Blog

We’ve all seen the movie, but have you ever experienced a real Museum Night? On Saturday, May 16th, Barcelona will take part in its annual La Nit dels Museus, inviting museums across the city and surrounding areas to open their doors for a special evening of exhibitions, concerts, performances, workshops, guided tours, and activities—all completely free.

What is Museum Night?

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

Museum Night is celebrated in more than 120 countries around the world, and in Catalonia, participating areas include Barcelona, l’Hospitalet, Badalona, Cornellà, Esplugues, Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Sant Adrià, and Sant Joan Despí.

Who takes part?

This annual celebration of culture offers a unique way to explore a city rich in artistic and historical heritage after dark, and it’s one of the most highly anticipated events on the cultural calendar for everyone—both locals and visitors alike.

Among the highlights you won’t want to miss are some of the city’s most iconic venues, such as:

• The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC): located in Montjuïc, it offers spectacular views and houses one of the most important collections of Catalan art in the world
• The Picasso Museum: showcases the early works of the legendary artist
• The MACBA: a leading institution for contemporary art in Barcelona
• The CCCB: where exhibitions and performances often come together in outdoor spaces
• The Fundació Joan Miró: located on Montjuïc hill, you can enjoy surrealist art in a truly special nighttime setting

It’s important to keep in mind that some of the most popular museums require advance booking or timed-entry tickets, even if admission is free. Be sure to check each museum’s official website ahead of time to confirm access requirements and avoid disappointment. Long queues are expected at the most visited venues, so it’s recommended to start your evening early or explore lesser-known gems with fewer crowds.

Additional Information

Museum Night is also a great opportunity to explore some of Barcelona’s lesser-known museums, many of which will host workshops and talks that allow you to dive deeper into more specialised topics.

Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, planning is key to making the most of La Nit dels Museus. Start by checking the opening hours and programme of your favourite museums online, and map out a rough route to avoid wasting time travelling back and forth across the city. Comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s a good idea to arrive early at the most popular venues to avoid the crowds. Many locations also offer family-friendly activities, making it a great early evening plan for kids as well.

This event is completely free across the city and is definitely one you shouldn’t miss. For more information, visit the official website of La Nit dels Museus.

If you’re visiting from outside the city, AB Apartment Barcelona offers a wide range of apartments across the city, so you can stay close to the action and fully enjoy the cultural atmosphere of Museum Night.