Paris is a treasure trove of art, culture, history, and its museums are unparalleled. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual traveler, these museums are must-visits. Here’s the lowdown on the 5 Must-See Museums in Paris— including insider tips, closures and ticket advice to make your trip a breeze.

Why Visit?
The Louvre is the world’s largest art museum and a historic monument. Housing masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, it’s a paradise for art lovers. Its glass pyramid is an iconic feature of Paris.

Tips:

• Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
• Use the entrance at the Carousel du Louvre for shorter lines.
• Download the Louvre app for a self-guided tour.
• You can borrow free of charge canes, baby carriers, and wheelchairs. The visitor assistance desk is located under the Pyramid and will loan them to you in exchange for a valid photo ID.

Closed: Tuesdays
Best Ticket Option: Consider the Louvre website for tickets to access the museum and exhibitions or go for a Paris Museum Pass if you plan to visit multiple sites.

Louvre – https://www.louvre.fr/en

Paris Museum Pass – https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/en

Why Hire a Guide for the Louvre?

• Save Time: Guides know the layout and can take you directly to must-see works like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Winged Victory of Samothrace.
• Expert Insights: Learn fascinating details about the art, architecture, and history you might otherwise miss.
• Customized Experience: Many guides offer personalized tours, focusing on your specific interests, whether Renaissance art, Egyptian antiquities, or sculptures.

Tips for Booking a Tour Guide

• Choose Small Group or Private Tours: Smaller groups mean less waiting and a more personalized experience. Private tours are ideal for in-depth exploration.
• Opt for Skip-the-Line Access: Many guides include this in their services, saving valuable time.
• Check Reviews: Platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, or France Tourisme feature highly-rated local guides.
• Duration: Most guided tours last about 1.5–3 hours, perfect for those on a tight schedule.

A guided tour will not only maximize your time but also enhance your appreciation of the art and history within the Louvre’s walls. It’s a small investment for a significantly more enjoyable and efficient visit!

GetYourGuide – https://www.getyourguide.com

Viator – https://www.viator.com

Francetourisme – https://www.francetourisme.fr/en

Why Visit?
This former railway station is home to the world’s largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Think Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.

Tips:

• Arrive at opening time to enjoy quiet moments with Van Gogh’s Starry Night Over the Rhône.
• Don’t miss the stunning clock tower view over the Seine.
• The Café Campana inside is a perfect spot for a snack or coffee break.

Closed: Mondays
Best Ticket Option: Buy a skip-the-line ticket online. It’s also included in the Paris Museum Pass.

Musee d’Orsay – https://www.musee-orsay.fr/en

Paris Museum Pass – https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/en

Why Visit?
Dedicated to the works of sculptor Auguste Rodin, this museum is both indoor and outdoor bliss. Its gardens are dotted with Rodin’s masterpieces like The Thinker.

Tips:

• The gardens are magical and less crowded, so take your time exploring.
• Perfect for a sunny day as the outdoor sculptures shine in natural light.

Closed: Mondays
Best Ticket Option: Buy a combined ticket for access to the museum and the gardens.

Musee Rodin – https://www.musee-rodin.fr/en

Paris Museum Pass – https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/en

Why Visit?
This museum is devoted to Pablo Picasso’s works and is housed in a stunning 17th-century mansion. You’ll find paintings, sculptures, and sketches that span his entire career.

Tips:

• Check out temporary exhibits—they often feature works from Picasso’s contemporaries.
• A smaller museum, so plan for an hour or two here.

Closed: Mondays
Best Ticket Option: Tickets are reasonably priced, and it’s included in the Paris Museum Pass.

Musee Picasso –  https://www.museepicassoparis.fr/

Paris Museum Pass – https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/en

Why Visit?
Home to Monet’s Water Lilies, this museum offers an intimate look at Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. It’s smaller but packs a powerful punch.

Tips:

• Go in the afternoon to experience Monet’s Water Lilies with fewer crowds.
• The museum’s layout makes it easy to navigate in an hour or two.

Closed: Tuesdays
Best Ticket Option: The Paris Museum Pass covers this museum.

Musee Orangerie –  https://www.musee-orangerie.fr/en

Paris Museum Pass – https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/en

For museum enthusiasts, the Paris Museum Pass is a game-changer. It offers skip-the-line access to most major museums (including the five above) and is valid for 2, 4, or 6 days. It’s a stress-free way to explore Paris’s cultural gems.

Enjoy Paris, where every museum visit feels like stepping into a masterpiece!

https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/en