Prado vs Reina Sofía: which should you visit?
Quick answer
Choose the Prado for Velázquez, Goya, Bosch, and El Greco — Spain's national painting collection. Choose Reina Sofía for Picasso's Guernica, Dalí, and Miró — modern Spanish art. Museo del Prado: €15 general, allow 2–4 hours; Museo Reina Sofía: €12, allow 2–4 hours.
Madrid, Spain
Museo del Prado
€15 general; €7.50 reduced
⏱ 2–4 hours
Madrid, Spain
Museo Reina Sofía
€12 standard admission; free during late afternoons
⏱ 2–4 hours
Side by side
| Museo del Prado | Museo Reina Sofía | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Madrid, Spain | Madrid, Spain |
| Museum type | Art Museum | Art Museum |
| Admission | €15 general; €7.50 reduced | €12 standard admission; free during late afternoons |
| Free entry | Free last 2 hours daily for the permanent collection (Mon–Sat 6–8 PM, Sun and holidays 5–7 PM; ticket office only, subject to capacity) · Under 18 free · Students aged 18–25 free (with proof) | Monday and Wednesday–Saturday 7–9 PM; Sunday 12:30–2:30 PM; a free ticket is still required |
| Time needed | 2–4 hours | 2–4 hours |
| Closed | — | Tuesdays |
| Standout works | Las Meninas; Saturn Devouring His Son | Guernica; The Great Masturbator |
| Good for | Art Lovers, History Enthusiasts, First-timers | Art Lovers, First-timers, Rainy-day visits |
Facts from our verified data file (last verified 2026-06-30) — confirm on each museum's official site before travelling.
Should I visit Museo del Prado or Museo Reina Sofía?
Choose Museo del Prado if…
Choose the Prado for Velázquez, Goya, Bosch, and El Greco — Spain's national painting collection.
Choose Museo Reina Sofía if…
Choose Reina Sofía for Picasso's Guernica, Dalí, and Miró — modern Spanish art.
Can you visit both Museo del Prado and Museo Reina Sofía in one day?
Walkable in one day along Paseo del Prado; free evening slots at both on select days.