Craving for a cultural adventure? Bucharest has a rich artistic heritage waiting to be explored.
From ancient artefacts to contemporary masterpieces, the city's art museums offer a captivating journey through time and creativity.
Perfect for any visitor, these museums bring Romanian culture to life!
Here are 5 museums you won't want to miss:
1. National Museum of Art of Romania (MNAR):
Nestled within the stunning walls of the former Royal Palace, the museum offers a captivating journey through Romanian, European, and even Oriental art, making it the crown jewel of Bucharest's art scene.
This vast museum houses an extensive collection spanning centuries and continents. Discover the evolution of Romanian art, from mediaeval religious icons to the bold strokes of modernism.
Be sure to marvel at masterpieces by renowned Romanian artists like Theodor Aman and Constantin Brâncuși. The European Art Gallery is another highlight, featuring works by El Greco, Rubens, Tintoretto, and Monet.
Additionally, the National Museum of Art of Romania has three other museums under its wings: the Art Collections Museum, the K.H. Zambaccian Museum and the Theodor Pallady Museum, each offering unique artistic perspectives.
While the National Museum of Art of Romania doesn't have a single defining architectural style itself, it resides within a beautiful and historically significant palace that reflects a fascinating blend of Neoclassical elements, Romanian and French influences.
Visiting hours:
Wednesday-Friday 10am-6pm
Saturday-Sunday 11am-7pm,
Monday and Tuesday closed.
Ticket fee:
National Art Gallery:
Adults 24 Lei
Seniors 12 Lei
Children 6 Lei
Pupils and students, adults with moderate or mild disabilities 6 Lei
European Art Gallery:
Adults 24 Lei
Seniors 12 Lei
Children 6 Lei
Pupils and students, adults with moderate or mild disabilities 6 Lei
Admission to temporary exhibitions 20 lei
Calea Victoriei 49-53
2. National Museum of the Romanian Peasant:
This museum has the richest collection of traditional Romanian objects in the country, the museum is a must-visit!
Step inside and discover the museum's heart with its unparalleled collection of Romanian folk art and discover nearly 90,000 objects.
Vibrant displays of ceramics, textiles, folk costumes, sculptures, furniture, and icons are waiting to be discovered, each piece being a testament to the artistry and traditions passed down through generations.
This collection, recognized for its national and international significance, is meticulously preserved and documented according to rigorous scientific methods.
The collection is vast and it is categorised into sections including costumes, ceramics, textiles, wooden objects, religious items, and even a vast visual archive encompassing photographs, negatives, and video recordings.
The National Museum of the Romanian Peasant is a masterpiece in itself. Built in the Neo-Romanian style, it takes inspiration from the Brancoveanu architectural tradition and resembles a grand monastic complex.
Construction began in 1912 under King Carol I. The museum's red brick facade, the arched windows, and the elegant central tower with its balcony all evoke the charm of old Romanian monasteries.
Visiting hours:
Wednesday – Sunday: 10.00 – 18.00
Last entry: 17.30
Monday and Tuesday: closed
Ticket fee:
Permanent exhibition
Adults – 12 lei
Retiring – 6 lei
Temporary fairs and exhibitions
Adults – 12 lei
Retiring – 6 lei
Groups of adults and children up to 5 people – 27 lei/group
Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 3
3. National Museum of Contemporary Art (MNAC):
Welcome to the dynamic world of contemporary art at the MNAC. Housed within a modern glass wing of the colossal Palace of the Parliament, the museum features a diverse collection of Romanian and international works.
The exhibits explore a wide range of artistic expressions, from installations and video art to photography and painting. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions by established and emerging artists, ensuring a fresh perspective with each visit.
Established in 2001, MNAC found its permanent home within the colossal Palace of Parliament in 2004. Since then, the museum has hosted contemporary Romanian art, showcasing both established and emerging artists.
Notably, MNAC frequently introduces Romanian audiences to the works of prominent international artists and groups.
Additionally, architecture, design, and urban planning find their place within its halls.
Spread across four floors, MNAC offers a year-round calendar of captivating exhibitions and events. And for a truly unforgettable experience, head to the top of the building for a breathtaking panoramic view of Bucharest.
Visiting hours:
Wednesday – Sunday – 11:00 AM-6:30 PM
Monday and Tuesday: closed
Ticket fee:
Adults 32 lei
Seniors 16 lei
Starting June 2023, free access is granted on the first Wednesday of the month!
Calea 13 Septembrie 1-3, at the Palace of Parliament, entrance E1
4. Bucharest Municipality Museum:
For those curious to see the evolution of Romania's capital this is the perfect place to visit!
Get to know the fascinating history of Bucharest at this captivating museum.
Situated in a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the city's evolution.
Take a step back in time as soon as you enter this museum as its located in a grand 19th-century residence, is one of Bucharest's architectural gems.
The Sutu Palace, built between 1833 and 1835, it remains remarkably unchanged, standing as a testament to the city's aristocratic past.
Step inside and marvel at the palace's opulent design, crafted by renowned sculptor and decorative artist Karl Storck in 1862.
The centrepiece is the grand staircase, its monumental form dividing into two wings. A clever optical illusion awaits: a large Murano mirror placed on the front wall creates a sense of depth, further enhanced by the elaborately carved wooden medallion of Irina Suțu, the owner's wife, positioned above the mirror.
This museum boasts a vast collection exceeding 400,000 objects, offering a captivating journey through Bucharest's history.
From prehistoric times to the present day, the collection features diverse artefacts, documents, and portraits that bring the city's past to life.
Explore these treasures and gain insights into the lives, events, and personalities that shaped Bucharest into the vibrant metropolis it is today.
Visiting hours:
Wednesday – Sunday: 11.00 – 17.00
Last entry: 16.30
Monday and Tuesday: closed
Ticket fee:
Adults – 10 lei
Discounted ticket for schoolchildren, students, retirees, military personnel, organised groups - 5 lei
Amateur filming or photography inside the museum - 15 lei
Entry is free for preschoolers and people with disabilities.
I.C. Brătianu Boulevard 2
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