Musée d'Orsay

The Basics

With its position in the 7th arrondissement, just across the river from the Jardin des Tuileries, the Orsay Museumis easy to visit during a day of sightseeing in central Paris. Tickets are available on site, but you can avoid any wait by booking a skip-the-line ticket or a guided museum tour in advance. Or, opt for an enhanced experience that combines an art walking tour with a Orsay Museumskip-the-line ticket.

Once inside, you'll be immersed in the world of Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, and other masters of the 19th and 20th centuries. Works include Degas'The Ballet Class and Van Gogh'sStarry Night. In addition to the paintings, don't miss the museum's large clock, which you can look through for a view of the Right Bank.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Do not bring suitcases, backpacks, or other travel bags; they are not permitted inside and cannot be left in the cloakroom.

• Note that security is sometimes heightened at this popular site. The museum follows security measures per French authorities, and this can lead to delays.

• Wheelchairs and pushchairs can be borrowed from the cloakroom, while large strollers and baby carriers are not allowed.

How to Get There

Paris is best seen on foot, so try to visit the Orsay Museumduring a stroll along the Seine. Otherwise, the museum can be reached via public transit from the Rue de Bac, Solférino, or Assemblée Nationale metro stations or the Gare du Musée d'Orsay RER station.

When to Get There

The museum is open from 9:30am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, with extended hours until 9:45pm on Thursdays. If you have the flexibility to go on Thursday evening, you’ll have a better chance of avoiding crowds. Also keep in mind that Paris is busiest in summer.

Dining at theOrsay Museum

If you get hungry for something light, sandwiches and salads can be purchased at Café de l'ours, but for a more thematic dining experience at the museum, visit one of its two restaurants. At Café Campana, enjoy classic Parisian brasserie fare in a dreamy underwater environment inspired by Emile Gallé, a French artist and influencer of Art Nouveau. Or go upscale at the Restaurant du Musée d'Orsay, where French cuisine related to museum events is served in an elegant, chandelier-lined room with gilded detailing and large windows.

How long do you need in the Orsay Museum?

To fully appreciate the Musée d'Orsay, allocate 2–3 hours on average, considering your interest level in art. Enthusiasts can explore Impressionist, post-Impressionist, and decorative artworks, while those with limited time could cover highlights in an hour or two. To optimize your experience, consider a private guided tour with skip-the-line admission.

What is the least busy day at Musée d'Orsay?

To enjoy the least crowded experience at the Musée d'Orsay, visit Thursday evenings when the museum offers extended hours. Additionally, Wednesday and Friday mornings are quieter to visit, allowing visitors to explore the museum's extensive collections in a more serene and relaxed environment.

Can I take pictures at Musée d'Orsay?

Yes, you're welcome to take photos and film videos at Musée d'Orsay for personal use. Just remember to turn off your flash. Some artworks might have photo restrictions, clearly marked. If you're planning commercial or group photography, get permission beforehand. Be sure to store all camera stands and lighting gear in the cloakroom.

Is Musée d'Orsay accessible?

Yes, the Musee d'Orsay is accessible with provisions like wheelchairs, canes, and folding seats. Strollers with metal frames aren't allowed, but there are strollers in the cloakroom. Elevators and ramps ensure access for reduced mobility visitors and strollers. Additional services include adapted audioguides with induction loops and French Sign Language (LSF).

Does Musée d’Orsay provide guided tours?

Yes, for an additional fee, the Musée d'Orsay offers one daily guided tour, which provides insights into the collections by focusing on key masterpieces. Visitors can also rent an audio guide covering the museum’s major exhibitions. For a personalized and flexible experience, book a private tour through an external provider.

When is Musée d’Orsay closed?

The Musee d’Orsay is closed on Mondays, May 1, and Dec. 25. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, with extended late-night hours on Wednesdays. Plan your Paris trip accordingly to ensure a delightful experience while exploring the museum's exceptional collection of art and history.

Ways to explore

The Musée d’Orsay is easy to visit during a day of Paris sightseeing. Tickets are available on-site, but you can avoid any wait by booking a skip-the-line ticket or a guided museum tour in advance. As a bonus, you can opt for an enhanced experience that also includes an art walking tour.

The Musée d’Orsay isn’t as large as the Louvre, but it still boasts a sprawling collection—set aside at least a couple of hours to seek out the highlights. Once inside, you’ll be immersed in the world of Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, and other art masters of the 19th and 20th centuries. Works on display include iconic canvases like Degas’ The Ballet Class and Van Gogh’s Starry Night. In addition to the paintings, don’t miss the museum’s large clock, which you can look through for a view of the Right Bank.

Accessibility

The entire museum is accessible to wheelchair users, and wheelchairs are available to rent.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, small sketchpad and pencil

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, handheld bag

Not allowed

Luggage, other large and bulky items

Amenities

Cloakroom, restrooms, free Wi-Fi, restaurants, gift shop, paid audio guides

Address

The Musée d’Orsay is located in the 7th arrondissement, right in the heart of central Paris and just south of the River Seine. It is accessible by both car and public transportation, as well as taxis and riverboat services.

Driving

Driving to the Musée d’Orsay is possible, but navigating Paris’ narrow streets and limited parking can be challenging. A nearby option is the Indigo Parking at 62 Rue de Lille, just a short walk from the museum. Note that the area falls within Paris’ low-emission zone, so ensure your vehicle complies with local regulations.

Public transportation

To get to the Musée d’Orsay via public transportation, take the RER C commuter train to Musée d’Orsay, located right by the museum entrance. You can also take Métro line 12 to Solférino, just three minutes away on foot.

Best times to visit

For the calmest experience at the museum, especially on weekends, arrive right at opening time or make use of the late opening times on Thursdays. Note that last admission is one hour before closing time.

Best days to visit

Tuesdays and Sundays are generally the busiest days at the museum; visit during another time for a quieter experience. The museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month (advance reservation required).

Best months to visit

For the shortest lines, visit the museum during its low season, from November to March.

Special events

If you can, time your visit for the European Night of Museums (Nuit Européenne des Musées) in mid-May, an annual event that invites visitors to explore cultural institutions late into the evening.