Overview
The Lyon Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest art museums in France, housing a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 14th to the 20th centuries. It is located in a stunning neoclassical building, offering a comprehensive journey through European art history.
The museum holds significant works by renowned artists such as Rubens, Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh, making it a crucial center for cultural and artistic heritage in Lyon.
Location
Address
20 Place des Terreaux, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Neighborhood: Presqu'île
Coordinates
45.764700, 4.835700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for art viewing
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild, pleasant
- • spring exhibitions
- • garden displays
summer
hot, humid
- • extended summer hours
- • outdoor art exhibitions
autumn
cool, crisp
- • fall art exhibitions
- • harvest-themed displays
winter
cold, possibly rainy
- • holiday lights
- • winter art exhibitions
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather and dress appropriately
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (some walking and standing)
- • stairs and uneven surfaces in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit cards, debit cards, cash
Currency
Euro (€)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate clothing, high heels that might damage floors
Booking Tips
- • 2-3 weeks for peak season
- • official website or authorized partners
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Lyon Museum of Fine Arts
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets and reservations, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Main galleries
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-40 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1.5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich cultural heritage, significant art collections, and a central location in Lyon
Historical Significance: Housed in a former college, the museum has been a cultural hub since the early 19th century
Insider Tips
- Free entry on the first Sunday of the month
- Best food and coffee at the museum café
- Evening events are less crowded and offer a unique atmosphere
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Lyonnais cuisine at the museum café
- • Ask for a guided tour by the museum's expert staff
- • Visit the nearby Place des Terreaux for a beautiful fountain and architecture
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: French, English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance and steps
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle shots
Result: Grand architectural views
Courtyard garden
Best Time: Spring or autumn
Tips: Focus on details
Result: Beautiful garden shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Lyon Cathedral
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Historical Site
Place des Terreaux
Distance: 50m
Walking: 1 min
Type: Public Square
Lyon City Hall
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Government Building
Parc de la Tête d'Or
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Park
Vieux Lyon
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historic District
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online to skip the line"
- "Visit early for a quieter experience"
- "Don't miss the courtyard and temporary exhibitions"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
8
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
€10