If you’re looking for the best things to do in Madrid that are a little bit different (and a little bit weird), the Museo de Cera de Madrid (Madrid Wax Museum) needs to be on your list. While it might not have the polished perfection of Madame Tussauds in London, it has something much better: character!
This museum is an institution in Madrid. From Spanish royalty and international politicians to the surprisingly scary Wax Horror Experience, it’s a fascinating, slightly bizarre and thoroughly entertaining journey through celebrity and history. We spent an afternoon here and were genuinely surprised by how much fun we had!
If you’re wondering if Madrid’s Wax Museum is worth adding to your itinerary, join us as we share our honest review.
How To Get There
One of the best things about the Museo de Cera is its incredibly central location. It’s located right on the Plaza de Colón which makes it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.
- By Metro: The museum is situated right next to the Colón Metro station (Line 4). You literally walk out of the station and the entrance is right there.
- By Bus: Lots of bus lines stop directly outside including lines 5, 14, 27 and 45.
- Walking: If you’re exploring the city centre, it’s an easy walk from major landmarks. For example, it’s about a 10-minute stroll from Puerta de Alcalá or the Retiro Park.
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Tickets & Prices
Compared to some of Madrid’s other big attractions, the Museo de Cera is cheap enough. We were told the queue at the ticket desk is quite small and moves slowly so we bought our tickets in advance.
We booked our tickets online on GetYourGuide. This also saves you a few euros compared to the price at the ticket office and guarantees your entry slot which is crucial on weekends. It can often be sold out.
Opening Times & Best Time to Visit
The Madrid Wax Museum generally has consistent opening hours but it’s always a good idea to check their official website before you travel, especially around Spanish public holidays like Three Kings Day.
- Summer (April – Sept): 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Winter (Oct – March): 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
We visited on a weekday afternoon around 4:00 PM and it was perfect, quiet enough to take selfies with the figures without anyone judging our poses! If you go on a weekend, try to arrive right at opening time (11:00 AM) to beat the crowds for the Horror Experience. We were told it can get very busy.
Top Things To See & Do
The best thing about the Museo de Cera is just how random it is. With over 450 figures, it’s a total mix of everything. Some of the statues are very realistic, while others made us do a double-take! It’s a really fun place to explore. Here’s the bits we enjoyed the most:
The Wax Horror Experience
This was hands down our favourite part and the main reason to visit. The museum used to have an old Terror Train ride that was meant to be fun but they’ve replaced it with the Wax Horror Experience and we loved it.
It is a walk-through area themed around classic horror movies. You’ll see detailed figures like Hannibal Lecter and The Nun in atmospheric settings. The best part is the live actors jumping out from the shadows! This is the first time in any of the horror experiences we’ve visited (and we’ve been to a lot) that Kolyn jumped. It’s spooky but still fun, just be warned if you scare easily!
The Spanish Royals & History
The museum has a strong focus on Spanish history which makes it quite educational if you’re into that sort of thing. You’ll find figures of the current Spanish Royal Family (King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia) as well as historical figures like the Catholic Monarchs and Christopher Columbus.
Denis was particularly fascinated by the famous bullfighters although wasn’t sure why Elizabeth Taylor was there! Whatever you’re into Liz!
The Meme Figures
Let’s be honest, part of the fun of this museum is that not every figure is a perfect likeness. The museum has a bit of an internet reputation for some of its quirkier statues. Michael Keaton’s Batman was a bit of a stretch for example.
We had a great laugh trying to guess who some of the older Hollywood stars were before reading the plaques. It adds a layer of charm that the museums like the Prado just down the road hasn’t got.
What Else is Nearby?
Since the museum is located in Plaza de Colón, you’re right in the centre of Madrid’s Golden Mile. It doesn’t take all day to visit, so you can easily combine it with other sights:
- National Archaeological Museum: Literally next door. If you want some serious history after the wax figures, it’s one of the best museums in Spain.
- Hard Rock Cafe Madrid: Located directly across the street if you fancy a burger!
- Madrid Hop-on Hop-off Bus: The main stop for the Big Bus Sightseeing Tour is right here at Plaza Colón, making it easy to jump on and head to the Royal Palace of Madrid next.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Charge Your Phone: This is a selfie museum. You’ll want to take photos of your favourite figures. Who wouldn’t want a selfie with former German chancellor Angela Merkel?
- Don’t Skip the Horror Section: Even if you’re a bit of a scaredy-cat, give the Wax Horror Experience a go. It was the highlight of our trip. We really loved it.
- Accessibility: Most of the museum is accessible but check with staff at the entrance about the Horror Experience as it’s dark with tight corners.
- Combine It: Since it doesn’t take all day, this is a great activity to combine with a few hours in the Museo del Prado.
Our Final Verdict
So, is the Museo de Cera de Madrid worth it?
If you want a serious, high-brow art experience: Obviously not! You should go to the Prado or the Reina Sofia.
But if you want a fun, lighthearted and slightly weird break from sightseeing: Absolutely.
We went in with low expectations and came out smiling. It’s a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The mix of Spanish history, random celebrities and that brilliant new horror section makes it a unique stop in Madrid. It’s especially great if the weather is too hot or raining or if you just need a break from serious museums. Go. You’ll enjoy it!
If you are looking for other fun things to do in Madrid with kids (or big kids like us!), we also highly recommend the Zoo Aquarium Madrid or checking out the thrills at Parque Warner and Parque de Atracciones.