
12. Museum of Natural Sciences
Museu de les Ciències Naturals, aka Museu Blau, is one of the city’s most engaging museums.
Situated in the Forum Building, a striking piece of modern architecture, it’s dedicated to showcasing the wonders of natural history and scientific discovery.
The key attraction is the permanent exhibition. It focuses on the evolution of life on Earth, from the origins of the planet to the present day.
The museum’s collection includes fossils, minerals, animals, and interactive displays that explore the complexities of the natural world.
The exhibition spaces are designed with a hands-on approach, making science fun and accessible for both children and adults.
🎫 Free entry: Every Sunday after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
13. Ethnology Museum of Barcelona
Museu Etnològic offers a deep dive into the cultural traditions of Catalonia. Its collection tells stories of the everyday lives and customs of various communities.
The highlight of one of the best Barcelona free museums is the collection of els gegants. The huge puppets are a 600-year-old tradition and a main character at any festival in Catalonia.
The massive human-like figures participate in the festivities’ parades. The whimsical puppets represent historical and mythical characters.
🎫 Free entry: Every Sunday after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
14. El Born Center for Culture and Memory (CCM)
El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria (CCM) is a captivating historical and cultural hub.
Built over the remains of a neighborhood destroyed during the War of the Spanish Succession (1701 – 1714), the archaeological site preserves a vital chapter of the city’s history.
The ruins are protected by a modern glass-and-steel structure. The site includes homes, shops, and streets frozen in time.
Beyond its archaeological significance, El Born CCM hosts collections, performances, and lectures.
🎫 Free entry: Every Sunday after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month, no booking required. You can see the ruins always for free.
15. Museum of Music
Museu de la Música is a fascinating immersive experience in the world of music.
Located in the L’Auditori complex, one of the top free museums in Barcelona is home to a vast collection of over 500 instruments, some dating back to the Middle Ages.
It’s also one of the most important museums dedicated to music in Spain.
Inside, you can explore interactive exhibits that highlight the history of music through the centuries, from ancient instruments to modern-day innovations. The museum also provides an insightful look into Catalan musical traditions.
🎫 Free entry: Every Sunday after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
16. Design Museum of Barcelona
Museu del Disseny de Barcelona is a must-see for fans of creativity and innovation.
Dedicated to design in all its forms, one of the top free Barcelona museums explores the evolution of design in all its forms, from graphic design and fashion to industrial design and decorative arts.
Located in an ultra-modern, slick building in Glòries, the gallery highlights the influence of design on our daily lives. The museum’s collection is rich and varied, displaying over 70,000 objects, with special attention to Catalan design.
The collection spans from historical craftsmanship to cutting-edge contemporary creations.
🎫 Free entry: Every Sunday after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
Barcelona Museums Free on First Sunday of the Month
17. National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)
Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC) overlooks Plaça d’Espanya and boasts one of the most magnificent views of Barcelona.
It also occupies the majestic Palau Nacional, built for the 1929 International Exposition.
The art gallery is a treasure trove of Catalan art. It displays an incredible collection from every period in the last 1,000 years, from Romanesque and Gothic to Modernism and contemporary art.
My favorite art pieces are the replicas of Roman temples, the modern art sculptures, and the Civil War propaganda posters.
🎫 Free entry: Every Saturday after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month, no booking required.
18. Museum of the History of Catalonia
Museu d’Història de Catalunya is your ticket to understanding Catalonia’s rich and complex past.
The waterfront museum takes you on an interactive journey, from prehistoric times to the present day.
The exhibits combine artifacts, multimedia displays, and reconstructions to showcase the region’s heritage, including its cultural, political, and industrial milestones.
The rooftop terrace is a highlight of the visit with its stunning views of Barcelona’s old port.
This is definitely the most fun historic museum I’ve ever visited 😉
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, no booking required.
19. Palau Güell
Palau Güell is among Antoni Gaudí’s early masterpieces and one of the nine UNESCO sites in Barcelona.
Tucked away just off La Rambla, the palace reveals the architect’s ability to merge functionality with artistic innovation. It was designed as a private residence and a space for hosting high-profile guests for the industrialist Eusebi Güell.
Palau Güell’s highlights include the soaring central and the colorful chimneys on the rooftop terrace. Each one was uniquely crafted with Gaudí’s signature flair, making it one of the most recognizable images of Barcelona.
💡 Tip: Palau Güell is often less crowded than Gaudí’s more famous works. If you can’t visit for free, book your tickets here to secure your visit and enjoy this hidden architectural gem.
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, booking required.
20. Montjuïc Castle
Perched on the top of the hill, Montjuïc Castle is one of Barcelona’s most iconic historical sites.
Originally built in 1640 as a military fortress, the fortification offers stunning views of the city and the sea. It was used for various military purposes throughout the years, including as a prison by both sides during the Civil War.
Nowadays, you can explore the fortress’ ramparts, defensive walls, and cannon placements, all while enjoying views that stretch across Barcelona and its coastline. There’s also a small museum collection inside.
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, booking recommended to skip the lines.
21. Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes
Tucked away in the Pedralbes neighborhood of Barcelona, the Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes is one of my favorite Barcelona hidden gems.
Built in 1327, the Cistercian monastery features gorgeous Gothic architecture and serene gardens.
It was originally founded by Queen Elisenda de Montcada, the wife of King James II of Aragon, as a home for nuns devoted to religious life.
