Palacio de Bellas Artes Photos
Recommended Reviews - Palacio de Bellas Artes
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Beautiful building that stands out with its architecture. It has a visual presence in the heart of the city that can be seen from a mile away. Unfortunately, some areas were closed when we tried to explore the rest of the building, so we were not able to see the entire interior. Still, it's a must visit for the views.
For my wife, kid, and friend and I last "major" thing to do while in Mexico City, we decided to come to Palacio de Bellas Artes to see the Sinfonica Nacional perform Bruckner and an Mexican female composer. For most of the week we were in Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes was inaccessible because of huge portable barriers all around. They were all graffitied up. Then, one day it was not there! We had to go inside and it was beautiful. We had a last second choice to buy tickets for the next day...a solo piano recital in a side studio or the orchestra in the main facility and the orchestra won out. We ended up choosing the center main balcony about four rows back in the center. We were lined up with the conductor. The grand hall and all its entrances are well maintained and have a lot of stonework and glass. They have a cafe and gift shop along with bar service sections. The bathroom urinals had something I've never seen in my life...foot pedal flushing. All the staff were helpful and some were able to assist in English. I did end up returning a lost debit card outside on the grand plaza to the information desk attendant. It's unfortunate that they have to "protect" this facility often with the giant barriers. But, it is an absolute place to visit along with all the museums in Mexico City. To see and hear the Sinfonica Nacional play for about 90 minutes was $200 Mexican which is less than $15 American. What a treat and it was glorious!
Came here for a show (ballet folklorico)! Beautiful venue. The only thing I didn't like is that they allowed photography inside during the show, which I thought was pretty distracting!
The exterior of the building is beautiful, but I was underwhelmed by the interior. The entrance fee was 95 pesos at the time of this review. There's a place where you can store your backpack for free while browsing the museum. Only one floor of art was open, which featured some large murals and individual rooms with artwork. There are long flights of stairs between each level (though I did spot an elevator that was blocked off, but maybe unblocked for handicapped people??). There were also two gift shops. I wouldn't go out of my way to return unless there was a specific exhibition I really wanted to see.
The building by itself is spectacular and the exhibits inside are incredible. I enjoyed learning about the history and taking in the murals and the art.
The amount of exhibits/paintings is a less than expected given the vast exterior. Entrance fee is $95 pesos and free for students with IDs.
It was more boring than we envisioned based on reviews. Some artwork stood out better than others but definitely one of those things we could've went without seeing. Please see my pictures for some art.
Excellent national collection with important works of many Mexican artists, particular focus on muralists. Good rotating exhibits. The building itself is a gem of porfirian architecture, displaying his love for European design and materials. Be prepared for cash-only. The machines don't often work. Also, extra exhibit charges and zealous docents who want to control your movement. (This is pretty common in Mexican museums.) The bookstores in the museum are not worth it. They appear to be run by regular booksellers and don't have much in quality books related to the museum or its exhibits.
This was such a fun experience and a must-see when in Mexico City! You first see the beautiful architecture outside. Before entering the building you have to go through security and take hand sanitizer. The security also had a bottle of sanitizer or disinfectant and sprayed you front and back. Once your inside though, you see so many different pieces of art by some of Mexico's most famous artists, like Diego Rivera. If you are looking to immerse yourself in Mexican culture or if you love art, it's definitely worth checking out!
Amazing building, with beautiful murals by mexicos greatest muralists inside. You absolutely must catch a performance of the ballet folklorico!!
Mexico City has some of the most beautiful art and architecture I've ever seen. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is a must see for those who love art and architecture. The Art Deco architecture of the building is gorgeous. The paintings surrounding the third floor are awe inspiring. So many amazing Mexican artists that I I've never seen or knew before. I love their artistic style, the brilliant colors, unique exuberant expressions. Mexican art is a celebration of color, bold compositions, and swashbuckling expressions. I was floored seeing all of them together for the first time.
First of all, Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of the most beautiful buildings I've ever seen. Art deco should always be a thing, and when you step inside this palace, you're immediately transported to the days of jazz. But the exterior is just as stunning, with its dome top, columns and framing. And what's better is the artwork here. We visited Palacio de Bellas Artes in the centro historical area on a Sunday when admission is free! Even without a price for admission, we still had to check in with the ticket counter to claim tickets and up the stairs we went for the first room of artwork. No drinks and food allowed and backpacks must be worn in the front. There were three stories of artwork after entering the main floor. Although this is a space that displays magnificent artwork, Palacio also serves as the opera house. Murals and paintings adorn two floors and the top floor displayed architectural work and art. Most notably, people came here to see the Diego Rivera murals, which will have you stand and stare. I highly recommend visiting Palacio de Bellas Artes for the artwork and the architecture. There was a lot to see; my partner and I spent a few hours here and even went back to look at some of the political murals. They definitely will make you look twice.
The museum was OK nothing amazing The inside of the Palacio wasnt impressive neither. The outside was under renovation for FIFA event so it looks horrible It has a lot of modern art works. I personally didn't like it too much. read more
So when planning this trip to Mexico City-the wifey kept saying how she wanted to make sure we went to some Bellas Artes place that I had never heard of-so on our 1st unplanned day of the trip-I grabbed an Uber and we headed straight for Palacio de Bellas Artes. As soon as I saw the place I could instantly see why she was so excited.This place is a gorgeous majestic building. It's located right next to a very large park,Alameda Central and very close to the Zocalo. It's a very busy part of town-so be prepared for crowds outside of the building. Once inside it's a lot less crowded and this beautiful building is just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. One thing I did not know about this beautiful art museum is that it is also Mexico City's most famous performing arts center as well. My wife told me about a very famous Juan Gabriel concert that was held there in the 90s.Through the years most of the most famous artists in Mexico have performed at Bellas Artes. Today we are here for the art as this is Mexico City's most famous art museum and after walking thru all 4 floors of the museum,one can definitely see why. Diego Rivera's most famous murals are housed in this museum and they are truly breathtaking.I truly felt proud of my Mexican heritage upon seeing these amazing works of art. Jose Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros have many of their most famous pieces at this museum as well. Anyone looking for Frida Kahlo work though will be disappointed as her work is not permanently featured at this museum. Cost for admission to this museum is 95 Pesos Tuesday thru Saturday and free admission for everyone on Sundays.They are closed on Mondays. In closing,I 100% recommend all visitors to the amazing Mexico City's must make Palacio De Bellas Artes a must-visit destination.It is truly a gem of the city and one of the most memorable experiences the city has to offer. read more
5 months ago
The building was the crown jewel of President Porfirio Díaz's dictatorship. He loved French society and the building overall is very similar to the Parisian Opera House (can vouch for this). This is the only stage in the world where the curtain is made entirely of Tiffany glass, "Mosaic Curtain for the National Theater of Mexico City". Our guide said it takes a few minutes during every performance in order to lift the glass curtain, and weighs 24 tons. read more
4 months ago
Beautiful building that stands out with its architecture. It has a visual presence in the heart of the city that can be seen from a mile away. Unfortunately, some areas were closed when we tried to explore the rest of the building, so we were not able to see the entire interior. Still, it's a must visit for the views. read more
10 months ago
For my wife, kid, and friend and I last "major" thing to do while in Mexico City, we decided to come to Palacio de Bellas Artes to see the Sinfonica Nacional perform Bruckner and an Mexican female composer. For most of the week we were in Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes was inaccessible because of huge portable barriers all around. They were all graffitied up. Then, one day it was not there! We had to go inside and it was beautiful. We had a last second choice to buy tickets for the next day...a solo piano recital in a side studio or the orchestra in the main facility and the orchestra won out. We ended up choosing the center main balcony about four rows back in the center. We were lined up with the conductor. The grand hall and all its entrances are well maintained and have a lot of stonework and glass. They have a cafe and gift shop along with bar service sections. The bathroom urinals had something I've never seen in my life...foot pedal flushing. All the staff were helpful and some were able to assist in English. I did end up returning a lost debit card outside on the grand plaza to the information desk attendant. It's unfortunate that they have to "protect" this facility often with the giant barriers. But, it is an absolute place to visit along with all the museums in Mexico City. To see and hear the Sinfonica Nacional play for about 90 minutes was $200 Mexican which is less than $15 American. What a treat and it was glorious! read more
1 year ago
The exterior of the building is beautiful, but I was underwhelmed by the interior. The entrance fee was 95 pesos at the time of this review. There's a place where you can store your backpack for free while browsing the museum. Only one floor of art was open, which featured some large murals and individual rooms with artwork. There are long flights of stairs between each level (though I did spot an elevator that was blocked off, but maybe unblocked for handicapped people??). There were also two gift shops. I wouldn't go out of my way to return unless there was a specific exhibition I really wanted to see. read more
1 year ago
It was more boring than we envisioned based on reviews. Some artwork stood out better than others but definitely one of those things we could've went without seeing. Please see my pictures for some art. read more
2 years ago
