Exploring the treasures of the Orsay Museum has never been easier. This guided tour offers the perfect balance of curated insights and independent discovery. Skip the queues and dive into the museum’s renowned Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collection, led by a knowledgeable guide. Once the tour concludes, you’re free to wander at your own pace, enjoying the museum’s rich history and artistic brilliance. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious first-time visitor, this experience promises to captivate and inspire.
Key Points

- The two-hour guided tour at the Orsay Museum covers key Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Monet.
- The tour allows for independent exploration of the museum’s decorative elements and banquet hall on the top floor after the guided portion.
- Guests can skip the line and enjoy insights into the historical significance and techniques of the artworks from a live guide in multiple languages.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and requires a minimum of two guests, with no refunds or rescheduling for late arrivals.
- Advance planning is recommended, and guests must bring a valid passport or ID card and wear comfortable walking shoes for the moderate walking required.
Tour Overview

The two-hour guided tour at Orsay Museum costs $106.19 per person.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour features a live guide available in Spanish, English, French, Italian, and German.
Highlights include skipping the line, discovering masterpieces by renowned artists, and exploring the museum’s Impressionist and Post-Impressionist treasures.
The tour covers key highlights, starting on the ground floor and ascending to the top floor, where guests can continue exploring on their own.
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Tour Highlights

Guests on the guided tour at Orsay Museum can skip the line to access the museum and discover masterpieces by renowned artists such as Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Monet.
Guests on the guided tour at Orsay Museum can skip the line to access the museum and discover masterpieces by renowned artists.
The tour explores the museum’s Impressionist and Post-Impressionist treasures, providing insights into the techniques of the artists and the historical significance of the works.
Iconic pieces like Renoir’s Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette, Cézanne’s Apples and Oranges, and Van Gogh’s self-portraits are highlights.
The tour covers key highlights, starting on the ground floor and ascending to the top floor to admire the decorative elements and banquet hall.
Museum Experience

Starting on the ground floor, the tour covers art from 1848 to 1879.
Guests then ascend to admire works from 1874 to 1886, including decorative elements and the banquet hall.
The tour showcases iconic Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, such as Renoir’s Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette, Cézanne’s Apples and Oranges, and Van Gogh’s self-portraits.
The tour concludes on the top floor, allowing guests to continue exploring the museum’s treasures independently.
With a radio system for guide communication, guests can fully enjoy the museum’s captivating artworks and historical significance.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The guided tour at the Orsay Museum includes the official certified guide, entrance ticket with reservation, and a radio system for guide communication.
The guided tour at the Orsay Museum includes the official certified guide, entrance ticket with reservation, and a radio system for guide communication.
However, food and drinks aren’t provided. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also not included.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the moderate walking required. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
The tour requires a minimum of two guests, and late arrivals won’t be refunded or rescheduled. The tour may also be canceled if the minimum guest requirement isn’t met.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information

To attend the guided tour, guests must meet at the Elephant Statue on Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 15 minutes before the tour’s scheduled departure. Guests should bring a valid passport or ID card, as oversize luggage is not allowed. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate walking. The tour requires a minimum of two guests to proceed, and late arrivals will not be refunded or rescheduled. Potential cancellations may occur if the minimum guest requirement is not met.
| Requirement | Details |
| — | — |
| Meeting Point | Elephant Statue, Rue de la Légion d’Honneur |
| Meeting Time | 15 minutes before tour departure |
| Identification | Valid passport or ID card |
| Luggage | No oversize items allowed |
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Guided Tour Experience

Upon arriving at the meeting point, the guided tour begins.
With the official certified guide leading the way, guests skip the line and enter the museum. The guide provides insights into the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, from Renoir’s vibrant Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette to Cézanne’s still life Apples and Oranges.
Ascending to higher floors, the tour explores works from 1874 to 1886, including decorative elements and the banquet hall. Guests marvel at Van Gogh’s self-portraits before concluding with free time to continue discovering the museum’s treasures independently.
Artistic Masterpieces

Five of the Orsay Museum’s most iconic works are highlighted during the guided tour.
Visitors marvel at Renoir’s Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of a Parisian dance.
Cézanne’s striking Apples and Oranges showcases his pioneering Post-Impressionist style.
Van Gogh’s powerful self-portraits offer a window into the tormented artist’s soul.
The tour also features other renowned Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, providing insights into the techniques and historical significance of these revolutionary artists.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide brings the artworks to life, enriching the museum visit.
Museum Accessibility

Although the Orsay Museum tour covers a lot of ground, it may not be suitable for all visitors. The tour involves moderate walking and doesn’t accommodate wheelchair users.
The Orsay Museum tour requires moderate walking and does not accommodate wheelchair users, making it unsuitable for certain visitors.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring only small, hand-carried luggage. Late arrivals may not be accommodated, and the tour requires a minimum of two participants to proceed.
While the museum offers a diverse range of masterpieces, visitors with mobility or accessibility needs should consider these factors before booking.
Advance planning is recommended to ensure a seamless and enjoyable museum experience.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Audio Guide?
No, you can’t bring your own audio guide. The tour includes an official certified guide and a radio system for guide communication. This ensures you get the full guided experience during the two-hour tour.
Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer any specific student or senior discounts. However, the Orsay Museum itself may have reduced admission fees for certain visitors. It’s best to check the museum’s website or inquire directly about any available concessions.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, visitors can take photographs during the tour, but flash photography is generally not allowed inside the museum to protect the artwork. Check with the tour guide for any specific photography guidelines or restrictions.
Is There a Dress Code for the Museum?
There’s no formal dress code for the Orsay Museum, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing, as the museum is a cultural institution. Dress respectfully to fully enjoy the art and architecture.
Are There Any Options for a Private Tour?
Yes, there are private tour options available at the Orsay Museum. Visitors can book a private guided tour for their group, which provides a more personalized experience and allows them to explore the museum at their own pace.
The Sum Up
The Orsay Museum guided tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the captivating world of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. With a skilled guide, visitors can uncover the stories behind renowned masterpieces, then freely explore the museum’s grandeur at their own pace. This experience promises an enriching journey through one of the world’s most celebrated cultural institutions.
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