If you’re looking for an art museum that will transport you to a world of beauty, history and culture, look no further than the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. This magnificent museum is home to some of the most influential artworks in the world, showcasing epoch-defining styles and movements that span the years from 1848 to 1914 – possibly the most transformational in the history of art.
From impressionism to post-impressionism, from realism to symbolism, the Musée d’Orsay is a showstopper. Whether you’re an art lover or simply curious about the world of art, you’ll find something to inspire and enchant you here. What’s more, the museum’s location in a bright and airy converted beaux arts train station really brings home the optimism and dynamism of a period the French call the Belle Époque, or ‘beautiful era’.
But the beauty of the Musée d’Orsay doesn’t stop there. You’ll also find sculptures by Rodin, including The Thinker, and intricate decorative arts, such as a collection of Art Nouveau furniture and objects.
While the majority of the works are by French artists, others such as Klimt and Munch get a look in. Some of the most famous artworks at the Musée d’Orsay include van Gogh’s Starry Night Over the Rhône, Renoir’s Dance at Le moulin de la Galette and Manet’s Luncheon on the Grass.
Things to know before you go
Admission is free for children under 18 and for EU residents under 26.
The Musée d’Orsay is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with wheelchair access and assistance available on request. The museum also offers guided tours for visitors with hearing or visual impairments.
Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum, but the use of flash or tripods is prohibited.
Visitors are asked to respect the artwork and refrain from touching any of the pieces.
Food and drinks are not allowed in the galleries, and smoking is prohibited on museum grounds.
Opening hours of the Musée d’Orsay
Tuesday to Sunday – 09:30 to 18:00, with late opening until 21:45 on Thursdays.
How to get there
The Musée d’Orsay is located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, on the left bank of the River Seine. The address is 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France.
By Metro – take line 12 to Solférino station, which is located right in front of the museum.
By RER train – take line C to the Musée d’Orsay station, which is located just a few steps from the museum entrance.
By bus – lines 24, 63, 68, 69, 73, 83, 84, 94, and 95 all stop near the museum.
