Musee D’orsay

[Sidebeforeself]

Im not a huge art lover but feel this is a Paris must do. Any tips? Are we best to book in advance?

I liked the Musee D’Orsay much better than the Louvre, I did buy tickets in advance but otherwise just enjoyed the art and the atmosphere. It’s a beautiful building with stunning artwork.

I love the Orsay and will always visit when in Paris. I’ve never booked advance tickets.

Even if not an art lover, it has such a great collection of impressionists and post-impressionists, you can’t fail to recognise them. It also has an incredible photographic collection. Plus the building itself is spectacular.

Book in advance and allow plenty of time, especially for the gallery with the Monet's and Van Gogh's. Work out what you really want to see and head there first. Try not to get frustrated by the sheer number of visitors who think the pictures are enhanced by trying to take selfies with every single picture. In fact, put your phone away, enjoy seeing some of the most iconic art in the world and buy postcards of the pictures instead.

Also consider going to the Orangerie to see Monet's waterlilies. It's beautiful, uncrowded and more pleasant than Le Louvre.

the marble statues are just amazing...

I do love Van Gogh so keen to see those.

@Dearover Is it easy to do both galleries in one day?

The Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay? Are you particularly interested in art?

I wouldn’t try both in one day, you don’t want to feel hurried and harassed

No I meant the Orangerie and the Musee dOrsay.Ive been to the Louvre before. Im not particularly interested in art ,but I think I’d like to see what the fuss is about!

I loved it. Wonderful space, although the upstairs galleries were cramped when we went in August.

We also got in free, we provided our passports and as DD has an Irish one, we were given free tix. I wasn't entirely sure if it was the EU passport or DDs age. But I was very happy!

Go to the restaurant on top floor by the round clock window. We pre booked a visit time because we were there during Olympics and Paros was busy. It is open late some evenings.

It's quite a few years since I've been but I really enjoyed Musee d'Orsay. I often find art galleries a bit boring but this isn't and, as others say, it's a beautiful building. Definitely worth a visit.

L'Orangerie only has the waterlilies with limited numbers allowed in at anytime. You could definitely do both on one day. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for L'Orangerie (including coffee & cake)

Very long time since i’ve been, but the restaurant was lovely!

Yes, easily. The Orangerie has a small (but wonderful) permanent collection, and some Cezannes and Renoirs are currently away on an international touring exhibition. And it's a short, pleasant walk from the Orangerie through the Tuileries and across the Seine to the Musée d'Orsay.

@WellMaybe Thats really helpful - thanks!

Just wanted to provide a quick update to thank everyone. Went yesterday and it was AMAZING! Didnt have time for the Orangerie but will definitely go back. Building is beautiful and the collection is so varied. Loved it!