The Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris occupies the eastern wing of the Palais de Tokyo at 11 Avenue du Président Wilson, across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower. Its free permanent collection follows modern and contemporary art through works by Matisse, Picasso, Braque and the Delaunays, among others. Make time for Raoul Dufy’s monumental La Fée Électricité, which fills a large hall, and look for the museum’s changing temporary exhibitions. The spacious galleries also give you room to take in the collection at your own pace.
A modern art collection in the Palais de Tokyo
The Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris is in the eastern wing of the Palais de Tokyo, a building constructed for the 1937 International Exposition of Art and Technology in Modern Life. The museum opened in 1961. Its galleries present modern and contemporary art, with works connected to major movements including Cubism and Fauvism.
The permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings and other works by artists such as Matisse, Picasso, Braque, Bonnard, Modigliani and the Delaunays. The collection spans the 20th and 21st centuries, so the visit can take in different approaches to modern art rather than focusing on one artist or movement. The galleries are spacious, with large rooms and carefully arranged displays.
La Fée Électricité and changing exhibitions
One of the museum’s key works is Raoul Dufy’s La Fée Électricité, a monumental mural created for the 1937 exposition. It fills a large hall, so allow time to take in the full scale of the work. The museum also has works by Robert and Sonia Delaunay, including large-format murals, and a collection of Art Deco art.
Temporary exhibitions bring different artists and subjects into the museum. Their content changes, and tickets may be required even when entry to the permanent collection is free. Check the current programme before your visit, and book ahead if you plan to see an exhibition that requires a ticket.
Planning your visit
The museum is at 11 Avenue du Président Wilson in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, near the Trocadéro and across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower. The location makes it straightforward to combine an art visit with a walk along the river or time at the Trocadéro.
A full visit can take three to five hours. If you have less time, the permanent collection can be seen in about an hour. Weekdays and early mornings are practical choices for a quieter visit. Free lockers are available for bags and coats. The permanent collection is free to enter; temporary exhibitions may have separate tickets, and advance booking is recommended.
FAQ
Is the Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris free?
The permanent collection is free to visit. Temporary exhibitions may require a paid ticket.
How long should I spend at the museum?
Allow three to five hours to explore the collections thoroughly. If you are short on time, the permanent collection can take about an hour.
What should I see at the Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris?
Look for works by Matisse, Picasso, Braque and the Delaunays, as well as Raoul Dufy’s monumental La Fée Électricité.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended for temporary exhibitions that require tickets. Entry to the permanent collection is free.
