The 7 best science and space museums in Madrid

A perfect outing for families! This is a charming aquarium that, despite its compact size, is packed with fascinating exhibits. What makes it special for kids are the fun, interactive games and displays throughout which do a great job of keeping them engaged. We spent ages watching the playful penguins and the impressive sharks. Just remember to turn off your camera flash before you go in. Highly recommended for a fun and educational afternoon

This is a really good Zoo but unfortunately most of the animals were having a nap! It’s like we payed for nothing, I mean if it’s gonna be like that why not make the price less expensive? I went there with my family excited to see tigers, lions, raccoons.. etc but none of them were awake. Maybe it’s due to the heat in Spain but I’m sure it’s hotter in their native habitat. Just don’t expect to see all animals.

Wonderful zoo. Spacious, clean, and well-organized, with a great variety of animals, from pandas and dolphins to lions and giraffes. Staff are friendly, and enclosures look well cared for. Perfect for families with kids, just 20 minutes from central Madrid. A must visit if you’re in the city! Recommended ✅

The Madrid zoo surprised me with how tranquil it is. My father hadn’t been back in about forty years, and it was the only spot he wanted to revisit. We strolled slow, watched the animals in relaxed habitats, and grabbed a couple of pastries that were simple and perfect. It feels like a classic Spanish zoo; nothing rushed, everything easy. Worth a visit.

Fantastic zoo. I was lucky enough to visit on a Monday at the end of September so it was not crowded at all, in fact practically empty! The place has a good layout and the animal habitats all seems to be spacious and suitable. I never thought I would get to see giant pandas and white rhinos, but now I have.

Overall great experience, especially for the kids - you can find all kinds of animals. Study before for the schedule of shows/displays - we saw a sea lion show but sometimes there are others one programmed. Also, if you buy in advance online you can get slightly cheaper tickets. A lot of animals like ducks and rabbits roaming freely in the zoo :)

Panda, Bear, Panda, Turtle. Everyone will find some animal to love. I have bought tickets online easily. Great experience. There were a lot of shades to hide in this hot weather. It was not crowded at all (mby: vacation, hot weather). Really spacious for walking through everywhere.

s there a better way to spark your curiosity than stepping into a world where dinosaurs roam and ancient ecosystems come alive? MNCN in Madrid is a treasure trove of natural wonders that had me hooked from the first fossil. The interactive exhibits, especially the human evolution display, make you feel like a scientist on a discovery mission. Pro tip: grab tickets online for €7 (free for kids under 4 or seniors over 65) to skip the queues, and start on the left side of the building for the best flow. Oh, and the African elephant in the lobby? It’s been standing tall since 1929, a silent guardian of the museum’s epic story. Bring comfy shoes and a water bottle—you’ll want to linger for hours

Great museum with sections of animals, fossils, and mineral examples. Very affordable at $7ish. It’s an easy hour to spend out of the sun while you visit Madrid.

I recently visited the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales in Madrid and was genuinely impressed. It’s the kind of place that strikes the right balance — fun and engaging for kids, but just as interesting for adults. There’s also a cafe just nearby to relax afterwards. Everything in the museum is written and explained both in Spanish and English so it’s very tourist-friendly. One of the most striking things is getting to see life-size replicas of animals, from elephants to whales to dinosaurs. You can stare a tiger or a gorilla straight in the face — something you wouldn’t be able to do in the wild without putting yourself in serious danger. It really gives you a sense of their scale and presence. There was a great exhibit on the history of dinosaurs. And one of my favorite parts was a photo exhibition showing animals in funny, human-like poses — funny and cleverly done. The exhibit explained how seeing animals this way can help people empathize with them, which in turn can raise awareness and motivate action to protect their habitats. Thoughtful, while also pretty entertaining. Another interesting part of the museum is an exhibit dedicated to Santiago Ramón y Cajal, the Spanish neuroscientist who won a Nobel Prize for his work on the structure of the nervous system. The way his research is displayed feels almost like peeking into the early days of modern science — delicate drawings, old instruments, and lots of context. You can also see some of his photography - an interest he had on the side. There’s also a beautiful old room that used to be part of a private natural history collection from a former mayor. It still has that “cabinet of curiosities” vibe — dark wood, antique display cases, and a mix of fossils, minerals, and preserved animals. It’s like stepping back in time, and it adds a really charming contrast to the more modern parts of the museum. All in all, it’s a really worthwhile visit — part science, part history, and part wonder. Whether you’re with kids or just feeling curious yourself, there’s a lot to explore and enjoy.

