Discover the hidden treasures of the Orsay Museum, home to some of the world's most iconic pieces of art.
Mandatory mask for visitors over 11 years old (bring your own), hand sanitizer gel available in each room, keep 1-meter distance, cloakroom not available.
Large bags or luggage are not allowed inside the museum
No refund, no exchange
The Orsay Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Visitors can explore iconic works by artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent van Gogh. The museum's collection also features Symbolist art, Art Nouveau objects, and photography, offering a comprehensive overview of art from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries.
The Orsay Museum is easily accessible by various public transport options. The most direct way is via RER C, stopping at "Musée d'Orsay" station. Alternatively, you can take Metro Line 12 to "Solférino" station, which is a short walk away. Several bus lines also serve the museum, including lines 24, 63, 68, 69, 73, 83, 84, and 94, with stops conveniently located nearby.
To secure a dedicated entrance ticket for the Orsay Museum and benefit from skip-the-line access, it is highly recommended to purchase your ticket in advance online. Booking through KKday offers the convenience of guaranteed entry and saves time by allowing you to bypass general admission queues, ensuring a smoother and more efficient start to your museum visit. This method helps to avoid long waiting times, especially during peak seasons.
For a comprehensive and enjoyable visit to the Orsay Museum, a recommended duration is typically between 2.5 to 4 hours. This allows ample time to explore the museum's major collections, including its famous Impressionist galleries, delve into temporary exhibitions, and appreciate the unique architecture of the building. Those with specific interests in particular artists or periods may wish to allocate even more time.
The Orsay Museum building was originally constructed as the Gare d'Orsay, a grand Beaux-Arts railway station designed for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. After serving as a train station until 1939 and subsequently as a postal sorting office, film set, and temporary shelter, it was slated for demolition. However, it was ultimately repurposed and opened as a museum in 1986, preserving its magnificent architecture while housing extensive art collections.
The Orsay Museum provides a unique experience with its blend of stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, a former railway station, and an unparalleled collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Visitors can admire the iconic giant clock on the upper floor, which offers panoramic views of the Seine and the Louvre. The museum's layout allows for an immersive journey through art from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries, housed within a historically significant structure.
Yes, a general admission ticket for the Orsay Museum typically includes access to both the permanent collections and any ongoing temporary exhibitions. This allows visitors to fully experience the museum's diverse offerings, from its world-renowned masterpieces to special thematic displays. It is always a good practice to check the museum's official schedule for current temporary exhibition details during your visit.
The Orsay Museum proudly features masterpieces by a host of celebrated artists, particularly those from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements. Prominent figures whose works are showcased include Claude Monet, famous for his water lilies series, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, and the distinctive brushstrokes of Vincent van Gogh. Their iconic paintings form the core of the museum's collection.