5 Museums to Visit in Paris that Aren’t the Louvre

On my first trip to Paris, I knew I wanted to see the Louvre. I had read about it for years in text books and it was on my Paris short list. Once you have seen Mona Lisa, there is a lot more to see in Paris outside of the Louvre. Don’t skip it! But make sure to put these other top five favorites on your list. 

Picasso Museum

The museum went through a lengthy remodel and finally reopened in October of 2014. I was in Paris and didn’t plan on going on opening day but the lines had died down and I figured why not try. I didn’t wait too long and it was pretty amazing to see on the first day after it being closed for so long. 

Musée de la Vie Romantique

Located in the 9th arrondissement at the foot of Montmartre you will find Musée de la Vie Romantique. I enjoyed an exhibition here last Spring. You can also take tea in the courtyard and enjoy the gardens. 

Musée Rodin

A classic museum on the Left Bank. I stayed just one street over on my first solo trip to Paris. You can visit just the gardens for one euro but I highly recommend taking full advantage of the newly renovated interior. You may remember this museum from “Midnight in Paris”  

Musée Nissim de Camondo

Musée Nissim de Camando was recommended to me for years but I always put it off. I finally went last Spring and I am don’t know what took me so long. I love the history of the museum and it is off the beaten track but well worth the visit. Stop by Parc Monceau for a stroll before of after. You can read my full post about the museum here. 

Musée D’Orsay

I studied French Impressionism in High School so I knew this was a destination for me when I arrived in Paris. I love coming back here time over time to see the impressionist and explore the other parts of the museum. Of course the clock is iconic, it is the image that launched my business. Don’t miss out taking a little time to enjoy the tea room (photo is above) you can get a coffee for the same price as the outside terrace and enjoy the room and the view outside. 

Musée Jacquemart-Andre

Musée Jacquemart-André is a private museum in the 8th arrondissement not far from the Grand Magasins. After shopping, stop by for a cultural afternoon at the museum. You may remember parts of this from the movie, “Gigi” They also have a beautiful tea room and terrace to enjoy afternoon tea. 

Narrowing it down to just 5 was really hard so I included more on this map below. Feel free to save it and share with friends that are headed to Paris. I highly recommend purchasing the Paris Museum Pass if you will be in Paris for a limited amount of time and you can plan your visits.