The Best Museums in Paris (That Aren’t the Louvre)

1

Fondation Louis Vuitton

Frank Gehry designed this iconic gallery to evoke a sailboat in full sail. In addition to its temporary exhibitions showcasing some of the best artists of the last century, the museum has a vast permanent collection of work from all over the world.

2

Musée du Quai Branly

With no barriers and railings, the museum offers visitors an unimpeded view of cultures from around the world. Masks, musical instruments, weapons, ceremonial artifacts, paintings, tapestries, and more are among the museum's collection.

3

Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

You can take a break from the crowds to see prime examples of Fauvism, Cubism, New Realism, and more at the Paris Museum of Modern Art. With free access to the permanent collection, it's a great place to go without paying entrance fees. It's also just a short walk to the Eiffel Tower.

4

Petit Palais

This stunning building was built to host the 1900 Paris Exposition and was refurbished in 2005. One of the city's true hidden gems, it features art from Monet, Sisley, and Dürer, as well as works from antiquity to the 20th century. The permanent collection is free, but you'll need a ticket to see any temporary exhibits.

5

Musée de l’Orangerie

Two oval rooms, purpose-built to Monet's specifications, house eight of his famous Water Lilies. Located near the nearby Musée d'Orsay, which also features works by Matisse, Cézanne, and Renoir.

6

Musée d’Orsay

Even though it isn't as famous as the Louvre across the Seine, the beautiful Musée d'Orsay still attracts a lot of visitors. There are several masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Cézanne, and more in the museum's post-Impressionist art collection. The building (an old train station) alone makes it one of the best museums in Paris.

7

Centre Georges Pompidou

A huge public library, international art collections including Picasso, Ernst, Kandinsky, and Matisse, as well as rooftop views of the city make the Pompidou Center one of Paris's most popular destinations.

8

Musée Picasso

Over 5,000 works by Pablo Picasso, the most famous painter of the last century, are displayed in the Picasso Museum, including sketches, sculptures, and paintings. Picasso's personal collection is on display too – you'll see Cézanne, Degas, and Matisse.

9

Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie

A lush 55-hectare park surrounds one of Europe's first science museums. If you're looking for things to do with kids in Paris, this museum has everything you need. It features hands-on experiments, immersive displays, a planetarium and mind-boggling optical illusions.