Paris is renowned for its rich art and cultural heritage, which is reflected in the numerous museums and galleries scattered throughout the city. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, there's something for every art and culture enthusiast.
However, most visitors just see the highlights and never find those hidden gems that few have the time to find and enjoy! Today we share with you some of our favourite and most often missed treasures in famous museums so that you can find them during your next visit!
93 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday (9am-6pm) and Friday (9am-9:45pm)
Closed: Tuesday
This world-famous museum houses one of the largest art collections in the world, including the iconic Mona Lisa painting. The Louvre's collections span a wide range of art and artifacts from ancient world.
💎 Our favourite hidden gem is the Egyptian Antiquities department. This section of the museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including statues, a sarcophagi, and mummies!!!
1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris
Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (9:30am-6pm) and Thursday (9:30am-9:45pm)
Closed: Monday
This museum is a must-visit for lovers of impressionist and post-impressionist art. It houses an impressive collection of works by famous artists such as Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh. The museum is housed in a former railway station, which adds to its unique atmosphere.
💎 Our favourite hidden gem at Musée d'Orsay is the Salle des Fêtes, or Ballroom, located on the top floor of the museum. This grand room was once used for elegant social events and is adorned with ornate decorations and intricate gold leaf details. Today, the Ballroom is used for special exhibitions and events and offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent world of 19th-century Parisian high society.
Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (11am-9pm) and Thursday (11am-11pm)
Closed: Tuesday
This modern art museum is located in the heart of Paris and is easily recognizable by its colorful exterior. The museum's collection includes works by Picasso, Matisse, and Kandinsky, as well as contemporary artists such as Warhol and Lichtenstein. The museum's collection of modern art is the highlight, but...
💎 It also has an impressive collection of contemporary design and architecture. The museum's design and architecture collection includes models, sketches, and photographs of buildings and structures from around the world.
77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris
Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (10am-6:30pm)
Closed: Monday
As the name shows, this museum is dedicated to the works of the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin. It houses a collection of sculptures, including the iconic "The Thinker" and "The Kiss," as well as paintings, drawings, and photographs.
💎 In addition to the famous sculptures of Auguste Rodin, it also has a beautiful garden that is home to several sculptures and provides a peaceful oasis in the heart of Paris. Visitors can wander through the garden and admire the sculptures while enjoying the serene surroundings.There is even a café to have a snack and some drinks after your visit. ☕️
Jardin des Tuileries, 75001 Paris
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (9 am–6 pm)
Closed: Tuesday
Previously a royal greenhouse,
this museum is located in the Tuileries Garden and is famous for its collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. While the water lilies murals by Monet are the main attraction!
💎 Did you know that there is a beautiful collection of works by other famous artists such as Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse? These works are displayed in smaller galleries and offer a chance to see lesser-known works by these artists.
37 Quai Jacques Chirac, 75007 Paris
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, (10:30am-7pm ) Thursday (10:30am-10pm)
This museum is dedicated to the art and culture of non-European civilizations, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The museum's collection includes artifacts, sculptures, and paintings, as well as audiovisual displays that showcase the diversity of these cultures.
💎 One of the hidden gems of this museum is the outdoor garden, which is home to over 170,000 plants from around the world. The outside of the museum is decorated in a giant living plant wall. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and admire the diverse flora while learning about the cultures that are represented in the museum's collection.
5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris
Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (10:30am-6pm); Saturday, Sunday (9:30am-6pm)
Closed: Monday
This museum is dedicated to the works of the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. The building itself is a beautiful example of classic French architecture, and the museum's collection includes over 5,000 works by the artist, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints.
💎 But did you know that there is a collection of works by other artists who influenced and/or were influenced by Picasso. The painting shown for example, is by Paul Cezanne, and is considered a masterpiece in the museum's collection. These works are displayed in the museum's permanent collection and provide a broader context for Picasso's work. Until July 2nd, 2023 there is a Faith Ringgold exhibition allowing museum goers to compare how her art was inspired by Picasso's forms.
In conclusion, it doesn't matter how many times you've been to Paris and visited these incredible museums, there is always something more to discover! If you wish to have our expertise to find these and so many other hidden the gems that most people miss remember to check our website www.strollsparis.com to book the best tour for you and discover the city of lights with a passionate local guide!