El Museo del Traje (Costume Museum)

A great idea for rainy days in Madrid! Not a lot of tourists come here, but we certainly recommend a trip to the Museo del Traje located next to university campus. The museum tells the story of western fashion from the middle ages right up to the present day, and there are a couple of sections dedicated to traditional dress from the different regions of Spain. There are hundres of pieces on display, including creations from designers such Karl Lagerfeld, Balenciaga, Dior and Balmain. In addition to the main collection there is also a free temporary exhibition. Admission to the museum is only 3€- a very cheap visit, and seniors and under 18s can get in for free. It's also free for all on Saturdays after 14.30. The museum is open Tues-Sat 9.30-19.00 and Sunday 10.00-15.00.Closed on Mondays. You could also combine a visit with the Museo de America (Americas Museum), located about a five minute walk away, dedicated to the history of Latin America and has a fascinating collection of pre-columbian artefacts on display.

Location: Avda Juan de Herrera 2, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid. Metro Ciudad Universitaria (L6), or it's a ten minute walk through parkland from Moncloa metro (L3, L6).