Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH) - Art and History Museum of Geneva, facade with closed doors, no people, empty place with the morning light. "facade of the museum, empty square in front. "Engaged columns, twin pilasters and other twin columns create a play of shadows characteristic of Baroque architecture. As neo-baroque as it is, the Camoletti building is above all representative of the Beaux-Arts style." - wikipedia source

Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Genève | MAH Geneva. 
Plus d'images ici: https://borisdunand.ch/concours-photo-geneve
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Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH)

4.6
·4k reviews·Genève, Switzerland

Geneva's largest museum, the MAH, offers a vast journey through art and history, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, with free entry to its...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH) - Art and History Museum of Geneva, facade with closed doors, no people, empty place with the morning light. "facade of the museum, empty square in front. "Engaged columns, twin pilasters and other twin columns create a play of shadows characteristic of Baroque architecture. As neo-baroque as it is, the Camoletti building is above all representative of the Beaux-Arts style." - wikipedia source

Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Genève | MAH Geneva. 
Plus d'images ici: https://borisdunand.ch/concours-photo-geneve

Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH)

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Geneva's largest museum, the MAH, offers a vast journey through art and history, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, with free entry to its permanent collections.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"An absolute must-visit for any tourist, impressing with its vast and varied collection."

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TIP

Free Entry Perks

:moneywithwings: Permanent collections are free! Donations are welcome and appreciated.

Multilingual Support

:iphone: Use QR codes for self-guided tours in English and other languages.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Archaeological Treasures

Archaeological Treasures

Archaeology Department

Journey through time with ancient artifacts, from prehistoric finds to Roman and Egyptian antiquities.

Swiss Artistry

Swiss Artistry

Fine Arts Department

Discover a rich collection of Swiss paintings and sculptures, showcasing local talent through the ages.

Applied Arts & Design

Applied Arts & Design

Decorative Arts Department

Explore exquisite decorative arts, including ceramics, furniture, and intricate timepieces.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Rewards

Enjoy free admission to the permanent collections at the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH) in Geneva! While donations are appreciated, this makes it an accessible gem for all travelers. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore its vast offerings.

Navigate with Ease

While exhibit descriptions are primarily in French, the MAH offers QR codes for self-guided tours in English and other languages via your phone. Free lockers are available for backpackers, making your visit hassle-free.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Late mornings
Why
Beat the midday rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

avoid crowds and visit these Paris museums #francetravel #paristravel #paristravelguide #paristraveltips #paristraveladvice #louvremuseum #orsaymuseum #rodinmuseum #lorangerie #rodinmusuem #museedorsay #museedlorangerie
@dashakofman
298.6K likes • 2M views

Free Entry Perks

:moneywithwings: Permanent collections are free! Donations are welcome and appreciated. Reddit

Multilingual Support

:iphone: Use QR codes for self-guided tours in English and other languages. Reddit

Et c’est pour ça que les cartels ne disent pas tout 😋 Tableau : Danaé, Le Tintoret #histoiredeslart #museebeauxarts #musee #culture #peinture
@victo_plt
263.3K likes • 1.8M views
L'immense musée d'art et d'histoire (mah) de Genève. Geneva's huge art and history museum. Merci à la @ville_de_geneve pour le musée gratuit ! ➡️ @mahgeneve Tous les détails sur torpille.ch #mahgeneve #mahgenève #museedartetdhistoiredegeneve #mahgeneva #artandhistorymuseumgeneva
torpille.ch
8 likes • 193 views

Bag Check Convenience

:backpack: Free lockers available for your belongings. Perfect for backpackers! Reddit

Plan Your Visit

:clock: Museum closes at 6 PM most days; plan accordingly to maximize your time. Reddit

📸 Il MAH – Musée d'art et d'histoire di Ginevra è uno dei principali musei della Svizzera. Situato nel cuore della città, ospita una vasta collezione che spazia dall'archeologia all'arte applicata, dalla pittura al design, con opere che vanno dall'antichità al XX secolo. Il museo si distingue per l'approccio interdisciplinare e l'attenzione alla divulgazione, offrendo mostre temporanee, attività e...
giuseppe.aceto
38 likes • 691 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry Perks

