Musée de l'Orangerie
Experience Claude Monet's monumental Water Lilies in two custom-designed oval rooms, a truly immersive and serene art encounter in the heart of Paris,...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds and selfie-takers
Musée de l'Orangerie
Best Time
Avoid crowds and selfie-takers

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Claude Monet's monumental Water Lilies in two custom-designed oval rooms, a truly immersive and serene art encounter in the heart of Paris, complemented by a rich collection of 20th-century art.
"Don't ruin your trip to Paris by skipping this museum that holds the original collection of Monet's water lilies!
"🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your Musée de l'Orangerie tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and long queues .
⏰ Arrive at Opening
Be there at 9 AM for the most peaceful experience with Monet's Water Lilies before crowds build .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monet's Water Lilies (Les Nymphéas)
Oval Rooms (Ground Floor)
Immerse yourself in Claude Monet's monumental Water Lilies murals, displayed in two custom-designed oval rooms, offering a truly unique and contemplative experience.

David Hockney's 'A Year in Normandy'
Lower Floor
Discover contemporary art with David Hockney's vibrant iPad art, including the impressive 80-foot frieze 'A Year in Normandy,' a surprising highlight for many visitors.

Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume Collection
Lower Floor
Explore a rich collection of 20th-century European art, featuring works by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani, offering a broader artistic context.
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Musée de l'Orangerie Tickets Early
Beat the Crowds for a Serene Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your Musée de l'Orangerie tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and long queues.
⏰ Arrive at Opening
Be there at 9 AM for the most peaceful experience with Monet's Water Lilies before crowds build.
🧘 Take Time to Absorb
Don't rush! Sit on the benches in the oval rooms and let the Water Lilies envelop you.
🚶 Explore Tuileries Garden
The museum is in the beautiful Tuileries Garden; enjoy a stroll or coffee before or after your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your Musée de l'Orangerie tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and long queues.
⏰ Arrive at Opening
Be there at 9 AM for the most peaceful experience with Monet's Water Lilies before crowds build.
🧘 Take Time to Absorb
Don't rush! Sit on the benches in the oval rooms and let the Water Lilies envelop you.
🚶 Explore Tuileries Garden
The museum is in the beautiful Tuileries Garden; enjoy a stroll or coffee before or after your visit.
📸 Be Mindful of Others
While photos are allowed, be respectful of other visitors trying to view the art.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Musée de l'Orangerie for its unique and immersive display of Monet's Water Lilies, often describing it as a peaceful and contemplative experience. While the main draw is universally loved, some express frustration with crowds and selfie-takers, which can detract from the serene atmosphere.
"I can’t put into words how incredible this museum was!
I came specifically to see Monet’s work, and it truly blew me away — so serene and moving.
Even if you’re not usually into art, I’d still highly recommend a visit. The atmosphere is calming, and there’s something for everyone. They even have a children’s activity area, which is a lovely touch for families, as well as a few other types of art exhibitions beyond Impressionism."
Kit Jan
"It was a rainy Sunday morning and what’s better to do in the rain than go to a great museum. The l’Orangerie’s website said they were sold out so I bought four tickets on Viator (spent ~25% more), but we arrived and there were two lines and we were pointed to line one and maybe waited 10 minutes before we went in. Line two was long. It was for people who didn’t have tickets. It was still long when we walked out an hour later.
I recommend getting an audio guide from the museum for 5€.
The Monet Water Lilly’s are on the ground floor and they are lovely to look at. The audio guide shares a lot of interesting information.
Downstairs is an interesting art collection. Some pieces have you scratching your head, while others leave you agape.
If you’re in Paris and appreciate art, you should visit the museum."
Heath Stockton
"This was hands down my favorite museum in Paris. I didn’t even have to wait in line to get in—maybe I just got lucky, but it made the experience even better! The highlight was, without a doubt, Monet’s Water Lilies. Standing in those oval rooms surrounded by his massive, serene paintings was absolutely breathtaking. The atmosphere was calm, the layout beautifully curated, and the overall experience unforgettable. I 100% recommend visiting—especially if you appreciate impressionist art or just want a peaceful, inspiring break from the city buzz. If you are a student the museum is free."
deniz alaaddinoğlu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There & Around
The Musée de l'Orangerie is conveniently located in the heart of Paris, within the Tuileries Garden, right next to Place de la Concorde. It's also a short walk from the Louvre Museum.
You can reach the Musée de l'Orangerie easily by metro. The closest stations are Concorde (Lines 1, 8, 12) and Tuileries (Line 1). Many bus lines also stop nearby, making it very accessible.
Yes, it's a popular combination! The Musée d'Orsay and Musée de l'Orangerie are relatively close, about a 10-15 minute walk across the Seine. Many travelers suggest visiting Orangerie first as it's smaller, then heading to Orsay.
