Goya Museum - Ibercaja Collection, Zaragoza

Arts Venue, Gallery and Museum in Zaragoza

Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection
Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ajzh2074

The Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection (also known locally as the Camón Aznar Museum) is one of Zaragoza's most rewarding art stops, especially if you want to understand Francisco de Goya beyond the “greatest hits” paintings. It's a compact, well-curated museum in the historic center, easy to pair with a day of old-town wandering.

Because it sits right in the heart of the city, it's an ideal add-on to a walking tour of central Zaragoza: start around Plaza del Pilar and the riverside, then duck into the museum for a focused dose of Goya's graphic genius before continuing to tapas streets and nearby landmarks.

History and Significance of the Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection

The museum is closely tied to Zaragoza's cultural identity: Goya was born in the province of Zaragoza and became one of Spain's most influential artists, bridging court portraiture, social critique, and a darker, more modern vision of human nature. This museum leans into that full arc by emphasizing works on paper and the ideas behind them.

A major reason the museum matters is its ability to present Goya’s printmaking in depth. Seeing his etching and aquatint series together makes it easier to follow how he built narratives, repeated motifs, and sharpened his commentary on superstition, power, and everyday cruelty.

Beyond Goya, the Ibercaja collection gives the visit broader context, with works spanning centuries of Spanish art. The result is a museum that feels both local (rooted in Aragón) and universal (asking big questions about society and the human condition).

Things to See and Do in the Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection

Start with the Goya print rooms. The museum is especially strong for engravings and etchings, and visitors often find that the impact comes from seeing series as a whole rather than as isolated “famous” images. Take your time to compare tone, composition, and recurring symbols across the sets.

Look out for interpretive media that adds context without overwhelming the art. Many travelers appreciate the museum’s explanatory video content and family-friendly elements that help decode Goya’s themes and techniques.

Finally, don’t treat it as “only a Goya stop.” The wider collection includes religious art, portraits, and works from earlier periods through more modern pieces, which helps you place Goya within a longer timeline of Spanish artistic change.

How to Get to the Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection

For flights, the nearest airport is Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ), with Barcelona–El Prat (BCN) and Madrid–Barajas (MAD) as major international alternatives if you're building a longer Spain itinerary. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Zaragoza on Booking.com.

Zaragoza is very easy to reach by train, including fast services that connect you efficiently with Madrid and Barcelona; from Zaragoza-Delicias station, you can continue by taxi, bus, or a pleasant walk depending on your pace and luggage. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you're driving, Zaragoza is well connected by major highways and ring roads, but parking in the historic center can be limited—aim for a public garage on the edge of the old town and walk the last stretch. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection

  • Official website: https://museogoya.fundacionibercaja.es/
  • Entrance fee: Adults: €4; Concessions: €2; Under 16: free.
  • Opening hours: Monday: Closed. Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–14:00 & 16:00–20:00. Sunday: 10:00–14:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go early in the day for quieter galleries and better viewing of works on paper; midweek can feel calmer than weekends.
  • How long to spend: Plan 60–90 minutes for a highlights visit focused on Goya prints, or 2 hours if you want to read labels and explore the broader collection.
  • Accessibility: Expect a multi-floor museum experience; check ahead for elevator access and any temporary restrictions if you rely on step-free routes.
  • Facilities: You’ll typically find restrooms and a ticket desk; consider bringing headphones if you like to focus during video interpretation, and keep a light layer for climate-controlled galleries.

Where to Stay Close to the Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection

Base yourself in Zaragoza's historic center (Casco Antiguo) for the easiest walk to the museum, Plaza del Pilar, and evening dining.

Catalonia El Pilar A strong pick for being right in the old town, making it easy to walk to the museum and back for a break between sightseeing blocks.

Hotel Alfonso A central, practical option near major streets and sights—ideal if you want a straightforward base with quick access to both museums and restaurants.

NH Collection Gran Hotel de Zaragoza A classic-feeling stay that suits travelers who want a more upscale, city-grand-hotel vibe while remaining within easy reach of the historic core.

INNSiDE by Meliá Zaragoza Good for a modern, design-forward stay with convenient access to central Zaragoza, especially if you like contemporary rooms and amenities.

Hotel Palafox A comfortable choice for travelers who want full-service facilities and a slightly calmer feel while still being close enough to walk into the old town.

Is the Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you care about Goya’s ideas, not just his most famous canvases. The museum’s strength is the depth of its print collection, which gives you a more intimate, narrative-driven view of his work and makes the visit feel distinctive compared with painting-heavy galleries.

Honest Pivot: if you’re expecting a “wall-to-wall Goya paintings” experience, you may leave underwhelmed, because the museum’s standout material is works on paper and broader collection context. It’s best for curious, attentive visitors who enjoy reading, comparing, and following a series—less so for travelers who want a quick, painting-only checklist.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (4,141)

Google reviewers rate the museum very highly overall, with many calling it a highlight of Zaragoza for understanding Goya. Visitors consistently praise the depth and presentation of the print and engraving collection, plus helpful interpretive media (including multilingual video content) and a manageable visit length. A recurring drawback is expectation mismatch: some travelers feel disappointed by the relatively small size and the limited number of Goya paintings compared with the museum's name.

