Fondation Baur Baur Collection
A former mansion housing Geneva's premier collection of Chinese & Japanese art, featuring ceramics, jade, and netsuke.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission day!
Fondation Baur Baur Collection
Best Time
Free admission day!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former mansion housing Geneva's premier collection of Chinese & Japanese art, featuring ceramics, jade, and netsuke.
"This museum was an absolute gem! The collection is really impressive, and is displayed in an exquisite way!"
Saturday Free Entry! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy free admission every Saturday – a great way to experience this gem without the cost!
Embrace the Serenity :lotus_flower:
Take your time to appreciate the quiet beauty and intricate details of the art and architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chinese & Japanese Ceramics
Marvel at rare porcelain pieces and historic masterpieces spanning centuries of artistry.

Japanese Netsuke Miniatures
Admire the intricate detail of these small, carved toggles, a unique aspect of Japanese art.

Jade and Decorative Arts
Discover exquisite jade ornaments and other decorative arts that showcase delicate craftsmanship.

Japanese Garden
Find a moment of peace in the charming outdoor Japanese garden, a tranquil oasis.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Geneva's Asian Art Gem
A Tranquil Escape in the Old Town
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Saturday Free Entry! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy free admission every Saturday – a great way to experience this gem without the cost!
Embrace the Serenity :lotus_flower:
Take your time to appreciate the quiet beauty and intricate details of the art and architecture.
Accessibility :wheelchair:
An elevator is available, making the museum accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Japanese Tea Time :tea:
Inquire about their special Japanese tea time for a unique cultural experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Saturday Free Entry! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy free admission every Saturday – a great way to experience this gem without the cost!
Embrace the Serenity :lotus_flower:
Take your time to appreciate the quiet beauty and intricate details of the art and architecture.
Accessibility :wheelchair:
An elevator is available, making the museum accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Japanese Tea Time :tea:
Inquire about their special Japanese tea time for a unique cultural experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Fondation Baur as an 'absolute gem' with an 'impressive' and 'exquisite' collection of Asian art, beautifully displayed in a charming former mansion with a tranquil Japanese garden. However, some find the museum lacks a clear purpose or engaging elements, suggesting it could benefit from more interactive attractions.
"The most unnecessary museum I’ve ever gone to in my life. It didn’t add anything to me, on the contrary, stole it from my life. If I didn’t have a city pass and had to give 15 chf, I would hate myself. It has no reason, no order, no purpose, no attraction. Definitely passable. I put videos for you from all the floors of the museum. You will understand that you should not go. Also, I’m calling out to the authorities, please make it a fun and memorable place with some attraction."
Gül Eda Aydemir
"This museum was an absolute gem! The collection is really impressive, and is displayed in an exquisite way! I truly enjoyed learning so much about the different ceramics styles. Some pieces are extremely rare... what a pleasure to see them all reunited in this place! Highly recommended if you are interested in it!"
Valentina De Luca
"A beautiful private mansion whose architectural charm will leave you a long-lasting memory. It boasts a outside Japanese garden and an inside water pond. Exquisite collection of jade ornemental pieces, delicate porcelain, and Japanese netsuke miniatures for Asian art lovers. An elevator is available for mobility challenged visitors. A quiet & beauty oriented peace haven."
Aucuneidee Jsp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fondation Baur is located in Geneva's Old Town. It's easily accessible by public transport, with several bus and tram lines stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option, offering scenic views of the old streets.
Parking in Geneva's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transportation or walk to the museum to avoid parking hassles.
From Geneva Airport (GVA), you can take a train to Geneva's main train station (Gare Cornavin) and then transfer to a local bus or tram heading towards the Old Town. Taxis are also readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum typically opens from Tuesday to Sunday. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as these can vary seasonally or for special events.
General admission fees apply, but the Fondation Baur offers free entry every Saturday, making it a popular time to visit. Check their website for current pricing and any potential discounts.
For general visits, advance booking is usually not required, especially outside of peak times. However, for special exhibitions or group visits, it's advisable to inquire about booking procedures.
Yes, the Fondation Baur offers free admission every Saturday, which is a significant draw for visitors looking to save on their cultural explorations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the museum, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the delicate artworks. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
The Japanese garden offers beautiful natural light and serene backdrops. Inside, focus on capturing the intricate details of the ceramics and netsuke, or the architectural elements of the former mansion.
While personal photography is allowed, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Sharing your photos on social media is encouraged, but always be mindful of other visitors and the artwork.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Fondation Baur does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, Geneva's Old Town is filled with charming cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines, perfect for a post-museum meal.
It's generally not permitted to consume food or drinks inside the museum galleries to preserve the artworks. There are usually designated areas outside or nearby where you can enjoy refreshments.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases an impressive collection of Asian art, primarily focusing on Chinese and Japanese ceramics, jade, prints, and Japanese netsuke miniatures.
While the collection is geared towards adults interested in art history, the beautiful architecture and the Japanese garden can be engaging for older children. The quiet atmosphere might be less ideal for very young, active children.
The museum is housed in a former private mansion, offering a glimpse into Geneva's past. The collection itself was amassed by Swiss collector Alfred Baur, representing a significant private collection of East Asian art.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website. They often offer insights into the collection and its historical context, enhancing the visitor experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Chinese and Japanese Ceramics
Many visitors are particularly struck by the rarity and beauty of individual pieces, noting how impressive it is to see such a comprehensive collection reunited in one place. The careful curation ensures that each object is displayed to highlight its unique characteristics and historical significance. Whether you're an art historian or a casual observer, the ceramic collection offers a visually stunning and intellectually rewarding experience.
Exploring the Japanese Garden and Mansion
Adding to the tranquil ambiance is the outside Japanese garden, a peaceful oasis that complements the Asian art within. This meticulously maintained garden offers a serene space for reflection and a moment of calm amidst the bustling city. Visitors often praise the combination of the mansion's elegance and the garden's tranquility, describing it as a 'peace haven' that enhances the overall experience. An elevator is also available, ensuring that the architectural beauty and the garden are accessible to all visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit