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The Palacio de Bellas Artes is Mexico City's most beautiful cultural landmark, celebrated for its unique blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture. It is a dual-purpose venue, housing both a museum and a grand theater. The museum features magnificent, permanent murals by legendary Mexican masters like Diego Rivera.
Meanwhile, the theatre is the permanent home of the spectacular Ballet Folklórico de México. It is highly recommended to check the current exhibition schedule as the galleries constantly rotate high-calibre shows, from contemporary art to photography.
Palacio de Bella Artes Photography Guide
STYLE Architecture, Urban
PRICE ~80 MXN pesos to enter
ADDRESS Palacio de Bellas Artes, Centro Histórico
HOURS Public - Open 24 hours
WEBSITE palacio.inba.gob.mx
Palacio de Bella Artes Photography Notes
If you're looking for the best photo of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the iconic high angle shot is taken from the 8th-floor café of the Sears department store directly across the street, which gives you a magnificent elevated view of the entire tiled dome.
For close-ups of the marble and sculptures, shoot from street level in the plaza, preferably on a sunny day to capture the color of the domes.
SAFETY TIPS
Watch your surroundings—crowds can be distracting and pickpockets do operate here.
SCENE DESCRIPTION
Bellas Artes shines with its white marble exterior and colorful tiled roof. Inside, light fills the hall, highlighting murals and grand architecture.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
A great place to catch the sunset with the Palacio lit up.
WHERE TO EAT
Have a coffee and pastry at Finca Don Porfirio on the top of Sears building across the street (8th floor). The cafe is open daily from 11 am to 8 pm. Arrive early in case there is a line. If you want the empty-city cinematic look, aim to arrive at sunrise around 7 am.