Musee de l’Orangerie

About

The Musée de l’Orangerie, nestled on the picturesque banks of the Seine in Paris’s Tuileries Gardens, is a pilgrimage site for art lovers worldwide. Originally built by Napoleon III in 1852 as a citrus conservatory, the glass‑clad orangery was transformed into an art museum in 1927 and was forever reshaped by Claude Monet’s own vision. The museum’s hallmark is its eight monumental **Water Lilies** (Nymphéas) canvases, framed in two adjoining oval rooms that create a dreamy, infinity‑shaped journey through color and light. Beyond Monet, the permanent collection boasts masterpieces by Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, Modigliani, Renoir, Rousseau, Sisley and others, showcasing the breadth of Impressionist and Post‑Impressionist brilliance. After an extensive renovation that opened in 2006, the Orangerie has added modern exhibition spaces, a free‑access program on the first Sunday of every month, and an intimate café‑library to extend the visitor experience. The architecture—light‑filled oval galleries, a sweeping dome, and a graceful glass roof—complements the lush garden setting, creating a seamless blend of art and nature. A typical visit recommends 3 hours, allowing time for the Water Lilies, a stroll through the imprinting of Monet’s garden, and a brief exploration of the museum’s temporary exhibitions. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum; adult tickets start at €12.50, with reduced rates for EU residents and free entry on the first Sunday of the month. The Orangerie is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps and free seating, making it a welcoming destination for families, solo travelers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you arrive for a cultural immersion or a leisurely afternoon in Paris’s heart, the Musée de l’Orangerie offers a serene escape wrapped in artistic legacy.

Highlights

• Monet's Water Lilies
• Oval Rooms
• Historic Architecture

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 3 hours

Tickets & pricing