Visited this museum on a weekday morning with my 3 and 4 year old kids. They loved it! We arrived not too long after it opened, about 10:30 and there was hardly any line to buy tickets. The facility is very stroller friendly with ramps and good elevators. There were lots of other kids there so I didn't have to worry about my kids being the loud ones. :) On the lowest floor there is a nice bathroom (big enough to take a stroller into) and a small room to eat in with a vending machine. Great outing with the kids!

I really liked this museum! I was in Madrid on a business trip, and I had some time on the last day to do something. I really liked how they told the story of evolution, as well as explained some very important concepts such as co-evolution. They also went into quite some depth. There were English translations of the signs everywhere, although they kind of dissapeared when I reached the geology/fossil building, which I thought was a little sad. Also I saw someone mention the animals being dusty, which I also noticed. But in one of the exhibition rooms they were taking care of this issue! I would highly recommend this place!

Opening Hours not correct on Website, Google and displays on Museum entrance . We were really looking forward to our visit and had specifically planned to arrive just after 3pm, only to find the Museum being locked up and the Security Guards amazed to see us try to gain entry. Please keep information up to date as we have wasted part of our afternoon and also missed seeing a Museum we would really like to have visited…..

Great place to visit history of animals and many more to explore there..staff always helpy and attend with respect and smiles...

We’ve been here a few times to attend conferences. Each time these events were NASA-hosted, which means we didn’t have to purchase tickets (sorry, I can’t help with providing details on that front). This place is quite large with a fully stocked gift shop that my kids love as well as an interactive museum downstairs. The planetarium charges about €4 per person on the weekends to sit and watch the giant show in the dome. I haven’t been but I hear it’s worth it. The grounds are absolutely beautiful and tranquil, a perfect place for a picnic or a lazy, book-reading afternoon. This is a great place to visit with the kids. They’ll love it and so will you.

Planetario de Madrid offers a decent educational experience, though visitors may be surprised by how small the facility actually is compared to expectations. The exhibits are well-curated and informative, providing a solid introduction to astronomy and space science, even if the scale is more intimate than grand. The films are particularly nice and educational, offering engaging visual experiences that make complex astronomical concepts accessible to visitors of all ages. The planetarium's dome presentations successfully blend entertainment with learning, creating memorable experiences that justify the visit. One of the unexpected highlights is the surrounding park, which is lovely to walk through and provides a peaceful setting that complements the scientific focus of the planetarium. The park offers a pleasant way to extend your visit, whether arriving early or lingering after exploring the exhibits. While the Planetario de Madrid may not be the largest or most impressive planetarium you'll encounter, it delivers a worthwhile educational experience enhanced by its charming park setting, making it a pleasant destination for families or anyone interested in astronomy.

The Planetario de Madrid is a fantastic spot for both kids and adults who are curious about space and science. The exhibitions are engaging and educational, with interactive displays that make learning fun. It’s well-organized and offers content in both Spanish and English, which is great for international visitors. The highlight for me was the dome projection shows — truly immersive and visually stunning. Sitting back and watching the stars unfold above you feels magical. The narrations are informative without being too technical, and they do a great job of sparking curiosity about the universe. Located in a peaceful park area, the Planetario makes for a great half-day visit. It’s easy to reach by public transport, and there’s a nice green space outside for a walk or picnic afterwards. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just looking for something different to do in Madrid, this place is definitely worth checking out.

The viewing experience of the dome shows is fantastic. However there were no English subtitles, and the rest of the planetarium didn’t have English language explanations alongside the Spanish ones. It’s especially a shame because the language is scientific and therefore difficult to grasp even if your Spanish level is intermediate. A beautiful place but not exactly built for tourists. They do play the movies in English once a week, but it was unfortunately not a day we were able to attend.

They only have kids movies to show (in spanish) it is very good for kids

Great place to visit with kids. We purchased tickets for the movie before going there. It was a good movie for children and adults. Price reasonable. They should add more exhibits though. It is 25 min walking from downtown.

The staff were not very friendly and the security women was quite rude. It was not child friendly. It said it was in English but that was one video out of 3 parts. The video required children to have access to Mobile phones and generally it wasn't age appropriate to the recommendations set by the place. Disappointing.

