Paris is passionate about its art and aesthetics. We’ve often heard of well-known artists and authors drawing inspiration from the beautiful city of love. Which is why, it comes as no surprise that Paris is home to some of the most oldest and prominent museums in the world. From architecturally beautiful to plain informative, the city is not short of museums that display some of the most remarkable artwork from renowned artists. And, what makes them worth a visit is the impressive collection of culture that is displayed under one roof. Considered as nothing less than the realm of artistic vibrancy, tourists can feast their eyes to a visual treat with every art hub they visit in Paris.
Whether it is contemporary art you’re interested in or sculpture — you’re bound to run across everything beginning from photography, to fine art and films during your visit. Here we bring you a list of some of the finest French museums which have done their bit at preserving and showcasing the diverse Parisian culture under a roof.
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Museums
#2 of 233 Museums in Paris on TripAdvisor
Considered as an iconic landmark, the Louvre is often on every tourist’s list while visiting Paris. This famous monument is best known for a plethora of art exhibits as well as collection from around the world. It witnesses a crowd of people who visit from across the globe to catch a glimpse of the famous Mona Lisa — painted by Leonardo da Vinci. The timeless glass pyramid that has now become a symbol of sophistication and elegance is also one of the most photographed monument of the city. Apart from a myriad of paintings, the museum also hosts intricate sculptures within its premises.
Hours
9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday
9:00 AM to 10:00 PM Fridays
Tuesday closed
Address
Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- Visit during the nighttime to avoid crowd.
- It is best to chart your visit according to a map of the museum, as it is nearly impossible to cover every exhibit of the Louvre.
- Consider picking the audio guide if you’re not fluent with French.
Recommended Experiences
• Dedicated Entrance Tickets to Louvre Museum
• Guided Tour of the Louvre Museum with Skip the Line Entry
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Museums
#1 of 233 Museums in Paris on TripAdvisor
Located on the scenic banks of river Seine, the Museum of Orsay houses an impressive collection of impressionist (400 paintings) and post-impressionist (1,100 paintings) masterpieces of the world. Visitors can get a chance to view famous artworks from artists such as Monet, Degas, Sisley and Van Gogh as the Museum of Orsay is one of the largest art museums in Europe. Originally a railway station, you can still trace the origins of Gare d’Orsay in its opulent architecture. The museum also creates several temporary exhibits throughout the year and it tops on the list of Paris’s interesting attraction.
Hours
9:30 AM to 6:00 PM every day except Thursday
9:30 AM to 9:45 PM on Thursday
Address
1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- Make a list of the paintings you’d like to view before heading here, as that will save some time on your hands.
- The museum is least crowded during the noons and off-season.
- There are several lines for individuals, groups and professionals - make sure you save time by getting into the right queue.
Recommended Experiences
• Skip The Line Tickets to Orsay Museum
• Guided Tour of the Orsay Museum with Skip The Line Entry
• Dedicated Entrance to the Louvre and Orsay Museum
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Museums
#66 of 1,187 things to do in Paris on TripAdvisor
Some may recognise this museum as the oddly structured building placed near the Beauborg area in Paris. However, Centre Georges Pompidou is most importantly known for its vast collection of modern art that will leave you inspired and intrigued. The quirky building also boasts of a humongous library (with almost 500,000 books) that can easily accommodate around 2,000 readers at once. The museum contains over 50,000 works of art including paintings, sculptures, drawings as well as photography. And while you enjoy contemporary art, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the surreal panoramic view of the city from its rooftop terrace.
Hours
Monday & Tuesday closed
11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Wednesday to Sunday
Address
Place Georges Pompidou, 75004 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- Buy your tickets online since the museum tends to draw crowd on a daily basis.
- The best time to visit Centre Georges Pompidou is after 5pm if you wish to spend some relaxed time within the premises.
- Don’t miss out the Le George restaurant on the 6th floor that promises a meal with a view.
