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Remigio Crespo Toral Museum

4.7
·460 reviews·Cuenca, Ecuador

Step into a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion, exploring Cuenca's history and enjoying riverside views from its charming cafe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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The displays

Remigio Crespo Toral Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion, exploring Cuenca's history and enjoying riverside views from its charming cafe.

4.7
(460 reviews)

"A very beautiful mansion on the river with a nice collection of history of Cuenca."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Cafe with a View

Don't miss the cafe in the back for lunch or coffee with a lovely river view.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Entrances

Access the museum from the street or the back by the river for different perspectives.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Mansion Architecture

Historic Mansion Architecture

Throughout the museum

Step back in time in this stunning 19th-century mansion, showcasing exquisite architecture and interior design.

Cuenca's History Exhibits

Cuenca's History Exhibits

Various rooms

Explore artifacts and stories that paint a vivid picture of Cuenca's rich history and cultural heritage.

Riverside Cafe

Riverside Cafe

Rear of the museum

Enjoy a coffee or lunch with a beautiful view of the river in this charming, open-air cafe.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning. The museum can get busy during peak tourist seasons, so arriving early ensures a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.

Accessibility & Amenities

While the museum offers a glimpse into Cuenca's past, be aware that some upper levels are only accessible by stairs, which may pose a challenge for visitors with mobility issues. The cafe offers a pleasant respite.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Escape the midday sun
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hermosa cafetería en 📍Cuenca 🇪🇨 Tienen que ir a conocer esta divina 😍! Todo lo que probamos nosotros estuvo delicioso! 📍Museo del Cafe, Cuenca 🇪🇨 @Café Restaurantes De martes a sábado de 10h00 a 22h00 y domingo 10h00 a 15h30 Dir: Paseo 3 de noviembre en la parte inferior del museo Remigio Crespo Toral. #ecuadortiktok #Foodie #cafeteriasbonitas #restaurant #Amigos #familia #cuenca #cuenca_ecua...
@paoarpi
15K likes • 320K views

☕ Cafe with a View

Don't miss the cafe in the back for lunch or coffee with a lovely river view. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Entrances

Access the museum from the street or the back by the river for different perspectives. Reddit

UN PEDACITO DE EUROPA EN CUENCA🥪🍻🧀 ESPERO POR USTED. . 📍REMIGIO CRESPO frente al Fybeca del parque de la paz . #cuenca #cuenca_ecuador🇪🇨❤ #cuenca_ecuador #ecuador🇪🇨 #quesos #quesosartesanales #embutidos #embutidosartesanales #embutidoscuenca #petersdeli #3700audiovisual #cuencanos #bebidas #tabladequesos #tabladequesosfinosycarnesfina #huecascuenca #huecascuencanas #quito_ecuador🇪🇨
@petersdeli
12.1K likes • 168.5K views
Este centro cultural en Cuenca está súper loco 😲... #cuenca #cuenca_ecuador #centrocultural #museo
@victoriatoscanoz
10.3K likes • 133.8K views

⏳ Allow an Hour

You can see everything within 35-45 minutes, but allow an hour to soak it all in. Reddit

🚫 Stair Access Only

Be aware that upper levels are only accessible by stairs. Reddit

En el Museo de la Ciudad de Cuenca se encuentra un cementerio antiguo . Según los historiadores, están ahí porque el primer uso de esta casa patrimonial fue un hospital y los muertos se enterraban en el mismo lugar, porque no había recursos para llevarlos a un cementerio en la época colonial ⚰️#cuencatiktok #cuenca_ecuad #tendencia #cuenca_ecuador🇪🇨❤ #ecuador🇪🇨 #azogues_ecuador🇪🇨❤ #ecuadortiktok #...
@ecuador_premium
7.3K likes • 92.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Cafe with a View

Don't miss the cafe in the back for lunch or coffee with a lovely river view. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Entrances

Access the museum from the street or the back by the river for different perspectives. Reddit

⏳ Allow an Hour

You can see everything within 35-45 minutes, but allow an hour to soak it all in. Reddit

🚫 Stair Access Only

Be aware that upper levels are only accessible by stairs. Reddit

🆓 Free Entry (Sometimes)

Entry was free when some visitors went, check current admission policies. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(460 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Remigio Crespo Toral Museum for its stunning architecture, well-preserved historic mansion, and insightful exhibits on Cuenca's past. The riverside cafe is a highlight, offering beautiful views. Some note that accessibility can be an issue due to stairs.

"A very beautiful mansion on the river with a nice collection of history of Cuenca.

The architecture and interior design is stunning. The exhibits are not overwhelming and one can see everything within 35-45 minutes.

The museum also has a cafe with a beautiful view of the river.

The only downside is that there are several levels only accessible by stairs and no elevators.

Overall a great place to visit."

JMQZ

"A nice museum that is a historic house on the edge of old Town. Used to belong to a poet and gives you his history and a bit of Cuenca's history. The security guard will sign you in. Beautiful views from the back as well as a little cafe. Entrance can be from the street or back by the river."

