Barcelona: Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya Entrance Ticket

Key Points

• Affordable Entry: Only $11 per person for access to a premier art collection
• All-Inclusive Ticket: Includes permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, and an audioguide app
• Iconic Location: Housed in the Palau Nacional on Montjuïc, offering panoramic views of Barcelona
• Rich Collections: Features works by Gaudí, Casas, Tiziano, Velázquez, and more
• Flexible Visit: Valid for one day with options to return free within two months
• Accessible & Convenient: Skip the lines, with wheelchair accessibility and multiple language guides

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Art Collections at MNAC in Barcelona

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC) offers visitors an extensive look at Catalan art with admission priced at just $11 per person. The ticket includes access to both permanent displays and temporary exhibitions, making it a great value for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The collections are spread over two floors, allowing for a comprehensive experience that can take a couple of hours to enjoy fully.

The museum’s permanent collection showcases works from the Romanesque era, along with pieces from Catalan Modernism, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Highlights include works by Gaudí and Casas, providing insights into Catalan modernist design and architecture. European masters such as Tiziano and Velázquez also feature prominently, contributing to the museum’s reputation as a hub of European art.

The Architectural Marvel of Palau Nacional

The Palau Nacional, built for the International Exposition of 1929, is as much a part of the attraction as the art inside. Its grand façade, impressive architecture, and classic design set a majestic scene for your visit. While the rooftop terraces are temporarily closed in line with health regulations, the interior remains strikingly beautiful. The building itself is frequently praised for its gorgeous appearance, as noted by visitors who find it an impressive background for their experience.

The interior’s artistic ambiance complements the building’s grandeur, with well-preserved spaces and elegant design providing a fitting environment for Catalan and European artworks. The location on Montjuïc also means that visitors are positioned at a vantage point overlooking Barcelona, with spectacular city views available from the grounds—an aspect highly appreciated by those who enjoy scenic surroundings.

The Collection of Catalan Modernism and Artworks by Gaudí and Casas

One of MNAC’s highlights is its collection of Catalan Modernism, featuring works by Gaudí and Casas. Visitors can walk through exhibits that showcase innovative design and artistry from this distinctive movement. The museum’s collection includes frescos and sculptures rescued from old buildings, which are displayed with great care to emphasize their original context and artistry.

A specific point of interest is the Romanesque murals, recognized as some of the finest in the world. These remarkable murals offer insight into medieval Catalonia and are a testament to the museum’s dedication to preserving and showcasing historic art. The modern art collection, especially on the top floors, contains some breathtaking pieces from the 19th century, as noted by visitors who find the displays both beautiful and intellectually stimulating.

Panoramic City Views from Montjuïc

Although the rooftop terraces are temporarily out of service, visitors still flock to the roof area for the view of Barcelona. From the Palau Nacional’s rooftop, you get an impressive panoramic outlook that captures the sprawling city below. Many reviews mention this as a must-visit spot for photos and relaxation after exploring the exhibits.

The location on Montjuïc hill enhances the overall experience, offering scenic vistas that contribute to the museum’s charm. The grounds surrounding the building are also lovely, with well-maintained gardens and spectacular views of Barcelona’s skyline.

More Great Tours Nearby

How to Maximize Your Visit with the Audio Guide

Your ticket includes an audioguide app available in multiple languages, including Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Chinese. This feature makes it easier to understand the context of artworks and learn about the building’s history. Visitors appreciate how guides explain key pieces, enriching their understanding of the art and architecture.

It’s recommended to bring headphones and ensure your smartphone is charged for a smooth experience. The audio guide enhances the visit, especially since some explanations in English or other languages are concise, so having a guide helps fill in the details.

Temporary Exhibition: Zurbarán (Super)natural

An exciting feature of the current schedule is the temporary exhibition featuring Francisco de Zurbarán’s (Super)natural works, running from March 21 to June 29, 2025. The highlight is the three versions of Saint Francis of Assisi According to Pope Nicholas V’s Vision, displayed together for the first time thanks to collaboration with museums in Lyon and Boston.

Visitors can also see two versions of Still Life with Vessels, exhibited alongside each other for the first time in Barcelona. This exhibition provides a unique opportunity to view Zurbarán’s masterpieces in a setting that complements their religious and mystical themes.

Accessibility and Convenience for Visitors

The MNAC is wheelchair accessible and offers skip-the-line tickets to save time, especially during busy periods. The ticket offices close 30 minutes before the museum, and exhibits are cleared 15 minutes before closing. The multi-language audioguide ensures an inclusive experience.

The location is reachable via metro, and the surrounding area features cafes and restaurants for a break after your tour. Visitors note that the free return within two months adds great value, allowing for revisits or further exploration.

Practical Tips for Visiting MNAC

To make the most of your visit, arrive early to avoid crowds, especially since the main exhibitions are extensive. Remember to bring headphones and charge your smartphone to fully utilize the audioguide app. Although the rooftop terraces are temporarily closed, the interior exhibits are extensive and well worth the time.

The museum’s layout is easy to navigate, with clear signage and maps. Allocate at least two hours to explore thoroughly, and consider returning within the next two months if you want to revisit for free. The artworks representing Romanesque murals, Catalan Modernism, Renaissance, and Baroque are diverse and compelling.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for art lovers, especially those interested in Catalan art, European Renaissance, and Baroque masters. Visitors who enjoy architecture will appreciate the Palau Nacional‘s grandeur and stunning views of Barcelona.

It’s a great option for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a cultural experience that combines art, history, and spectacular scenery. The affordable price, combined with skip-the-line access and a multilingual audioguide, makes it a convenient and enriching visit for a wide range of visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket valid for multiple visits?
No, the ticket is valid for one day but includes a free return within two months.

Are the rooftop terraces open during the visit?
Currently, the terraces and rooftop are temporarily out of service due to health regulation compliance.

Does the ticket include access to temporary exhibitions?
Yes, the admission covers both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions like the current Zurbarán display.

Is the museum accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the MNAC is wheelchair accessible.

Can I use this ticket to skip the lines?
Absolutely, skip-the-line tickets are included, ensuring a smoother entry process.

What languages are available on the audioguide?
The audioguide app offers Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Chinese.

How long should I plan to spend inside?
Most visitors spend about two hours to see the main collections, but the venue is spacious enough for a longer exploration.

Is there food available at the museum?
Yes, there are two restaurants/cafes on site for refreshments and meals.

What is the current price of the ticket?
The admission costs $11 per person.

Are there any special days when entry is free?
Yes, free entry is available on Saturdays from 15:00, the first Sunday of each month, and special dates like Santa Eulàlia (12 Feb) and International Museum Day (18 May).

Can I buy tickets in advance?
Yes, tickets are available online with the option to reserve now and pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This $11 ticket offers an accessible, enriching visit to Barcelona’s art treasure, housed in a stunning historic building with spectacular city views—ideal for lovers of art, architecture, and history.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby