The Musée cantonal des Beaux-Arts, also known as the MCBA or Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts, is the fine arts museum of the canton of Vaud, set in the city of Lausanne in western Switzerland. It stands at Place de la Riponne 6, in the city centre, close to the old town and the main shopping streets.
What you will see
The museum's collections bring together Swiss and international art, with works ranging from the 18th century to contemporary pieces. A visit therefore moves through several centuries of painting, drawing and related work, and it gives a useful overview of how art has developed in Switzerland alongside work from further afield.
- Swiss art, reflecting the regional and national tradition
- International works from the 18th century onwards
- Contemporary pieces, bringing the visit up to recent decades
Planning your visit
The museum suits anyone interested in art history, whether you are looking for a focused hour or a longer afternoon. Because the collection spans so many periods, it works well for visitors who want to compare older and newer styles in one place. To check opening times, admission details or current displays before you go, you can call the museum on +41 21 316 34 45.
Lausanne itself is built on hills above Lake Geneva, so the museum makes a natural stop in a day that also takes in the lakeside, the old town and the city's cafés. Its central location means it is easy to reach on foot from most of the centre.
