Museum of Fine Arts Asturias
A vast, free museum showcasing centuries of Spanish art, from El Greco to Picasso, housed in a unique architectural blend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds after siesta
Museum of Fine Arts Asturias
Best Time
Fewer crowds after siesta
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, free museum showcasing centuries of Spanish art, from El Greco to Picasso, housed in a unique architectural blend.
"A museum full of surprises, from its architecture and sheer size to the quality of its collection."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art without an entrance fee. A true gem for budget travelers! :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Remember the Spanish siesta! The museum closes mid-day and is closed on Mondays. Plan accordingly. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
El Greco's Apostolate
Special Collection
Twelve powerful paintings by El Greco, showcasing his intensely modern style from over 400 years ago.
Sorolla & Fortuny Masterpieces
Spanish Art Collection
Admire vibrant works by Sorolla and intricate pieces by Fortuny, highlighting diverse Spanish artistic traditions.
Modern Masters
20th Century Collection
Discover captivating works by Spanish greats like Dalí, Miró, and Picasso, offering a glimpse into modern art.
Asturian Artistic Heritage
Local Artists Wing
Explore a rich collection featuring local Asturian artists, providing a unique regional perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Navigating the Maze
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art without an entrance fee. A true gem for budget travelers! :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Remember the Spanish siesta! The museum closes mid-day and is closed on Mondays. Plan accordingly. :clock1:
🚶♀️ Allow ample time
You'll need at least 2-3 hours to appreciate the vast collection. Don't rush your visit! :running:
🗺️ Grab a floor plan
The layout can be a bit confusing. A floor plan will help you navigate the different sections. :map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art without an entrance fee. A true gem for budget travelers! :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Remember the Spanish siesta! The museum closes mid-day and is closed on Mondays. Plan accordingly. :clock1:
🚶♀️ Allow ample time
You'll need at least 2-3 hours to appreciate the vast collection. Don't rush your visit! :running:
🗺️ Grab a floor plan
The layout can be a bit confusing. A floor plan will help you navigate the different sections. :map:
📱 Network issues
QR codes for videos exist but network coverage can be spotty. Download info beforehand if possible. :iphone:
🛍️ No shop yet
Disappointingly, there's no gift shop. Bring your own postcards or sketchpad! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museum of Fine Arts Asturias for its impressive and diverse collection, spanning centuries of Spanish art, and its generous free admission. The unique architecture is also a highlight. However, some find the layout confusing, and a lack of detailed explanations and a gift shop are noted drawbacks.
"A museum full of surprises, from its architecture and sheer size to the quality of its collection. We really appreciate the free entrance.
This assembly of pavilions, each with a distinct style, surrounds a modern central building hidden behind a traditional façade. The exhibition space is vast, and every painting is thoughtfully displayed, well-lit and not overcrowded.
However, many canvases are poorly stretched, and there’s a lack of explanations for each piece. A few QR codes are scattered around, but poor network coverage makes it difficult to play the videos (which have very few views anyway). A shop would also be very appreciated!
I still highly recommend the visit, plan about 2 hours."
Paulin Banckaert
"The museum is so impressive that you’d probably need to visit it three times to be able to take everything in without rushing. The artistic quality of the works on display is truly remarkable. My personal top 10 definitely includes Saints Michael and Engracia (1490), The Nativity of the Virgin (1485), Anamorphosis (1935), and Bacchus and Ariadne. Maria Luisa in the Garden (1871) is truly charming. Centuries go by, yet a single painting traces back to people who lived their lives so long ago.
A special thanks goes to the explanatory texts beneath some of the paintings, as they really help to look deeper into what lies behind the artworks and the ideas the artists sought to express."
Frau Iakovlieva
"Super lovely museum! Has some really great pieces - I loved the paintings from Sorolla and Fortuny! Had some cool paintings from Dali, Miro and Picasso too! There is quite a variety of styles, mediums and eras which means there’s something for everyone. The layout was quite confusing because you can only get to some sections from a specific level but I still managed to navigate it with the floor plan (not in English). I was there for 1.5 hours before it closed at 2pm which was a bit rushed and I didn’t feel like I really finished my visit. No shop which was a shame because I definitely would have loved some post cards of the beautiful art!