I hadn’t been here in over 10 years and was really impressed by the changes. Now there are 7 hangars full of aviation gems and memorabilia. If you’re into planes, especially Spanish aviation, it’s a fantastic place to explore. You’ll see aircraft built in Spain, both licensed and original designs like the famous La Cierva autogyro. Definitely worth a visit!

Much better than expected! A very interesting aviation museum with several hangars and outdoor exhibitions. One hangar was closed today but everything else was open and was a really great collection of old and never aircrafts. One of the best sights in Madrid and free entrance.

Most people outside of Spain unfortunately remain unaware of the rich aerospace heritage of Spain. This extends from the dawn of flight through the dark days of the Spanish civil war to the modern day. The museum hosts quite a collection from each of these periods including from friendly countries. I found the exhibits on the voyages of discovery in the 20s to be especially unique as this period usually doesn't get a lot of attention. Well worth a visit for every aviation and history buff especially. Make sure to give yourself at least a couple of hours. They also have a wide variety of books in Spanish on aerospace related topics in the gift shop.

If you have either interest in aerospace or Spanish history, this museum is an amazing choice. By the way of engaging displays and unique machines the museum will introduce you: - the Cierva autogyros, helicopter/aircraft hybrids and Spanish gift to aviation - the daring interwar attempts to connect the Spanish-speaking world by the route of air and the forgotten colonial wars in North Africa, which put the country in a very bad place - the desperate times of the Civil War, when both sides fought on anything that flew, while stuck between Italy, Germany and the USSR - the post-war isolation of the Francoist regime, the peculiar machines this situation created and the Nazi engineers, who helped to build them - and the way in which the Spanish Air Force returned to the world skies despite all previous adversity... If such topics leave you at least a bit curious, then visit this place less than an hour from the centre of the city. In a country which still haven't found a common narrative of its own modern history, the old flying machines tell an incredibly interesting, important and objective story.

Amazing place where you can see beautiful jets for free. The museum is open for 4 hours, 3 hours should be enough to see everything

Great museum, for free, a little confusing the way you can get there, but it can be reached by public transport. If you don’t understand spanish, it will probably only take you 2 hours to move through the museum, but it’s free and a visit is absolutely worth it.

It's a real gem! Lots of planes, lots of history! A place that shouldn't be missed.

(Translated by Google) Ufff started the event with a stuck and a parking Tetris... Luckily I had early entry. The parked planes are very cool... But for such an exclusive place full of "cayetans" That they have us sitting on the dirt floor... No artificial grass, no bathrooms, no water. It was hazing. If I find out, I'll take a big blanket, snack and drink. The show itself is somewhat slow and when the children are already bored and exhausted, the acrobat flies with the smoke and everyone smiles, applauding and saving the event. Hehehee, this is a typical thing that you have to do once in your life. (Original) Ufff comenzó el evento con un atascado y un Tetris de parking... Menos mal que tenía entrada anticipada. Los aviones aparcados muy chulos... Pero para ser un sitio así exclusivo lleno de "cayetanos" Que nos tengan sentados en el suelo de tierra... Ni césped artificial, ni baños , ni agua. Fue la novatada si lo llego a saber me llevo una manta grande picoteo y bebida. El espectáculo en si es algo lento y cuando los niños ya están aburridos y reventados pues vuela el acróbata con el humo y todos sonriendo aplaudiendo y salvando el evento. Jejejee es ta típica cosa que hay que hacer una vez en la vida.

(Translated by Google) Very well maintained, excellent treatment and professionalism. As it should be in our Armed Forces. Long live them!!! (Original) Muy bien cuidada, excelente trato y profesionalidad. Como debe ser en nuestras Fuerzas Armadas. Viva ellos!!!

(Translated by Google) We attended the organized market on behalf of the NGO Aviation Without Borders. (Original) Asistimos en representación de la ONG Aviación sin Fronteras al mercadillo organizado.

(Translated by Google) I have been going to the Non-Official Sports Center, attached to the Base, since practically its origin, first with my father, and then as a regular in my capacity as first sergeant of the Civil Guard. It is a luxury and a privilege. (Original) Llevo acudiendo al Polideportivo de Sufoficiales, anejo a la Base, desde prácticamente su origen, 1° con mi padre, y después como titular en mi condición de sargento 1° de la Guardia Civil. Es un lujo y un privilegio.

