Timeline
16:42
Begin inside the Museo del Prado. The museum closes at 20:00 on weekdays, giving you plenty of time to wander the Spanish and Flemish galleries before the light changes outside. Check the specific opening hours for your date, as they vary on holidays and for special exhibits.
17:27
La Pecera del Círculo de Bellas Artes
Walk to La Pecera del Círculo de Bellas Artes. This soaring hall in Madrid's art center offers excellent coffee and reasonable prices. It is a wonderful spot to sit and linger undisturbed as the afternoon light begins to fade.
17:57
Return to the Museo del Prado exterior. Position yourself where the western light hits the façade. The sun sets toward the WSW, casting a warm glow on the building just before it dips below the horizon.
18:42
End your evening at Museo Chicote. Voted the Best European Bar in 2004, it features an extensive cocktail list and a historic atmosphere. It is open until 03:00 on weekdays, making it the perfect place to decompress after the sunset view.
Local tip
The Prado offers free admission within two hours of closing, so if you stay late inside, you can still enjoy the art without extra cost. However, arrive early enough to see the highlights before the crowds gather for the closing rush.
Check before you go
- Verify the exact opening hours for the Museo del Prado on your specific date, as they are shortened on some holidays.
- La Pecera del Círculo de Bellas Artes is open Mo-Th 09:00-01:00, Fr-Sa 09:00-03:00, and Su 09:00-24:00.
- Museo Chicote is open Mo-Th 19:00-03:00, Fr-Sa 19:00-04:00, and Su 16:00-01:00.
Worth knowing
- Museo Chicote is open at 18:42 only on Su
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Madrid (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).