We visited A LOT of museums when we went to Paris on our honeymoon. It’s what you do! And to be honest, I would recommend every single one because they were pretty much all amazing. But Musee d’Orsay is without a doubt my favorite. It’s like The Louvre’s more manageable cousin, focusing on impressionist paintings (my favorite) and sculpture. It’s centrally located on the Left Bank, just south of the River Seine, and is beautiful not just for the art inside but for the gorgeous building itself.
The Musee d’Orsay
The museum is inside the former Gare d’Orsay, a train station built in 1898-1900. It almost reminds me of New York’s Grand Central Station with its high ceilings and arches, but with way more natural light.
The painting exhibits are housed in smaller rooms off of the main chamber, while the center open space is primarily devoted to sculpture. Some of the most famous French artists are featured here including: Cézanne, Monet, Renoir, Seurat, Sisley, and Van Gogh. Since museums tend to circulate their exhibits it’s a good idea to check out the museum website before visiting if there is something you’re really excited to see. And if you’re an over-planner like me, you can use their floor plan app to scope out what painting is where.
Tips & Tricks
- I highly recommend Rick Steves’ free Musee d’Orsay audio tour. I think Rick Steves does the best job at audio guides, and I highly recommend his free Paris Audio Tours!
- Make sure to check out the large clock on the top floor that also acts as a window. Such a cool spot!
- There’s another beautiful clock at the front of the main hall that is a work of art in itself
- The museum stays open late on Thursdays until 9:45pm if you’re looking to squeeze in a visit in the evening!
- Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month.
- If you’re looking for a full Paris itinerary, check out my 4-day Paris Itinerary for a lot more ideas of things to do in Paris!
Musee d’Orsay Tickets
General admission tickets are €16 per person. Anyone under 18-years-old is free! They also offer free admission to several other groups including EU citizens between the ages of 18-25, and Paris Museum Pass members. For the full list of groups who qualify for free admission and the eligibility requirement, check out the Musee d’Orsay’s Admissions page for details.
Also, Musee d’Orsay is free on the first Sunday of each month. We didn’t visit on this day, but I’ve been told that with free admission comes crowds! So be aware if you choose this day.
Lastly, the d’Orsay offers an English audio guide for €5, but I recommend using Rick Steves’ free audio guide instead. Just download the podcast to your phone ahead of time and you’ll be good!
Getting There
Getting to the Musee d’Orsay is fairly simple and there are many ways to get there. It’s located pretty centrally, just south of The Tuileries on the west bank (south of the river Seine). I recommend using google maps to determine the best route depending on your starting location. Most routes will have you arriving at Solferino metro station or the Louvre Tuileries.
Walk to the west end of the Musee d’Orsay building and get in the appropriate line. There may be a line for museum pass holders vs general admission. You’ll go through security when you get there and then you’re in!
Details
Address: 1, rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris
Cost: €16
Hours: 9.30am to 6pm (9:45pm on Thursdays)
Closed: Mondays
Website: https://m.musee-orsay.fr/en/home.html
