The Wax Museum Barcelona is a popular attraction located in a 19th century square near La Rambla. This museum houses over 150 life-like wax figures representing famous personalities from various fields, eras, and cultures globally. The exhibits are enhanced with special effects and the museum also offers audiovisual tours about the lives and achievements of the featured personalities.
Wax Museum Barcelona in a Nutshell
Getting There
Passatge de la Banca, 7 (La Rambla) 08002
Barcelona - Spain
Get Directions
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday - 10:30 AM to 8 PM
What to expect at the Wax Museum of Barcelona?
- View hyper-realistic wax statues of global figures such as Barak Obama, Lionel Messi, Brad Pitt, Greta Thunberg, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Stephen Hawking and many more.
- See iconic media characters like Captain Jack Sparrow, Yoda, King Kong, and many others brought to life through lifelike wax sculptures.
- Browse the museum's gift shop, which offers unique souvenirs for collection to fondly remember your visit to this fascinating attraction.
- Relax and unwind at Bosc de Les Fades, the bar lounge located within the museum, and enjoy a refreshing drink while surrounded by the museum's enchanting decor.
- Experience the museum's magnificent building, which boasts architectural highlights like the great staircase and the recital hall. Admire the oil painting by Vilumara and Junyent (1908) that represents key historical characters and presides over the courtyard to appreciate the stunning example of 19th century design.
Recommended Wax Museum of Barcelona Tickets
Depending on the kind of experience you seek and time in hand, you can choose from a variety of Wax Museum of Barcelona tickets.
Wax Museum of Barcelona
The origin story of the Wax Museum of Barcelona dates back to the early 1970s. Housed in the former headquarters of the Bank of Barcelona on Pasaje de la Banca, the building itself is a notable example of neoclassical design, inspired by the grandeur of early Greco-Roman constructions.
Constructed in 1867, the building housed the most precious valuables and large sums of money owned by the city's upper class. Today, the museum is home to over 300 wax figures, attracting over 200,000 visitors each year.
From flamenco dancers to ancient kings, the museum provides a distinctive chance to have a close encounter with some of the most iconic figures of Spanish culture. The museum's location in the heart of the city, just off the iconic street known as 'La Rambla' and a minute's walk from the impressive Mirador de Colom, makes it a must-visit destination for tourists.
Highlights of Wax Museum of Barcelona
1Barcelona Hall
The Barcelona Hall is the first must-see attraction at the Wax Museum of Barcelona. As the first stop on your museum tour, this area has various statues of people who played significant roles in Barcelona's past.
2Rambla 360
Rambla 360 is a popular hall in the Wax Museum of Barcelona, and it is located right next to the Barcelona Hall on the ground level. From this hall's lofty vantage point, sightseers may take in the whole Rambla area.
3Cops and Thieves
Located on the right side of Barcelona Hall, Cops and Thieves is a chamber devoted to the world's most notorious burglars and thieves. The fact that it was formerly the bank vault in Barcelona, the most well-guarded room then, only adds to the allure of.
4Jungle
Next to the Cops and Thieves area at Barcelona's Wax Museum is the Jungle room. This area, which is split in half, displays the world's biggest and deadliest monsters. The displays allow guests to learn more about the environments and behaviors of these incredible creatures.
5Tribute to Catalonia
The Tribute to Catalonia exhibit is a must-see for every visitor to the Wax Museum of Barcelona. On the first level, you'll find a chamber filled with objects and relics that represent Catalonian tradition and identity. The Catalonia room pays tribute to the intriguing history and culture of the area.
6Kong
The Kong room, which can be found on the museum's ground level next to the Tribute to Catalonia, is a popular spot for families with younger kids. Like the darkest corners of a forest, this space is inhabited by imposing creatures.
7Climate Emergency
You'll find the Climate Emergency Room on the far left side of the ground floor of the Wax Museum of Barcelona, and it's safe to say that this room is one of the most worthwhile exhibits there. The purpose of the display is to raise awareness about climate change and its effects on the earth. Here you can meet Greta Thunberg too.
