If you are planning a trip to Paris and want to spend some time admiring great artwork and visiting grand monuments, you’ll likely save money and time by purchasing a Paris Museum Pass. The Paris Museum Pass not only allows for free admission to a number of the top-visited attractions in Paris (i.e., Louvre, Orsay Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Versailles), but it also allows you to skip the long entrance lines at many of these attractions.
However, in some cases, the Paris Museum Pass may not be a good deal for you, especially if this is not your first visit to Paris or you have only a day or two in the city.
We’ll help provide all the information you need to know to decide if the Paris Museum Pass is a good deal for you, decide on which pass to buy, and how to get the most value out of your museum pass. We’ll also share our own experiences using the Paris Museum Pass and give you an honest breakdown of our own cost-savings.
Table of Contents:
Which Attractions are Included in the Paris Museum Pass?
Currently, free admission to approximately 60 museums, monuments, palaces, castles, and other sites is granted to pass holders. These include some of the most popular Paris attractions within and near Paris including the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Musée Rodin, Musée d’Orsay, Sainte-Chapelle, Pantheon, Centre Pompidou, and the Palace of Versailles.
Here is a complete list of the museums and attractions within Paris currently included with the Paris Museum Pass (listed by arrondissement):
- Musée du Louvre (Louvre Museum), 1st
- Conciergerie, 1st
- Sainte-Chapelle, 1st
- Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Museum of Decorative Arts), 1st
- Musée National de l’Orangerie, 1st
- Les Arts décoratifs – Collection Mode et Textile, 1st
- Les Arts décoratifs – Collection Publicité et Graphisme, 1st
- Musée des Arts et Métiers, 3rd
- Musée d’art et d’histoire du Judaïsme, 3rd
- Musée Picasso (Picasso Museum), Paris 3rd
- Tours de Notre-Dame de Paris (Notre-Dame Towers), 4th (Currently closed)
- Crypte Archéologique du parvis Notre-Dame (Notre-Dame Crypt), 4th
- Centre Pompidou – Musée National d’Art Moderne (Pompidou Center – National Museum of Modern Art) 4th
- Panthéon, 5th
- Institut du Monde Arabe (Arab World Institute), 5th
- Musée de Cluny – Musée national du Moyen Âge (Cluny Museum), 5th
- Musée National Eugène Delacroix (Delacroix Museum), 6th
- Musée d’Orsay (Orsay Museum), 7th
- Musée du Quai Branly (Quai Branly Museum), 7th
- Musée des Égouts de Paris (Paris Sewers Museum), 7th
- Musée Rodin (Rodin Museum), 7th
- Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum with Napoleon’s tomb), 7th
- Musée des Plans-Reliefs (Museum of Military Models), 7th
- Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération (Museum of the Order of the Liberation), 7th
- Arc de Triomphe, 8th
- Chapelle Expiatoire, 8th
- Musée Nissim de Camondo (Nissim de Camondo Museum), 8th
- Palais de la Découverte (Discovery Museum), Paris 8th
- Musée National Gustave Moreau (Gustave Moreau National Museum), Paris 9th
- Musée de la Cinémathèque (Cinema Museum), Paris 12th
- Musée National de l’histoire de l’Immigration (National Museum of Immigration History), Paris 12th
- Musée National des Arts Asiatiques – Guimet (Guimet National Museum of Asian Art), Paris 16th
- Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine (Museum of Architecture & French Monuments), Paris 16th
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (Paris Science Museum), Paris 19th
- Musée de la Musique (Music Museum), Paris 19th
Here is a list of the museums and attractions located outside of Paris that are currently included with the Paris Museum Pass:
- Château de Versailles & Trianon (Palace of Versailles & Trianon)
- Château de Vincennes
- Musée d’Archéologie Nationale et Domaine National de Saint-Germain-en-Laye (National Archaeological Museum)
- Abbaye Royale de Chaalis (Chaalis Abbey)
- Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace (Museum of Air & Space)
- Musée Condé – Château de Chantilly (Condé Museum at Chantilly Castle)
- Château de Fontainebleau
- Château de Maisons-Laffitte
- Musée National de Port-Royal des Champs (Port-Royal des Champs Museum)
- Laiterie de la Reine et Chaumière aux Coquillages, Château de Rambouillet (Queen Marie-Antoinette Dairy and Shell Cottage)
- Musée National de la Renaissance – Château d’Ecouen (National Museum of the Renaissance)
- Musée Rodin, Meudon (Rodin Museum in Meudon)
- Basilique Royale de Saint-Denis (Basilica of Saint-Denis)
- Villa Savoye
- Sèvres, Cité de la Céramique (Sèvres Ceramics Museum)
- Musée et Domaine Nationaux du Palais impérial de Compiègne (Compiègne Palace and museums)
- Musée Départemental Maurice Denis (Maurice Denis Departmental Museum, “The Priory”)
- Château de Pierrefonds
- Château de Malmaison
- Château de Champs-sur-Marne
Please note that the above list is for your reference and may not reflect recent changes to the pass and you should always double-check the museum list included with your pass for the most up-to-date information. This list may also not reflect museum closures, so always be sure to check in advance for museum opening dates and hours before visiting.
