Nick Valdau
Google
Tucked away near Plaza de España, the Cerralbo Museum is a hidden gem that transports you straight into the opulent world of 19th-century Spanish aristocracy. This isn’t your typical museum it’s the former home of the Marquis of Cerralbo, packed with over 50,000 treasures, from El Greco paintings to dazzling Murano glass chandeliers. The ballroom and Arab hall are jaw-dropping, and the armory collection, with its medieval swords and armor, is a surprising treat! What I loved most was how the palace feels like stepping into a time capsule every room brims with art, furniture, and quirky collectibles, all arranged as the Marquis left them. It’s less crowded than Madrid’s big-name museums, so you can soak it all in at your own pace. Pro tip: visit on Sundays for free entry, but arrive early to avoid queues (they can stretch up to an hour). Photography is allowed, but skip the flash, and note that English signage is limited grab the free brochure for context. If you’re into history, art, or just want a quieter, more intimate museum experience, this place is a must. Bring comfy shoes for the two floors and prepare to be wowed by the sheer variety of beauty in this aristocratic mansion!