:moneywithwings: Permanent collections are free! Donations are welcome and appreciated. Reddit

Multilingual Support

:iphone: Use QR codes for self-guided tours in English and other languages. Reddit

Bag Check Convenience

:backpack: Free lockers available for your belongings. Perfect for backpackers! Reddit

Plan Your Visit

:clock: Museum closes at 6 PM most days; plan accordingly to maximize your time. Reddit

Interactive Exhibits

:bulb: Look for unique exhibits like the 'Archaeology of Fluids' with AR elements. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH) for its impressive quality and extensive, varied collections, spanning archaeology to fine and decorative arts. The free admission to permanent collections is a significant highlight, making it an accessible and rewarding experience for all. While exhibit descriptions are primarily in French, the availability of multilingual audio guides via QR codes is a well-appreciated feature.

"The museum in Geneva was truly impressive in quality. Admission was free, but any payment seemed to go toward donations. Its extensive collection was refreshing and left no room for boredom. I highly recommend a visit."

Hayoung

"The Musée d’Art et d’Histoire in Geneva is an absolute must-visit for any tourist. Housed in a stunning neoclassical building, the museum impresses with its vast and varied collection—from ancient archaeological treasures and Swiss artists. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged and cater to art lovers and casual visitors alike, with plenty to interest families and solo travelers.

I loved how the museum blends Geneva’s history with global art, creating a fascinating cultural journey through the ages. With friendly staff, affordable or even free entry for the permanent collection, and a perfect central location, this museum is an easy and rewarding addition to any Geneva itinerary. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to experience the best of the city’s art and culture!"

Vivek Vetal

"One of the best museums I've ever visited. I recommend it for sure! But it's a shame that it's open only till 6 PM most days."

Elisa

What People Like

Impressive and varied collections
Free permanent collection entry
Multilingual audio guides

What People Dislike

Closing time at 6 PM
French-only descriptions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The MAH is centrally located in Geneva, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from many central Geneva attractions. Instagram+1

While direct parking at the museum might be limited, there are several public parking garages within walking distance in the city center. Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles. Instagram

Absolutely! The museum is situated in a prime location, making it easy to combine with visits to other Geneva landmarks. It's a great way to experience the city on foot. Instagram

From Geneva Airport (GVA), you can take a train to Geneva's main train station (Gare Cornavin), which is a short walk or tram ride from the museum. Alternatively, taxis are readily available. Instagram

The museum generally strives to be accessible. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on accessibility features within the building. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The permanent collections at the MAH offer free admission, which is a fantastic perk for visitors! Special temporary exhibitions may have a separate fee. InstagramReddit

The permanent collections are always free. Keep an eye on their website for any special event days or potential discounts on temporary exhibitions. Reddit

The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours usually extending until 6 PM. It's always best to check the official website for the most current opening hours, as they can vary. Reddit

For the free permanent collections, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special exhibitions, it's a good idea to check if pre-booking is recommended or necessary. Reddit

Yes, the MAH provides free lockers for visitors, which is very convenient for storing bags and coats. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The MAH boasts a diverse collection spanning archaeology (from prehistoric to Egyptian), fine arts (Swiss and European painting/sculpture), and decorative arts (ceramics, furniture, clocks). Instagram+1

While main descriptions are in French, the museum offers QR codes that link to self-guided tours and audio guides in English and other languages on your smartphone. Reddit

Yes, the MAH has exhibits that can engage children, from ancient artifacts to interesting art pieces. The variety ensures there's something to capture young imaginations. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas, but it's always wise to check for specific restrictions in certain galleries or for temporary exhibitions. Reddit

The museum offers QR codes for self-guided tours, and sometimes special guided tours are available. Check their schedule for details. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the MAH has a restaurant and an outdoor terrace. It's a lovely spot to relax, and reviewers have praised their apple pie. Reddit

Typically, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the exhibition halls to protect the artworks. However, you can usually consume them in designated areas or at the museum's cafe/restaurant. Reddit

The restaurant offers a place to relax and enjoy refreshments. Reviewers have specifically mentioned tasty and fresh apple pie. Reddit