(Translated by Google) I was at an open house (they usually do one or two a year). We were able to see the aircraft of the 48th SAR Wing and guests. Super Puma/Cougar, C235, C295, NH90, historic FIO aircraft. A pleasure for fans. You have to arrive early to avoid having to wait in lines for half an hour to see the inside of the aircraft. They also had a restaurant area with food trucks. Recommended and perfect to go with children. Everything very organized. (Original) Estuve en una jornada de puertas abiertas (suelen hacer una o dos al año). Pudimos ver las aeronaves del Ala 48 del SAR e invitados. Super Puma/Cougar, C235, C295, NH90, aviones históricos de la FIO. Un placer para los aficionados. Hay que llegar pronto para no tener que esperar colas de media hora, para ver por dentro las aeronaves. También tenían una zona de restauración con food-trucks. Recomendable y perfecto para ir con niños. Todo muy organizado.

(Translated by Google) A place with a lot of history behind it. Air shows on the first Sunday of the month. Problem: it has been included in inhabited areas with the danger that this proximity entails. It generates a lot of inconvenience to the population due to the noise level with the continuous takeoffs and landings, especially of helicopters. I'm afraid it will end up disappearing. (Original) Un lugar con mucha historia detrás. Exhibiciones aéreas los primeros domingos de mes. Problema: ha quedado englobada en zonas habitadas con la peligrosidad que entraña esa cercanía. Genera muchas molestias a la población por el nivel de ruído con los continuos despegues y aterrizajes, sobre todo de helicópteros. Me temo que acabará desapareciendo.

(Translated by Google) The photos are not 4 Winds, they are from the Aitana Alcolecha aviation base is in ruins but those who did the Military there, I was visiting and what a shame the 4 Winds base Madrid is an helicopter aviation base because I did my military service at San Tiago de la Ribera Aviation Academy but I was in both barracks (Original) Las fotos no son 4 vientos son de de la base de Aitana aviación Alcolecha está en ruinas pero los que hicieron la Mili hay yo estube de visita y que pena la base de 4 vientos Madrid es un base de aviación de elicopteros pues hice el servicio militar en Academia de aviación San Tiago dé la Ribera pero estube en los dos cuarteles

🎉 Looking for a Fun Day Out with the Kids? 🧒🦕🔬 Discover the National Museum of Science and Technology – where learning meets adventure! 🐾 Explore hundreds of fascinating stuffed animals 📸 Snap sweet pics of animals that look like they're smiling 🧠 Hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity 🎨 Perfect for curious minds and family fun! Smaller then I expected. Bring the whole family for an unforgettable day of science, smiles, and discovery!

Loved it! There's nothing better than an interactive museum where one can learn, play and have fun all in one! Entrance is free which is also great. There are some exhibitions and workshops that aren't free and also a planetarium which costs 3€. I would recommend to get your tickets in advance if you are interested in visiting the planetarium as it does get full pretty quick, specially on the weekends. If you are adults going by yourself and can avoid the weekends, I would say: avoid them! You are gonna get stuck behind lots of kids trying out the experiments and won't let you play as much as you want. So take care of your inner child and visit the museum during the week. There are lockers to leave your belongings if you wish to, just be aware some keys don't have number tags so you will have to remember the number. It might sound obvious (we thought so too) but then we saw a few people trying to open every locker as they couldn't remember their number. All in all: a great museum!

We only had a short time but we could see that this needs about half a day to get a full sense of all the fun demonstrations and exhibits. They've done a great job of making the stories and physical effects of things accessible and interactive. The ramps and walks are fun to move around and give you time to tell your kid(s) more about the things they have seen and touched. If the museum still has the hanging metal curtains on the first floor when you visit though, they don't like if you mess with them ;)

Entrance is free. There’s a small fee for the planetarium and some other experience. There weren’t too many people. It was a Thursday, early afternoon. The ground floor is a static exhibit. The kids didn’t care. We went up to the first floor to play with the interactive exhibits. This was much more fun. The kids played for about 30 minutes before one got bored and wanted to leave. I wanted to go into the planetarium but there was no consensus so we left. If your kids are curious, they will like this place. There’s enough to keep adults interested too.

It’s a wonderful place to visit on weekends. Unlike regular museums, you can interact with fascinating gadgets and explore a time capsule of scientific innovations, from ancient Greece to the present. Best of all, admission is free!

Very nice science museum, interactive. We went early in the morning and was not crowded at all and the kid tried everything. It’s free. Highly recommand.

Kids loved it! Some restrictions still apply due to covid which limits the options to interact with all experiments. Super friendly staff. Lockers available. Be there early. Get familiar with all offerings as they vary over time: Interactive tour, planetarium, temporary exhibits,...