Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH)
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
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (MAH)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

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.
"An absolute must-visit for any tourist, impressing with its vast and varied collection."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Swiss Artistry
Fine Arts Department
Discover a rich collection of Swiss paintings and sculptures, showcasing local talent through the ages.
Applied Arts & Design
Decorative Arts Department
Explore exquisite decorative arts, including ceramics, furniture, and intricate timepieces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Navigate with Ease
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Bag Check Convenience
:backpack: Free lockers available for your belongings. Perfect for backpackers!
Plan Your Visit
:clock: Museum closes at 6 PM most days; plan accordingly to maximize your time.
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Bag Check Convenience
:backpack: Free lockers available for your belongings. Perfect for backpackers!
Plan Your Visit
:clock: Museum closes at 6 PM most days; plan accordingly to maximize your time.
Interactive Exhibits
:bulb: Look for unique exhibits like the 'Archaeology of Fluids' with AR elements.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
The permanent collections are always free. Keep an eye on their website for any special event days or potential discounts on temporary exhibitions.
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.
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.
Yes, the MAH provides free lockers for visitors, which is very convenient for storing bags and coats.
🎫 🧭 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).
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.
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.
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.
The museum offers QR codes for self-guided tours, and sometimes special guided tours are available. Check their schedule for details.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
The restaurant offers a place to relax and enjoy refreshments. Reviewers have specifically mentioned tasty and fresh apple pie.
Being in the heart of Geneva, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and bistros surrounding the MAH, offering a wide range of culinary choices.
Yes, the cafe and terrace provide a pleasant setting for a break during your museum visit, offering refreshments and light snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most galleries, but always look for signage indicating restrictions, especially for special exhibitions.
Some sensitive exhibits or temporary installations might have restrictions on photography. Always be mindful of signs and museum staff instructions.
Tripods and flash photography are usually not permitted as they can disrupt other visitors and potentially damage artworks.
The diverse collections offer many opportunities. Look for striking archaeological pieces, detailed decorative arts, and the architecture of the building itself.
The museum occasionally hosts photography exhibitions and unique installations, like the 'Archaeology of Fluids' which incorporates augmented reality.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Collections
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.
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.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Visitors
Practical amenities like free lockers are a welcome convenience, especially for travelers carrying luggage. Reviewers also note that the museum closes at 6 PM, so planning your visit to allow ample time is recommended to avoid feeling rushed. The on-site restaurant and terrace offer a pleasant spot to rest and refuel, with positive mentions of their apple pie.
Engaging with Art: Beyond Just Looking
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.
This focus on accessibility and varied engagement methods ensures that the MAH appeals to a broad audience, from casual tourists to dedicated art enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit