Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: a practical visitor guide
Quick answer
The Thyssen opens Tuesday to Sunday 10am–7pm and Mondays 12pm–4pm with free entry to the permanent collection. General admission is €14. Two hours is enough for the highlights, from Italian primitives to pop art: start on floor 2 and work your way down.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
More Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum guides
- Thyssen in 2 hoursA 2-hour route through the Thyssen-Bornemisza: from the primitives to Hopper, with the key paintings, timings, the best order and tips to beat the lines.
- Hours, tickets & free entryThyssen Museum opening hours, ticket price, free Mondays, free Saturday nights and the best time to visit without crowds. Checked in October 2026.
- Must-see paintingsThe 12 most important works at the Thyssen-Bornemisza with their floor and why they matter: Van Eyck, Caravaggio, Hopper, Van Gogh, Dalí and more.
- Thyssen with kidsHow to visit the Thyssen Museum with kids: a 75-minute route, looking games, free entry for under 18s and practical tips for families.
Point your camera at any artwork
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AnyArt recognizes paintings, sculptures and monuments and tells you their story in seconds, like a personal audio guide. Free for iPhone, iPad and Android.
Why the Thyssen is a must
The Thyssen tells the story of Western painting from the 13th century to pop art in a single building, the Villahermosa Palace. It fills the gaps left by the Prado (old masters) and the Reina Sofía (modern art): impressionism, German expressionism, the avant-garde and American art.
How to plan your visit
- Buy a ticket online at entradas.museothyssen.org to skip the ticket-office line.
- Follow the chronological order: start on floor 2 (primitives and Renaissance) and head down to floor 0 (20th century).
- Free Mondays tend to be busy; if you can, go Tuesday to Thursday in the morning.
- Pick up the floor plan at the entrance: works can change rooms.
- Scan any painting with the AnyArt app to hear its story instead of renting the audio guide.
Combine it with Madrid's Art Walk
The Thyssen sits between the Prado and the Reina Sofía, within a 15-minute walk of both. The Art Walk pass costs €32.80 for all three, a 20% discount compared to buying separately, according to the official website.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you need at the Thyssen?
Two hours covers the key works. For a relaxed visit, plan about 3 hours.
When is the Thyssen free?
On Mondays, for the permanent collection. There is also free entry on Saturdays 9pm–11pm during Thyssen Nights, per the programme. Check the official website.
How much is a Thyssen ticket?
General admission is €14 according to the official website (October 2026). Under 18s get in free.
What should I see at the Thyssen?
Among others, Van Eyck's Annunciation, Carpaccio's Young Knight, Hopper's Hotel Room and the impressionists on floor 0.
Can you take photos in the Thyssen?
Photos without flash are usually allowed in the permanent collection. Check the current rules on the official website.