Excellent national collection with important works of many Mexican artists, particular focus on muralists. Good rotating exhibits. The building itself is a gem of porfirian architecture, displaying his love for European design and materials. Be prepared for cash-only. The machines don't often work. Also, extra exhibit charges and zealous docents who want to control your movement. (This is pretty common in Mexican museums.) The bookstores in the museum are not worth it. They appear to be run by regular booksellers and don't have much in quality books related to the museum or its exhibits. read more
This was such a fun experience and a must-see when in Mexico City! You first see the beautiful architecture outside. Before entering the building you have to go through security and take hand sanitizer. The security also had a bottle of sanitizer or disinfectant and sprayed you front and back. Once your inside though, you see so many different pieces of art by some of Mexico's most famous artists, like Diego Rivera. If you are looking to immerse yourself in Mexican culture or if you love art, it's definitely worth checking out! read more
2 years ago
Mexico City has some of the most beautiful art and architecture I've ever seen. The Palacio de Bellas Artes is a must see for those who love art and architecture. The Art Deco architecture of the building is gorgeous. The paintings surrounding the third floor are awe inspiring. So many amazing Mexican artists that I I've never seen or knew before. I love their artistic style, the brilliant colors, unique exuberant expressions. Mexican art is a celebration of color, bold compositions, and swashbuckling expressions. I was floored seeing all of them together for the first time. read more
5 years ago
First of all, Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of the most beautiful buildings I've ever seen. Art deco should always be a thing, and when you step inside this palace, you're immediately transported to the days of jazz. But the exterior is just as stunning, with its dome top, columns and framing. And what's better is the artwork here. We visited Palacio de Bellas Artes in the centro historical area on a Sunday when admission is free! Even without a price for admission, we still had to check in with the ticket counter to claim tickets and up the stairs we went for the first room of artwork. No drinks and food allowed and backpacks must be worn in the front. There were three stories of artwork after entering the main floor. Although this is a space that displays magnificent artwork, Palacio also serves as the opera house. Murals and paintings adorn two floors and the top floor displayed architectural work and art. Most notably, people came here to see the Diego Rivera murals, which will have you stand and stare. I highly recommend visiting Palacio de Bellas Artes for the artwork and the architecture. There was a lot to see; my partner and I spent a few hours here and even went back to look at some of the political murals. They definitely will make you look twice. read more
10 months ago
2 years ago
Ballet Folclórico was incredible to watch. It was a very traditional dances from different regions, so beautifully performed and very emotionally moving for me. Highly recommend. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
Free for all on Sunday. We went and there weren't a lot of exhibitions unfortunately. There were 2 temporary exhibitions and then the murals up top. I will say that there was one statue for Dia De Los Muertos which made it all worth it. Also the architecture was quite nice. read more
4 years ago
6 years ago
Palacio de Bellas Artes is by far one of the most beautiful buildings in Mexico City! It's French architecture is not only reflected in the facade but also inside the theatre. Bellas Artes is also home to some of the most beautiful murals in Mexico, as well as the most majestic glass curtain. If you have a chance, get tickets to the Ballet Folklorico de Amalia Hernandez. This group of dancers is the best in the nation and they will leave you speechless after watching them perform all of the ballet folklorico classics. Bellas Artes sometimes hosts art exhibits. A few years ago I had the opportunity to attend a "Letters by Friday" exhibit, which highlighted not only the art by Frida Kahlo but personal letters she would send to Diego Rivera and his family. Bellas Artes is a must when visiting CDMX! read more
The Palacio de Bellas Artes has been called "the Cathedral of Art in Mexico." The building was built to replace the first National Theater of Mexico. The construction began in 1904 but construction problems and the Mexican Revolution halted construction from 1913-1932. The building is stunning from the outside and the inside - a mix of Art Nouveau, Neoclassical, and Art Deco! It has a large exhibition space, but it's more famous for its murals! At the west end of the 3rd floor is Diego Rivera's "El hombre controlador del universo," originally commissioned for New York's Rockefeller Center in 1933. The mural depicts a variety of technological and societal themes and was controversial for its inclusion of Lenin and a Soviet May Day parade. The Rockefellers were not happy with the painting and the incomplete work was eventually destroyed and painted over. Rivera recreated it here in 1934. The Palacio is also the home to other murals: David Alfaro Siqueiros' three-part "La Nueva Democracia," Rivera's four-part "Carnaval de la Vida Mexicana," and José Clemente Orozco's "La Katharsis." We didn't spend too much time in the Palacio - a walk around the exterior, a walk around the inside, a view of each of the murals, and quick walk thorugh the current exhibition - but it is a must see in Mexico City! read more
