If youre an artist or art enthusiast visiting France, a trip to the Louvre is obligatorya courtesy visit, if you will, to the worlds most famous museum and the home of the worlds most famous painting. As far as obligations go, exploring the Louvre is far from a burdenprovided you can endure the long lines.
Prefer to skip it? Youre still in luck, Frances art scene extends far beyond the Louvre and the Mona Lisa. There is a wealth of art to explore, both in Paris and throughout the country. Here are 10 must-see museums in France that arent the Louvre.
1. Musée de l'Orangerie, Paris
Often overshadowed (and unfairly so!) by the much larger Louvre, the Musée de l'Orangerie in the Tuileries Gardens is home to Monets famous Water Lilies series. Its also home to works by Cézanne, Renoir, and Matisse. The intimate space offers a much more serene and immersive experience.
2. Musée Rodin, Paris
Housed in the former Hôtel Biron, the Musée Rodin is dedicated to the works of the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin, featuring iconic pieces like The Thinker and The Kiss. The museum's beautiful gardens, too, are worth a visit in their own right.
3. Musée Camille Claudel, Nogent-sur-Seine
It would be remiss to mention Rodin and not Camille Claudel, his student, collaborator, muse, and lover. While Musée Rodin features several pieces by Claudel, the Musée Camille Claudel located in her hometown is entirely dedicated to her. It houses an extensive collection of her sculptures, drawings, and personal items, offering a deeply profound look into the artist herself and her tumultuous relationship with Rodin.
4. Musée Jacquemart-André, Paris
This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulent world of French aristocracy. Housed in a stunning mansion, the museum features an impressive collection of artworks, including pieces by Rembrandt, Fragonard, and Botticelli. The museums beautifully decorated rooms create a unique atmosphere to enjoy the art.
5. Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris
This is home to the largest collection of Claude Monets works, including the iconic Impression, Sunrise, the painting that gave the movement its name. The museum offers an ideal space to explore the artists evolution, and peaceful escape from the bustling crowds of central Paris.
6. Musée National d'Art Moderne, Paris
Located in the cultural and architectural landmark that is the Centre Pompidou, this is the largest museum for modern art in Europe. Its renowned for its cutting-edge exhibitions, and the rooftop terrace offers stunning panoramic views of Paris.
7. Musée Picasso, Paris
Dedicated to the works of the legendary Pablo Picassohe museum features an extensive collection of the Spanish artists paintings, sculptures, and sketches. The thoughtful curation offers an in-depth look at one of the most influential artists of the 20th century and charts his artistic evolution, from his early works to his more experimental later phases.
8. Fondation Louis Vuitton, Paris
Situated in the Bois de Boulogne, this Frank Gehry-designed museum features avant-garde exhibitions and showcases cutting-edge contemporary art in a variety of forms. Its a hub for innovation, where art and modern design converge in one inspiring and breathtaking space.
9. Musée d'Orsay, Paris
A former railway station, the Musée d'Orsay is home to an exceptional collection of 19th-century French art. It offers a comprehensive view of French art history in a grand setting and expansive galleries.
10. Musée Jean Cocteau, Menton
The Musée Jean Cocteau is dedicated to the work of the renowned French artist, poet, and filmmaker Jean Cocteau. Situated in the charming coastal town of Menton, the museum was by architect Rudy Ricciotti and in itself is a work of art. Cocteaus connection to Menton, where he spent time creating many works inspired by the regions Mediterranean light, makes this museum a unique cultural experience.
Planning a trip to one of the most visited countries in the world, and a top tourist destination year-round, can be overwhelming. To make your experience smoother, pre-arrange everything that can be pre-arranged, such as accommodation, transportation, tickets and admissions, and connectivity.
Getting a France
travel SIM card or SIM card means you can be connected throughout your trip from the moment you land. You wont have to rely on roaming with its spotty signal and exorbitant fees, or on public Wi-Fi.
If you're planning to venture beyond Paris, theres an entire world of museums to discoverthe Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is just 3.5 hours by train from Paris! To make staying connected even easier, opt for a
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By planning ahead and ensuring reliable connectivity, you can focus on enjoying your trip to France and beyond.