Fiona Bratvold

"I loved this place! Great house turned museum. Some fantastic paintings, and the whole place has been captured in time. Amazingly helpful staff will walk you through the museum and explain everything to you. Great place to escape the rain, it has great views of the river, and a nice cafe on the first floor."

avery neal

What People Like

Beautiful mansion architecture
Insightful history exhibits
Charming riverside cafe

What People Dislike

Stair-only access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located on Calle Larga, a prominent street in Cuenca. It's easily accessible by foot from the historic center. Some visitors mention it's near the Fybeca on Parque de la Paz. TikTokReddit

Yes, it's often visited in conjunction with the Museo del Sombrero, as they are both on Calle Larga. Reddit

Taxis are readily available in Cuenca and can drop you off near the museum. Public buses also serve the area, but check routes for the most direct access. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific hours can vary, the museum is generally open during the day. Some sources suggest it's open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, but it's always best to confirm current hours before your visit. TikTok

Entry to the museum is often free, as noted by several visitors. However, it's advisable to check for any admission fees that may apply during your visit. Reddit

Yes, you can enter the museum from the street or from the back by the river, offering different access points. Reddit

There is no specific dress code mentioned for the Remigio Crespo Toral Museum. Casual, comfortable attire is suitable for exploring the exhibits. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion and features exhibits on Cuenca's history, art, and the life of the poet Remigio Crespo Toral. The architecture and interior design are highlights. Reddit+1

Most visitors find that exploring the museum takes about 35-45 minutes, though you might want to allocate an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and the ambiance. Reddit

Unfortunately, several levels of the museum are only accessible by stairs, and there are no elevators, which may be a challenge for some visitors. Reddit

Some visitors have mentioned helpful staff who walk them through the museum and explain exhibits, suggesting that informal guidance might be available. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located in the back of the museum, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy lunch or coffee with a view of the river. Reddit+1

The cafe offers lunch and coffee. It's described as a great place to stop for a bite in an open-air setting. TikTokReddit

The area around Calle Larga and the historic center of Cuenca is filled with restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of culinary experiences. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The stunning architecture of the mansion, the interior design, and the views from the riverside cafe are all excellent subjects for photography. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed, but it's wise to confirm any specific rules regarding flash or certain displays. TikTok

Visitors often capture the historic interiors, architectural details, and the scenic river views from the cafe. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Remigio Crespo Toral Museum offers a unique opportunity for families to explore a beautiful historic mansion and learn about Cuenca's past. While the exhibits might be more suited for older children who can appreciate history, the stunning architecture and the riverside cafe can be engaging for all ages. TikTokReddit The cafe provides a relaxed setting for a family break with a view. Be mindful that the museum has multiple levels accessible only by stairs, which might require extra planning for families with very young children or strollers. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers and couples, the Remigio Crespo Toral Museum is an ideal stop for a peaceful and enriching cultural experience. The intimate setting of the historic mansion allows for a leisurely exploration of Cuenca's history and art at your own pace. Reddit The riverside cafe is a perfect spot for a quiet coffee or a romantic lunch, offering beautiful views and a tranquil ambiance. Reddit+1 It's a great way to spend an hour or two immersing yourselves in the local heritage.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the Remigio Crespo Toral Museum particularly rewarding. The museum provides a detailed look into the life of the poet Remigio Crespo Toral and the broader historical context of Cuenca during the late 19th century. Reddit The well-preserved architecture and authentic artifacts offer a genuine glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Ecuadorian history and heritage. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Cuenca's Past

The Remigio Crespo Toral Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a beautifully preserved historic mansion that offers a tangible connection to Cuenca's past. Once the residence of the renowned poet Remigio Crespo Toral, the house itself is a testament to the upper-class life in late 19th-century Cuenca. Visitors can explore its rooms, admiring the original architecture and interior design, which have been meticulously maintained. The exhibits within the museum provide insights into the city's history, culture, and the life of its former owner. Reddit

Many visitors are struck by the authenticity of the preserved spaces, feeling as though they've stepped back in time. The staff's willingness to share information further enhances this immersive experience, making it feel like a personal tour rather than a sterile museum visit. Reddit While the collection might not be overwhelming, its strength lies in its ability to transport you to another era, offering a peaceful and enriching experience away from the bustle of modern life. Reddit

The Riverside Cafe Experience

A delightful surprise for many visitors is the cafe located at the rear of the Remigio Crespo Toral Museum. This charming spot offers a unique opportunity to relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in beautiful views of the Tomebamba River. It's an ideal place to pause after exploring the museum's exhibits or to simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere of Cuenca. Reddit+1

The cafe is described as an open-air setting, making it particularly pleasant on a sunny day. Whether you're stopping for a quick cup of coffee or a light lunch, the combination of good food and scenic surroundings makes it a memorable part of the museum visit. TikTok It's a perfect spot to reflect on the history you've just encountered or to simply enjoy the picturesque Cuenca landscape. Reddit

Navigating the Museum's Layout

When planning your visit to the Remigio Crespo Toral Museum, it's important to be aware of its multi-level structure. The mansion is spread across several floors, each offering different insights into Cuenca's heritage. However, a key point for visitors to note is that access to the upper levels is primarily via stairs, with no elevators available. Reddit

This architectural characteristic means that visitors with mobility challenges may find it difficult to explore the entire museum. It's advisable to plan your visit accordingly and perhaps focus on the accessible areas if needed. Despite this limitation, the museum's layout contributes to its authentic historical feel, preserving the original character of the grand residence. Reddit

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