Which are the Barcelona museums that are free? It’s that time of year again. Now known as blue week, the middle of January is a rather dismal time: winter is most definitely here, all the excitement of Christmas is over and our bank accounts are still recovering from the festivities of the previous month.
Yet fear not! We’re here to brighten up the bluest time of the year with this list of 10 museums in Barcelona that are free on the first Sunday of every month or, in some cases, every Sunday!
So beat the January blues by delving into all the culture, art and history Barcelona can offer you. And the best thing is, you don’t need to spend a penny! As these are (still) strange times, we recommend checking the websites before visiting and booking your spot online, if necessary.
Table of Contents
Barcelona museums that are free on Sundays
The National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)
Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona
Capturing a century of art in the region, the stunning MNAC stands proudly at the foot of the city’s Montjuic mountain. It has a fantastic permanent art exhibition dating back to the Middle Ages and also features temporary exhibitions on artists like Gaudí. Don’t miss the rooftop view point!
Entry is free on every Saturday of the month after 3 pm, the first Sunday of the month and on the museum’s open days. You can book your spot here.
Museum of Music
Carrer de Lepant, 150, 08013 Barcelona
Boasting a collection of both ancient and contemporary instruments, the Museum of Music in Barcelona is an unmissable stop for music lovers. The museum is free on the first Sunday of the month (all day), every Sunday after 3 pm, and every Thursday after 6 pm.
Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA)
Plaça del Rei, s/n, 08002 Barcelona
Delve into the history of Barcelona – once known as Barcino – at this museum located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. The MUHBA forms part of a group of essential museums that put Barcelona in historical context, including Bunker 307, Park Güell, and the Temple of August.
The museum is free on Sundays between 3 pm and 8 pm and all day on the first Sunday of the month.
Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (CCCB)
Carrer de Montalegre, 5, 08001 Barcelona
The CCCB has something for everyone: from art installations, round table discussions, activities and workshops especially for kids, cinema, interactive exhibitions, and more.
Admission is free every Sunday after 3 pm but tickets must be reserved in advance. Free tickets become available every Wednesday for the upcoming Sunday and go fast, so be sure to book yours here.
Picasso Museum
Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona
This light-filled museum is home to one of the biggest collections of works by Malaga-born artist Pablo Picasso, and can be found in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Visit for free on Thursdays after 5 pm and the first Sunday of the month. We recommend reserving your free ticket before visiting here.
Museu Frederic Marès
Plaça Sant Iu, 5, 08002 Barcelona
The sculptor, artist and collector Frederic Marès donated his entire collection to the city, resulting in this beautiful museum tucked away in a section of the city’s Royal Palace. Entrance is free on the first Sunday of the month from 11 am to 8 pm and every Sunday from 3 pm onwards.
Design Museum of Barcelona
Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes, 37, 08018 Barcelona
This modern museum in Barcelona’s tech district explores different areas of the world of design and offers a journey into the aesthetics of every day life, from fashion, furniture, advertising and graphic art, textiles, and more.
Admission is free on the first Sunday of the month from 10 am to 8 pm and every Sunday from 3 pm onwards.
Maritime Museum (MMB)
Av. de les Drassanes, s/n, 08001 Barcelona
Learn about the important role the sea has played in making Barcelona the city it is today. Don’t miss the full-scale replica ships in this museum that was once the city’s royal shipyard. Admission is free every Sunday after 3 pm.
Museum of Natural Sciences
Plaza Leonardo Da Vinci, 4-5, 08019 Barcelona
This sprawling museum in Parc Forum makes for a great day out for the whole family. The building itself is a work of art and its contemporary exhibitions are often based on fun and exciting themes from the natural world. Free on Sunday afternoons after 3 pm and the first Sunday of the month.
Montjuïc Castle
Ctra. de Montjuïc, 66, 08038 Barcelona
This modest yet majestic castle dates back to 1640 and boasts spectacular panoramic views of the city. Discover more about this military fortress with free admission on Sunday afternoons after 3 pm and the first Sunday of the month.
So there you have it, a list of 10 Barcelona museums that are free on Sundays. We know what we’re doing this weekend – do you?