Montreal Museum of Fine Arts - Guitarist in an art museum
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Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

4.7
·16k reviews·Montréal, Canada

A vast museum complex showcasing diverse global art, Quebecois masterpieces, and contemporary works, set within stunning architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesday evenings

Half-price tickets!

CrowdMedium
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Montreal Museum of Fine Arts - Guitarist in an art museum

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Best Time

Wednesday evenings

Half-price tickets!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast museum complex showcasing diverse global art, Quebecois masterpieces, and contemporary works, set within stunning architecture.

4.7
(16k reviews)

"A place where art, architecture, and city views converge to inspire mind and soul."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Under 25? Free Entry!

If you're under 25, enjoy free general admission to the MMFA! A fantastic way to experience art .

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This museum is huge! Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore its diverse collections and buildings .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World Cultures and Contemporary Art

World Cultures and Contemporary Art

Michal and Renata Hornstein Pavilion

Explore diverse global art, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. A true journey through human creativity.

Quebec and Canadian Art

Quebec and Canadian Art

Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion

Immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of Quebec and Canada, featuring iconic works and emerging artists.

Architecture and City Views

Architecture and City Views

Admire the stunning blend of historic and modern architecture, with quiet corners offering inspiring city panoramas.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) is vast, with multiple buildings and extensive collections. Allocate at least 3-4 hours, or even a full day, to truly appreciate the diverse art. Consider visiting on a Wednesday evening when tickets are half-price, a tip shared by locals.Reddit

Free Admission & Ticketing

Great news for younger visitors: anyone under 25 gets free admission to the MMFA! For others, check the latest ticket prices, as they can fluctuate.Reddit Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for special exhibitions, to avoid queues.

Best Times

When
Wednesday evenings
Why
Half-price tickets!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more art.
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Vibrant atmosphere.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Has anyone been to the Musée des Beaux-Arts recently?! Need help...

🎯 Under 25? Free Entry!

If you're under 25, enjoy free general admission to the MMFA! A fantastic way to experience art.Reddit

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This museum is huge! Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore its diverse collections and buildings.Reddit

reddit.com

Passeport MTL: Botanical Garden or Museum of Fine Arts

reddit.com

Redpath museum VS Musee des Beaux Arts?

💧 Stay Hydrated

No water bottles inside, but water stations are available throughout. :droplet:

🧥 Complimentary Coat Check

Take advantage of the free coat check for a more comfortable visit. :coat:

reddit.com

Cheap(er)/free tickets to Museums?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Under 25? Free Entry!

If you're under 25, enjoy free general admission to the MMFA! A fantastic way to experience art.Reddit

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This museum is huge! Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore its diverse collections and buildings.Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

No water bottles inside, but water stations are available throughout. :droplet:

🧥 Complimentary Coat Check

Take advantage of the free coat check for a more comfortable visit. :coat:

🛍️ Don't Miss the Gift Shop

Browse art prints, books, and unique souvenirs after your visit. :gift_shop:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(16k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts' stunning architecture and the incredible diversity of its collections, spanning global art, Quebecois masterpieces, and contemporary works. Many highlight the inspiring city views and the thoughtful curation that connects different artistic periods. The free admission for those under 25 is a major plus, though some note recent price increases for general admission.

"Huge gallery with multiple buildings and rooms within them . A fantastic range of artistic styles, blending modern and contemporary with older pieces, often making connections stylistically between them. New design wing particularly good at this imo. You need hours to see it all."

David Rigden

"The museum is absolutely stunning. The architecture alone is worth the visit - the buildings are beautiful, blending historic charm with modern design. The collections are diverse and thoughtful curated with something for everyone. It’s a place where you can easily spend hours exploring. Definitely a must see if you’re in Montreal - whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a meaningful and inspiring experience."

Canh Vo

"If you’re under 25, you get in for free!
I only discovered this a month before my birthday—better late than never, right? Maybe someone else will appreciate the heads-up 🤭

One thing I love about this museum is how many quiet corners there are where you can soak in the city views. I come here not just for the art, but to let it inspire me — along with the beautiful panoramas. There’s something about this place that feeds both the mind and the soul."

Анна Козакова

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Diverse art collections
Inspiring city views

What People Dislike

Recent ticket price increase

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The MMFA is conveniently located at 1380 Sherbrooke Street West. You can reach it via the Montreal Metro (Green Line, Peel or Guy-Concordia stations) or by bus. Parking is available nearby, though it can be pricey.Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available near the museum, but they can be expensive. Many visitors opt for public transport or ride-sharing services to save money and avoid traffic.

The main address for the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is 1380 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1K2, Canada.

Absolutely! The museum is easily accessible by the Montreal Metro (Green Line, Peel or Guy-Concordia stations) and several bus routes, making it a convenient destination.

Yes, if you are staying in the downtown area, the museum is within walking distance, offering a pleasant stroll through the city.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission prices can vary, with a significant increase noted recently.Reddit However, visitors under 25 receive free admission. It's best to check the official MMFA website for the most current ticket prices and any potential discounts.