Recommended Experiences
• Centre Pompidou: Priority Entrance
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Museums
#4 of 233 Museums in Paris on TripAdvisor
Opened in 1919, Musee Rodin holds a host of some of Auguste Rodin’s impeccable artworks. Situated amongst well manicured lawns and a sprawling property, the museum is housed in a n 18th century private mansion. You can take a stroll down the pristine gardens and discover some of his prominent works such as ‘The Thinker’ or ‘The Gates of Hell’ within the lawns. You can also admire some of his drawings, prints, paintings, ceramics, photographs and antiques amongst the many collections in this museum. Visitors can also spend some leisure time frolicking around a small lake in the premises and catch a cup of coffee at the casual restaurant at this museum.
Hours
Monday closed
10:00 AM to 5.45 Tuesday to Sunday
Address
79 rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- It is highly recommended to visit the ornamental and rose gardens of the museum that is accessible with a small fee.
- Be sure to invest in an audio-guide to learn more about the sculptures in the premises.
- If you plan on buying the tickets from the counter, make sure you arrive before 5.15 PM as that’s when the desk closes down for the day.
Recommended Experiences
• Rodin Museum Skip the Line Tickets with Garden of Sculptures
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Museums
#11 of 1,238 things to do in Paris on TripAdvisor
Spacious and well-organised, the Musee de l’Orangerie is home to Monet’s famous painting: Series of Waterlilies. The museum offers a beautiful, panoramic view of the paintings that in an experience unlike any other. Located in the heart of the city, this museum also features 144 works from Walter Guillaume collection, which is a series creative illustrative works of the first decade of the 20th century. Musee de l’Orangerie’s key feature includes its expansive exhibits that allows viewers to take a good look at every painting. Although not heavily crowded on off days, the museum tends to draw a crowd that is especially enthusiastic about Monet’s artwork from around the globe.
Hours
Tuesday closed
11:00 AM to 6:00 PM Wednesday to Monday
Address
Jardin des Tuileries - Cote Seine, 75001 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- It is recommended to get to the museum early to spend a relaxed time viewing all the exhibits.
- Since the museum is slightly compact, it gets crowded quickly. Buy tickets online or avail a museum pass to skip the lines.
- You can grab an impressionist painting souvenir and a cup of coffee at its gift shop.
Recommended Experiences
• Priority Access to Musee de L'Orangerie
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Museums
#11 of 233 Museums in Paris on TripAdvisor
Previously known as Musee de Cluny, the Musée National du Moyen-Age boasts of an eye-catching medieval collection and garden within its four walls. In fact, even before you enter the museum, you can glimpse through the beautiful Gallo-Roman baths on your way inside. The museum’s collection includes everything beginning from art to antiquity as well as some notable works from the renaissance periods. Now transformed into a magnificent Hotel de Cluny, the gothic styled architecture of this museum is a hit with many-a-shutterbugs from around the globe who wish to capture the sublime elements of the building.
Hours
Tuesday closed
9:15 AM TO 5:45 PM Wednesday to Monday
Address
6 Place D Iena, 75116 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- The museum is free for every first Sunday of the month.
- Children under 18 don’t require a ticket.
- It is advisable to visit during the day time as it gets a little clammy during the afternoons.
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Museums
#25 of 233 Museums in Paris on TripAdvisor
One of the most iconic Parisian architecture, one simply can’t miss the striking Grand Palais located on the buzzing streets of Champs Elysees. The architectural masterpiece comprises of three major sites: the Nave, the National Galleries and the Palais de la Decouverte. There are several national and international events being held every year at the Nave that include horse riding, contemporary art and many others. Apart from that, visitors have the privilege to view some eye-catching collections by Picasso, Hopper and several other renowned artists that have set a milestone in the history of art. In fact, children too can make the most of the knowledge imparted at this museum by spending some time at The Palais de la Decouverte. There are numerous cultural hotspots within the museum for kids, that are dedicated to science and fun learning.
