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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 07 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Dana Facaros

If you have even a passing interest in fashion, then it’s definitely worth seeking out Madrid’s brilliant costume museum, with over 150,000 garments illustrating the evolution of fashion through history, from the Middle Ages until today.

Permanent displays range from Hispano-Muslim designs to stunning pieces by the likes of Balenciaga, Paco Rabanne and Mariano Fortuny. Temporary exhibitions showcase a mix of contemporary designers and historical trends. The gift shop is a great place to pick up unusual presents, with a wide selection of contemporary jewellery and accessories.

This museum is the embodiment of Madrid’s reputation as a style capital.

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Price from: £3
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 10+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The nearest metro stations are Ciudad Universitaria and Moncloa, about 10 minutes’ walk from the museum. Bus routes 46, 82, 83, 132 and 133 will take you closer. The Museum has two main entrances, one through Plaza del Cardenal Cisneros and another through Avenida Juan de Herrera.

Before you go, take a look at the downloadable map – it also has a second page (in English) with some useful background information on various types of costumes to look out for. Free hour-long audio guides are available in English – pick one up at the front desk.

When to do it

The museum is open all year round, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Palacio de Los Duques Gran Melia

Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain[2.8 miles]

Palatial and contemporary, this glamorous, foodie hotel near the Royal Palace is one of Madrid’s most luxury-laden stays.

Official star rating:

Hostal Gala

Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain[2.9 miles]

A great budget choice – this modern-day hostel housed in an elegant, 19th-century building has chic rooms and the perfect central location.

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Pestana Plaza Mayor

Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain[3.3 miles]

A refreshing, stylish boutique hotel set in a charming 17th-century building from Spain’s Golden Age on the fabled Plaza Mayor in the heart of Madrid.

Official star rating:

The Hat Madrid

Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain[3.4 miles]

One of the new generation of hip, urban ‘poshtels’, this 2-star hotel offers highly affordable rooms in an unbeatable central location.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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