8Galactic Journey
The Galactic Journey room makes up one of the three rooms at the Wax Museum of Barcelona that are devoted to the study of astronomy. This area, which is situated in the exact middle of the ground floor, is ideal for anybody who is curious about the activities taking place in the enormous space.
9Magical World
Everyone, whether they believe in magic or not, is stunned when they enter this area. Here, visitors may meet famous faces from the magical community as well as see a wide range of magical artifacts including wands, capes, and broomsticks.
10Depths of the Sea
The Depths of the Sea is the biggest exhibit on the ground level of the Barcelona Wax Museum. This area, located at the far end of the ground level, has displays of several deep-sea species, including those that have since been extinct.
11Space Station
If you're interested in space and the cosmos, you should definitely check out the Space Station area on the first floor of the Wax Museum Barcelona. Visitors may experience a trip to the center of the universe in this fully immersive chamber.
12The Universe
Guests of the Wax Museum Barcelona may learn about the immensity of space in the Universe room, which is located on the ground level next to the Space Station room. You may get a fresh perspective on the cosmos by exploring the many artifacts and articles in this area.
The Art of Wax Sculpting
The art of wax sculpting is a captivating form of artistic expression that involves using a malleable waxy substance to create lifelike depictions of notable figures, scenes, or death masks.
Beeswax, a preferred medium for this art form, possesses a unique set of properties that allows artists to mold, shape, and carve intricate details into their creations. With its ability to mix with color pigments and take on surface tints, wax sculptures can capture a sense of depth and realism that is truly breathtaking.
The art of wax sculpting has a rich and distinct history, dating all the way back to ancient Rome, when it was utilized to build death masks of great ancestors. Today, this centuries-old art form continues to captivate audiences around the world with museums and galleries showcasing masterpieces crafted by skilled artisans.
Best Time to Visit the Wax Museum of Barcelona
The best time to visit the Wax Museum is during the summers, June through September. Generally, the museum offers guided tours on select days throughout the week.
Depending on how you want to spend your time in Barcelona, you might want to take a look at our guide on the Best To Visit Barcelona to plan your visit more attractions in addition to the Wax Museum of Barcelona.
Wax Museum of Barelona Opening Hours
- Monday to Sunday - 10:30 AM until 8 PM
- Last admission - 7 PM
Getting There
Bus
Several bus routes serve the museum from different parts of the city, including bus numbers 59, D20, H14, V13, and V17.
Metro
The closest metro station is Drassanes and lies on metro line L3. The museum is located around 3 km away from the station, and the journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
Train
You can board the FGC or Renfe trains and get down at the Plaça Catalunya station. It’s a 15-minute walk down La Rambla.
Tips to Visit Wax Museum of Barcelona
- For a less crowded experience, consider visiting the museum as soon as it opens. Don’t forget to pre-purchase your tickets.
- Make sure to grab your camera or smartphone to snap some memorable photos with the lifelike wax figures.
- Traveling with kids? They will love the interactive elements of the museum, including dressing up in costumes or posing with the wax figures.
- For an enhanced experience, consider purchasing an all-inclusive ticket which includes an audio guide, a photo souvenir, and more.
- Want to save time and skip the lines? Opt for skip-the-line entry.
- The museum is mostly accessible for wheelchair users, with elevators and ramped access points.
- Join a guided tour to get a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits. Guided tours are held every Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday at 10:30 AM.
Wax Museum of Barcelona Facts
- The museum has 28 halls, each with its own focus, including personalities from Spanish-Catalan and European history, famous musicians, scientists, artists, and actors, and famous athletes.
- The first room after the lobby is the Barcelona Hall, where visitors can experience the personalities of Barcelona's history up close and in time-lapse.
- The museum building was originally built in 1867 as a representative building for the general credit bank "El Comercio."