Being in the heart of Geneva, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and bistros surrounding the MAH, offering a wide range of culinary choices. Instagram

Yes, the cafe and terrace provide a pleasant setting for a break during your museum visit, offering refreshments and light snacks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most galleries, but always look for signage indicating restrictions, especially for special exhibitions. Reddit

Some sensitive exhibits or temporary installations might have restrictions on photography. Always be mindful of signs and museum staff instructions. Reddit

Tripods and flash photography are usually not permitted as they can disrupt other visitors and potentially damage artworks. Reddit

The diverse collections offer many opportunities. Look for striking archaeological pieces, detailed decorative arts, and the architecture of the building itself. InstagramReddit

The museum occasionally hosts photography exhibitions and unique installations, like the 'Archaeology of Fluids' which incorporates augmented reality. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH) is a great option for families. The free entry to permanent collections means you can explore without worrying about costs adding up. The diverse exhibits, from ancient artifacts to colorful paintings, offer plenty to capture children's attention. Reddit

Utilize the QR codes for self-guided tours to make the visit more interactive and engaging for younger minds. The museum's layout is generally manageable, and the availability of free lockers is a bonus for parents juggling strollers and bags. Consider a break at the museum's cafe to keep energy levels up. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The MAH is a dream for budget-conscious travelers, as its permanent collections are free to enter. Reddit This allows you to immerse yourself in art and history without spending a franc on admission. The central location also means you can easily walk or use affordable public transport to get there. Instagram+1

Take advantage of the free lockers to avoid paying for bag storage. Pack a picnic to enjoy in a nearby park, or grab an affordable bite at one of the many local eateries surrounding the museum, rather than opting for pricier museum dining. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the MAH offers a rich tapestry of subjects. From the intricate details of archaeological finds and decorative arts to the expressive brushstrokes of Swiss painters, there are countless visual stories to capture. Instagram+1

While flash and tripods are usually prohibited, the natural light and well-lit galleries provide excellent conditions. The museum's architecture itself can also be a compelling photographic subject. Remember to check for any specific photography restrictions in certain galleries. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Collections

The Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH) in Geneva is a treasure trove, housing an impressive array of artifacts and artworks. Its collections are broadly divided into Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Decorative Arts. The Archaeology department takes visitors on a journey from prehistoric times through ancient Egypt and Rome, offering a glimpse into early civilizations. Instagram+1

The Fine Arts section focuses heavily on Swiss artists, but also includes European masterpieces, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic movements. Meanwhile, the Decorative Arts department showcases exquisite craftsmanship in ceramics, furniture, textiles, and timepieces, highlighting the evolution of design and utility. Instagram

This interdisciplinary approach ensures that visitors can explore a wide spectrum of human creativity and history under one roof, making the MAH a truly comprehensive cultural experience. Instagram

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Visitors

Many visitors highlight the free admission to the permanent collections as a major draw, making the MAH an excellent value. Reddit While descriptions are primarily in French, the museum's use of QR codes for self-guided tours in multiple languages, including English, is highly praised for enhancing the visitor experience. Reddit

Practical amenities like free lockers are a welcome convenience, especially for travelers carrying luggage. Reddit Reviewers also note that the museum closes at 6 PM, so planning your visit to allow ample time is recommended to avoid feeling rushed. Reddit The on-site restaurant and terrace offer a pleasant spot to rest and refuel, with positive mentions of their apple pie. Reddit

Engaging with Art: Beyond Just Looking

The MAH encourages visitors to engage with its collections in various ways. Beyond the traditional displays, the museum has experimented with innovative approaches, such as the 'Archaeology of Fluids' exhibition which integrated metaverse and augmented reality elements. Instagram

For those who enjoy a more interactive experience, the museum's self-guided tours via QR codes allow for personalized exploration. Some visitors even turn their museum visits into creative projects, like photography series exploring the 'nothing to photograph' concept, finding inspiration in the countless objects awaiting discovery. Reddit

This focus on accessibility and varied engagement methods ensures that the MAH appeals to a broad audience, from casual tourists to dedicated art enthusiasts. Instagram

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