What to do over the October bank holiday: exhibitions and activities at the Thyssen Museum
If you are looking for things to do in Madrid over the 12 October bank holiday, the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is a cultural highlight to add to your plans. Make the most of the long weekend by discovering some of its temporary exhibitions: admire masterpieces from The Hague in Mauritshuis ♥ Thyssen-Bornemisza. Masterpieces from The Hague and don’t miss a truly exceptional opportunity to see a work by Vermeer in Madrid: View of Delft, on temporary loan from the Mauritshuis. You can also explore the colourful, urban world of Kenny Scharf or discover Seba Calfuqueo. Cautín.
Three very different exhibitions offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy art in Madrid over the bank holiday weekend, discover new artists and revisit the great masters. What’s more, on 12 October, to mark Spain’s National Day, admission to the museum’s collection and temporary exhibitions is free. A perfect opportunity to make the most of the public holiday and enjoy a cultural day out in the heart of Madrid.
Finally, please remember that flags are not permitted in the galleries on this day and cannot be left in the cloakroom.
Exhibitions
Activities
As well as exploring the collection and temporary exhibitions, make the most of the long weekend by discovering other ways to enjoy the Thyssen Museum. If you are looking for things to do in Madrid over the 12 October bank holiday, you will find activities for different audiences, including themed tours of the collection, offering new perspectives on the artworks and revealing the stories and connections behind them.
Over the weekend of 10 and 11 October, you can also join guided tours of the museum’s masterpieces, taking you through the history of Western art via some of the most outstanding works in the collection.
And don’t miss Art and Health V. Cardiovascular Health, an exhibition exploring the relationship between art, health and wellbeing through a selection of works that invite visitors to reflect on cardiovascular health and wellbeing.
Check the programme for the 12 October bank holiday weekend and choose the activity that best suits your visit.
What to do in Madrid over the 12 October 2026 bank holiday?
Over the October 2026 bank holiday weekend, the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is one of the cultural highlights to enjoy in the heart of Madrid. To mark Spain’s National Day, admission to the museum’s collection and temporary exhibitions will be free. During your visit, you can explore the permanent collection and exhibitions including Mauritshuis ♥ Thyssen-Bornemisza. Masterpieces from The Hague, Kenny Scharf and Seba Calfuqueo. Cautín, as well as discover the activities taking place over the long weekend.
Check the museum’s What’s On calendar for dates and available activities, book your tickets online, and check opening times and admission prices before your visit.
