Centre Pompidou

The Basics

Designed by architects Richard Rogers, Renzo Piano, and Gianfranco Franchini, Centre Pompidou is a triumph of postmodern architecture. All of the building’s functional systems—from air conditioning to water supply—are routed across its exterior in multicolored pipes; some compare the structure to an oil refinery. It’s named after former French President Georges Pompidou, who commissioned the building in 1969.

Aside from the National Museum of Contemporary Art, Centre Pompidou is also home to a huge public reading library, a concert hall, and other cultural organizations. Along with an excellent permanent collection of contemporary European art from 1905 to the present day, including a complete reconstruction of sculptor Constantin Brancusi’s studio, the center also hosts a regular program of cinema showings and live music, theater, and dance performances. The building is a popular spot on walking tours of the city.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Entry to Centre Pompidou is by paid ticket.

• Skip the line with a Paris multi-attraction pass.

• Arrange a private tour for more in-depth information about the Pompidou and its collection.

• Entry is free every first Sunday of the month.

• Wheelchairs are available for loan from the visitor’s cloakroom.

• Two of the movie screens are fitted with audio induction loops for those using hearing aids.

How to Get There

Centre Pompidou is in the Beaubourg, in the 4th arrondissement, near Les Halles shopping mall. The closest metro stops are Hotel de Ville (Lines 1 and 11) and Chatelet (Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, and 14). It is walkable from other attractions in the city center, including Notre Dame Cathedral. There is underground parking on-site.

When to Get There

The center is open Wednesday–Monday from 11am–9pm. On Thursday evenings, it stays open until 11pm. Ticket offices shut one hour before closing time. The Atelier Brancusi is open from 2pm–6pm, while the reading library opens from 12pm–10pm on weekdays and 11am–10pm on weekends. All sites are closed Tuesdays. The center is usually busiest from midmorning through midafternoon.

Stravinsky Fountain

Designed by Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle, the Stravinsky Fountain, outside Centre Pompidou’s south side, was meant to represent composer Igor Stravinsky’s works. Its bright colors and whimsical shapes will draw a smile from children and adults alike.

Can you visit the Pompidou Centre for free?

Yes, it is possible to visit the Pompidou Centre for free during a designated time each month. Check the website for the latest information, but once a month, such as on the first Sunday, admission to this famous museum is free for everyone. Otherwise, there is an admission fee.

How long should you spend at Centre Pompidou?

Plan on spending at least 2 hours, or up to half a day, exploring the multi-floor museum at Centre Pompidou. Home to one of Europe’s most significant modern and contemporary art collections, this museum is a top cultural attraction and could quickly fill an entire day for art history buffs.

Is Centre Pompidou worth it?

Yes, visiting Centre Pompidou is worth it. This Paris museum is home to one of Europe's biggest collections of modern and contemporary art. Entry is free on the first Sunday of the month, though be prepared for lines. Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the many exhibitions here.

What is the best time of day at Centre Pompidou?

Choose a weekday versus a weekend when planning a visit to Centre Pompidou. The late afternoon hours can be a peaceful time to explore the many exhibitions of this modern and contemporary art museum. Book your tickets online and choose a pre-booked time slot for easy museum access.

Is Centre Pompidou good for kids?

Yes, Centre Pompidou is suitable for kids—this Paris museum offers a Kids Gallery and Kids Studio that plans activities for kids of all ages. Workshops run by contemporary artists, hands-on, interactive exhibitions, and events with musicians all entertain and build artistic skills for children.

Is Centre Pompidou closing in 2023?

No, Centre Pompidou is not closing in 2023, but it is expected to gradually close starting in the autumn of 2024, with final closure in the summer of 2025. Several years of work and renovations are expected over five years, with the museum finally scheduled to reopen in 2030.

Ways to explore

Aside from Europe’s largest collection of modern and contemporary art, Centre Pompidou is also home to a huge public reading library, a concert hall, and a regular program of cinema showings and live music, theater, and dance performances. A number of Paris walking and bike tours pass by Centre Pompidou, especially those focused on Le Marais and the city’s medieval sights. These experiences are a great way to see Place des Vosges, the Marché des Enfants Rouges, and other city highlights in a half day or a few hours. To explore the museum’s wealth of artwork with a guide, book a private tour.

Accessibility

The Centre Pompidou is fully accessible, with wheelchairs available, elevators, and a priority entrance located at 2 Rue Beaubourg. The facility offers tours and services for those with disabilities.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Essentials that you can carry

What to wear

Comfortable clothes, walking shoes

Not allowed

Bulky bags, selfie sticks, flash photography, non-service animals, motorized vehicles

Amenities

Kids’ activity center, gift shop, bookstore, restrooms, cloakroom, dining options

Address

Centre Pompidou is located in Paris’ Beaubourg district in the 4th arrondissement. It’s an easy walk from attractions such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Les Halles shopping mall, but you can also reach it by car and public transportation.

Driving

Self-navigating in central Paris isn’t ideal due to heavy traffic and tricky parking. However, taxis and rideshare apps can get you to Centre Pompidou within 30 minutes from most parts of the city.

Public transportation

Multiple Metro stops are within a 10-minute walk of Centre Pompidou, including Rambuteau (line 11), Hôtel de Ville (Lines 1 and 11), and Châtelet (lines 1, 4, 7, 11, and 14).

Best times to visit

Centre Pompidou is busiest at midday, so visit closer to closing for a calmer atmosphere—especially on Thursdays when the museum is open until 11pm.

Best days to visit

The museum’s busiest days are Saturday and Sunday—head there on a weekday (except for Tuesday, when it’s closed) to explore the exhibits without crowds.

Best months to visit

Centre Pompidou is a great activity year-round, but the best months for Paris are June–October, when you can enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions.

Special events

Check Centre Pompidou’s website for regularly scheduled special exhibitions, activities, and performances.