Combined tickets are often available.Yes, the museum is generally accessible. There are elevators to access the lower floor where the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume collection and David Hockney's works are displayed. The main Water Lilies rooms are on the ground floor.
Most visitors find 1 to 1.5 hours sufficient to explore the Musée de l'Orangerie. It's a more intimate experience compared to larger museums like the Louvre or Orsay, allowing for a focused appreciation of the art.
🎫 🎟️ Tickets & Entry
The best way to buy Musée de l'Orangerie tickets is online through the official website. This allows you to select a specific time slot, which is crucial for avoiding queues and ensuring entry, especially during peak season.
Standard admission for the Musée de l'Orangerie typically costs around €12. There are often reduced rates for certain groups, and children under 18 (and EU residents under 26) may qualify for free admission.
Yes, a combined ticket for Musée d'Orsay and Musée de l'Orangerie is a popular choice, offering a slight discount and convenience if you plan to visit both. This combined ticket can be purchased online.
Musée de l'Orangerie offers free admission for visitors under 18, and for EU citizens or residents aged 18-25. It's also free on the first Sunday of each month, though expect higher crowds on these days.
While it's possible to get in without a reservation, especially on a weekday morning, it's not guaranteed. Tickets can sell out, and you might face a long wait in the non-reserved line.
Booking online is always safer.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience & Art
The absolute highlight is Claude Monet's 'Water Lilies' (Les Nymphéas), eight monumental murals displayed in two oval rooms. Beyond Monet, the museum also houses the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume collection, featuring works by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani.
The Musée de l'Orangerie offers audio guides and sometimes short introductory talks. However, many Reddit travelers suggest that a formal guided tour isn't necessary for the main Water Lilies exhibit, as the experience is best enjoyed by sitting and absorbing the art at your own pace.
Photography without flash is generally permitted in the Musée de l'Orangerie, especially in the Water Lilies rooms. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking views or using tripods, as the rooms can get crowded with people taking selfies.
Yes, the museum has a well-stocked gift shop where you can find books, prints, and souvenirs related to Monet and the other artists. There is also a small café on-site for light refreshments, perfect for a quick break during your visit.
The two oval rooms were specifically designed by Monet himself to house his 'Water Lilies' series, creating an immersive, panoramic experience. The natural light filtering in enhances the paintings, making them feel like an extension of the surrounding Tuileries Garden.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🎨 Art Lovers & Monet Enthusiasts
Consider pairing your visit with a day trip to Monet's House and Gardens in Giverny. Seeing the actual pond that inspired these masterpieces after experiencing them at the Orangerie offers an unparalleled understanding of Monet's artistic process and his deep connection to nature. Many travelers on Reddit recommend this combination for a truly comprehensive Monet experience.
📅 Day-Trippers & Efficient Travelers
* Pro Tip: Purchase a combined ticket for Musée d'Orsay and Musée de l'Orangerie to save time and money.
* Morning Strategy: Visit the Orangerie right at opening (9 AM) for a crowd-free experience, then head to the Tuileries Garden for a coffee before moving on to your next destination.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
However, it's crucial to be respectful of other visitors. The rooms can get crowded, and people often block views for extended periods while taking selfies. Aim for an early morning visit to get your shots with fewer people, and always avoid flash photography. Focus on capturing the feeling of the space rather than just a quick snap.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Immersive World of Monet's Water Lilies
This unique presentation allows for a truly contemplative experience, a stark contrast to the bustling energy of other Parisian museums. It's a chance to step into Monet's vision of his Giverny garden, feeling surrounded by the tranquil pond and its reflections. The sheer scale and continuous flow of the paintings are designed to envelop the viewer, making it a must-see for any art lover or anyone seeking a moment of peace in Paris.
Beyond Monet: A Hidden Gem of Modern Art
Recently, the museum has also gained attention for its temporary exhibitions, notably featuring works like David Hockney's 'A Year in Normandy'. These contemporary additions provide a fascinating contrast to the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, showcasing the museum's commitment to a broader artistic dialogue. Don't rush past these galleries; they offer a rich and diverse artistic journey that complements the iconic Monet experience.
Strategic Planning: Combining Your Paris Museum Visits
However, Reddit users advise against trying to cram too much into one day, especially with teenagers. The Orangerie is relatively quick to visit (1-1.5 hours), while Orsay is much larger. Consider visiting the Orangerie first thing in the morning for a peaceful experience, then enjoying lunch before heading to Orsay, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries Garden. For a deeper Monet experience, consider a day trip to his house and gardens in Giverny, often combined with the Orangerie.
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