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MAMCO

4.3
·260 reviews·Genève, Switzerland

Geneva's vibrant hub for modern and contemporary art, housed in a former industrial building, offering interactive experiences and diverse exhibitions...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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MAMCO - text

MAMCO

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Geneva's vibrant hub for modern and contemporary art, housed in a former industrial building, offering interactive experiences and diverse exhibitions.

4.3
(260 reviews)

"What an exceptional modern art museum. I loved every 4 stories of it."

Vertical photo
TIP

Explore Every Nook

Art is hidden in unexpected places, even warped mirrors in bathrooms! Keep your eyes peeled. :camerawithflash:

Engage with Staff

The team is friendly and happy to share insights about artists and artworks. :man_teacher:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Installations

Interactive Installations

Various floors

Step into darkened spaces, explore faux caves, and engage with art that invites participation.

Reddit
Architectural Charm

Architectural Charm

Entire building

The museum's former industrial building offers a unique, almost raw backdrop for art, reminiscent of PS1 in NYC.

Reddit
Diverse Contemporary Works

Diverse Contemporary Works

All four floors

Discover pieces from established masters like Duchamp to emerging artists, offering a broad spectrum of modern expression.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Unexpected

MAMCO is a dynamic space where art is often interactive and the building itself is part of the experience. Be prepared for installations that might surprise you, from darkened rooms to art in unexpected places like bathroom mirrors. Reddit

Affordable Art Immersion

Enjoy a wealth of contemporary and modern art without breaking the bank. Many exhibitions are free, with a small fee for special shows. It's a fantastic value for art lovers in Geneva. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Late mornings
Why
Catch fresh installations
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

2024, avant rénovation 2024, before refurbishment Réalisation @vandystudio
mamco_geneve
745 likes • 56.8K views

Explore Every Nook

Art is hidden in unexpected places, even warped mirrors in bathrooms! Keep your eyes peeled. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Engage with Staff

The team is friendly and happy to share insights about artists and artworks. Reddit :man_teacher:

Documentation du @mamco_geneve avant rénovation de son bâtiment historique. #mamcogeneve #geneva
vandystudio
56 likes • 822 views
reddit.com

Thinking of fostering a dog. Any recommendations for a rescue to foster through?

Don't Miss the Courtyard

Relax with a drink at the charming courtyard bar after your art exploration. Reddit :wine_glass:

Check for Free Entry

Many exhibitions are free, making MAMCO a budget-friendly art experience. Reddit :moneybag:

Tips

from all over the internet

Explore Every Nook

Art is hidden in unexpected places, even warped mirrors in bathrooms! Keep your eyes peeled. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Engage with Staff

The team is friendly and happy to share insights about artists and artworks. Reddit :man_teacher:

Don't Miss the Courtyard

Relax with a drink at the charming courtyard bar after your art exploration. Reddit :wine_glass:

Check for Free Entry

Many exhibitions are free, making MAMCO a budget-friendly art experience. Reddit :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(260 reviews)

Reviews Summary

MAMCO is widely praised as an exceptional modern and contemporary art museum, lauded for its diverse exhibitions, interactive installations, and the unique architectural charm of its former industrial building. Visitors appreciate the affordable entry fees, with many exhibits being free, and the friendly, helpful staff. Some minor points for improvement were noted, such as a slide's safety, but overall, it's a highly recommended experience for art lovers.

"Wonderful modern and contemporary art museum.
Some famous names Marcel Duchamp, Dan Flavin, Donald Judd, Nam June Paik, Joseph Beuys.
And then some very contemporary art from past 10-20 years which was very fun. Younger artists I am not familiar with, some great pieces. Fun spatial pieces where you entered darkened spaces, a faux cave and others. Very fun.
Reminds me a little of PS1 in New York where the building is part of the charm of exploring the space as well, interesting stairwells and surprisingly old and claustrophobic elevators. 😊 As well as art in unexpected places for example mirrors in bathroom were warped and an art piece themselves.
If you like contemporary art and are in Geneva do not miss. Very cheap too most exhibitions were free and just 5 chf for a small exhibition of young artists. Enjoyed it all."

Tyler Gumb

"What an exceptional modern art museum. I loved every 4 stories of it. We had the guide walk us through the top two floors, explaining the idea behind each artwork - it gave the whole visit such a rich experience. The installations had a wide range of expressions and very meaningful and provocative messages. I really recommend this museum. Don’t miss their lovely courtyard bar for a glass of Prosecco or a beer."

Eliza Forsaeus

"MAMCO was on my go to list. I went there and paid 5 franc (if I'm not mistaken) to see A Cosmic Movie Camera exhibition featuring 15 artist. Amazed by all of them. Their installation setup is on another level and allowed us to interact with it. I managed to watched all at each floor. It's a privilege for me because we don't have that kind of exhibition in Malaysia. The receptionist officer also accommodating. They welcome you with a smile."

maisara amira

What People Like

Diverse contemporary art
Interactive installations
Affordable entry fees

What People Dislike

Slide safety concern

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

MAMCO is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram 14 or 18 to the 'Jonction' stop, or buses 1, 2, 7, 19, or D to 'Place de Neuve'. The museum is a short walk from these stops. TikTokInstagram

While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public parking garages are available nearby, such as the Place de Neuve parking. It's often recommended to use public transport due to limited street parking. Reddit

Yes, MAMCO is located in the heart of Geneva and is a pleasant walk from many central areas, especially if you're exploring the Old Town or the lakefront. Reddit

MAMCO is typically open Tuesday through Sunday. It's always best to check their official website for the most current opening hours and any potential holiday closures. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, but some older parts of the building might present challenges. It's advisable to contact MAMCO directly to inquire about specific accessibility features. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Many exhibitions at MAMCO are free to enter. For special exhibitions, there's usually a small admission fee, often around 5 CHF, making it very affordable. Reddit

For most exhibitions, especially the free ones, advance booking isn't necessary. However, for special events or guided tours, it's a good idea to check the MAMCO website. Reddit

Given the already low prices and free entry for many exhibits, specific discounts are less common. However, always check their website for any potential offers or group rates. Reddit

The admission fee typically grants access to special exhibitions. Many permanent collections and temporary displays are often free to explore. Reddit

It's recommended to check the current inclusions of the Geneva Pass, as museum access can vary. The pass often covers entry to many of Geneva's top attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

MAMCO focuses on modern and contemporary art, featuring works from established artists like Marcel Duchamp to current, emerging talents. Expect diverse installations and thought-provoking pieces. Reddit

Yes, MAMCO can be engaging for children, with interactive installations and unique spaces. Some reviews mention it's great for younger kids too, though one noted a slide could be improved. TikTokReddit

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the four floors of exhibitions. You can easily spend longer if you engage deeply with the art or take a guided tour. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended for a richer understanding of the artworks and exhibitions. They can provide valuable context and insights. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff for specific rules. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

MAMCO features a lovely courtyard bar where you can enjoy a glass of Prosecco or a beer, perfect for a break during your visit. Reddit

Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition spaces to protect the artworks. The courtyard bar is the designated area for refreshments. Reddit

The museum is located in a vibrant area of Geneva with numerous cafes and restaurants nearby, offering a variety of culinary experiences. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The unique architecture of the building, interactive installations, and art pieces in unexpected places offer great photo opportunities. The courtyard is also picturesque. Reddit

Flash photography is generally not allowed inside the museum to protect the artworks from light damage. Always check for specific signage. Reddit

While general photography is often permitted, some temporary exhibitions might have restrictions. It's best to confirm with museum staff or check posted signs. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

MAMCO offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families. The interactive nature of many installations, where children can step into darkened rooms or explore unique spaces, can be a real highlight. Reddit While one review mentioned a slide needing improvement, the overall sentiment is positive, with some finding it great even for children under three. Reddit The museum's staff are noted as being nice and helpful, which is always a plus when visiting with younger ones. Reddit

To make the most of a family visit, consider focusing on the more visually stimulating and interactive exhibits. The building's unique architecture can also spark curiosity. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to contemporary art in a less formal and more accessible environment than some traditional museums. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

MAMCO is a dream for budget-conscious travelers. With many exhibitions offering free admission and special shows costing only around 5 CHF, it's one of Geneva's most affordable cultural gems. Reddit This allows you to immerse yourself in contemporary art without a significant financial outlay. Reddit

Beyond the low ticket prices, the museum's location in Geneva means you can easily combine a visit with exploring other free attractions in the city, like walking along the lake or through the Old Town. The value you get from the diverse art and interactive experiences makes it a top recommendation for anyone looking to experience Geneva's art scene affordably. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The MAMCO Experience: Art and Architecture

MAMCO, Geneva's Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, is housed in a former industrial building, lending it a unique, raw aesthetic. This architectural choice is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the visitor experience, with interesting stairwells and surprisingly old elevators adding character. Reddit The museum spans four floors, each offering a distinct journey through modern and contemporary art. Visitors often remark on how the building itself feels like an exhibition, with art sometimes appearing in unexpected places, like warped mirrors in the bathrooms. Reddit

The collection at MAMCO is diverse, featuring renowned artists such as Marcel Duchamp, Dan Flavin, and Nam June Paik, alongside a vibrant selection of works from the past 10-20 years by younger, emerging artists. Reddit This blend ensures a dynamic and engaging visit, catering to both seasoned art enthusiasts and those new to contemporary art. The interactive nature of many installations, where visitors can enter darkened spaces or explore faux caves, makes the experience particularly memorable and fun. Reddit The museum's commitment to showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions provides a rich and often provocative encounter with art. TikTokInstagram

Navigating MAMCO on a Budget

One of the most appealing aspects of MAMCO for visitors is its affordability. Many of the museum's exhibitions are completely free to enter, making it an accessible cultural destination in Geneva. Reddit For special exhibitions, such as those featuring young artists, there's typically a very small admission fee, often around 5 CHF. This makes MAMCO an excellent option for travelers looking to experience high-quality contemporary art without a significant expense. Reddit

Beyond the low entry costs, the museum offers a wealth of experiences that provide great value. The sheer volume and variety of art across its four floors ensure that visitors can spend hours immersed in creativity. The opportunity to interact with installations and discover art in unconventional spaces adds an extra layer of engagement that goes beyond a typical museum visit. Reddit The friendly and accommodating staff also contribute to a positive and welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall value of the visit. Reddit

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