Explore the Museums in Paris – 13 Best Museums to Visit on your Trip to Paris

Architecture Mona Lisa Art

Considered Paris's most iconic landmark, the Louvre Museum is often on every tourist’s list while visiting Paris. This famous monument is best known for a plethora of art exhibits as well as collection from around the world. It witnesses a crowd of people who visit from across the globe to catch a glimpse of the famous Mona Lisa — painted by Leonardo da Vinci. The timeless glass pyramid that has now become a symbol of sophistication and elegance is also one of the most photographed monument of the city. Apart from a myriad of paintings, the museum also hosts intricate sculptures within its premises.

Louvre Museum Highlights

1. Masterpieces by Leonardo Da Vinci like Mona Lisa and Madonna of the Rocks.
2. More than 50,000 artworks from the ancient Egypt Civilization which includes the Great Sphinx, one of the largest outside Egypt.
3. M. Pei’s Pyramid designed by the famous Chinese-American architect I. M. Pie.
4. Louvre Museum is home to few of the most iconic Greek art from the Hellenistic period.

Recommended Louvre Museum Tickets

Van Gogh HistoryArt

Located on the scenic banks of river Seine, the Museum of Orsay houses an impressive collection of impressionist (400 paintings) and post-impressionist (1,100 paintings) masterpieces of the world. Visitors can get a chance to view famous artworks from artists such as Monet, Degas, Sisley and Van Gogh as the Museum of Orsay is one of the largest art museums in Europe. Originally a railway station, you can still trace the origins of Gare d’Orsay in its opulent architecture. The museum also creates several temporary exhibits throughout the year and it tops on the list of Paris’s interesting attraction.

Orsay Museum Highlights

1. Collection of Van Gogh's Post Impressionist art
2. Lady Liberty statue by Frédéric Bartholdi
3. Masterpieces by Claude Monet especially The Japanese Footbridge and the Water Lily Pool
4. Gates Of Hell by the French Sculptor Auguste Rodin

Recommended Orsay Museum Tickets

Stravinsky Fountain Culture Modern Art

Some may recognise this museum as the oddly structured building placed near the Beauborg area in Paris. However, Centre Pompidou is most importantly known for its vast collection of modern art that will leave you inspired and intrigued. The quirky building also boasts of a humongous library (with almost 500,000 books) that can easily accommodate around 2,000 readers at once. The museum contains over 50,000 works of art including paintings, sculptures, drawings as well as photography. And while you enjoy contemporary art, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the surreal panoramic view of the city from its rooftop terrace.

Centre Georges Pompidou Highlights

1. A new age acrhitectural masterpiece with over 100,000 pieces of Art
2. La Blouse Roumaine, an oil-on-canvas painting by Henri Matisse
3. Incredible works by the Spanish painter Pablo Picasso
4. Must-see contemporary art collection by Andy Warhol

Recommended Centre Georges Pompidou Tickets

Gardens Monographic Museums Sculptures

Opened in 1919, Musée Rodin holds a host of some of Auguste Rodin’s impeccable artworks. Situated amongst well manicured lawns and a sprawling property, the museum is housed in a n 18th century private mansion. You can take a stroll down the pristine gardens and discover some of his prominent works such as ‘The Thinker’ or ‘The Gates of Hell’ within the lawns. You can also admire some of his drawings, prints, paintings, ceramics, photographs and antiques amongst the many collections in this museum. Visitors can also spend some leisure time frolicking around a small lake in the premises and catch a cup of coffee at the casual restaurant at this museum.

Musée Rodin Highlights

1. It is highly recommended to visit the ornamental and rose gardens of the museum that is accessible with a small fee.
2. The museum is a tribute to life and works of the French Sculptor Auguste Rodin and consists of his famous works like The Kiss, The Gates Of Hell and The Thinker
3. Make sure to check out the Age of Maturity, a masterpiece by Camille Claudel

Recommended Musée Rodin Tickets

Art Claude Monet Culture

Spacious and well-organised, the Musee de l’Orangerie is home to Monet’s famous painting: Series of Waterlilies. The museum offers a beautiful, panoramic view of the paintings that in an experience unlike any other. Located in the heart of the city, this museum also features 144 works from Walter Guillaume collection, which is a series creative illustrative works of the first decade of the 20th century. Musee de l’Orangerie’s key feature includes its expansive exhibits that allows viewers to take a good look at every painting. Although not heavily crowded on off days, the museum tends to draw a crowd that is especially enthusiastic about Monet’s artwork from around the globe.

