Museum of Romanticism (Museo del Romanticismo)
Calle de San Mateo 13, Madrid, Spain, 28004
One of Madrid’s slightly off-the-radar gems, the Museum of Romanticism encapsulates the lives of the city’s nobility during what’s known as the Romantic era–the early 19th century. Occupying an 18th-century mansion in Madrid’s lively Chueca district, its rich paintings and collections offer a rare glimpse into the art, customs, and lifestyle of wealthy Madrileños of the time.
The basics
Explore the museum independently or with one of the complimentary audio guides offered at the entrance to understand the rooms, art, and social mores of Madrid’s middle- and upper classes during the Romantic period. Alternatively, join a guided walking tour of Chueca and the neighboring Malasaña area that combines time at the museum with an introduction to the lively plazas, tapas haunts, and other highlights of both districts. Madrid also offers several sightseeing passes that grant discounted access to the museum along with other similar establishments.
Things to know before you go
The Museum of Romanticism will appeal if you want to explore beyond Madrid’s signature sights like the Prado.
The museum is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Wheelchairs are available for anyone with reduced mobility, as are aids and assistance for those with visual and hearing impairments.
On-site amenities include lockers, restrooms, elevators, a shop and a café.
Allow around 1–2 hours at the museum.
How to get there
The museum is situated on the Calle de San Mateo in Chueca, around a 10-minute walk north of Madrid’s Gran Via. If you’re using public transport, the nearest metro stations are Tribunal and Alonso Martinez, a roughly 5-minute stroll away. Buses #37, #40, and #149 also stop nearby. If you’re driving, the nearest parking garage is Centro Colón on Paseo de Recoletos, about 12 minutes away by foot.
When to get there
The museum is open year-round Tuesday-Sunday, excluding Jan. 1 and 6; May 1, Nov. 9, and Dec. 24, 25, and 31. Hours can vary, so it’s wise to check before visiting. Tuesday–Saturday hours are usually 9:30am–8:30pm (May-October) and 9:30am–6:30pm (November–April). Sunday opening is typically 10am–3pm, irrespective of season. The museum tends to be busiest on weekends and is quietest in the early morning and mid-afternoon from Tuesday to Thursday.
What not to miss at the Museum of Romanticism
While the museum’s ornate rooms instantly transport you to the 19th century, its stunning paintings are the standouts. Don’t miss Alenza’s Satire of Romantic Suicide and Goya’s Saint Gregory the Great, all hanging alongside masterpieces by greats like Velazquez and Esquivel. Once you’ve seen these treasures and more, relax over coffee in the café’s garden–an oasis of peace and greenery.
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