Museum of Fine Arts Lyon - La façade du Palais Saint Pierre de la place des Terreaux. Le Palais est le musée des beaux arts de Lyon. Lyon la nuit, entre l'ombre et la lumière. La façade majestueuse du Palais Saint Pierre date du 17ième siècle.
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Museum of Fine Arts Lyon

4.5
·9k reviews·Lyon, France

A grand former abbey housing vast collections from ancient Egypt to modern art, with tranquil gardens and a renowned cafe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Museum of Fine Arts Lyon - La façade du Palais Saint Pierre de la place des Terreaux. Le Palais est le musée des beaux arts de Lyon. Lyon la nuit, entre l'ombre et la lumière. La façade majestueuse du Palais Saint Pierre date du 17ième siècle.

Museum of Fine Arts Lyon

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand former abbey housing vast collections from ancient Egypt to modern art, with tranquil gardens and a renowned cafe.

4.5
(9k reviews)

"An absolutely outstanding museum! The collection is vast and beautifully curated."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Check for Free Entry Days

Sometimes the museum offers free admission, especially for certain groups or on specific days. Always check their website!

☕ Relax at the Cafe

Enjoy delicious éclairs and coffee on the first-floor cafe's balcony with lovely garden views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Egyptian Antiquities

Ancient Egyptian Antiquities

Ground floor

Step back in time with sarcophagi, artifacts, and even mummies. A surprisingly vast and captivating collection.

Renaissance and Baroque Paintings

Renaissance and Baroque Paintings

First floor

Admire masterpieces from European masters, including notable works by Italian and Flemish painters.

Sculpture Courtyard

Sculpture Courtyard

Central quadrangle

A peaceful oasis featuring impressive sculptures amidst tranquil gardens and a fountain.

Modern and Contemporary Art

Modern and Contemporary Art

Upper floors

Explore a diverse range of modern and contemporary artworks, showcasing various artistic movements.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Exhibitions

While general admission is often straightforward, popular temporary exhibitions at the Museum of Fine Arts Lyon can draw crowds. Booking tickets online in advance can save you time, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Check the museum's official website for current exhibition schedules and ticketing options.

Allocate Ample Time for Exploration

The Museum of Fine Arts Lyon boasts an extensive collection spanning ancient Egypt to modern art. To truly appreciate the diverse artworks, plan for at least 2-3 hours. Many visitors are surprised by the depth of the Egyptian antiquities and the quality of Renaissance masterpieces, so don't rush your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Wednesday evenings
Why
Extended hours, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Beat the rush, enjoy the gardens
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Recommended art museums

🎟️ Check for Free Entry Days

Sometimes the museum offers free admission, especially for certain groups or on specific days. Always check their website! Reddit

☕ Relax at the Cafe

Enjoy delicious éclairs and coffee on the first-floor cafe's balcony with lovely garden views. Reddit

reddit.com

I will be visiting Lyon tomorrow for a day, what are the places I need to visit?

reddit.com

Need some help with a visit to Lyon/itinerary question

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

The tranquil quadrangle garden is a peaceful escape, beautifully maintained and perfect for a moment of calm. Reddit

♿ Accessible for All

The museum offers free passes for people with disabilities, making it an inclusive experience. Reddit

reddit.com

About transportation and sightseeing

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Check for Free Entry Days

Sometimes the museum offers free admission, especially for certain groups or on specific days. Always check their website! Reddit

☕ Relax at the Cafe

Enjoy delicious éclairs and coffee on the first-floor cafe's balcony with lovely garden views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

The tranquil quadrangle garden is a peaceful escape, beautifully maintained and perfect for a moment of calm. Reddit

♿ Accessible for All

The museum offers free passes for people with disabilities, making it an inclusive experience. Reddit

🏛️ Admire the Building

Don't forget to appreciate the grand former abbey building itself; it adds significantly to the museum's charm. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Fine Arts Lyon for its outstanding and vast collection, ranging from ancient antiquities to modern masterpieces, all beautifully curated within a grand former abbey. The peaceful gardens and excellent cafe are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable amenities, making it a highly recommended cultural gem in the heart of Lyon.

"An absolutely outstanding museum! The collection is vast and beautifully curated, ranging from ancient antiquities to modern masterpieces. Each gallery feels carefully presented, with clear information and plenty of space to appreciate the works. The building itself, a former abbey, adds to the atmosphere and makes the visit even more memorable. Staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall experience was both inspiring and enriching. A must-visit when in Lyon - five stars without hesitation!"

A Google User

"Very nice museum. They offer free passes for all people with disabilities, which is very inclusive. Good selection of works, there are even some Monet paintings! There is a beautiful garden outside, you can tell someone is putting a lot of work into keeping it this way. There are several bathrooms around the building, which is good for older people. I loved the diversity of exhibitions and how easy it is to get to the place (it’s in the centre of Lyon). Good experience!"

Basia Molicka

"The Museum of Fine Arts in Lyon truly exceeded my expectations. I was genuinely impressed by the remarkable collection of sculptures and paintings—from classical masterpieces to captivating modern works. Each gallery offered something new and inspiring. What surprised me most was the incredible Egyptian section. I hadn’t expected to see ancient walls, artifacts, and even real mummies—it felt like stepping into another world. The museum is beautifully curated, spacious, and easy to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re an art lover or simply curious, this museum offers a rich and diverse experience that goes far beyond what you might imagine. A must-see cultural gem in the heart of Lyon."