Seokjin Ham
a year ago
"It is also known as Camón Aznar. Representing the historical and cultural heritage of the Zaragoza region, it showcases the Ibercaja Foundation'scollection, spa ing from the 15th century to modern times, with a focus on the works of Francisco de Goya. Notably, it features the complete series of Goya's etchings...."
Diego Semede
3 years ago
"Absolutely perfect experience. I dreamed of seem some of my favorite works of Goya and had the opportunity to enjoy them here. I would recommend atleast one or two hours to visit if you focus mainly on Goya's work, but even more if you wa a take some time to see carefully everything else...."
Maria Shcherbakova
a year ago
"Excellent collection of Goya prints. There is a very interesting biographical video that is shown in different languages and also a cartoon aboutGoya’s work for children. Adult ticket 8€..."

For Different Travelers

This museum works well as a flexible, weather-proof stop in central Zaragoza. It can be a main event for Goya fans or a smart cultural break between bigger landmarks, and it pairs naturally with a walking itinerary through the old town.

Families with Kids

Families often do well here when they treat it as a shorter, structured visit: pick a few rooms, focus on storytelling, and use the museum’s interpretive elements to keep momentum.

Because some of Goya’s themes can be intense, it helps to preview what you’ll emphasize. Aim for technique, character, and “spot the details” activities rather than lingering on the darkest imagery.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, this is a great “shared discovery” museum: it’s central, not exhausting, and it sparks conversation—perfect before a long lunch or an evening stroll.

Pair it with a slow walk through the historic center afterward. The contrast between quiet galleries and lively plazas makes the day feel varied without needing long transfers.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers will appreciate that the museum can deliver a high-impact cultural experience in a relatively short time, making it easy to fit into a packed itinerary.

Keep an eye out for free-entry moments and plan your day so the museum sits between other walkable sights. That way you minimize transport costs and maximize what you can do on foot.

History Buffs

History buffs will get the most from the print series, where Goya’s social observation and critique come through with unusual clarity. The works often feel like a visual record of anxieties and contradictions in his era.

To deepen the context, connect what you see here with Zaragoza’s broader historical layers—Roman remains, medieval streets, and later civic architecture—so the museum becomes part of a bigger timeline rather than a standalone stop.

FAQs for Visiting Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection

Getting There

Yes, it’s in central Zaragoza and fits naturally into an old-town walking route. If you’re already near Plaza del Pilar, it’s an easy add-on.
Yes, you can take a taxi or public transport, and many visitors also choose to walk if they’re traveling light. Allow extra time if you’re navigating at peak hours.
Driving can work, but the historic center is not the easiest place for parking. It’s usually smoother to park in a garage and finish on foot.

Tickets & Entry

Most visitors can buy tickets on arrival, but booking ahead can be smart during busy travel periods. If you’re on a tight schedule, pre-planning reduces waiting.
Yes, the museum offers specific free-entry moments during the year. Confirm the exact dates before you go so you can plan your route around them.
Discounts are commonly offered for certain groups (such as seniors or students). Bring any relevant ID to avoid paying full price.

Visiting Experience

Many visitors come for the prints and engravings, which are a major highlight here. If you’re expecting lots of large Goya paintings, adjust expectations and focus on the series.
It can feel busier at peak weekend hours, especially in the most popular rooms. Visiting earlier in the day often makes viewing more comfortable.
Yes, it’s approachable if you take it room by room and use the interpretive material. You don’t need deep art history knowledge to enjoy the storytelling.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s ideal for a half-day plan with nearby landmarks and a meal afterward. Many travelers combine it with a walking loop through the old town.
Self-guided works well if you like to move at your own pace and focus on a few key series. A guided tour helps if you want deeper context and faster interpretation.
Pair the museum with the main cathedral-basilica area and a riverside walk for a balanced day. This creates a mix of art, architecture, and city atmosphere.

Photography

Rules can vary by gallery and exhibition, especially for works on paper. Check signage on arrival and follow staff guidance.
Flash is typically restricted in museums to protect artworks, and tripods are often controlled. Plan for handheld, no-flash photos if permitted.
Yes, the surrounding old-town streets are very photogenic. A quick exterior shot works well before you enter.

Accessibility & Facilities

Many visitors can access multiple floors, but it’s best to confirm current elevator availability before your visit. This is especially important if there’s maintenance.
Yes, you can typically expect visitor restrooms. Ask at the desk if you want the quickest route.
Museums often restrict large bags in galleries. Travel with a smaller day bag when possible and follow any on-site storage instructions.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the central location means you’ll find plenty of cafés and bakeries within a short walk. It’s easy to plan a coffee stop before or after.
Eating in galleries is typically not allowed. Plan your snack break outside to keep your visit smooth.
Head toward the main plazas for tapas or a sit-down lunch. The museum’s location makes it easy to transition straight into dining.

Safety & Timing

Central Zaragoza is generally comfortable for visitors, especially in busy areas. Use normal city precautions with valuables.
Arrive with enough buffer to enjoy the print rooms without feeling hurried. Works on paper reward slow looking.
Yes, it commonly has a midday break on certain days. Plan your arrival so you don’t get caught by the closure window.

Nearby Attractions to the Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection

The Goya Museum - Ibercaja Collection appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Zaragoza!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday: Closed.

Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00-14:00 & 16:00-20:00.

Sunday: 10:00-14:00.

Price:

Adults: €4; Concessions: €2; Under 16: free.

Address: C. de Espoz y Mina, 23, Casco Antiguo, 50003 Zaragoza, Spain
Zaragoza: 1 km
Telephone: +34 976 39 73 87
Official Website

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