Yes! Visitors under 25 years old can enjoy free general admission to the MMFA. This is a fantastic initiative to encourage young art enthusiasts.Reddit

While not always mandatory for general admission, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for special exhibitions, to secure your spot and avoid long queues.

The most significant discount is free admission for those under 25. Additionally, Wednesday evenings often offer half-price tickets, a great tip from visitors.Reddit

The museum's opening hours can vary by day and season. It's essential to check the official Montreal Museum of Fine Arts website for the most up-to-date MMFA hours before your visit.

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Given its vastness and diverse collections spread across multiple buildings, you'll need at least 3-4 hours to see the highlights. Many visitors recommend dedicating a full day to fully explore everything.Reddit

Don't miss the World Cultures and Contemporary Art in the Michal and Renata Hornstein Pavilion, and the extensive Quebec and Canadian Art in the Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion. The new design wing is also highly praised.Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage in each exhibition area.

Yes, you can usually find MMFA maps at the information desk or download them from the museum's official website to help you navigate the different pavilions and floors.

Yes, many visitors appreciate the quiet corners within the museum that offer moments of reflection and beautiful city views.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum typically has dining options, including a restaurant and cafe, where you can enjoy a meal or a coffee break during your visit.

Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the galleries. However, water stations are available throughout the museum to refill your bottle.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

The MMFA boutique is a great place to find art books, prints, postcards, and unique souvenirs. It's usually located near the main entrance or exit.

The MMFA shop offers a curated selection of items related to the museum's collections, including art prints, books, jewelry, and other unique gifts.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a fantastic destination for families, especially with its free admission for visitors under 25.Reddit This policy makes art accessible to younger generations. The museum's diverse collections, from ancient artifacts to contemporary installations, offer something to capture the imagination of children of all ages. Encourage them to find their favorite colors, shapes, or stories within the artworks.

While there aren't specific 'kids' zones,' the sheer variety of art means you can tailor the visit to your children's interests. Look for engaging sculptures, vibrant paintings, or intriguing historical objects. Remember to utilize the complimentary coat check for convenience and take advantage of the water stations to keep everyone hydrated. Planning for breaks and focusing on a few key areas rather than trying to see everything will make the experience more enjoyable for the whole family.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the MMFA offers excellent value. The most significant saving is free general admission for anyone under 25,Reddit making it an ideal stop for students and young adults. For those over 25, consider visiting on Wednesday evenings for half-price tickets,Reddit a tip that significantly reduces the cost of admission.

Beyond ticket prices, the museum offers free coat check services, saving you a few extra dollars. While there's a restaurant on-site, packing your own snacks and utilizing the water stations can help cut down on food expenses. Exploring the vast permanent collections, which are included with admission, provides hours of engaging content without additional cost.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the MMFA's Expansive Collections

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is not a single building but a complex of interconnected pavilions, each housing distinct collections. The Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion is the largest and most modern, featuring Quebec and Canadian art, as well as international contemporary art. The Michal and Renata Hornstein Pavilion is dedicated to World Cultures, showcasing everything from ancient artifacts to decorative arts from around the globe. For those interested in historical art, the Claire and Marc Bourgie Pavilion houses a significant collection of Quebec art from the 17th to 19th centuries. Finally, the Eduardo Capriles Pavilion is home to the museum's extensive collection of prints and drawings.

To make the most of your visit, it's advisable to consult the museum map upon arrival or download it beforehand. Many visitors recommend prioritizing sections based on personal interest, as trying to see everything in one go can be overwhelming. The museum's layout encourages a journey through different eras and cultures, often drawing stylistic connections between seemingly disparate works, a feature particularly noted in the new design wing.Reddit

Beyond the permanent collections, the MMFA frequently hosts world-class temporary exhibitions. These often require separate tickets and can draw significant crowds. Checking the museum's 'current exhibitions' schedule online is crucial for planning your visit and booking tickets accordingly. The diversity of the MMFA's offerings ensures there's always something new and inspiring to discover, whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious first-time visitor.

The Architectural Marvel of the MMFA

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a testament to architectural evolution, seamlessly blending historic charm with cutting-edge modern design. The original building, dating back to the early 20th century, provides a sense of grandeur and tradition, while the newer pavilions, particularly the Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion, offer sleek lines, expansive glass facades, and innovative spatial arrangements. This juxtaposition of old and new creates a dynamic and visually stimulating environment that complements the art within.

Visitors often remark on the beauty of the architecture itself, noting how the buildings enhance the viewing experience. The design incorporates ample natural light, creating a pleasant atmosphere for exploring the galleries. Furthermore, the museum's design thoughtfully includes numerous quiet corners and vantage points that offer breathtaking panoramas of the Montreal skyline.Reddit These spaces provide moments of respite and inspiration, allowing visitors to connect with both the art and the city.

The thoughtful integration of architecture and art is a hallmark of the MMFA. The museum's commitment to creating an aesthetically pleasing and functional space is evident throughout, making it not just a repository of art, but an architectural destination in its own right. The blend of styles and the integration of urban views contribute to a truly memorable and enriching visitor experience.

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