Nelly Oroumchi

What People Like

Vast and diverse collections
Beautifully curated galleries
Impressive Egyptian section

What People Dislike

Occasional queues for exhibitions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of Fine Arts Lyon (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon) is centrally located and easily accessible. You can reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from many central Lyon attractions. Reddit

While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public parking garages are located within walking distance of the museum in the Presqu'île district. Consider public transport to avoid parking hassles.

Yes, the Lyon City Card often includes free admission to the Museum of Fine Arts Lyon, making it a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Reddit

From Lyon Part-Dieu station, you can take a tram or bus directly towards the city center, or a short taxi ride. The museum is well-connected to major transport hubs.

Absolutely! The Museum of Fine Arts Lyon is situated in the heart of the city on Place des Terreaux, a prominent square that is hard to miss.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for the Museum of Fine Arts Lyon can vary, especially for special exhibitions. General admission is generally affordable, and the museum sometimes offers free entry days or discounts. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing information. Reddit

For general admission, you might not need to buy tickets in advance, though queues can form during peak times. However, for popular temporary exhibitions, booking online ahead of time is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid waiting. Reddit

Yes, discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The museum also provides free admission for individuals with disabilities and their accompanying person. Reddit

Opening hours typically include weekdays and weekends, with some evenings extended. It's crucial to check the official museum website for the exact daily hours, as they can change seasonally or for special events.

Refund policies usually depend on the type of ticket purchased and the museum's terms and conditions. It's advisable to review these policies when booking, especially for special exhibition tickets which may be non-refundable.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the extensive Ancient Egyptian collection, including sarcophagi and artifacts. Don't miss the Renaissance and Baroque paintings, featuring masters like Rubens and Rembrandt, and the impressive collection of sculptures. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers a diverse range of exhibits that can appeal to various ages. The Egyptian section is particularly engaging for children, and the spacious layout makes it easier to navigate with little ones. Reddit

To fully appreciate the vast collections, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you're focusing on specific sections or attending a special exhibition, you might need more time. Reddit

Yes, there is an excellent cafe on the first floor with a terrace offering views of the garden, perfect for a break. They are known for their delicious éclairs. Reddit

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

📸 📸 Photography

The tranquil sculpture courtyard with its fountain and greenery offers beautiful photo opportunities. The grand architecture of the former abbey building itself, both inside and out, is also very photogenic. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in permanent collections, but it's essential to look for signs indicating restrictions, especially in temporary exhibition spaces where flash photography is strictly forbidden. TikTok

Focus on capturing the scale of the artworks, the architectural details of the building, and the serene atmosphere of the courtyard. Natural light in the galleries can be quite beautiful for photography. Instagram

Yes, avoid using flash, tripods, or selfie sticks, as these can damage the artworks or disturb other visitors. Always be mindful of your surroundings and other guests. TikTok

Professional photography or filming usually requires prior authorization from the museum. Contact their press or communications department well in advance if you have such plans.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Fine Arts Lyon is a great option for families looking for an enriching cultural outing. The Ancient Egyptian section is a particular hit with children, offering a fascinating glimpse into a distant past with mummies and artifacts that spark curiosity. Reddit The spacious galleries make it easier to navigate with strollers or energetic youngsters, and the central garden provides a much-needed space for kids to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. Reddit

Consider focusing on specific, engaging sections rather than trying to see everything. The museum's diverse collections mean there's something to capture the interest of different age groups. Look for interactive elements or guided tours designed for younger audiences if available. The cafe also offers a nice break for families needing a moment to refuel. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Museum of Fine Arts Lyon can be surprisingly accessible. While there's an admission fee, it's often considered quite affordable for the size and quality of the collection. Reddit Keep an eye out for potential free entry days or special promotions that might be running during your visit. Reddit

Furthermore, if you plan on visiting multiple attractions in Lyon, investing in a Lyon City Card could be a smart move, as it often includes free access to the museum. Reddit This allows you to experience a world-class art institution without a significant dent in your travel budget.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The Museum's Collections

The Museum of Fine Arts Lyon is housed in a magnificent former abbey, providing a grand setting for its incredibly diverse collections. Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer breadth of art on display, spanning millennia and continents. From the ancient Egyptian antiquities, which include sarcophagi and artifacts that transport you to another era, to the Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces featuring renowned European painters, there's a visual feast for every art enthusiast. Reddit

The museum doesn't stop at classical art. It also boasts significant collections of 19th and 20th-century art, showcasing Impressionist works and modern movements. The sculpture collection is equally noteworthy, with pieces displayed both indoors and in the serene central courtyard. This commitment to showcasing art across different periods and styles makes the Museum of Fine Arts Lyon a comprehensive cultural experience. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the curation and presentation as exceptional. Galleries are spacious, allowing for comfortable viewing, and information is presented clearly. The building itself, with its historical significance and architectural beauty, adds another layer to the visitor experience, making it more than just a gallery but a journey through art and history. Reddit

Beyond the Art: The Museum's Ambiance and Amenities

The Museum of Fine Arts Lyon offers more than just its impressive art collections; it provides a truly pleasant and comfortable visitor experience. The central quadrangle, a former abbey cloister, has been transformed into a tranquil garden with a fountain and sculptures. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle and a perfect spot to relax and reflect after exploring the galleries. Reddit

For those needing a refreshment, the first-floor cafe is a popular spot. Reviewers often praise its excellent éclairs and the opportunity to enjoy them on the balcony overlooking the garden, especially when the weather is nice. Reddit This amenity adds to the overall enjoyment, allowing visitors to linger and savor their visit.

Accessibility is also a strong point, with the museum offering free passes for people with disabilities, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. The presence of multiple bathrooms throughout the building is also noted as a convenience, particularly for older visitors. Reddit These thoughtful touches contribute to a welcoming and accessible environment for all.

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