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We’ve all seen the film, but have you ever been to a real Night at the Museum? On Saturday, 17th of May, Barcelona will take part in its annual Nit dels Museus, inviting museums in Barcelona and its surrounding areas to open their doors to host a special night of exhibitions, concerts, performances, workshops, guided tours, and activities… all for free!

What is the Night of the Museums?

The Night of the Museums is a cultural initiative just before International Museum Day. First launched in 1977 by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), International Museum Day aims to raise awareness of the essential role museums play in cultural exchange, education, and the development of society.

The Night of the Museums is celebrated in over 120 countries around the world, and in Catalonia, the areas of Barcelona, l’Hospitalet, Badalona, Cornellà, Esplugues, Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Sant Adrià and Sant Joan Despí will be taking part.

Who is taking part?

This annual celebration of culture offers a rare opportunity to explore the city’s rich artistic and historical heritage after dark, and it’s one of the most anticipated nights on the cultural calendar for both locals and visitors.

Among the must-visit highlights are the city’s most iconic institutions: the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), with its spectacular location on Montjuïc and vast collection of Catalan art; the Museu Picasso, which showcases the early works of the legendary artist; the MACBA, Barcelona’s hub for contemporary art; and the CCCB, where exhibitions are often combined with live performances or open-air installations. The Fundació Joan Miró, perched on Montjuïc hill, is another favourite that will welcome visitors to enjoy its surrealist masterpieces under the stars. It’s important to note that some of the most popular museums require booking or timed-entry tickets, even though entry is free. Check each museum’s official website ahead of time to confirm access rules and avoid disappointment. Expect long queues at the most visited venues, so consider starting your evening early or exploring some of the hidden gems with shorter lines.

Extra Information

The Night of the Museums is also a great chance to explore some of the lesser-known museums in Barcelona, most of which will hold workshops and organised talks that will slowly ease you into perhaps more niche subjects. Why not head out of town and immerse yourself in all things Salvador Dalí at The Dalí Theatre- Museum in Figueres?

Whether it’s your first time or a returning visit, planning is the key to enjoying La Nit dels Museus. Start by checking the opening times and program of your favourite museums online, and create a rough route to avoid losing time crisscrossing the city. Comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s a good idea to arrive early at the most popular spots to beat the crowds. Many venues also offer family-friendly activities, making it a great evening plan for kids, too. And suppose you’re visiting from out of town. In that case, AB Apartment Barcelona offers a variety of apartments across the city, so you can stay close to the action and enjoy the cultural buzz of Museum Night right from your doorstep.

The Night of the Museums is a totally free event in the city, and one you definitely shouldn’t miss out on. For more information, visit the official La Nit dels Museus website.