Days in Madrid are filled with some of the best art and architecture in the world. There are endless places to consider when planning your museum time, and now you can add one more to the list — The Gallery of the Royal Collections.
Opened in 2023, this gallery, which sits on the site of the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral, is impressive even before you enter. This modern, award-winning building houses three immense floors of some of the Crown's most spectacular paintings, sculptures, armors, tapestries, decorative arts, and carriages. Yes, carriages! It is a royal collection after all.
Your visit begins in the 15th Century during the reign of the House of Austria, continuing through to the 18th Century when the Bourbons came to power. There are fantastic audio/visuals everywhere, which provide context to the magnificent items on display. It's a fascinating history lesson! This museum is quite unique in that it leads downwards. Because of this, visitors are treated to a glimpse of Madrid's beginnings upon which the modern city was built. During the excavation of this site, remnants of a 9th Century Arab wall were discovered and are now proudly on display.
A large gallery devoted to temporary exhibitions occupies the bottom floor, along with "El Cubo", a 360-degree immersive video experience of the stunning Patrimonio Nacional sites, to which the Gallery of the Royal Collections also belongs. The gallery exits onto the beautiful El Campo del Moro gardens. Have a seat and admire this gorgeous corner of Madrid.
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
VETA is the biggest contemporary art gallery in the city, so once you’ve had your fill of the Old Masters at the Prado, why not get off the beaten track?
by
Don’t worry about collecting and counting plates - there’s an “all you can eat” lunchtime menu, you can fill your boots for a very reasonable fixed price.
by
His favourite time seemed to be that magic hour when the sun is sinking low in the West and turns everything a golden pinky hue.
by
Each covered market has its own flavour; Chamberí I would say is high quality and traditional but also one that has adapted successfully to the times.
by
"Konnichiwa" is a Japanese street food restaurant in Madrid. Their specialty is the ramen with the egg, which they cook with a blowtorch at your table!
by
"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!
by
"Harvey's Cocktail Bar" in Madrid makes me feel as if I've entered an American vintage speakeasy. Unlike new hip retro chains, this one feels authentic...
by
"La Hummuseria" is a vegetarian restaurant in Madrid made for hummus fans like me! My favourite's the one with mushrooms. Protip: say yes to the egg...
by
"Quesería Cultivo" is a cheese shop in Madrid where you can find a wide artisanal selection. My protip: do get some bread from two numbers down the street.
by
"Sala de Despiece" Madrid defines itself as "a bar with a kitchen and a great tasting of raw materials". Once I was there I understood.
by
"Bodega de la Ardosa" in Madrid is 'castizo' -- pure, genuine. This kind of bar is in danger of extinction, so enjoy it while it's still alive!
by
"Bosco de Lobos" in Madrid is 'a bar that serves Italian food in a garden. It's a brunch and meeting place...' My favorite though, is their 'library'...
by
243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 243 Insider Tips