Hours
Tuesday closed
10:00 AM TO 8:00 PM Thursday to Monday
10:00 AM TO 10:00 PM Wednesday
Address
Avenue des Champs Elysees, 75008 Paris, France
Get Directions
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Museums
#10 of 233 Museums in Paris on TripAdvisor
If a rich dose of culture is what you’re looking for, the Musée du Quai Branly is the right place to acquaint yourself with traditional art and an eclectic collection of artefacts from across the globe. The museum hosts as many as 300,000 artefacts and objects and 700,000 photograph under its roof. You can browse through various musical instruments, fabrics, clothing that are significant from Oceania, Asia, Africa and America. The museum makes sure to take you on an interesting journey within the cultures of distant lands across centuries. What makes this museum worth a visit is its focus on non-European cultures. It even houses a cosy reading room, a theatre, a cinema, restaurant and a bookshop within its premises.
Hours
Monday closed
11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Sundays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays
11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Thursday to Saturday
Address
37 Quai Branly, 75007 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- The Musée du Quai Branly has regular cultural performances within its premises. Make sure you schedule your visit around them.
- The museum is also home to a great al fresco cafeteria that is perfect for families and couples alike.
- There are several cultural workshops and activities being held within the museum. Keep an eye on their website if you’re looking for something specific.
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Museums
#8 of 233 Museums in Paris on TripAdvisor
A museum unlike any other, the Army Museum in Paris displays a splendid collection of medieval armour and weapons. The sprawling palatial building which is best known for the tomb of Napoleon I is divided into three prominent sections. The Departement Moderne holds informative exhibits about the two world wars while the other chamber complexes showcase rows of suits of armour. The building is well-organised and elegant, and it also immortalises the history of Paris amidst its exhibits. If weapons and artillery do not impress you, visit for the magnificence of the tomb that is situated inside the museum.
Hours
10:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day
Address
129 rue de Grenelle | Hôtel National des Invalides, 75007 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- Use the digital guide feature provided by the museum for an in-depth knowledge about all the exhibits.
- Download the Application Musée de l’Armée, an iPhone and Android application that will help you explore the museum, its collections and the event calendar.
- Reservist soldiers can avail a discounted price on presenting a military identity card.
Recommended Experiences
• Les Invalides: Napoleon’s Tomb and the Army museum Tour
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Museums
#25 of 1,238 things to do in Paris on TripAdvisor
The Musee Marmottan - Claude Monet is popular due to the largest collection of Monet’s work that is exhibited within museum. Originally built as a hunting lodge for the Duke of Valmy, the museum was brought back life in the year 1934. Visitors can view some of Claude Monet’s remarkable artwork (including ‘Impression, Sunrise’) in a fresh new light at this museum. Musee Marmottan houses as many as 130 paintings and drawings, and also a large collection of paintings from Impressionist Berthe Morisot. You may even venture into a chamber featuring 90 artworks from lesser-known (yet equally intriguing) impressionists if you’re an art enthusiast seeking for an alternative.
Hours
Monday closed
10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday
Address
2 Rue Louis Boilly | 16th Arrondissement, 75016 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- It is recommended to purchase an audio guide as some of the exhibits are not accurately labelled in English.
- You may even buy an English-language catalogue in the museum shop for better understanding of the collection.
- Keep aside some time for travel as the museum is located on the edge of the town.
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Museums
#155 of 1,238 things to do in Paris on TripAdvisor
If you’re someone who appreciates architecture and its history, the Cite de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine museum is definitely something you shouldn’t miss out. Set off on a voyage that takes you through the rich architectural heritage of France, beginning from the middle ages to present day. You may come across exhibits such as a life-sized productions of doorway of Chartres Cathedral, or models and videos included in this museum’s collection. It even hosts temporary workshops for children and adults alike, that briefs you with the history and various challenges faced back in the day. Glimpse into the world of architecture and how it has evolved over the years during your visit to this museum.
Hours
Monday & Tuesday closed
11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Thursdays
11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Address
1 Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75116 Paris, France
Get Directions
Tips
- The top floor has a great view of the Eiffel Tower for those who are looking out for a photo op.
- An exhibit of painted glass as well as the dome on the second floor are a must-visit during your time at Cite de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine.
- The museum offers plenty of learning opportunities for students in the field of architecture.
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