Musée De L'Orangerie Highlights

1. Claude Monet's Water Lilies which is a panoramic mural painting collection from the impressionist era
2. Pablo Picasso's Grande Nature Morte which features his iconic style of cubist art
3. Paul Guillaume's collection which is on display on the second basement floor is something to not miss on
4. The only museum with a view of the Eiffel Tower and Place de la Concord

Recommended Musée De L'Orangerie Tickets

Medieval History Roman Baths Art

Previously known as Musee de Cluny, the Musée National du Moyen-Age boasts of an eye-catching medieval collection and garden within its four walls. In fact, even before you enter the museum, you can glimpse through the beautiful Gallo-Roman baths on your way inside. The museum’s collection includes everything beginning from art to antiquity as well as some notable works from the renaissance periods. Now transformed into a magnificent Hotel de Cluny, the gothic styled architecture of this museum is a hit with many-a-shutterbugs from around the globe who wish to capture the sublime elements of the building.

Musée de Cluny - Musée National du Moyen Age Highlights

1. The museum is home to artworks from the Medieval age that stretches across cultures like Roman, Byzantine and Gothic
2. Don't miss out on the collection of the 'Lady and the Unicorns' tapestries located in the upper level.
3. The museum comprises of the Roman bathhouse (Frigidarium) in the lower level.
4. The Stained Glass Gallery which consists of religious scenes from La Sainte Chapelle and the Basilique de Saint-Denis

Family Architecture Art

One of the most iconic Parisian architecture, one simply can’t miss the striking Grand Palais located on the buzzing streets of Champs Elysees. The architectural masterpiece comprises of three major sites: the Nave, the National Galleries and the Palais de la Decouverte. There are several national and international events being held every year at the Nave that include horse riding, contemporary art and many others. Apart from that, visitors have the privilege to view some eye-catching collections by Picasso, Hopper and several other renowned artists that have set a milestone in the history of art. In fact, children too can make the most of the knowledge imparted at this museum by spending some time at The Palais de la Decouverte. There are numerous cultural hotspots within the museum for kids, that are dedicated to science and fun learning.

Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais Highlights

1. The Grand Palais showcases grand-scale art exhibitions as well as events — like the Annual Paris Photo exhibition, Fashion Week, Auto shows, and even equestrian events.
2. Stand beneath the majestic glass vault located in the Main Space, which has been inspired by London's Crystal Palace.
3. Wildly colourful masterpieces by the painters like Henri Matisse and Gauguin.
4. The Grand Palais Nave, a steel and glass structure wighing more than the Eiffel Tower is the museum's main attraction

Tradition History Culture

If a rich dose of culture is what you’re looking for, the Musée du Quai Branly is the right place to acquaint yourself with traditional art and an eclectic collection of artefacts from across the globe. The museum hosts as many as 300,000 artefacts and objects and 700,000 photograph under its roof. You can browse through various musical instruments, fabrics, clothing that are significant from Oceania, Asia, Africa and America. The museum makes sure to take you on an interesting journey within the cultures of distant lands across centuries. What makes this museum worth a visit is its focus on non-European cultures. It even houses a cosy reading room, a theatre, a cinema, restaurant and a bookshop within its premises.

Musee du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac Highlights

1. The museum is relatively new and showcases 20,000 years of history and art from Africa, Near East and Asia.
2. The Americas collection features artworks from 17th century to today
3. The architecture of the museum is unique with plants covering the walls top to bottom
4. Musee du quai Branly also has roof top restaurant with an entire view of Paris

Recommended Musee du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac Tickets

History Military Napolean’s Tomb

A museum unlike any other, the Army Museum in Paris displays a splendid collection of medieval armour and weapons. The sprawling palatial building which is best known for the tomb of Napoleon I is divided into three prominent sections. The Departement Moderne holds informative exhibits about the two world wars while the other chamber complexes showcase rows of suits of armour. The building is well-organised and elegant, and it also immortalises the history of Paris amidst its exhibits. If weapons and artillery do not impress you, visit for the magnificence of the tomb that is situated inside the museum.

