The Musée d'Orsay with kids: a short route, games and practical tips
Quick answer
With kids, Orsay works best as a 60–90 minute visit: under 18s get in free and the building, a former railway station, is already an adventure. Challenge them to find ballerinas, a train and a starry sky; the best time is 9:30am on a weekday.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
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A 75-minute route designed for kids
- 1
0:00 · Level 0 · central nave
A station turned museum
Look up: this building was a railway station. Ask the kids where the trains would have been.
- 2
0:15 · Level 5
The glass clock
A giant glass clock with a view over Paris: perfect for a break.
- 3
0:25 · Level 5
Degas: find the ballerinas
Have them count the dancers and spot who is watching. Ask: what are they practising?
- 4
0:40 · Level 5
Monet: the Saint-Lazare train
A station full of smoke: where is the train?
- 5
1:00 · Level 5
Van Gogh: the starry sky
Starry Night over the Rhône is perfect for talking about colours and lights in the dark.
Practical tips for families
- Under 18s get in free: bring their ID.
- Book adult tickets online.
- Use the free cloakroom for bags and coats.
- Take a break at the glass clock or the café.
- Before you go, let the kids choose 3 works on your phone and hunt for them in the museum.
- With the AnyArt app they can point at any work and hear its story.
Frequently asked questions
Do kids pay at Orsay?
No. Under 18s get in free.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes, the museum has lifts; confirm accessibility on the official website.
What age is Orsay good for?
From about 5–6 with a short visit focused on Degas, Monet and Van Gogh.
Are there family activities?
The museum offers workshops and family visits on specific dates; check the official website.