National Museum of San Carlos

Art

In Mexico known as: Museo Nacional de San Carlos

Museum Overview

Location & Contact

Address

Puente de Alvarado 50
Col. Tabacalera
Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México 06030

Social Media

Museum Information

Permanent Exhibitions

10

Temporary Exhibitions

4

Founded

1968

Affiliation

SecretarĂ­a de Cultura/INBAL

Introduction

Discover a refined corner of Mexico City at the Museo Nacional de San Carlos, where European masters mingle with Mexican 19th-century works in a serene neoclassical setting. Quiet galleries, elegant lighting, and intimate spaces invite reflective viewing and memorable photo notes

Museum Exhibitions

Discover the fascinating collections and special exhibitions

Permanent Collections

Permanent

Permanent exhibits: The National Museum of San Carlos — holder of one of the most important collections of Western art from the 16th to the 20th centuries in Latin America — features six rooms of permanent display. The collection has been enriched through acquisitions, direct commissions to Spanish artists, donations, paintings expropriated from the convents suppressed in the 19th century, and some copies created by students of the old Academy of San Carlos.

Highlights

  • European masterworks from the 18th–19th centuries
  • Mexican art from the same era
  • Elegant neoclassical architecture
  • Intimate galleries and quiet courtyards
  • Thoughtful lighting enhances viewing

At a Glance

Visit Duration

45-75 minutes

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible; elevators and ramps available.

Photography

Non-flash photography is allowed in most galleries.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available in public areas.

Facilities

Restrooms are available on-site.

Hours

Tue–Sun 10 AM–6 PM; Mon Closed Verify hours

Cost Information

General admission $70 MXN ($3.50 USD); Sun free

Tickets

General admission; verify hours and policies on the official site. Check pricing

Getting There

Accessible by public transit and rideshares; buses and nearby metro stops are convenient, with limited street parking in the area.

Nearby Places

Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL)

museum

Ideal for a paired art day.

0.7 miles (1.2 km)

Palacio de Bellas Artes

museum

Iconic architecture nearby.

1.0 miles (1.6 km)

Alameda Central

other

Great for a stroll between galleries.

0.6 miles (1.0 km)

Café de Tacuba

lunch

Classic Mexican dining after touring.

1.2 miles (2.0 km)

Mercado de San Juan

market

Snack options and local treats nearby.

1.4 miles (2.2 km)

Visitor Policies

Photography

Photography is allowed without flash in most galleries; tripods and professional gear may require prior permission.

Bags & Storage

Bag policy: Large bags may be restricted; plan to carry only essentials.

Strollers & Children

Strollers are permitted; some areas may have restrictions.

Lockers

Lockers available for visitor use.

Tips for Your Visit

To avoid crowds, visit on weekday mornings and aim for the earliest opening or late afternoon. If lines form, use quieter wings first and plan a clear gallery route.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I plan for my visit in terms of time at Museo Nacional de San Carlos?

Most visitors to National Museum of San Carlos spend about 45 to 75 minutes exploring the galleries

Are tickets required in advance for National Museum of San Carlos?

At Museo Nacional de San Carlos Ciudad de México, ticket policies and prices vary; check the official site for current information

What are the hours of operation at Museo Nacional de San Carlos Ciudad de México?

At Museo Nacional de San Carlos, Ciudad de México, hours can vary; verify the schedule on the official site before your trip

Is it worth visiting for first-time visitors at Museo Nacional de San Carlos, Ciudad de México?

At National Museum of San Carlos Ciudad de México, yes, it offers a focused collection of 19th-century european and mexican art in a beautiful neoclassical setting

Can I take photos inside at National Museum of San Carlos Ciudad de México?

Photography at National Museum of San Carlos, Ciudad de México isnon-flash generally allowed in many galleries; follow staff instructions

Are bags allowed inside at National Museum of San Carlos, Ciudad de México?

At National Museum of San Carlos Mexico City, bags may be inspected; large bags could be restricted near some exhibits

Is National Museum of San Carlos Mexico City accessible for visitors with disabilities?

At National Museum of San Carlos, Mexico City, yes, the museum provides accessibility features such as ramps and elevators

Are there guided tours available at National Museum of San Carlos, Mexico City?

At Museo Nacional de San Carlos, guided tours may be offered; check the official site or at the information desk

What about getting there by public transport at Museo Nacional de San Carlos?

At National Museum of San Carlos, public transit options are available, including nearby metro stops and bus routes

Is there a place to rest or eat nearby at National Museum of San Carlos?

At Museo Nacional de San Carlos Ciudad de México, there are seating areas inside and nearby cafés or restaurants

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