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The Musée d’Orsay: Masterpieces of Art in a Former Parisian Train Station
Nestled in a majestic 19th-century train station, the Musée d’Orsay represents the perfect combination of industrial architecture and the greatest masterpieces of art. Let’s explore this unique museum, which is the pride of Paris.
From Train Station to Museum: An Extraordinary Transformation
Built for the 1900 World’s Fair, the former Orsay train station was transformed in 1986 into one of the most visited museums in the world. Its monumental clock and metal nave still bear witness to its railway past, creating a unique atmosphere in which to admire the works of art.
Must-see exhibits at the Musée d’Orsay
The Impressionist Collection
The museum houses the largest collection of Impressionist works in the world. Iconic paintings by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Cézanne illuminate the galleries with their vibrant colors.
Masterpieces not to be missed
- « Le Déjeuner sur l’herbe » de Manet
- « Les Danseuses bleues » de Degas
- « L’Origine du monde » de Courbet
- « Bal du moulin de la Galette » de Renoir
- « La Classe de danse » de Degas
La Grande Horloge
The highlight of the visit, the large clock offers a breathtaking view of Paris through its transparent dial. An insider tip: this spectacular view blends beautifully with the view from the Seine, where the building’s reflections on the water create a living tableau, particularly enchanting during a sunset cruise.
The Permanent Collections
The museum presents a crucial period in art history, from 1848 to 1914, through various art forms:
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Decorative arts
- Photography
- Architecture
Practical Information
Opening hours and admission fees
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Late night opening on Thursdays until 9:45 p.m.
- Closed on Mondays
- Full price: €16
- Free for visitors under 18
How to get there
- Metro: line 12, Solférino station
- RER C: Musée d’Orsay station
- Bus: 24, 63, 68, 69, 73, 83, 84, 94
For a unique experience, did you know that the museum is particularly beautiful when viewed from the Seine? Family river cruises offer an exceptional view of its monumental facade, while allowing you to discover other Parisian treasures such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Les Invalides.
Our tips for your visit
- Early in the morning on weekdays
- Thursday evening during late-night opening
- Buy your tickets online to avoid queues
Services
- Audio guides available in several languages
- Gourmet restaurant with a view of the Seine
- Literary café under the large clock
- Bookshop
Did you know?
The museum’s large nave is 138 meters long and its vaulted ceiling reaches a height of 32 meters. This spectacular architecture now allows works to be exhibited in optimal natural light conditions.
The Musée d’Orsay is not just a museum, it is a true immersion in the golden age of French art. Its privileged location on the banks of the Seine makes it an essential highlight of any visit to Paris.
Whether you are an art lover or simply curious, the Musée d’Orsay fully deserves its reputation. For a complete experience, consider combining your visit with a guided cruise on the Seine: you will discover the museum’s majestic façade from a unique angle, while enjoying breathtaking views of Paris’ most beautiful monuments.