Musée d’Orsay

Musée d'Orsay Entry Tickets

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Musée d’Orsay: Where Art and History Converge in Paris

Nestled on the banks of the Seine River in the heart of Paris, the Musée d’Orsay stands as a magnificent testament to the fusion of art and history. Housed within a stunning former railway station, this iconic museum holds a treasure trove of masterpieces from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Musée d’Orsay is not only a paradise for art enthusiasts but also a captivating journey through a pivotal period in history. With its diverse collection and unique setting, it remains one of the most beloved and visited museums in the world.

The Impressive Collection

The Musée d’Orsay boasts an extraordinary collection of artworks from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period that witnessed groundbreaking artistic movements and immense social change. Visitors can marvel at iconic works by renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Auguste Rodin, and many more.

1. Impressionism and Post-Impressionism:

The museum’s Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collection is a highlight, featuring some of the most celebrated works in art history. Paintings like Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies,” Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” and Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s “Bal du moulin de la Galette” provide an immersive experience into the world of these revolutionary artists who defied traditional artistic conventions.

2. Sculptures and Decorative Arts

Apart from paintings, the Musée d’Orsay also houses an impressive collection of sculptures, decorative arts, and furniture. The sculptures of Auguste Rodin, including his iconic “The Thinker” and “The Kiss,” command attention with their emotional intensity and exceptional craftsmanship. Visitors can also explore the sumptuous Art Nouveau and Art Deco furniture and decorative arts, which provide a glimpse into the opulence and elegance of the Belle Époque era.

3. Realism and Symbolism

The museum’s collection extends beyond Impressionism, encompassing various artistic movements that emerged during the 19th century. Works of Realism, with artists like Gustave Courbet, offer an unfiltered view of society and the working class, while Symbolist paintings, such as those by Odilon Redon, transport viewers to a dreamlike and ethereal realm.

A Unique Setting

The Musée d’Orsay’s location within a former railway station adds to its allure and uniqueness. The soaring glass roof and expansive galleries create a sense of openness and light, allowing natural sunlight to illuminate the artworks. As visitors explore the museum’s vast collection, they are also treated to panoramic views of the Seine River and the city of Paris from the upper levels.

Cultural and Social Significance

Beyond its artistic treasures, the Musée d’Orsay serves as a window into the societal changes and cultural shifts that defined the 19th and early 20th centuries. This period witnessed significant advancements in technology, politics, and philosophy, and the artworks displayed at the museum reflect the changing times. From the optimism of the Belle Époque to the turmoil of industrialization and the emergence of new artistic expressions, the museum’s collection tells the stories of human history.

A Journey Through Time

Visiting the Musée d’Orsay is more than just admiring beautiful artworks; it is a journey through time. The museum’s galleries offer an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and connect with the visions and emotions of artists who lived and created during this transformative era.

The Musée d’Orsay is a cultural gem that captures the essence of a pivotal period in art and history. From its architectural splendor as a former railway station to its remarkable collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Symbolist masterpieces, the museum offers an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Stepping into the Musée d’Orsay is akin to stepping into a world of artistic brilliance, societal changes, and cultural significance—a world that continues to inspire and enrich the hearts and minds of those who venture to explore its wonders.

Timings 

Friday to Wednesday (except Monday): 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Thursday: 9:30 AM to 9:45 PM

The last entry is 1 hour before closing time. Please also note that 45 minutes before closing, museum staff will ask visitors to make their way to the exit

Closed on Monday, May 1, and December 25

Ticket Prices

Adult (18 and above) 17 EUR

Tickets include access to the permanent as well as the temporary exhibitions

Important Information

Wheelchair accessible

Free Wi-Fi

Carry your passport or ID proof for verification

Persons under 18 years and EU residents under 26 may enter free with a valid ID

Access to lockers and cloakrooms is limited to large objects that are not allowed in the museum display rooms

The museum is free for everyone on the first Sunday of the month. Reservation is compulsory

Photography and video recordings for private purposes are permitted within the museum without flash

NOTE: complicated access from August 16 to 20, 2023. With the Olympic and Paralympic Games just one year away, the City of Paris, the Paris 2024 organizing committee and the Paris Police Prefecture are testing a number of systems and events in the capital this summer. As a result, access to the Musée d’Orsay will be severely restricted from Wednesday August 16 to Sunday August 20.

How To Get There

Location: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France

The best way to reach the museum is by metro line 12, getting off at Solférino station and taking exit 2 (Rue de Bellechasse Musée d’Orsay) or line 1 (Tuileries or Concorde station, crossing the Tuileries Gardens), using the pedestrian crossing points.

• By RER: line C, Musée d’Orsay station (Musée d’Orsay station will be closed from July 15 to August 27, 2023)
• By bus: 63, 68, 69, 73, 83, 84, 87, 94
• Parking is available at Parking du Carrousel du Louvre and Parking Bac Montalembert

Naqiya Saifee

An explorer at heart and a wordsmith by profession, discovered early on that her joys were found in blending the themes of travel and storytelling. With a background in creative writing and a passion for culture, she takes you to the soul of the destination. Join her as she spins tales of curious cultures for curious minds.