Reina Sofía Museum (Guernica)

What to expect

The Reina Sofía is Spain's national museum of twentieth-century art, set in the former General Hospital of Madrid, a large building designed by José de Hermosilla and Francesco Sabatini. The hospital closed in 1969, the building became an arts centre in 1986, and the museum was officially inaugurated in 1992. Jean Nouvel's extension, with temporary-exhibition space, opened in 2005, and three glass towers added in 1989 carry the lifts.

The permanent collection is arranged around Spanish and international modern art, with Picasso, Dalí and Miró among the main names. Its most famous work is Picasso's Guernica, painted in 1937, which draws the biggest crowds. Plan about two hours, longer if you read the wall texts. The old hospital galleries and the newer wing are very different spaces.

Don't miss

• Guernica by Picasso
• The Great Masturbator by Dalí
• House with Palm Tree by Miró
• Picasso's other works in the collection
• The glass lift towers on the façade

Tips for your visit

• Go to Guernica first or last depending on crowds; the room fills up fast.
• Photos without flash, tripod or selfie stick are generally allowed, but check the signs in each room.
• Book ahead in busy periods; the café-restaurant in the Nouvel building is handy for a break.
• There are two main entrances, the Sabatini and Nouvel buildings; the Nouvel one on Ronda de Atocha suits you if you already have a ticket.