2 years ago
Definitely go to see it, but you can skip paying for the museum unless you truly enjoy art. read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
This museum is so big. I was there about 3 hours. Nice exhibits with a beautiful fountain outside of the museum. It wasn't expensive at all. If you have a backpack or a big purse you may leave it at the reception where you will get a ticket to pick up your belongings after. read more
8 years ago
If you are a tourist, Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of those places you would go to in Mexico City just because lol. Granted, I am not a huge fan of art exhibits, but I still appreciated the architectural grandeur of this art museum. I mean heck, I probably had more appreciation for the building itself than most of the art exhibits inside. If you have a U.S. student ID, you will be able to get free admission. The museum has 4 floors. The first floor is where you check-in. The second floor has all the art exhibits. For us, the exhibit was hybrid art where works involve combining characters of humanism and nature. I didn't know what I was looking at half of the time, but I gotta say, some of the works were quite peculiar (if that's the right word to describe them). The third floor is exhibition of different murals. Still, I wasn't too enthusiastic about any of the work because again... I am artistically dead. The fourth floor however, is what got my attention. The fourth floor showcased the architectural history of Palacio de Bellas Artes. It was really interesting to see the type of planning and different designs the architects put in before constructing this amazing museum. Anyways, I would recommend any tourist to visit Palacio de Bellas Artes just because it's one of the highly raved places everyone talks about in Mexico City. You don't have to like art to visit this place just like how you don't have to like hiking to climb the Great Wall of China, but you would visit the Great Wall just because you are in China lololol. read more
As you approach, then step inside, the Palacio de Bellas Artes you may experience a moment of amnesia. Look around and you'll wonder where you are, and should you be given 5 guesses, Mexico City would not appear amongst your first 5 suppositions. You would be forgiven. The splendor which is Palacio de Bellas Artes anchors one corner of the immaculate and lovely Parque Alameda. Though there is much public sculpture lining the park, this building is the crown jewel. Inside, the building is an art deco masterpiece. Soaring ceilings and open spaces make for an amazing space in which to view the enormous murals which characterize much of Mexican art. Seriously, these murals leave one wondering where and how they were created and sometimes you'll be thrown a clue: on some works you can see evidence that they were created on cement walls which have been transported lock, stock, and barrel into Palacio de Bellas Artes. The majesty and beauty of these works, in this building, is nothing short of stunning. This is also the home to a controversial Diego Rivera mural originally commissioned to sit in NYC's Rockefeller Center. Objections to Rivera's inclusion of Vladimir Lenin caused the mural to be destroyed but since Rivera had been paid, he offered to reproduce his work for display elsewhere. That work is here, your loss Rockefeller Center. On the day of my visit, the side galleries were closed in preparation for an upcoming exhibit. As a result, my viewing consisted only of two floors of these masterpiece murals and huge, impactful paintings. It was adequate. The building is also home to several other things: * Ballet de Folklórico; * Museum of Architecture (recommended only for a bisected, miniature model of the building itself; everything else is exclusively in Spanish); * Restaurant; and * A gift shop full of many interesting art books. A drink in the cafe, a perusal of the art books in the gift shop, an afternoon eyeing gorgeous and historically significant works of art, then a stroll through the adjacent park. Life could be worse. read more
4 years ago
Beautiful place, for around $4 dollars you can go into the museum and at night you can go see a concert or bailable, I was unable to go to that but I did go to the museum and my favorite mural was Diego's, his art always portraits powerful messages. I recommend you to go and enjoy this beautiful historical building! read more
7 years ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
Page 1 of 4
More info about Palacio de Bellas Artes
Palacio de Bellas Artes Reviews in Other Languages
Review Highlights - Palacio de Bellas Artes
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
12 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
8 years ago
7 years ago
7 years ago
5 years ago
9 years ago
11 years ago
10 years ago
5 months ago
10 years ago
11 years ago
12 years ago
10 years ago
Palacio de Bellas Artes - artmuseums - Updated August 2026
Browse Brands
Browse Articles
People who viewed Palacio de Bellas Artes also viewed
Museo Soumaya
129 reviews
Museo de Arte Moderno
38 reviews
Chapultepec 1a Sección
MUNAL Museo Nacional de Arte
33 reviews
Centro Norte
Museo Nacional de Antropología
267 reviews
Polanco
Museo Mural Diego Rivera
32 reviews
Centro Poniente
Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli
28 reviews
Museo Tamayo
17 reviews
Polanco
Museo Frida Kahlo
341 reviews
Coyoacán
Palacio Nacional
35 reviews
Centro Sur
Castillo de Chapultepec
167 reviews
Chapultepec 1a Sección