Overview
The Musée d'Orsay is a renowned museum located on the Left Bank of the Seine. It is housed in the former Gare d'Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station built between 1898 and 1900. The museum showcases a vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, making it one of the most important museums in Paris.
The Musée d'Orsay is significant for its extensive collection of art from the Western world, particularly Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
Location
Address
1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, Paris
Neighborhood: 7th arrondissement
Coordinates
48.858400, 2.326600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild, pleasant
- • spring flowers in the gardens
- • temporary exhibitions
summer
warm to hot, can be crowded
- • extended opening hours
- • outdoor exhibitions
autumn
cool, crisp air, beautiful autumn colors
- • fall colors in the gardens
- • special exhibitions
winter
cold, some rain or snow
- • holiday lights, festive decorations
- • winter exhibitions
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Check opening hours
- Bring valid ID
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate, extensive walking
- • stairs and elevators available, but some walking required
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit/debit cards, cash (limited)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least 2-3 days in advance
- • official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • usually 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available for purchase online
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Musée d'Orsay Official App
Size: 100 MB
Features: interactive map, audio guide, ticket booking, exhibition information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Some exhibition areas
Charging Stations: Available in the visitor center and café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1-3 km, depending on starting point
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Musée d'Orsay is a beloved cultural landmark in Paris, offering a unique blend of art, history, and architecture.
Historical Significance: The museum is housed in a former railway station, which is itself a significant piece of architectural history. It was built for the 1900 World's Fair and later served as a postal sorting center during World War II.
Insider Tips
- The museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of each month
- The best views of the Eiffel Tower can be seen from the museum's café
- The museum's bookshop has a great selection of art books and souvenirs
Local Recommendations
- • Try a croissant from the nearby café
- • Ask for recommendations from the friendly staff
- • Visit the nearby Rue Cler market for local food and souvenirs
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: French, English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main staircase
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the grand staircase and natural light
Result: Stunning architectural shots
Clock gallery
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Use the natural light from the large windows
Result: Beautiful light-filled shots of the clock and sculptures
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Louvre Museum
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Art Museum
Eiffel Tower
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Landmark
Musée de l'Orangerie
Distance: 500 m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Art Museum
Pont Alexandre III
Distance: 300 m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Bridge/Landmark
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online in advance to skip the line"
- "Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds"
- "Don't miss the clock gallery and the Impressionist collection"
- "The café offers great views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
313
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
€16 (full price)