There is a little bit to read in Spanish and English on each floor but not super insightful - it’s more an overview of what there is on that floor and what style. There’s not written descriptions next to the artworks. Free entry is much appreciated!"
Rolanda Anise
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located next to the Cathedral of Oviedo. If you're arriving by car, there are parking options nearby. Public transport is also readily available within Oviedo, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the city.
Yes, there are parking facilities in the vicinity of the museum. It's advisable to check for local parking regulations and fees upon arrival.
Absolutely! The Museum of Fine Arts Asturias is centrally located in Oviedo, making it a pleasant walk from most parts of the city center.
If you're coming from further afield, consider taking a train or bus to Oviedo and then using local transport or walking to the museum. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the wider Asturias region.
The museum is generally accessible, and its central location means reaching it is straightforward. For specific accessibility needs, it's always best to contact the museum directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
No, advance booking is not typically required as entry is free. However, for special events or exhibitions, it's wise to check their official website.
Opening hours vary, and the museum closes for siesta. It is also closed on Mondays. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Weekday afternoons, after the siesta closure, tend to be less crowded. Weekend mornings can also be a good option before the afternoon rush.
While general admission is free, special temporary exhibitions might have separate ticketing or require advance booking. Check the museum's official announcements for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend at least 2 hours, but many suggest 3 hours to fully appreciate the extensive collection without feeling rushed.
The museum's architecture is a blend of historical and modern buildings, which some visitors find a bit confusing to navigate. Grabbing a floor plan is recommended.
While not explicitly mentioned as widely available, some explanatory texts are provided. For in-depth understanding, consider looking for any scheduled guided tours or audio guides if offered.
The collection spans from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, featuring Spanish artists like El Greco, Goya, Picasso, Miró, Dalí, Sorolla, and Fortuny, as well as local Asturian artists. It includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, and more.
Yes, the museum is considered suitable for children, offering a broad range of art that can spark their interest.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, but it's best to check for any specific signage or ask museum staff.
While personal photos are usually allowed, commercial photography or use of tripods might be restricted. Always be mindful of other visitors and the artwork.
The unique architecture, especially the blend of historical facades and modern interiors, offers great photographic opportunities. The El Greco collection is also a popular subject.
The artworks are thoughtfully displayed and well-lit, which should allow for good quality photos, especially if you avoid using flash.
Checking out Instagram reels and TikTok videos tagged with the museum can give you great ideas for compositions and highlights to capture. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to plan your visit around the museum's siesta hours to avoid peak crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience. Bringing snacks and drinks might be a good idea, as there are no on-site facilities like a shop. Focusing on the visual aspects and telling stories about the artworks can transform the visit into an adventure for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes it an ideal activity for those looking to maximize their cultural experiences while minimizing expenses. You can easily spend several hours here, immersing yourself in Spanish art history, and it won't cost you a single euro. Just be mindful of the opening hours to make the most of your free visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Spanish Art
Beyond El Greco, the collection features other giants of Spanish art such as Goya, Zurbarán, Picasso, Miró, and Dalí. You'll also find captivating works by Sorolla and Fortuny, showcasing vibrant light and intricate detail. The museum also dedicates significant space to local Asturian artists, offering a unique regional perspective that complements the national collection. This diverse range ensures there's something to captivate every art enthusiast.
In addition to paintings, the museum's holdings include drawings, sculptures, photography, glass, and pottery, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic expression. While some visitors note a lack of detailed explanations next to each artwork and occasional network issues with QR codes, the sheer quality and breadth of the collection make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Spanish fine arts.
Architectural Marvels and Visitor Experience
While the vastness and unique layout are impressive, some visitors find the museum's internal navigation a bit challenging. It's described as a 'maze' by some, due to its expansion over the years into partly historical buildings. However, with a floor plan, most visitors can manage to explore the different sections.
Despite the architectural intrigue, a few practical aspects could be improved. Some reviewers mentioned a desire for a museum shop, which is currently absent, and noted that explanatory texts are sometimes limited or not always in English. Nevertheless, the overall experience is highly recommended, with many suggesting planning for at least 2-3 hours to truly absorb the collection and the environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit