MEG – Ethnography Museum
Discover global cultures through free permanent exhibits and compelling personal stories at the MEG Ethnography Museum in Geneva.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
MEG – Ethnography Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover global cultures through free permanent exhibits and compelling personal stories at the MEG Ethnography Museum in Geneva.
"A worthwhile stop while in Geneva. A beautiful collection of artifacts from around the world."
🎯 Free Permanent Collection
Don't miss the free permanent exhibits! A fantastic way to experience global cultures without breaking the bank. :moneywithwings:
🗣️ Multilingual Explanations
Enjoy detailed descriptions in both French and English for all displayed items. :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Encounters Exhibition
Hear personal stories from around the globe, connected to fascinating artifacts. A deeply human and thought-provoking experience.
Archives of Human Diversity
Explore over 1000 artifacts from five continents, showcasing centuries of human culture and daily life.
Architectural Design
Admire the modern architecture of the museum building itself, a striking contrast to the ancient artifacts within.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry to Permanent Collections
Engaging Storytelling Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Permanent Collection
Don't miss the free permanent exhibits! A fantastic way to experience global cultures without breaking the bank. :moneywithwings:
🗣️ Multilingual Explanations
Enjoy detailed descriptions in both French and English for all displayed items. :speech_balloon:
🎧 Thought-Provoking Audio
The 'Face to Face' audio-visual exhibit is highly recommended for a deeper, reflective experience. :headphones:
🏛️ Modern Architecture
Appreciate the building's contemporary design, which complements the historical artifacts inside. :building_construction:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Permanent Collection
Don't miss the free permanent exhibits! A fantastic way to experience global cultures without breaking the bank. :moneywithwings:
🗣️ Multilingual Explanations
Enjoy detailed descriptions in both French and English for all displayed items. :speech_balloon:
🎧 Thought-Provoking Audio
The 'Face to Face' audio-visual exhibit is highly recommended for a deeper, reflective experience. :headphones:
🏛️ Modern Architecture
Appreciate the building's contemporary design, which complements the historical artifacts inside. :building_construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the MEG Ethnography Museum for its free permanent collection and the thought-provoking 'Encounters' exhibition, which shares personal stories alongside artifacts. The diverse collection spanning five continents is a major draw, complemented by multilingual descriptions and modern architecture. Some find the information dense, but the overall experience is considered worthwhile and enriching.
"I suggest that you visit this museum because the entrance is free and it contains some interesting material. There are 2 main parts: the first exhibition is called "Encounters", with videos of people from all over the world telling their stories centered around objects from the museum collection, while the second exhibition is called "The Archives of Human Diversity" and displays more than 1000 objects of cultures coming from all the five continents."
Francesco Xodo
"Very nice and eclectic collection of artefacts made by humans from all continents and for centuries. The architecture of the building itself is also of interesting. All objects displayed in the museum have a French and English explanation and the entry to the permanent collection is free of charge. It's worth visiting!"
Cedric Martin
"A worthwhile stop while in Geneva. A beautiful collection of artifacts from around the world. The layout and design of the displays allows for detailed examination of the items. Descriptions are in French and English."
Ian Slinkman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MEG Ethnography Museum is conveniently located near Plainpalais. You can reach it via public transport in Geneva, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby.
Yes, the museum is well-served by public transportation. Check local Geneva transit schedules for the most convenient routes from your location.
Information on specific parking availability near the museum can vary. It's often recommended to use public transport in Geneva due to city center parking challenges.
The museum is situated in a central area of Geneva, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the city.
For most visitors already in Geneva, taking a tram or bus is the most efficient and recommended way to reach the MEG Ethnography Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The permanent exhibition at the MEG Ethnography Museum offers free entry for all visitors. Temporary exhibitions may have a separate admission fee.
For the free permanent collection, advance booking is generally not required. However, it's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for any updates or special event ticketing.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to consult the official MEG Ethnography Museum website for the most current information on daily opening and closing times.
Since the permanent collection is free, discounts are primarily relevant for any special temporary exhibitions. Check the museum's website for details on potential concessions.
Yes, the museum is typically open on weekends, but it's advisable to confirm the specific weekend hours on their official website to plan your visit accordingly.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Expect a diverse range of exhibits, including the 'Encounters' section with personal stories and artifacts, and the 'Archives of Human Diversity' showcasing over 1000 objects from global cultures.
Yes, all objects displayed in the museum have explanations available in both French and English, making the exhibits accessible to a wider audience.
While the museum offers rich cultural content, the depth of information might be more engaging for older children and adults. Interactive elements in some exhibits can appeal to younger visitors.
To fully appreciate the 'Encounters' and 'Archives of Human Diversity' exhibits, plan for at least 1-2 hours. If you engage deeply with the audio-visual content, you might need more time.
The 'Encounters' exhibition uses videos to share stories, and the 'Face to Face' audio-visual exhibit offers a deeply engaging experience. Some special exhibitions might also feature interactive components.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted in the permanent collections, but flash photography is usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage or ask museum staff for the latest policy.
Restrictions often include no flash photography to protect artifacts and no professional photography without prior authorization. Be mindful of other visitors.
The diverse artifacts themselves, the modern architectural elements of the building, and the engaging displays in the 'Encounters' exhibition offer great photo opportunities.
Filming for personal use might be allowed, similar to photography, but without flash or professional equipment. Check with the museum for their specific video recording policy.
You can find many visitor-shared photos on social media platforms like Instagram by searching for relevant hashtags, or on the museum's official social media channels. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for younger visitors, consider focusing on specific themes or regions that might capture their interest. The museum's multilingual descriptions (French and English) are helpful, but engaging with the video content in 'Encounters' can provide a more accessible entry point to understanding different cultures. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly events or temporary exhibits that might be running during your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience Geneva's rich cultural offerings without spending a lot. You can spend hours exploring the 'Archives of Human Diversity' and the compelling 'Encounters' exhibition, gaining a broad understanding of global cultures. Just be aware that any special temporary exhibitions might have a separate admission fee.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Global Cultures at MEG
The museum's approach goes beyond mere display; it emphasizes the human element through its 'Encounters' exhibition. This section uses video to connect visitors with individuals from various cultures, sharing their personal stories and how specific objects from the museum's collection are intertwined with their lives and heritage. This narrative-driven approach makes the exhibits incredibly engaging and fosters a deeper understanding and empathy for different ways of life.
Beyond the exhibits, the museum itself is a noteworthy architectural space. Its modern design provides a contemporary backdrop for the ancient and culturally significant artifacts, creating a visually stimulating environment. The commitment to providing information in multiple languages, including English, ensures that a broad international audience can fully appreciate the depth and breadth of the collections.
The Value of Free Cultural Access
This free access policy is particularly significant in a city like Geneva, where many attractions can come with a considerable price tag. By offering its core exhibits at no charge, the MEG actively contributes to making cultural heritage a public good. This approach is often highlighted by visitors who appreciate the opportunity to explore world cultures without financial barriers.
While temporary exhibitions may incur a fee, the substantial and diverse permanent collection provides hours of exploration and learning. This makes the MEG Ethnography Museum an excellent choice for a spontaneous visit or a planned outing, offering significant value and a rich educational experience for all who walk through its doors.
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