Musée de L'Armée Highlights

1. Collection of military history and art with over 500,000 objects from pre-historic to present day
2. The Charles de Gaulle monument dedicated to the founding president of Fifth Republic
3. The tomb of Napolean inside the golden dome. The tomb is surrounded by grand columns, statues and arches.
4. The Sword of François I

Recommended Musée de L'Armée Tickets

Monet Exhibitions Art

The Musee Marmottan - Claude Monet is popular due to the largest collection of Monet’s work that is exhibited within museum. Originally built as a hunting lodge for the Duke of Valmy, the museum was brought back life in the year 1934. Visitors can view some of Claude Monet’s remarkable artwork (including ‘Impression, Sunrise’) in a fresh new light at this museum. Musee Marmottan houses as many as 130 paintings and drawings, and also a large collection of paintings from Impressionist Berthe Morisot. You may even venture into a chamber featuring 90 artworks from lesser-known (yet equally intriguing) impressionists if you’re an art enthusiast seeking for an alternative.

Musee Marmottan - Claude Monet Highlights

1. Monet's permanent impressionist collection
2. The Grand Dame of impressionism by Berthe Morisot
3. More than 200 art pieces from the Middle Age and the Renaissance era

Architecture Culture Heritage

If you’re someone who appreciates architecture and its history, the Cite de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine museum is definitely something you shouldn’t miss out. Set off on a voyage that takes you through the rich architectural heritage of France, beginning from the middle ages to present day. You may come across exhibits such as a life-sized productions of doorway of Chartres Cathedral, or models and videos included in this museum’s collection. It even hosts temporary workshops for children and adults alike, that briefs you with the history and various challenges faced back in the day. Glimpse into the world of architecture and how it has evolved over the years during your visit to this museum.

Cite de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine Highlights

1. The museum covers over 9000 square meters of gallery space and consists of three permanent exhibitions
2. The Gallery of French Monument which houses copies of French architecture from the 12th to the 18th centuries
3. The museum offers plenty of learning opportunities for students in the field of architecture.

Wax Figures Hall of Mirrors Art

A must-see attraction in Paris, Grevin Wax Museum has over 200 life-like wax statues of celebrities from throughout history and today. Fulfill your life-long dream of clicking a picture with your favourite pop star, sporting hero or a role model from the pages of history. Got something to say to Trump? How about a close up with Ryan Gosling, Marilyn Monroe, Pope John Paul II, Charles de Gaulle, or Mozart? There are 200 famous people waiting for a picture with you here! However, there's a lot more to Grevin Museum than just waxworks. Step into realistic, immersive experiences with famous faces and explore scenes from 19th and 20th-century France. You can even learn how the wax figures are made on a free tour

Grévin Wax Museum Highlights

1. The wax museum consists of historical statues of Napolean Bonaparte and Louis XIV
2. Don't miss the Discovery Tour that takes you through all major steps of making a wax statue - from sculpting and moulding right up to hair styling, make-up, costumes, and accessories.
3. Indulge in Jungle Breakfast within close proximity to orangutans and giraffes.

Recommended Grévin Wax Museum Tickets

Pablo Picasso Art Collectibles

Picasso once said, "Give me a museum and I will fill it". Dedicated to the life and work of Pablo Picasso as well as to the artists who were linked to him, Picasso Museum is a treat for art lovers. The museum has over 5000 artworks including drawings, paintings, engravings and sculptures by the Spanish-born artist Picasso. You’ll get to see works from throughout his career, starting from his formative creative years, getting a sense of the great artist's evolution. The collection is housed inside a 17th-century mansion, considered to be one of the finest historic houses in Marais.

Picasso Museum Highlights

1. Be sure to check out the portrait of Picasso made by a French street artist Invader just around the corner of the museum.
2. The museum was recently restored, and it’s absolutely the best place to learn about Picasso and his art.
3. Picasso's notable works like Guernica, The Old Guitarist, Les Demoiselles D'Avignon and The Woman in the Garden

Recommended Picasso Museum Tickets