Semi-Private Musée d'Orsay Tour with Skip the Line Tickets
Admire pieces by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and more alongside an expert guide and semi-private group
The Orsay Museum is home to some of the most celebrated masterpieces of the 19th century, making it a must-see for art lovers. Skip the hassle of navigating the large crowds with our semi-private tour, offering expert guidance and an in-depth experience of the museum's finest works. With unique access to the museum's highlights and insightful commentary from a passionate guide, you’ll uncover the stories behind iconic art in a relaxed, immersive way.
What You Get With This Tour
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Expert English-speaking guide
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Musée d'Orsay skip-the-line entry tickets
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Van Gogh masterpiece viewing
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Impressionist gallery access
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Fast access to famous art
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Guide tips
Tour Itinerary
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1
Meet your guide in front of the main entrance to the Musée d'Orsay
Meet your guide at the foot of the large elephant statue in front of the main museum entrance. You will receive your skip-the-line tickets and hear about how this grand building was once a busy railway station. Your group will then head straight inside to start the art adventure. -
2
Enter the historic Gare d'Orsay
Step into the main hall of the museum to see the high glass ceilings and giant station clocks. Your guide explains how the building was saved from being torn down to house France's national art collection. The light in this space makes it one of the most beautiful settings in Paris. -
3
See the sculptures by Charles Cordier
Walk through the museum's ground floor to see striking sculptures like the African Venus. These bronze and marble works show how artists in the 19th century began to explore different cultures. Your guide will explain the history behind these detailed and colorful figures. -
4
Admire Monet’s Luncheon on the Grass
View one of Claude Monet's massive early paintings that shows his first steps toward Impressionism. Even though it was never finished, you can see how he began to experiment with natural light and outdoor scenes. This piece is a key part of the museum's story of modern art. -
5
Discover the scandal of Olympia
Stand before Manet’s famous painting, Olympia, which shocked the art world when it was first shown. You will learn why this work was so controversial and how it changed the way artists painted forever. It is one of the most important pieces in the entire museum. -
6
View Renoir and the Impressionists
Head to the upper level of the museum to see the bright colors of Renoir’s Bal du Moulin de la Galette. Your guide shares fun stories about the artists' lives in Paris. You will see how they used quick brushstrokes to capture sunlight and happy social scenes. -
7
Face the intensity of Van Gogh
Experience the thick paint and bold colors of Van Gogh’s Starry Night Over the Rhone. You will learn about the artist's difficult life and why his style is so unique. Seeing these world-famous paintings up close is the highlight of any museum visit. -
8
Your tour finishes inside the museum
Your guided journey concludes in the heart of the main galleries. Since your tickets are valid for the whole day, you can stay longer to explore the sculptures or visit the cafe. Your guide can give you tips on which areas to see next.
Additional Information
Good to know:
Dress Code: While there is no specific dress code to enter the Musée d'Orsay, you could be denied entry if you are wearing inappropriate clothing such as a swimsuit.
Accessibility: The Musée d'Orsay is wheelchair accessible, but if you have any doubts about your mobility, please contact us beforehand so we can best cater to your needs.
Bag Policy: Large bags, backpacks, and luggage are not allowed inside the museum.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can begin the tour on time.
Your 2-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Skip-the-line entrance ticket to Musée d'Orsay
Reservation fee for the Musée d'Orsay
Intimate encounters with Impressionist masterpieces
Admire pieces by Monet, Renoir, Manet, Cézanne, Degas, Van Gogh, and more!
Personalized attention in a small group setting
Maximum group size of 6
What to bring:
Comfortable shoes
Camera
Water
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Customer Reviews
Wouldn’t have enjoyed it as much alone. The guide’s context made the art meaningful. Truly worth doing this in a group, not just wandering.
The guide’s storytelling made the artwork feel close and relatable. Instead of distant masterpieces, the paintings felt connected to real people and emotions.
I keep thinking about the art we saw. It left a lasting impression. The guide’s energy made it even more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes and a curious mind!
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes and a curious mind!
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Paris.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
Musée d'Orsay is wheelchair accessible, but if you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand so we can best cater to your needs.
What happens if it rains?
We run our Musée d'Orsay tours rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and the Musée d'Orsay is closed, we'll inform you as soon as possible.
Is there a dress code to enter the Musée d'Orsay?
While there is no specific dress code to enter the Musée d'Orsay, you could be denied entry if you are wearing inappropriate clothing such as a swimsuit.
Is lunch or dinner included in the price of the tour?
No, but our knowledgeable guides will happily point out excellent places to eat after your tour.
Are drinks included in the price of the tour?
No, but our knowledgeable guides will happily point out excellent places to grab a drink after your tour.
Where does this tour end?
This tour ends inside the Musée d'Orsay. You're welcome to stay as long as you like and continue your exploration at your leisure.
