The Musée d’Orsay is one of Paris’s most famous museums, known for its stunning art and unique setting in a former train station. It’s home to masterpieces by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to expect during your visit, including the highlights, tips to make the most of your time, and whether it’s the right museum for you.
Table of Contents
My Take
What I Liked
- The impressive collection of masterpieces by famous artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir.
- The museum’s architecture, with its stunning glass roof and grand interiors.
- The iconic view of Paris through the giant clock on the top floor.
- The manageable size compared to the Louvre—it’s easier to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
- The focus on Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, which is vibrant and accessible for all ages.
- Café Campana offers a stylish, Art Nouveau-inspired setting, making it a great spot to relax after exploring.
What I Didn’t Like as Much
- Long wait times, especially for those buying tickets at the museum without pre-booking.
- Crowds can be heavy during peak hours, making it harder to enjoy the artwork.
- Limited seating in the galleries, so it can be tiring for those who need to rest while exploring.
What Is the Musée d’Orsay? A Little Bit of History
Nowadays, the Musée d’Orsay is a museum, but that has not always been the case. This place has an unusual history!
In 1810, the Palais d’Orsay was built to host the Council of State (a part of the French government) and later to host the Court of Auditors (a French legal court).
Sixty years later, a fire destroyed the building. Then, it was changed into a railway station to welcome visitors and foreign delegations who came to see the 1900 Paris Exposition. It only became a museum in 1986.
An unusual history, right?
Tickets and Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Open daily except Mondays, May 1st, and December 25th.
- Hours: 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (Thursdays until 9:45 PM).
- Last ticket sold: 5:00 PM (9:00 PM Thursdays). Museum cleared: 5:15 PM (9:15 PM Thursdays).
Tip: Avoid weekends, French holidays, and bank holidays for a quieter experience.
Prices
- General admission: €14.
- Reduced admission: €11 (visitors with children under 18 or “Large family” cardholders).
- Free: Visitors under 18, EU citizens aged 18-25, disabled visitors (+ companion), job seekers.
- Free for all: First Sunday of each month.
Recommendation: Purchase tickets online to avoid long lines.
Visiting with Children
- Children are welcome.
- Strollers and baby carriers are not permitted—pushchairs are available at the cloakroom (ID required).
- Interactive website for kids with mascots Pompon and Lily offers fun, educational content (reading ability required).
Accessibility
- The museum is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility and their companions (free admission and priority access).
Luggage
- Free cloakroom available for coats, small bags, and umbrellas.
- Luggage size limit: 56 x 45 x 25 cm (22 x 17.7 x 9.8 inches).
- Larger luggage: Use Nanny Bag at 12 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie (€6 per 24 hours, online booking required, 20-minute walk).
Dining
- Dining options are available inside the museum. More on that below.
7 Must-Sees at Musée d’Orsay
1. Impressionist Masterpieces
Step into the heart of Impressionism as you admire works by Monet, Renoir, and Degas.
Iconic paintings like Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette and Blue Water Lilies are on display in the upper-level Impressionist Gallery.
This vibrant collection showcases light, movement, and the charm of 19th-century life.
2. Van Gogh’s Paintings
Discover Van Gogh’s brilliance through works like Starry Night Over the Rhône and his poignant Self-Portrait.
These paintings offer a window into the artist’s emotions and innovative techniques, immersing you in his world of vivid colors and dramatic brushstrokes.
3. Sculptures
The museum’s central nave is home to breathtaking sculptures, including Rodin’s evocative The Gates of Hell and Carpeaux’s dynamic The Dance.
Their intricate details and powerful forms bring life and movement to this vast, light-filled space.
4. Symbolist and Post-Impressionist Art
Dive into the bold visions of Gauguin, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Seurat.
Don’t miss The Circus, a masterpiece that captures the vibrant energy of performance art.
These works paved the way for modern art with their daring styles and striking use of color.
5. The Clock
The Musée d’Orsay’s iconic giant clock on the fifth floor is more than a timepiece—it’s an experience.
Standing behind its glass face offers a stunning view of Paris, perfect for a memorable photo.
The clock itself is a nod to the building’s past as a train station.
6. Decorative Arts
Celebrate the elegance of the Art Nouveau movement with stunning furniture, ceramics, and design pieces.
From Gallé’s intricate glassworks to Guimard’s graceful designs, this collection embodies innovation and beauty in everyday objects.
7. Temporary Exhibitions
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The museum’s rotating temporary exhibitions offer fresh perspectives on art and history.
Whether it’s a deep dive into a single artist or an exploration of a unique theme, these showcases add a dynamic and ever-changing element to your visit.
The Musée d’Orsay offers a variety of guided tours to enrich your experience of its collections and exhibitions. Here are just some of the options available:
Les chefs-d’œuvre du musée d’Orsay
This hour-and-a-half general tour takes you through the museum’s major works, offering a unique panorama of masterpieces from the XIXᵉ century.
Féminin ? Ça se discute…
This one-hour tour offers a reflection on the representation and place of women in 19th century art, through a selection of emblematic works.
These tours are generally not recommended for children under 13. For families, special tours are organized on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, and every day during the school holidays.
To book a guided tour, please consult the museum’s online ticket office, where you will find dates, times and availability.
Private tours are also available from specialist agencies, offering personalized itineraries with tour guides at your disposal.
Lastly, online platforms offer tickets combined with guided tours, sometimes including queue-cutting access and additional options.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak periods, to guarantee your place and make the most of your visit to the Musée d’Orsay.
My Tips and Suggested Itinerary
If you’re planning to visit the Musée d’Orsay on your own, it’s a good idea to research the must-see artworks in advance. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:
- Start on Level 5: The Impressionists
Begin with masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, and Degas. This section is a must for art lovers. - Level 2: Art Nouveau
Explore the beautiful collection of decorative arts, including stunning Art Nouveau furniture and objects. - Level 0: Academic and Realist Paintings
Dive into the works of Courbet and admire the impressive large-scale paintings. - Level 1: Symbolist Works
Finish your visit with the Symbolist paintings and the room dedicated to Van Gogh.
Tip: Check the museum’s official website to see if any rooms are temporarily closed, so you can adjust your itinerary accordingly. This way, you won’t miss out on your favorite pieces.
This plan will help you enjoy the museum to the fullest and ensure you don’t miss any of the iconic collections.
Restaurant du Musée d’Orsay
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The Restaurant du Musée d’Orsay is an architectural gem located on the first floor of the museum.
Originally the dining room of the former Hôtel d’Orsay, this exquisite space captivates visitors with its opulent décor, featuring beautifully painted ceilings and sparkling chandeliers.
Guests can enjoy a refined culinary experience in a setting that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern comfort. It’s the perfect gastronomic complement to your cultural visit.
Café Campana
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Located on the 5th floor of the museum, the Café Campana offers a unique atmosphere just behind the iconic clock. A favorite spot for a beautiful picture.
Designed by the renowned Campana brothers, this space pays homage to Art Nouveau, with decor inspired by underwater landscapes and natural curves.
Visitors can unwind here, enjoying simple yet delicious cuisine while taking in stunning views of the Seine and Paris. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxing break, blending art and gastronomy.
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