Melodies from Around the Globe – The Enchanting Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels
The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM), also known as the Musée des instruments de musique in French and Muziekinstrumentenmuseum in Dutch, is a world-renowned museum located in central Brussels, Belgium. It is part of the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH) and boasts a collection of over 8,000 instruments from all over the globe, making it one of the largest and most important collections of its kind.
Established in 1877, the MIM’s collection spans various cultures and historical periods, showcasing the rich and diverse history of music throughout the ages. Visitors can embark on a journey through time and explore instruments from Europe, Africa, Asia, The Americas.
The MIM offers a variety of ways for visitors to engage with the instruments and learn about their history and cultural significance. Here are some of the highlights:
- Interactive exhibits – These exhibits allow visitors to learn about the science behind sound production, explore the different parts of an instrument, and even try playing some instruments themselves.
- Demonstrations – Throughout the day, the museum offers live demonstrations of various instruments, providing visitors with the opportunity to see and hear the instruments played by skilled musicians.
- Guided tours – The museum offers guided tours in several languages, providing visitors with in-depth information about the collection and its highlights.
Tickets to MIM can be purchased on the website or in the box office.
| Adults (19-64) | € 15.00 |
| 0-18 | € 0.00 |
| Senior 65+ | € 13.00 |
| Student | € 8.00 |
| Person with disability / 1attendant (p.p.) | € 0.00 |
Travel options to get to the Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels:
By Plane -flying is the fastest option, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on your departure airport and chosen airline. Search for flights from your local airport to Brussels Airport (BRU) in Belgium. Several airlines offer this route, including LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines, and SWISS.
By Train – train travel offers a scenic and comfortable way to reach Brussels, especially if you are coming from a major European city. However, it typically takes longer than flying. Check the websites of national railway companies in Europe, like Deutsche Bahn (Germany), SNCF (France), NS International (Netherlands), or SBB (Switzerland), to find suitable routes and book tickets.
By Bus – traveling by bus is a budget-friendly option, especially for shorter distances. Several European bus companies operate routes to Brussels, including FlixBus, Eurolines, and RegioJet. Search their websites for schedules and fares.
By Car – driving to Brussels offers flexibility and allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, consider factors like tolls, gas prices, and parking costs when making your decision. Use Google Maps or other navigation apps to plan your route and estimate travel time, considering potential traffic delays.
Once you arrive in Brussels, you can reach the Musical Instruments Museum using public transportation:
By Public Transportation – from Brussels Airport, take the train to Brussels-Central Station. From there, take metro line 3 (direction: Erasmus) to Trône station. The museum is a short walk from Trône station. Alternatively, you can take bus lines 34, 35, 38 or 61 from Brussels-Central Station to the museum.
The museum is located at Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) in Brussels has something to offer a wide range of people, making it suitable for a diverse audience:
Music enthusiasts: This is an obvious choice. Whether you’re a professional musician, a casual music lover, or simply curious about different musical traditions, the MIM offers a fascinating journey through the world of instruments. You can explore the vast collection, witness demonstrations, and learn about the history and cultural significance of various instruments.
People interested in history and culture: The MIM is not just about instruments; it provides a window into different cultures and historical periods. You can learn how instruments have been used throughout history, how they reflect different cultures, and how they have evolved over time.
Families with children: The MIM offers interactive exhibits, workshops, and other activities specifically designed for children. It’s a great way to spark their interest in music, history, and different cultures, while also providing them with a fun and educational experience.
Anyone interested in art and design: Many of the instruments in the MIM are beautiful works of art, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and unique designs. You can appreciate the aesthetics of the instruments, regardless of your musical background.
Travelers seeking unique experiences: If you’re looking for something different and engaging to do in Brussels, the MIM is a perfect choice. It offers a unique cultural experience and allows you to discover a fascinating world of instruments and musical traditions.
Overall, the MIM has something to offer anyone with a curious mind and an appreciation for music, history, culture, art, or simply unique experiences.
