Museums are windows into worlds of art, history, and creativity. And the best part? Many of them offer completely free admission on specific days of the week. It’s the perfect opportunity for young people, students, families… and any culture lover looking to save money without missing out!

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Museums with free weekly admission

  1. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)
    • Free every Saturday from 3:00 pm and on the first Sunday of each month (online booking recommended).
    • Collections include painting, sculpture, Romanesque and Gothic art, Renaissance, and modern art.
  2. Museu Picasso de Barcelona
    • Free all day on the first Sunday of each month; also free on Sunday afternoons and Thursdays from 4:00 pm.
    • Over 4,000 works focused on Picasso’s early periods.
  3. Museum of Music
    • Free on Sundays from 3:00 pm and Thursdays from 6:00 to 9:00 pm, plus the full first Sunday of each month.
    • More than 500 historical instruments: guitars, harpsichords, ethnomusicological pieces…
  4. MUHBA – Barcelona history museum (Plaça del Rei)
    • Free on the first Sunday of each month and every Sunday from 3:00 pm.
    • Roman excavations, medieval walls, and urban history.
  5. Barcelona design museum (Museu del Disseny)
    • Free admission on the first Sunday of each month (check the website for time slots).
    • Collections of graphic design, fashion, furniture, and decorative arts — a journey through contemporary and historical design.
  6. Montjuïc castle (Castell de Montjuïc)
    • Free on the first Sunday of each month, and also on Sunday afternoons (check their website for updated times).
    • A 17th-century fortress overlooking the port, featuring exhibitions on military history and landscape design.
  7. CCCB, maritime museum, Foto Colectania…
    • These venues typically offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month, and some extend it to Sunday afternoons.
    • From photography and contemporary design to naval architecture and visual culture.

Practical tips for your free visit

  • Arrive early: free days often mean long lines and limited capacity.
  • Book online: MNAC, Picasso Museum, CCCB, or Montjuïc Castle may require prior reservation, even on free days.
  • Check the official website: holiday schedules or special openings may affect the free entry policy.
  • Avoid peak hours: come early or just before the free afternoon slots begin.
  • Combine leisure and culture: around museums like MNAC or Montjuïc Castle, you’ll find parks, viewpoints, and cafés — perfect for rounding out your day.

Also: Articket Barcelona

If you’re planning to visit multiple art museums, don’t miss the Articket Barcelona on my blog. It’s a cultural pass that gives you access to top museums — Picasso, MNAC, CCCB, MACBA, Fundació Miró, and Tàpies — with discounts and no waiting lines. More info at the link: check it out here.

Conclusion

Taking advantage of free museum days is a smart way to enjoy art, history, and design without spending a dime — perfect for all audiences. From cutting-edge design at the Museu del Disseny to panoramic views from Montjuïc Castle, every experience is nourishment for the soul.

Frequently asked questions

Is it always free?

Generally yes, on the specified days (e.g., “first Sunday of the month” or “Thursday afternoon”), but schedules may change due to holidays or special events. Always check the museum’s website.

Do I need to book in advance?

For some museums (MNAC, Picasso, CCCB, Design Museum, Castle), it’s recommended or even required to reserve, even on free admission days.

What if it rains or there’s a local holiday?

They usually keep their regular opening hours, but it’s best to check the “practical information” section or the museum’s social media channels.

Are there additional discounts?

Yes — youth cards, student IDs, large families, seniors over 65… these groups often get discounts even outside of the free admission days.

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