The interior is incredibly well-preserved, with vaulted ceilings, delicate frescoes, and a cloister, one of Catalan Gothic art’s most important.
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, no booking required.
22. Catalan Museum of Archaeology
Located on the stunning Montjuïc, the Museu d’Arqueologia de Catalunya is one of the top free museums in Barcelona for history buffs.
The museum’s collection offers a comprehensive look at Catalonia’s archaeological history from Prehistoric to Medieval times.
The exhibits feature important findings from both Catalonia and the Mediterranean region. They include Roman artifacts, Greek pottery, Iberian sculptures, and Bronze Age tools.
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, no booking required.
23. Barcelona’s Botanic Gardens
Nestled on the slopes of Montjuïc, Jardí Botànic de Barcelona is a serene and expansive green space perfect for relaxing surrounded by beautiful plants.
The garden spans over 14 hectares and features a collection of more than 1,500 plant species from around the world. The focus is on Mediterranean climates from Australia, California, Chile, South Africa, and New Zealand.
The layout of the gardens tells the story of how different plants adapt to similar climates. Along with the impressive plant collection, you’ll find various paths and viewpoints offering stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, no booking required.
24. Olympic and Sports Museum
Museu Olímpic i de l’Esport Joan Antoni Samaranch is a must-see for sports fans and anyone interested in the legacy of the Olympic Games.
The museum on Montjuïc celebrates the history of the Olympics and the impact of sports on society.
Its collection includes Olympic memorabilia. You can see medals, trophies, and sports equipment used by legendary athletes.
You can also explore interactive exhibits that highlight key moments in Olympic history and the role of Barcelona in the 1992 Summer Olympics.
The museum’s modern, engaging design allows you to learn about the evolution of different sports and their cultural significance.
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, no booking required.
25. Fondation Foto Colectania
Fundació Foto Colectania is a hidden gem for photography enthusiasts.
One of the coolest free museums in Barcelona hosts temporary exhibitions that feature Spanish and international photographers. The exhibits often highlight unique, experimental perspectives on the art of photography.
What sets Foto Colectania apart from other art galleries is its intimate atmosphere, where you can engage with photography in a personal setting.
The foundation often collaborates with other cultural institutions. This makes its exhibitions even more diverse and connected to the wider cultural landscape of Barcelona.
🎫 Free entry: First Sunday of the month, no booking required.
Free Museum Days in Barcelona
On several occasions throughout the year, some museums also open their doors for free. Here are the ones I have personally confirmed:
| Special Day | Free Museums |
| Santa Eulalia (February 12) | Picasso Museum, Olympic and Sports Museum |
| International Museum Day (May 18) | Picasso Museum, CosmoCaixa, CaixaForum, Joan Miró Foundation, Antoni Tàpies Foundation, Olympic and Sports Museum |
| Night of the Museums (Saturday closest to May 18) | Joan Miró Foundation, Antoni Tàpies Foundation, CosmoCaixa, CaixaForum |
| La Mercè Festival (September 24) | Picasso Museum, Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau, CosmoCaixa, CaixaForum, Joan Miró Foundation, Antoni Tàpies Foundation, Olympic and Sports Museum |
Tips About Visiting Museums in Barcelona Free of Charge
💡 Even if entry is free, make sure to book in advance. Some of the best museums in Barcelona often require advance booking due to limited capacity. Head to the museum’s website to book your free ticket.
💡 Purchase the Barcelona Card. If you can’t take advantage of the free museum days but want to visit multiple museums, the Barcelona Card offers a great deal. It includes free entry to 25 museums and grants unlimited use of the public transport network, making it a cost-effective way to explore Barcelona’s cultural scene.
💡Alternatively, buy the Articket BCN. It provides skip-the-line tickets for several of the best art museums in Barcelona.
💡 Take advantage of age-based free access. Visitors under 16 and over 65 can enjoy free admission or reduced entry to many Barcelona museums.
💡 Discover hidden gems during 48H Open House BCN. The event is typically held in Barcelona in October. It gives free access to architectural gems and hidden spaces that aren’t usually open to the public.
FAQs About the Free Museums in Barcelona
Are any museums free in Barcelona?
Yes, many museums in Barcelona offer free entry on certain days or for specific groups of people. Be sure to check the individual museum websites for the requirements and how to pre-book your tickets (yes, you still need a ticket even if the entry is free).
What day is the Picasso Museum free?
The Picasso Museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month and every Thursday from 6 PM to 9 PM. Additionally, during local festivals and cultural events, such as La Mercè, the museum may offer free entry as well.
Is Moco Museum Barcelona free on Sunday?
No, the Moco Museum in Barcelona is not free on Sundays. However, the art museum often offers discounts or special deals.
What are the free museum days in Barcelona?
The most popular free museum days in Barcelona are the first Sundays of each month. The city’s museums also open for free on several public holidays throughout the year. The dates include February 12, May 18, and September 24.
Now You Know How to Visit Barcelona’s Museums for Free
And there you have it – all 25 free museums in Barcelona and how to visit them.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s iconic art galleries or immersing yourself in its rich history, this guide will help you to experience the best museums in Barcelona without spending a dime.
From free entry days to the advantages of getting a Barcelona Card, you can enjoy the city’s cultural treasures while keeping your budget intact.
💡 Insider Tip: If you want to experience Barcelona without the hassle of planning, consider my custom travel itinerary service. Together, we can craft a personalized travel plan that caters to your interests. Let’s make your next Barcelona adventure magical!
