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Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts: A Journey Through Artistic History

Discover masterpieces from the 15th to the 20th centuries at Bordeaux's Musée des Beaux-Arts, showcasing European art with a focus on French, Flemish, and Dutch masters in the heart of the city.

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The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, established in 1801, stands as one of France's largest fine arts museums outside of Paris. Housed in a stunning building near the Hôtel de Ville, its extensive collection spans from the 15th to the 20th centuries, showcasing European art with a strong emphasis on French, Flemish, and Dutch masters. Visitors can explore masterpieces by renowned artists like Rubens, Delacroix, Renoir, and Picasso, as well as works by prominent Bordeaux artists. The museum's collection is thoughtfully displayed across two wings, with the south wing dedicated to art from the 16th to 18th centuries and the north wing focusing on the 19th and 20th centuries. With its rich history, diverse collections, and commitment to accessibility, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux offers an enriching and inspiring experience for art lovers of all ages.

A brief summary to Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts

  • Monday 11 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission (except in July and August).
  • Take advantage of the free audio guides available in multiple languages to enhance your understanding of the artworks.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Jardin Public for a relaxing break.
  • Utilize the TBM app for real-time public transport updates and easy navigation to the museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée des Beaux-Arts is easily accessible via Bordeaux's tram system. Take tram lines A or B to the Hôtel de Ville station, which is a short walk from the museum. Tram tickets cost €1.80 for a single journey valid for one hour, allowing connections between trams and buses. Alternatively, a 24-hour pass costs €5, offering unlimited travel. From the tram stop, walk along Cours d'Albret towards the Palais Rohan (City Hall); the museum is located in a dependency of the Palais. Several bus lines also stop near the Jardin Public, a short walk to the museum. Check the TBM app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.

  • Walking

    From the Place de la Comédie, walk south along Cours du Chapeau Rouge, then turn left onto Allée de Tourny. Continue onto Cours Georges Clemenceau, then turn right onto Cours d'Albret. The museum will be on your left, a short walk past the Hôtel de Ville. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and offers views of Bordeaux's grand architecture.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Bordeaux-Saint-Jean train station to the Musée des Beaux-Arts will typically cost between €15 and €20, depending on traffic. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at 20 Cours d'Albret. Note that during peak hours, ride-share services may be subject to surge pricing.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking near the Musée des Beaux-Arts can be limited. Several parking garages are located within a 10-15 minute walk, including Parking Tourny and INDIGO-BOURSE – JEAN JAURÈS. Expect to pay around €2.50 to €3.50 per hour for parking, or €20-€25 for a full day. From the A630, follow signs for Bordeaux Centre, then look for signs directing you to the city hall (Hôtel de Ville). The museum is located nearby. Two parking spaces reserved for persons with reduced mobility are available near the Musée (south wing).

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Discover more about Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape, invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through the history of art. Founded in 1801 by the painter Pierre Lacour, it proudly holds the title of one of the largest fine arts museums in France, rivaled only by those in Paris. Its enduring legacy is reflected in its extensive collection, which encompasses paintings, sculptures, and drawings spanning from the 15th to the 20th centuries. The museum's story began modestly, initially housed within a library and later in a room of the town hall. As its collection grew, thanks to revolutionary confiscations and strategic acquisitions, the need for a dedicated space became apparent. In the late 19th century, the museum found its permanent home in a purpose-built neoclassical structure designed by architect Charles Burguet. This grand building, itself adorned with sculptures and precious ornaments, provides a fitting backdrop for the artistic treasures within. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux boasts a diverse and comprehensive collection, with particular strengths in French, Flemish, and Dutch painting. Masterpieces from the Italian Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and the French Romantic era grace its walls. Visitors can admire works by renowned artists such as Perugino, Veronese, Titian, Rubens, Van Dyck, Delacroix, Boudin, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, Braque, Dufy, Masson, Picasso and Matisse. The museum also proudly showcases the talents of local Bordeaux artists, including Rosa Bonheur, André Lhote, Odilon Redon, and Albert Marquet. The museum's collection is thoughtfully organized across two wings. The south wing is dedicated to art from the 16th to 18th centuries, offering a glimpse into the artistic styles and movements of the pre-modern era. Here, visitors can explore Italian Renaissance paintings, Flemish Baroque masterpieces, and French Rococo canvases. The north wing, in contrast, focuses on the 19th and 20th centuries, showcasing the evolution of art from Romanticism to the avant-garde. This wing features works by Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist masters, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic innovation during this transformative period. Beyond its permanent collection, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux also hosts temporary exhibitions in the Galerie des Beaux-Arts, a separate building located in front of the main museum. These exhibitions showcase a wide range of artistic styles and themes, from historical surveys to contemporary installations, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to discover. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is committed to making its collection accessible to all. The museum offers a range of services and facilities for visitors with disabilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Guided tours and audio guides are available in multiple languages, providing visitors with in-depth information about the artworks on display. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults, fostering a deeper appreciation for art and its role in society. Visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is more than just a sightseeing excursion; it's an immersive experience that engages the senses and stimulates the mind. As you wander through its galleries, you'll encounter masterpieces that have shaped the course of art history, discover hidden gems by lesser-known artists, and gain a new perspective on the world around you. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious newcomer, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux promises an unforgettable journey through the world of art. The museum's location in the heart of Bordeaux makes it easily accessible by public transportation and on foot. After your visit, take some time to explore the surrounding area, which is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. The nearby Jardin Public, a beautiful park designed in the French style, provides a tranquil oasis for relaxation and reflection. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is not just a repository of art; it's a living, breathing institution that plays an active role in the cultural life of the city. Through its exhibitions, programs, and outreach initiatives, the museum strives to connect people with art and to promote a deeper understanding of the human experience. A visit to this remarkable museum is an essential part of any trip to Bordeaux, offering a unique and enriching experience that will stay with you long after you leave. In recent years, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux has undergone significant renovations and expansions, ensuring that it remains a state-of-the-art facility for the preservation and display of art. The museum's commitment to innovation and accessibility has earned it numerous accolades, solidifying its position as one of the leading art museums in France. Whether you're drawn to the Old Masters, the Impressionists, or the Modernists, you'll find something to captivate your imagination at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux. Its collection is a testament to the power of art to inspire, to challenge, and to transform our understanding of the world. So, plan your visit today and prepare to be transported on a journey through the ages, guided by the brushstrokes of genius and the enduring beauty of art.

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