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Prado Museum rules | All the guidelines you should know

The Prado Museum is home to paintings by some of the biggest names in European art. Its collection is almost priceless, to say the least. As a result, it also attracts millions of visitors every year—2 million, to be precise. Hosting such numbers is only possible as the museum enforces certain rules that every visitor must follow.

What are the Prado Museum rules?

  • Food & drinks: Carrying food & drinks into the museum is strictly prohibited, regardless of any personal circumstances. For those who want to grab a bite, you can visit Café Prado or the Ionian Gallery Tea Room inside the museum. 
  • Photography & videography: Photography and videography are prohibited inside the museum, even if it’s for personal use. You also cannot carry tripods and selfie sticks inside. Photography is only permitted in the Jerónimos Hall, Hall of the Muses, and the Cloister.
  • Smoking: Smoking is a big no-no inside the museum, both to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors and to conserve the art. 
  • Pets: Your furry friends cannot tag along with you inside the museum, unless they’re a guide dog or a service animal. You will have to produce all the relevant documentation in this case. 
  • Personal belongings: Carrying large personal belongings (larger than 40cm x 40cm) into the museum is prohibited, but you can store them in the available cloakroom. Keep in mind that its capacity is limited, so plan accordingly.  
  • Children: Children under the age of 14 must always be accompanied by an adult inside the museum.

Helpful information about the Prado Museum

  • Using mobile phones: You can use your mobile phones inside the museum, but they must remain on silent. Photography isn’t allowed, as mentioned earlier. 
  • Dress code: There is no strict dress code enforced at the museum. You can dress casually during your visit. 
  • Parking: The museum doesn’t have any parking lots of its own. However, you’ll find several paid parking lots or garages nearby that you can use. 
  • General conduct: You must always behave in a civil manner and not disturb the staff or the other visitors at the museum. 

NOTE: Always look out for specific signage around the museum to ensure you follow its guidelines. You can always visit the information points for any specific information you may need.

Frequently asked questions about the Prado Museum rules

Photography is generally not permitted inside the museum's exhibition halls. This policy helps protect the artworks from potential damage caused by light exposure. Photography is only permitted in the Jerónimos Hall, Hall of the Muses, and the Cloister, but flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are always off-limits. Want a photo souvenir? The museum shop offers some stunning prints!