Musée Urbain Tony Garnier
An open-air museum where vibrant murals inspired by architect Tony Garnier adorn Lyon's buildings, transforming streets into an art gallery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for murals
Musée Urbain Tony Garnier
Best Time
Best light for murals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An open-air museum where vibrant murals inspired by architect Tony Garnier adorn Lyon's buildings, transforming streets into an art gallery.
"Nice wall paintings, a great place to visit for a unique urban art experience."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the murals. Explore the streets of Lyon with ease!
🗺️ Download a Map
Navigation can be tricky. A map helps you find all the key installations and avoid getting lost.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Project Murals
Various buildings in the 8th arrondissement
Vibrant murals bring Tony Garnier's architectural dreams to life on the facades of residential buildings.

Architectural Visionary
Throughout the neighborhood
Discover how Garnier's innovative urban planning concepts are visually represented across the cityscape.

A Living Museum
The streets of Lyon
Experience art and architecture seamlessly blended into the daily life of the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Urban Canvas
Navigating the Artful Streets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What are some underrated places to go to/visit in Lyon?
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the murals. Explore the streets of Lyon with ease!
🗺️ Download a Map
Navigation can be tricky. A map helps you find all the key installations and avoid getting lost.
📸 Capture the Art
The murals are incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera or phone for stunning urban art shots.
🗣️ Learn Some French
While not essential, knowing a few phrases can enhance interactions with locals.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the murals. Explore the streets of Lyon with ease!
🗺️ Download a Map
Navigation can be tricky. A map helps you find all the key installations and avoid getting lost.
📸 Capture the Art
The murals are incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera or phone for stunning urban art shots.
🗣️ Learn Some French
While not essential, knowing a few phrases can enhance interactions with locals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Musée Urbain Tony Garnier to be an interesting and unique open-air art experience, appreciating the integration of murals into the urban landscape. While the concept is praised, some reviewers note that the exhibits could be more interactive and that clearer directional guidance would enhance the visitor experience.
"Okay visit overall. The exhibits were interesting but could use more interactive elements. The staff was courteous, though not very engaging. The museum was clean, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression."
A Google User
"I hope one day they add a directional walking guide on the pavement, as it is not always obvious which way to go."
Ivan Tarter
"Great museum. Recommend for visiting."
Viktor Ivanchenko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Musée Urbain Tony Garnier is an open-air museum spread across the 8th arrondissement of Lyon. You can reach it via public transport. Tram lines T4 and T6, as well as bus lines like 35 and C23, serve the area. It's recommended to check the TCL Lyon public transport website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
There isn't one single starting point as it's an urban exploration. However, many visitors begin their journey around the area near the Stade de Gerland or the Jean Macé metro station, from where you can start discovering the murals.
Yes, you can drive, but parking in residential areas can be challenging. Public transport is generally more convenient and recommended for exploring the neighborhood.
Yes, Lyon has a good cycling infrastructure, and biking is a great way to explore the area and discover the murals at your own pace.
Many visitors suggest using a map or a dedicated app if available, as the murals are spread out. Walking is the primary mode of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Musée Urbain Tony Garnier is an open-air museum, meaning all the murals and architectural elements are publicly accessible. There are no tickets or admission fees required.
As it's an outdoor space, the 'museum' is accessible 24/7. However, the best time to view the murals is during daylight hours for optimal visibility and photography.
While there might not be official guided tours readily available, local guides or cultural associations sometimes offer themed walking tours of the area that include Tony Garnier's work. It's worth checking local tourism websites.
No, there is no entrance fee. The housing project itself is a residential area, and the murals are part of the urban landscape.
You can walk through the area at night, but the murals will not be visible without specific lighting. Daytime visits are highly recommended to appreciate the artwork.
📸 📸 Photography
The best spots are anywhere you find a well-preserved mural with good lighting. Look for murals that are integrated with interesting architectural features of the buildings. The scale of some murals is impressive, so try to capture both the detail and the context.
Late morning or early afternoon often provides the best natural light for photographing murals, minimizing harsh shadows. Golden hour (early morning or late evening) can also create beautiful, warm light.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photographing the exterior murals. However, always be respectful of residents' privacy if you are photographing near their windows or private spaces.
Any modern smartphone or digital camera will work well. A wide-angle lens can be helpful for capturing the full scale of larger murals, while a zoom lens can be useful for details.
Try to incorporate elements of the surrounding urban environment into your shots, such as street signs, trees, or even people passing by (with their permission, if identifiable). Experiment with different angles and perspectives.
🎫 ℹ️ Onsite Experience
It's an open-air museum where large-scale murals inspired by architect Tony Garnier's work adorn the facades of residential buildings. It's a unique way to experience art integrated into the urban fabric.
This depends on your pace and how much you want to explore. A casual walk to see the main murals might take 1-2 hours, but dedicated art enthusiasts could spend half a day.
The 'interactivity' comes from exploring the streets and discovering the art. While there aren't digital exhibits, the experience of finding and appreciating the murals in their urban context is engaging.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Bring water, especially in warmer months, and a camera or smartphone for photos. A map or navigation app is also highly recommended.
Yes, it can be. It's a great way to introduce children to art and architecture in a non-traditional setting. Make it a treasure hunt to find different murals!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
🎨 Art & Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Tony Garnier's Architectural Legacy
The Musée Urbain Tony Garnier in Lyon is a testament to his enduring influence. The murals adorning the buildings in the 8th arrondissement are not mere decorations; they are visual interpretations of Garnier's urban planning principles and architectural sketches. These artworks aim to bring his forward-thinking ideas about urban living and public spaces to a wider audience, transforming a residential neighborhood into an open-air gallery. The project celebrates his legacy by making his architectural visions accessible to everyone, right on the streets of Lyon.
Visitors can expect to see representations of Garnier's iconic structures, such as the Stade de Gerland (which is actually located nearby and was designed by Garnier), and elements from his Cité Industrielle. The murals often highlight his emphasis on light, air, and open spaces, reflecting a holistic approach to urban design that prioritized human needs. Exploring this 'urban museum' offers a unique perspective on how architectural ideas can be translated into public art and inspire contemporary urban development.
Experiencing the Urban Art
To make the most of your visit, comfortable walking shoes are a must. The murals are spread out, and you'll likely cover a good amount of ground. Consider downloading a map of the area or using a navigation app to help you locate the key artworks. Some reviews suggest that directional signage could be improved, so being prepared with your own navigation tools is advisable. The experience is enhanced by observing how the art interacts with its surroundings – the balconies, windows, and everyday life of the residents.
Photography is a major draw for many visitors. The vibrant colors and large scale of the murals make for striking images. Early morning or late afternoon light can offer the best conditions for capturing the artwork. Remember to be respectful of the residents; while the art is public, it's part of their homes. This 'living museum' concept provides a fresh perspective on public art and urban planning, making it a memorable and engaging experience for art lovers and curious travelers alike.
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