Lyon Museum of Contemporary Art (Musée d'art Contemporain de Lyon)
Cité Internationale, 81 Quai Charles de Gaulle, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
The Lyon Museum of Contemporary Art (Musée d'art Contemporain de Lyon is a beacon of modernity in an ancient city, showcasing works by emerging global artists. Enjoy three floors of galleries, rotating temporary exhibitions, and site-specific works. Dine alfresco on the terrace at the Café du Musée, or visit the bookstore for a souvenir.
The Lyon Museum of Contemporary Art—typically known as macLYON—has a collection of more than 1,000 works housed in its stunning building, designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano. Arriving by public transit is an option, but travelers that want to enjoy Lyon's weather often prefer a bike tour that passes the museum. To avoid ticket lines, visitors with limited time should purchase a Lyon City Card in advance—access to macLYON and dozens of other institutions is included.
- Arts enthusiasts shouldn't miss macLYOn's galleries celebrating featured artists, and showcasing everything from sound installations and dance to performance art.
- To see more contemporary work, visitors should attend the Lyon Biennial of Contemporary Art, held every other year.
- Admission for guests 18 and under is free and reduced for visitors aged 25 and younger.
- Lyon City Card holders are admitted at no charge.
Find the Museum of Contemporary Art at 81 Quai Charles de Gaulle, in the 6th arrondissement. A great option for visiting the museum is by bus. Hop on the C1, C4, or C5 bus. If you're traveling from Old Lyon, the C5 bus is your best bet. Get on at Cordeliers—just across the Alphonse Juin Bridge—and get off at the Musée d'Art Contemporain stop.
The Lyon Museum of Contemporary Art is closed on Monday and Tuesday, and is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 11am to 6pm. The museum periodically closes to hang new exhibits. To confirm the galleries are open, make sure to check the calendar before you arrive. Though most exhibits are indoors, the café patio is most enjoyable in the spring and early summer, between May and July, since August tends to be quite hot.
One of the standout attractions in Lyon is the Tête d'Or Park (Parc de la Tête d'Or). The park boasts fountains, a lake, and expansive lawns. Kids and families enjoy the Botanical Garden—at the southern end of the park—and the Lyon Zoo, which is free to visit. To stroll through the park, walk out the main entrance of the museum, and find the park is straight ahead.
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