Musee d'Orsay (Orsay Museum), Paris

Musee d'Orsay (Orsay Museum), Paris (must see)

One of the world's most renowned art museums, the Orsay is housed in a former railway station, showcasing an exceptional collection of artworks primarily from the 19th and early 20th centuries – from Impressionist and Post-Impressionist to opulent Art Nouveau pieces.

With its prime location on the Left Bank of the Seine River, the Orsay also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, including stunning vistas of famous landmarks such as the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower from its upper floors.

The museum building itself is an architectural marvel, blending historic charm with modern elements. Originally built as the Gare d'Orsay in the late 19th century, the station was transformed into a museum in 1986. Its grandeur and unique layout provide an ideal setting for the remarkable artworks on display.

The permanent collection features an extensive array of masterpieces by celebrated artists, such as Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night Over the Rhône", Édouard Manet's "Olympia", Pierre-Auguste Renoir's "Bal du moulin de la Galette", and Paul Cézanne's "Apples and Oranges". These, along with countless others, offer an immersive journey through the revolutionary movements that shaped the art world during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

In addition to its renowned painting collection, the museum also boasts an impressive assortment of sculptures, decorative arts, and photography. Visitors can appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship of Art Nouveau furniture, delicate sculptures by Auguste Rodin, and the innovative photographic works of pioneers such as Eugène Atget.

Beyond the artistic treasures, the Musée d'Orsay offers a variety of amenities to enhance the experience, from the several cafes and restaurants to the museum shop, which provides an opportunity to bring home a piece of art through a wide selection of books, prints, and unique souvenirs.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking an enriching cultural experience, a visit to the Orsay is essential.

Why You Should Visit:
For a smaller, more intimate venue and beautiful artwork by the masters, this is the perfect destination!
Not only houses paintings and sculpture but also displays decorative furnishings that would have only graced a palace!

Tip:
The secret pleasure here is the gorgeous 5th-floor restaurant under the huge clock and with one of the best views of Paris. Excellent value for money.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Paris. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Musee d'Orsay (Orsay Museum) on Map

Sight Name: Musee d'Orsay (Orsay Museum)
Sight Location: Paris, France (See walking tours in Paris)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery

Walking Tours in Paris, France

Create Your Own Walk in Paris

Create Your Own Walk in Paris

Creating your own self-guided walk in Paris is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Latin Quarter Walking Tour

Latin Quarter Walking Tour

Paris’ Latin Quarter is situated on the left bank of the Seine and dates back to the Middle Ages. For years, it was known as a bohemian enclave, attracting students, writers and intellectuals. Centered on the Sorbonne University's main university campus, the area was so named a few centuries ago because the students were speaking and learning in Latin. It remains very lively, with a...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Paris Introduction Walking Tour II

Paris Introduction Walking Tour II

From the Louvre to the Notre-Dame Cathedral to Place de la Bastille, the evolution of Paris and its history is literally visible on the banks of the river Seine, the linking thread winding its way through the city, as if keeping a watchful eye on its architectural marvels.

This walk is centered around Île de la Cité and Le Marais, which together form the historical core of power in Paris....  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.4 Km or 2.7 Miles
The French Revolution Landmarks Walking Tour

The French Revolution Landmarks Walking Tour

The French Revolution had a huge impact on France's history as it gave rise to a radical democratic republic and resulted in quite a bit of violence during the infamous "Reign of Terror". Even though many of Paris’ buildings were damaged in the course of the bloody conflicts, the sites they occupied – which you can find on this self-guided tour – are of a great historical...  view more

Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 7.3 Km or 4.5 Miles
St-Germain-des-Pres Walking Tour

St-Germain-des-Pres Walking Tour

This self-guided walk takes you to explore the 6th arrondissement, covering the quarter of St-Germain-des-Prés, the riverside districts and the areas nearby the Luxembourg Garden. It is one of the most expensive districts of Paris, home to posh boutiques, eateries and iconic cafes once favored by philosophers and legendary writers, the likes of Hemingway and Camus. The area is likewise renowned...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Le Marais Walking Tour

Le Marais Walking Tour

The district known to locals as "Le Marais" used to be a bourgeois area in the past and a major center of the Paris Jewish community that still exists today. Here, you will find different bookshops specializing in Jewish books, restaurants with traditional Jewish food and a synagogue. As one of the hippest neighborhoods in the city, it also has no shortage of narrow medieval streets,...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Champs-Elysees Walking Tour

Champs-Elysees Walking Tour

On this self-guided walk you will witness the grandeur of the 8th arrondissement of the French capital – one of its busiest and chic neighborhoods, thanks to the presence of Avenue des Champs-Elysées, Arc de Triomphe, and Place de la Concorde.

Your best plan would be to start with the Triumphal Arch and walk up to its viewing area for great sights down the Champs-Élysées – a lovely...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles

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