- The renovation of the former bank building was led by the architect and set designer Enrique Alarcón.
- The museum was redesigned during the COVID-19 lockdowns to create even more realistic wax figures with new technology.
- The museum has a "climate emergency" room dedicated to the consequences of climate change and a "the depths of the sea" room committed to the preservation of marine habitats.
- The museum describes cooking as the eighth art movement and features famous chefs at work.
- The top floor includes a hall dedicated to famous athletes, including Lionel Messi, and the "Allee des Terrors," which features less friendly historical and current figures.
Restaurants Near Wax Museum of Barcelona
Located 0.5 km from the museum, this restaurant is situated on the famous La Rambla avenue, near the statue of Columbus and the Port. Its unique ambience, reminiscent of a fairy forest, provides a surreal dining experience. The menu features a variety of Spanish dishes and cocktails.
A vegan sushi restaurant is just 2.8 km from the museum and is committed to healthy and sustainable eating. The menu offers delicious and creative 100% vegan sushi dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. An ideal choice for individuals seeking an unconventional and environmentally conscious dining experience.
This lively pub and steakhouse is 350 m from the museum. It features live sports, music, and karaoke. The menu includes handmade dishes, with the best hamburgers in the city made from 100% Italian meat of the highest certified quality. There's also a wide variety of options for vegetarians.
A cozy brasserie 350 m from the Wax Museum, serving delicious grilled meat of the highest quality. The family-friendly atmosphere is perfect for groups and children. The location is privileged, being very close to Plaza de Colón. The restaurant provides an exquisite dining experience for meat lovers.
Places to Stay Near Wax Museum of Barcelona
Things to Do Near Wax Museum of Barcelona
This center is 500 m from the museum and is run by the Department for Culture of the Generalitat de Catalunya. It promotes all forms of art including contemporary art, cinema, theater, music, dance, literature, and architecture. The center hosts various exhibitions and events, making it a favorite among art lovers.
A 60-meter high column made of stone and built by Gaietà Bugas i Monrava, the monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus offers breathtaking views of Barcelona's coastline and La Rambla. It's an essential stop for tourists interested in history and panoramic views, and is only 180 m from the museum.
A unique theater, located 1 km away from the restaurant, that has become an icon of music and art in Barcelona and beyond. The Gran Teatre del Liceu has hosted all of the most famous operas and opera singers. Built in 1847, it has become a symbol of innovation and economic power in the world of theater.
The most famous street in Barcelona and an essential destination for tourists. This 2 km street, 1.6 km away from the museum, which stretches from the Plaça de Catalunya to the sea, offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions, including street performers, restaurants, cafes, and historic buildings.
FAQs
The Wax Museum of Barcelona is open year-round, but it's best to visit during the weekdays when it's less crowded. The museum is open from 10:30 AM to 8 PM, so try to arrive earlier in the day to avoid the afternoon rush.
A typical visit to the Wax Museum of Barcelona takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. However, this may vary depending on how many exhibits you want to see and how much time you want to spend taking photos.
Yes, the Wax Museum of Barcelona offers discounted tickets for seniors, students, and children under the age of 12. You may also buy a combo ticket for the Wax Museum and other attractions in the city, which offers a better value for your money.
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos inside the Wax Museum of Barcelona.
Yes, the Wax Museum of Barcelona is wheelchair accessible. The museum has elevators and ramps to accommodate visitors with mobility issues, and staff are available to assist as needed.
You can buy tickets for the Wax Museum in Barcelona online. Buying tickets at the museum will be more expensive.
The main attractions at the Wax Museum of Barcelona are the Pop Stars room, the Depths of the Sea room, and the Science World room.
Yes, it is recommended to book tickets in advance for the Barcelona Wax Museum as the capacity is limited.
If you buy tickets at the ticket office, you will be charged more because of administration fees.
No, animals are not permitted to enter the museum with the exception of assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities or small dogs that can be carried in a bag.
