Musée d'Orsay
Paris, France · Museum
About Musée d'Orsay
The Musée d'Orsay is one of Paris's premier art museums, situated on the Left Bank of the River Seine. Housed in a grand Beaux-Arts railway station built for the 1900 World's Fair, the building itself is an architectural masterpiece. It is celebrated worldwide for holding the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artworks on Earth.
Don't miss
- Vincent van Gogh's evocative masterpieces, including Starry Night Over the Rhône and his famous Self-Portrait.
- Claude Monet's iconic works showcasing his luminous studies of light, such as the Blue Water Lilies and Rouen Cathedral series.
- Édouard Manet's groundbreaking and historically scandalous canvas, Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe.
- The colossal 5th-floor station clock, offering scenic silhouette views looking out toward Montmartre and the Seine.
Plan your visit
Visit on a Thursday evening during extended late hours or early on a weekday morning to escape the peak crowds. The low season from November to February also brings far fewer tour groups.
Admission is paid, though entry is free for visitors under 18 and EU citizens under 26. Booking a timed-entry ticket online in advance is essential to avoid lengthy ticket lines.
Take the RER C train directly to the Musée d'Orsay station, or ride Metro Line 12 to Solférino. It is also an easy 10-minute walk across the Seine from the Tuileries Garden and the Louvre.
Tips for visiting
- Head directly up to the 5th floor at opening time to view the prime Impressionist paintings before the galleries fill up.
- Step behind the massive glass clock face on the top floor for an iconic photo opportunity overlooking Paris.
- Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your weekly itinerary accordingly.
- Rent an audio guide or download the official museum mobile app to better appreciate the context of key masterworks.
- Travel light, as oversized luggage and large backpacks are prohibited and cannot be checked at the cloakroom.
Musée d'Orsay FAQ
Is the museum accessible for travelers with reduced mobility?
Yes, the museum is fully equipped with elevators, access ramps, and dedicated accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs can also be borrowed free of charge at the cloakroom upon arrival.
Are visitors allowed to take photographs inside?
Yes, non-commercial photography without flash is permitted throughout the permanent collection galleries. Tripods, selfie sticks, and flash equipment are strictly forbidden.
Can I visit the museum using the Paris Museum Pass?
Yes, admission is included with the Paris Museum Pass. However, pass holders must still reserve a free timed-entry ticket online in advance to ensure entry.
Are there places to eat inside Musée d'Orsay?
Yes, the museum features multiple dining options, including the grand historic restaurant with gilded ceilings on the first floor. There is also the casual Café Campana located on the fifth floor next to the Impressionist galleries.
More things to do in Paris
Eiffel Tower Landmark
Ascend this iconic iron landmark for breathtaking panoramic views across the Parisian skyline.
Louvre Museum Museum
Explore vast royal galleries housing thousands of treasures, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Landmark
Marvel at the historic heart of Paris and the beautifully restored Gothic architecture on the Île de la Cité.
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Neighborhood
Wander romantic cobblestone alleys leading up to the white hilltop basilica overlooking the city.
Seine River Cruise Activity
Glide past illuminated monuments and historic bridges aboard an open-air riverboat.
Jardin du Luxembourg Nature
Relax among tree-lined promenades, elegant statues, and fountains in this historic palace garden.
Le Marais Neighborhood
Stroll through medieval lanes filled with stylish boutiques, contemporary galleries, and lively cafes.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: guy_dugas on Pixabay.