World Museum Guide

Are museums free in Paris?

Quick answer

Some are — 2 of the 13 Paris museums we cover have always-free standard admission, including Musée Carnavalet, Petit Palais. 3 more offer free or reduced entry under conditions. Check the rules below before visiting.

Visitor information last reviewed 30 June 2026. Check the official museum site for current details.

Free entry at Paris museums

MuseumFree entryNotes
Musée Carnavalet Always free ✓ Free standard admission
Petit Palais Always free ✓ Free permanent collection (special exhibitions ticketed)
Musée d'Orsay Conditions apply Under 18 free · EU/EEA citizens and long-term EU residents aged 18–25 free · First Sunday of each month free for all (time-slot booking required) · Disabled visitors + 1 companion free
Musée Guimet Conditions apply Free first Sunday of each month · Under 18 EU free
The Louvre Conditions apply Under 18 free (all nationalities) · EEA citizens and residents under 26 free · Everyone free on the first Friday of the month after 6 PM (not July or August) · Bastille Day (14 July) free · Disabled visitors + 1 companion free
Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection Paid €15 standard admission
Fondation Louis Vuitton Paid €16 standard adult admission; combined ticket with temporary exhibitions available
Musée de Cluny – Musée National du Moyen Âge Paid €12 standard admission
Musée de l'Orangerie Paid €12.50 standard admission
Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac Paid €14 standard admission
Musée Marmottan Monet Paid €14 standard admission
Musée Picasso Paris Paid €14 standard admission
Musée Rodin Paid €14 standard admission

Visitor details last reviewed 2026-06-30. Check the linked official museum websites before travelling.

Frequently asked questions

Which museums are free in Paris?

Musée Carnavalet, Petit Palais offer always-free standard admission. Special exhibitions may charge separately.

Do free Paris museums require booking?

Some free museums ask for a free timed ticket at busy periods. Check the official website linked from each World Museum Guide profile before visiting.