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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Museum of Fine Arts Lyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand former abbey housing vast collections from ancient Egypt to modern art, with tranquil gardens and a renowned cafe.
"An absolutely outstanding museum! The collection is vast and beautifully curated."
🎟️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Sculpture Courtyard
Central quadrangle
A peaceful oasis featuring impressive sculptures amidst tranquil gardens and a fountain.

Modern and Contemporary Art
Upper floors
Explore a diverse range of modern and contemporary artworks, showcasing various artistic movements.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibitions
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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!
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy delicious éclairs and coffee on the first-floor cafe's balcony with lovely garden views.
I will be visiting Lyon tomorrow for a day, what are the places I need to visit?
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.
♿ Accessible for All
The museum offers free passes for people with disabilities, making it an inclusive experience.
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!
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy delicious éclairs and coffee on the first-floor cafe's balcony with lovely garden views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The tranquil quadrangle garden is a peaceful escape, beautifully maintained and perfect for a moment of calm.
♿ Accessible for All
The museum offers free passes for people with disabilities, making it an inclusive experience.
🏛️ Admire the Building
Don't forget to appreciate the grand former abbey building itself; it adds significantly to the museum's charm.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The museum also provides free admission for individuals with disabilities and their accompanying person.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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. 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 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.
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.
Beyond the Art: The Museum's Ambiance and Amenities
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. 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. These thoughtful touches contribute to a welcoming and accessible environment for all.
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