On Avenue Winston Churchill in Paris, the Petit Palais houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts in a building made for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. Its permanent collection is free to visit and ranges across centuries, with paintings by Monet among the works on display. Look out for the sculpture hall, sweeping staircases and central courtyard garden. The galleries make for a manageable art stop, and a café in the courtyard gives you a place to pause. Temporary exhibitions require a paid ticket.
A palace built for the 1900 exhibition
The Petit Palais was built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, alongside the Grand Palais and Pont Alexandre III. Architect Charles Girault designed the building, which now houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. Its purpose has changed from exhibition venue to museum, but the architecture remains part of the visit: the exterior, interior details and sweeping staircases all reward a look between galleries.
The Grand Palais stands across from the Petit Palais. The two can be visited on the same outing, though they are separate institutions.
Art across centuries
The permanent collection brings together paintings, sculptures and other works spanning a broad range of periods and places. Monet is among the artists represented. Two notable paintings are his *Sunset on the Seine at Lavacourt, Winter Effect* and Georges Clairin’s *Portrait of Sarah Bernhardt*.
The collection also includes works by Dutch landscape painters. The sculpture hall is another point to seek out, with dramatic staircases nearby. The displays cover enough ground for an art-focused visit, yet the museum can be explored in a shorter stop if you are fitting it between other Paris sights.
The courtyard and exhibitions
The central courtyard has a garden and café, providing a break from the galleries. The café serves breakfast, snacks and hot or cold drinks, and has seating on two floors. Families can also find a small area for children; it is an addition to a museum visit rather than a large children’s attraction.
Entry to the permanent collection is free. Temporary exhibitions are separate and require a paid ticket, so check the current exhibition information if you are considering one. The museum has lockers inside for storing belongings.
Häufige Fragen
Is the Petit Palais free to visit?
Entry to the permanent collection is free. Temporary exhibitions require a paid ticket.
How long should I spend at the Petit Palais?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for a visit. The collection can also suit a shorter stop or a longer afternoon.
What are the highlights inside the Petit Palais?
Look for works by Monet, the sculpture hall, sweeping staircases and the central courtyard garden.
Can I visit the Grand Palais on the same trip?
Yes. The Grand Palais is across from the Petit Palais, so you can plan to see both.
