The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
(Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal)
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a must see for all connoisseurs of fine arts
The world of fine art is rather a strange one. It allows you a glimpse into the minds of some of the world's greatest artists. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal) allows you to take that look into the minds of artists and see their amazing works.
The museum was founded in 1860 by Bishop Fulford in an attempt to encourage the appreciation of fine arts in the people of Montreal. The museum started life as many artists do, as a nomadic display in a variety of venues around Montreal. Is was only in 1877 that a permanent home for the museum was donated by Benaiah Gibb along with his collection of 72 canvases and 4 bronzes. Since then the collection has grown exponentially. There are now over 38 000 different works of art displayed in the museum's collections.
The works of art are displayed in four pavilions and grouped into categories. This makes it much easier for you to see those pieces of art that relate to a period of interest. The Michal and Renata Hornstein Pavilion is dedicated to archaeology and world cultures, the Liliane and David M. Stewart pavilion displays art works related to decorative arts and design. The Jean-Noel Desmarais pavilion houses the early to modern international art collection as well as the international contemporary art collection. The Claire and Marie Bourgie pavilion contains Quebec and Canadian art for something a little closer to home. You can see images of some of the art contained here on the museum's website. They are truly something to behold!
The museum also displays themed exhibitions on a regular basis. This offers you the chance to see some truly famous works that would otherwise be kept in the storage facilities of the museum. These exhibits feature artists such as Jules de Balincourt and Laurent Craste.
If fine art is something that inspires you or if you simply want to be fascinated and beguiled with what goes on in the minds of our finest artists, then the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is the ideal museum to visit.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes; Free admission to children under 12.The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 1380 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, QC H3G 1J5, Canada
Phone: (514) 285-2000
Official Website: The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Reviews
Rated out of 5
If you’re under 25, you get in for free!
I only discovered this a month before my birthday—better late than never, right? Maybe someone else will appreciate the heads-up 🤭
One thing I love about this museum is how many quiet corners there are where you can soak in the city views. I come here not just for the art, but to let it inspire me — along with the beautiful panoramas. There’s something about this place that feeds both the mind and the soul.
Анна Козакова - a week ago
The museum is absolutely stunning. The architecture alone is worth the visit - the buildings are beautiful, blending historic charm with modern design. The collections are diverse and thoughtful curated with something for everyone. It’s a place where you can easily spend hours exploring. Definitely a must see if you’re in Montreal - whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a meaningful and inspiring experience.
Canh Vo - 3 weeks ago
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts features an impressive collection from renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Berthe Weill, along with a diverse range of art forms including Inuit art, contemporary works, and more. For a full overview, I recommend checking their official website.
I spent about three hours exploring the museum, but if you take the time to read the detailed descriptions accompanying each piece, you could easily spend an entire day here. Don’t forget to stop by their gift shop. it offers a lovely selection of books, posters, socks, and unique art-inspired items.
sabhrant - in the last week
First time at the museum. 3 floors of art. They didn't have any special exhibits when I visit but the displays were very cool. They do have a floor (bottom floor) for kids and folks that need/want art therapy. There is a large book store and a cafe. Super friendly staff. If you want to save 2 dollars, buy the tickets online and you won't have to wait in line (although the line seemed to move fast. If you a bag or purse, I believe you have to check in. No drinks. Even empty water bottles. Definitely recommend!
Dennis M - a week ago
So many different levels and exhibits. Beautiful variety and so much to do make sure to alot yourself lots of time and breaks. There is something for every form of art lover and pieces to tickle your senses and emotions. So lovely that they have NO fee for those under 25 🫶🏼❤️ Amazing to support the arts In young minds. Bonus complementary coat check .My only critique would be that signage or flow be easier to navigate between buildings and levels for (English)
A. Spencer - a month ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 -Green | Guy-Concordia | 6 Minutes |
How to get to The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts by Metro
By Metro: Take Line 1 to Guy-Concordia Station and take the Guy Street exit. Go right from the exit and then right again at the corner walking northeast along Blvd de Maisonneuve to Bishop Street; then go left to Sherbrooke Street W then go right to the museum entrance which is just ahead. Note that while the museum itself occupies 4 Pavilions inside separate buildings, access is only via the Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion at 1380 Sherbrooke Street West.
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Accommodations near The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts:
Photo Gallery
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Inside the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts cc licensed photo by Paul Lowry -
A view toward Mont Royal form inside the Musee des Beaux Arts cc licensed photo by John Walker -
Colorful glass art exhibition cc licensed photo by bobistraveling -
Photo Credit: art_inthecity - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: art_inthecity - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: art_inthecity - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: art_inthecity - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: art_inthecity - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: art_inthecity - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: art_inthecity - cc license via Flickr
