
Museum of Musical Instruments
Explore a world of sound! Discover thousands of unique instruments from nearly 200 countries, brought to life with an interactive audio guide.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive

Museum of Musical Instruments
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a world of sound! Discover thousands of unique instruments from nearly 200 countries, brought to life with an interactive audio guide.
"An eye-opener for music lovers, showcasing diverse instruments from around the world."

🎧 Use the Audio Guide!
Don't miss the tablet audio guide; it lets you hear instruments play and is a game-changer!
🕰️ Check Free Admission Days
Some Tuesdays offer free entry, but expect larger crowds. Plan accordingly!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Global Instrument Collection
Across all floors
Explore thousands of unique instruments from nearly 200 countries, a truly global musical journey.

Interactive Audio Guide
Ticket office
Hear centuries-old instruments come alive with an audio guide, a must-have for music lovers.

Antique Musical Boxes
Ground floor
Marvel at a fascinating collection of intricate and charming antique musical boxes.

Indian Classical Instruments
Asian section
Experience a surge of pride seeing instruments from India, including rare classical pieces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Audio Guide
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Use the Audio Guide!
Don't miss the tablet audio guide; it lets you hear instruments play and is a game-changer!
🕰️ Check Free Admission Days
Some Tuesdays offer free entry, but expect larger crowds. Plan accordingly!
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
With thousands of instruments, give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore properly.
🇮🇳 Explore Global Sections
Beyond European instruments, discover fascinating collections from India and other regions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Use the Audio Guide!
Don't miss the tablet audio guide; it lets you hear instruments play and is a game-changer!
🕰️ Check Free Admission Days
Some Tuesdays offer free entry, but expect larger crowds. Plan accordingly!
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
With thousands of instruments, give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore properly.
🇮🇳 Explore Global Sections
Beyond European instruments, discover fascinating collections from India and other regions.
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate designs of instruments and the beautiful building are very photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Musical Instruments for its vast and diverse global collection, with the interactive audio guide being a standout feature that brings the instruments to life. While the exhibits are highly lauded, a few reviews mention inconsistent staff experiences. Overall, it's considered a treasure for music lovers and a visually engaging experience.
"Tuesday free museum day, this museum showcase alot of old pianos, musical boxes and different countries, types and sizes of musical instruments. Is an eye opener for music lovers."
Mindy Low
"We tried to come a couple days ago but it was closed for a few days so was happy when we were finally able to visit today as it was something i was looking forward to see as a former musician.
An amazing collection of musical instruments from around the world and across centuries.
I would give the collection 5/5 (apart from at least one instrument is labeled incorrectly).
But unfortunately it's the staff that let the place down. From the cold welcome to the many staff sat around on their phones which does not look professional. Then you have the staff who follow you around every room like a bad smell without saying a word"
Andy Case
"Very interesting museum with different and unique instruments all over the world, not only from Poland and Europe. I was impressed of thus variety and never seen lots of these instruments in my life. Also the building itself is very beautiful inside, as it's located at Old Rynek Square and seems to be historically important."
Alesia G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museum of Musical Instruments is often located in city centers, making it accessible by public transport. For example, the Brussels location is housed in the beautiful Old England building in Art Nouveau style.
Check local transit maps for the most convenient bus or tram routes.Parking availability can vary greatly depending on the museum's location. In Brussels, it's advisable to use public transport due to limited and often expensive parking.
Many city museums are well-connected by metro lines. Consult the local metro map for stations closest to the Museum of Musical Instruments in your chosen city.
While official guided tours might be limited, the interactive audio guide is highly recommended and functions like a personal tour.
If arriving by train, check if the museum is within walking distance of the main station or easily reachable by a short tram or bus ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary by location. Some museums offer free entry on specific days, like Tuesdays in Brussels.
It's best to check the official website for current pricing and any special offers.Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during busy periods.
Many museums offer discounted rates for students, seniors, and sometimes families. Inquire at the ticket counter or check the website for eligibility.
Opening hours can differ, so always verify the museum's official website before your visit. Some may have shorter hours on weekends or holidays.
There is no specific dress code, but comfortable attire is recommended as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
The most celebrated feature is the interactive audio guide that allows visitors to hear the instruments play, offering an unparalleled auditory experience.
Most visitors recommend at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the vast collection and utilize the audio guide effectively.
While the primary focus is on the collection, the audio guide's sound samples can be engaging for older children. Specific interactive exhibits may vary by location.
Photography policies vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but always check for signage or ask staff.
Expect an incredibly diverse range, from ancient to modern, spanning all continents, including rare instruments from India, China, and South America.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some locations may have a small cafe or restaurant, while others do not. It's advisable to check the museum's website for dining options or plan to eat nearby.
Museums are often located in central areas with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a variety of cuisines.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the exhibition halls. Check the museum's policy regarding designated areas for consumption.
📸 📸 Photography
The architectural details of the building, the intricate designs of the instruments, and the overall display arrangements offer many photogenic opportunities.
Flash photography is generally prohibited to protect the delicate instruments and avoid disturbing other visitors. Always look for signs or ask staff.
Video recording policies are similar to photography. Non-flash videos for personal use are usually permitted, but check the specific museum's guidelines.
Many visitors find the visually striking and unusual instruments, like those with unique shapes or ornate decorations, to be excellent subjects for photography.
Weekday mornings often have softer lighting and fewer people, which can be ideal for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on specific sections that might be more visually stimulating, like the musical boxes or instruments from different continents. Bringing snacks and drinks to enjoy outside the museum is a good idea, as on-site dining options can be limited. Plan for a visit of around 2 hours to keep younger attention spans engaged.
🎵 Music Enthusiasts & Former Musicians
The audio guide is essential for this audience, providing detailed information and sound samples that deepen the appreciation for each instrument's history and sonic capabilities. Take your time exploring the different regional sections, and don't miss the chance to discover instruments from less commonly featured parts of the world.
📸 Photography Buffs
Aim for weekday mornings to avoid crowds and capture shots with softer, more natural light. Remember to adhere to the no-flash photography policy to protect the exhibits. Focus on close-ups of unique features, wide shots showcasing the scale of the collections, and the interplay of light and shadow on the instruments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Immersive Audio Experience
For many, this feature is a game-changer, offering a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and sound of instruments from different eras and cultures. The ability to hear a Gottuvadyam or a Mayuri Veena, for instance, provides a unique insight that static displays cannot offer. It's this interactive element that consistently receives high praise from visitors, making it a must-use tool during your exploration.
When you pick up the tablet at the ticket office, ensure you select English if needed. The menu options are usually straightforward, guiding you through the collection and allowing you to play specific pieces that demonstrate each instrument's unique sound.
A World of Instruments
Sections dedicated to Asian instruments, particularly from India and China, are frequently mentioned as highlights. Visitors express pride and fascination upon discovering instruments like the Gottuvadyam or Mayuri Veena, showcasing the rich heritage of Indian classical music. The diversity extends to South America and other continents, offering a comprehensive overview of human musical expression across cultures.
Beyond individual instruments, the museum also features collections of antique musical boxes on the ground floor, adding another layer of historical charm to the exhibits. The sheer variety ensures that there's something to captivate every visitor, whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious novice.
Navigating the Museum and Visitor Experience
While the collection itself is widely praised, some reviews mention that the staff experience can be inconsistent. Some visitors have noted less-than-warm welcomes or staff appearing disengaged. However, this seems to be a minority experience, and the overwhelming sentiment is positive regarding the exhibits themselves.
For those planning their visit, it's wise to check for free admission days, such as Tuesdays in some locations, but be prepared for larger crowds on these days. Allowing ample time, at least 2-3 hours, is crucial to fully appreciate the extensive collection and utilize the interactive audio guide.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit