Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum Tours | Ultimate Guide

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Thyssen Museum exterior with modern architecture in Madrid, Spain.
























































From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Wylaia Mondy

Wylaia

Jan 2026

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+1 more

The ticket purchase was easy and convenient online. We were a party of four and we all thought the galleries were beautifully designed and the traffic flow was excellently maintained. The extra seating in the galleries allowed opportunities for review and discussion but were placed to also provide relief for those needing to take a little rest. I've travelled to several museums in several countries and this has become one of my favorite. I will definitely visit again.
Garbagni Stefano
IT

Garbagni

Italy
Jan 2026

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Great initiative, we skipped the lines, especially at the Prado. I suggest a premium version that allows you to enter museums multiple times.
Carlos César
BR

Carlos

Brazil
Jan 2026

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+1 more

We enjoyed the tour very much. We took line 2 (Modern Madrid) and then line 1 (Classic Madrid). We want to congratulate the manager Salvatore. He guided us wonderfully and had a great last minute idea: he suggested us to get off and take line 2 (the back bus) first; this way we could enjoy both lines in a row. Congratulations!
Susan Wilson

Susan

Oct 2025

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+1 more

Liked that we were able to see some of the sites in Madrid just being on the bus but wish the hop on hop off version wasn't banned in Madrid right now. We would rather be able to get off at different sites to explore more.
Filipponi Ombretta
IT

Filipponi

Italy
Jan 2026
A wonderful museum, accessible and with very friendly staff who are helpful and supportive if any uncertainties arise during your visit.
Stefano Migliavacca
IT

Stefano

Italy
Nov 2025
All nice maybe a standard route should be given to follow, only one waiter at the Prado's outside bar, quick good but still one


Discover a new way to enjoy the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum with a guided small-group experience. Skip the waiting lines and join an expert who will illuminate the stories behind the artworks, from Renaissance treasures to modern masterpieces. It's a personable, insightful approach that turns your museum visit into a rich cultural journey you'll remember long after you leave.

Why take a Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum guided tour

Female guide explaining artifacts to tourists inside the museum
  • Expert insights: Learn about the stories, techniques, and historical contexts behind each masterpiece from a knowledgeable guide.
  • Exclusive access: Gain entry to the permanent collection, Carmen Thyssen Collection, and rotating temporary exhibits.
  • Personalized experience: With a small group size (up to 7 people), get tailored attention and the chance to ask questions.
  • Efficient exploration: With a guided tour, you can efficiently explore the museum's vast collection, focusing on key pieces and learning about the most significant works without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of paintings.

What's included in a Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum guided tour?

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum exterior
  • Skip-the-line access to the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
  • Expert guide (English or Spanish, as per selection).
  • Small group experience (up to 7 participants).
  • Entry to the Permanent Collection, Carmen Thyssen Collection, and temporary exhibits.

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum self-guided vs guided tours

Self Guided Tours

A self-guided tour of the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. allows you to explore at your own pace, making it perfect for those who prefer a flexible itinerary.

With no time restrictions, you can spend as long as you like admiring the art collection. The museum offers an official app and multilingual audio guide to provide insights into key artworks and help you navigate the vast collection. While self-guided tours require some prior research to appreciate the historical and artistic context fully, they offer a more personal and flexible experience.

Guided Tours

A guided tour offers a structured way to experience the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. led by an expert guide in English or Spanish, who provides detailed insights into the artworks, artists, and historical periods. With skip-the-line access, you can focus on the highlights, including masterpieces by Titian, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Dalí. The small group setting allows for a more personalized experience, with opportunities to ask questions and engage in discussions. Ideal for art enthusiasts and first-time visitors.

Highlights covered on your Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum tour

Here are a list of highlights you can enjoy at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum.

Masterpieces by famous artists

The museum houses works by legendary artists, from Renaissance and Baroque masters like Titian and Rembrandt to 20th-century pioneers Picasso and Dalí. Their innovative techniques and styles shaped the evolution of art, making this collection a must-see.

20th-century art in all its forms

Explore modern masterpieces, including Picasso’s Cubist works, Dalí’s surreal landscapes, Lichtenstein’s Pop Art, and Pollock’s expressive abstractions. These pieces showcase the bold experimentation that defined 20th-century art.

Impressionist & post-impressionist revolution

The first floor of the museum shows the works of Monet, Degas, Gauguin, and Van Gogh. These artists broke away from traditional academic styles, focusing on light, movement, and everyday subjects rather than historical or religious themes. Monet’s landscapes, Degas’ ballet, and Van Gogh’s brushstrokes define Post-Impressionist art.

Dutch & Flemish golden age

A visit to the museum’s Dutch and Flemish art collection offers an incredible look at the masterpieces of the 17th-century Golden Age. Paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck highlight the period’s realism, detailed portraits, and dramatic use of light and shadow.

Dynamic temporary exhibitions

The museum constantly refreshes its offerings with rotating temporary exhibitions, providing new perspectives on both classical and contemporary art. These exhibitions feature works from celebrated artists such as Gerhard Richter and Andy Warhol, showcasing modern interpretations of artistic expression.

Carmen Thyssen Collection

A highlight of the museum is the Carmen Thyssen Collection, which shows 19th-century Spanish paintings. This collection celebrates the artistic heritage of Spain, featuring landscapes, portraits, and scenes of everyday life. The works offer insight into Spain’s artistic evolution during the 19th century, highlighting both well-known masters and lesser-known artists who played a significant role in shaping Spanish art.

Visitor tips 

  • Download the free Second Canvas Thyssen app for extra insights into the artworks.
  • While the museum offers free admission on Mondays, try to visit on weekdays, especially Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, when the museum is less crowded.
  • Take advantage of the museum's QR codes next to artworks for additional information. You can also explore the museum's virtual tours for a deeper understanding of the artworks
  • Extend your visit or get the Art Walk Pass to explore the nearby Prado Museum or Reina Sofía Museum. These are just a 15-minute walk from the Thyssen Bornemisza Museum.
  • Your ticket includes temporary exhibitions. Check the museum's website for the exhibition that is taking place. They often feature famous artists and can be a highlight of your visit

About Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Frequently asked questions about Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum Tours

A guided tour lasts 1 hr 30 minutes, covering the museum’s key highlights and major artworks.