Definitive Guide to Visit Musée d’Orsay
Support when you need it
Customer service to help you with all your needs from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Fast and online booking
Choose the best option for your needs and preferences and avoid the lines.
Top attraction in Paris
Explore the Musée d’Orsay, a hub of art and history in the city center.
A Short Introduction to Visit Musée d'Orsay
This guide provides all the information you need to know about your visit to Musee d’Orsay. Before starting, let’s find out about the museum and why you should visit it. One of the most visited museums in the world, Musée d’Orsay was developed on a former railway station to preserve artworks of renowned impressionist and post-impressionist artists like Monet and Van Gogh. Inside Musée d’Orsay, you will find artworks dating back to the mid-19th century.
Visit the museum with family and friends to find pieces that amalgamate art and history. If you are in Paris, you cannot miss this masterpiece. Here is a guide for you to visit Musee d’Orsay and enjoy an easy and rewarding experience in the city of love.
Quick information to visit the Musée d'Orsay
Why Visit Musée d'Orsay?
Musee d’Orsay is the epitome of art in the creative world. Its beautiful setting and breathtaking artwork should not be missed. This guide will highlight the reasons why you must visit Musee d’Orsay when you go to Paris.
1. Innovative design
Musée d’Orsay is built in a former railway station and hotel situated at the banks of the Seine river.
2. France’s first photographic gallery
Musée d’Orsay presents more than 45000 images for visitors after becoming the first photographic gallery in France. Works of celebrated artists like Pierre Bonnard and Edgar Degas are displayed in the museum for visitors.
3. Pricesless artwork
Musée d’Orsay is home to some of the most iconic sculptures, photographs, paintings, and portraits, like the famous self-portrait of Van Gogh and Cezzane’s still-life oil paintings.
4. Evolving temporary exhibitions
The museum organizes various temporary exhibitions to present the works of various artists from time to time. From photograph series to portraits, the exhibitions have interesting collections and themes to offer.
5. Enchanting view
The museum is surrounded by the beautiful Seine River and other landmarks such as the Louvre Museum and Sacre Coeur. The view can be enjoyed from Cafe Company, situated on the 5th-floor terrace of the museum. Don’t miss the clock window on this floor, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Parisian skyline.
6. A center of culture and art
The museum hosts many cultural events for visitors throughout the year in their auditorium, built for interactive gatherings, lectures, and concerts. Guided tours are also organized frequently for groups to learn about the artwork in the museum.
Plan your Visit to Musée d'Orsay
Start by booking your tickets online to avoid long queues. Then, for an easy trip, get information about the opening hours, how to get to the museum, and the services provided during your visit.
- The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM on Tuesday through Sunday.
- The late opening show on Thursday runs from 6 PM to 9:45 PM.
- 1st Sunday of every month – The Museum provides free access to all visitors (compulsory free online slot booking is required before the visit)
- The museum is closed on every Monday, 25th December and 1st May.
- On 24th December and 31st December, the museum closes at 5 PM.
You are encouraged to check the details online beforehand to avoid any confusion. Book your slot online in advance to avoid any last-minute hustle in the museum.
- Metro: Take Line 12 to Solférino station
- RER: Take Line C to Musée d’Orsay station
- Bus: Bus lines 63, 68, 73, 69, 83, 84, 94.
- Taxi: Drop-on and drop-off services are provided by various taxi services on call and applications.
The Musée d’Orsay ensures a comfortable visit with wheelchair rentals, disability-friendly washrooms, and accessible entrance queues. Visitors can enjoy curated souvenir shops for memorable gifts and savor classic French cuisine at Café Campana behind the iconic clock face. Note that tickets are non-refundable, so plan your visit carefully.
How to Visit Musée d'Orsay
The museum is easily accessible by metro, on foot, and by bus. The museum is only a 12-minute walk away from the Louvre Museum – it is just in front of the Louvre, across the river.
Tip 1: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long wait times and secure your visit because Musée d’Orsay tickets sell out fast
Tip 2: To enter the museum easily, arrive 30 minutes before your booked time slot.
Tip 3: You can pick up a printed copy of the guided tour from the reception or download it online through their website.
Tip 4: Keep 3 hours of your itinerary free for the museum so you can enjoy it to the fullest without the rush to move on to the next attraction.
Tip 5: Check the website for the schedule of temporary exhibitions and upcoming events for photography allowed in the museum; however, the use of flash is prohibited.
When is the Best Time to Visit Musée d'Orsay?
Visit the museum on weekdays in the early morning or in the late afternoon after 4 PM to enjoy the artwork without crowds. Thursdays are more suitable for your visit throughout the day as the museum is open till 9:45 PM.
Please note that the museum is less crowded from November to March.
Best Ways to Visit Musée d'Orsay
The museum is a work of art and needs your time for a thorough visit. To make it happen, booking your tickets online in advance should be your go-to solution. Avoid the long queues and risk of missing out on your time slot with favorable online ticketing options like:
FAQs About the Visit to Musée d'Orsay
The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM. Entry is closed after 5:15 for exhibitions. On Thursdays. Late-night shows run from 6 PM to 9:45 PM.
Yes, a guided tour in printed form is provided at the reception desk to the visitors. You can also download the guided tour from the museum’s website.
Here are the 5 most important things to bring for your visit to the Musée d’Orsay:
- Tickets: Pre-purchased (printed or digital) to skip the lines.
- Valid ID: Required for discounts or free entry eligibility.
- Comfortable Shoes: Essential for walking through the large museum.
- Small Bag: Large bags aren’t allowed, so keep it compact.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated (sealed bottles only).
Start at the top of the museum to enjoy the best view and oldest artworks. The 5th floor boasts a breathtaking view of the city with interesting paintings and artworks on display.
You need a good 3 hours to explore the entire museum.
Yes, the museum is kid-friendly and considered one of the best locations for kids.
Other things to do in Paris