Note that while the pass ensures general admission, the pass may not cover admission to special exhibits, audioguides, or special events taking place at a particular museum or attraction.
Which Attractions are Not Included in the Paris Museum Pass?
Now there are several major attractions in Paris that are NOT included with the Paris Museum Pass that you should take into consideration. These include the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, Grand Palais, the catacombs, Espace Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum), Jacquemart-André Museum, Luxembourg Museum, Musée Marmottan Monet, Montmartre Museum, elevator at La Défense, treasury at Notre-Dame, and the dome at Sacré Coeur.
Further the pass does not include any transport in Paris, hop-on hop-off buses, or Seine River boat cruises.
Types of Paris Museum Passes?
All the Paris Museum Passes cover the same attractions and the only decision you need to make concerns the length of your pass. They are currently sold as 2-day (48 hour), 4-day (96 hour), or 6-day (144 hour) passes.
Passes are activated after your first usage and must be used in consecutive hours. So if you purchase a 4-day pass with your first visit at 1pm on May 5th, it will be valid from May 5th through to 1pm on May 9th.
It is important to note that we are specifically discussing the Paris Museum Pass. However, there are a number of other similarly named Paris passes, most notably the Paris Pass. These are completely different passes and have different advantages and disadvantages; the Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass as well as a Paris Attractions Pass. The Paris Attractions Pass includes additional attractions like the Eiffel Tower, a Seine River cruise, walking tours and more.
We have used both the Paris Museum Pass alone as well as the Paris Museum Pass as part of the Paris Pass. We find that the Paris Museum Pass is a good fit for many travelers, but you should look into each pass to decide for yourselves. We have written a full Paris Pass review here that you can read if interested in that pass.
All information in this article will only apply to the Paris Museum Pass which was first introduced in 2006. Note that some sellers also sell a bundle of passes that include the Paris Museum Pass but also include other passes or attraction tickets. Just make sure you know what you are buying!
Cost of the Paris Museum Pass?
The current cost of the Paris Museum Pass (last checked June 2023) is below:
- 55 € for Paris Museum Pass, 2 days
- 70 € for Paris Museum Pass, 4 days
- 85 € for Paris Museum Pass, 6 days
Note that there are no separate passes for children. In most cases, these passes will not help children save money. In addition, these prices are for when you buy the pass in person. Buying the Paris Museum Pass online may cost a little more than this due to processing fees.
How do I Decide if the Paris Museum Pass Will Save Me Money?
First, you should make a list of all the attractions you want to visit during your time in Paris. Try to come up with a realistic list based on the amount of time you’ll be in Paris as you don’t want to spend your entire trip going from museum to museum.
Next, check the entrance fee cost for each online or using a recent guidebook. Add up the costs to come up with a total.
NOTE: This example uses current prices as of June 2023.
Example: I want to visit the Louvre (€17), Sainte-Chapelle (€11,50), Musée Rodin (€13), Conciergerie (€11.5), Versailles with access to Trianon and gardens (€19.5), Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum) and Napoleon’s tomb (€15), and the Musee d’Orsay (€16) = €103.5
Next, you’ll need to decide how many days it will likely take you to visit all the attractions. Remember it can be easy to be too ambitious and think you’ll take in three art museums and two churches in one day, but that will simply leave you exhausted and overwhelmed. Try to be realistic.
Example: Day 1: Spend a full day at Versailles. Day 2: Combine Sainte-Chapelle, Conciergerie, and the Louvre. Day 3: Visit the Rodin Museum, see Napoleon’s tomb at the Army Museum, and visit the Musee d’Orsay. This means I would need 3 days.
Now, compare the price of the needed pass with your entrance fee total. Current prices (as of June 2023) are €55 for a 2-day pass, €70 for a 4-day pass, and €85 for a 6-day pass. Typically, you’ll find that you’ll save money if you plan to visit more than four or five attractions with the pass. However, this is not always the case so do try to use tips above to figure out if they are worth it for you.
Example: OK, so it would cost me €103.5 as an adult to visit all the places on my list and I think I need 3 days. Since there is no 3-day pass, I’ll need to purchase the 4-day pass which is €70. If I visit all the listed attractions in the 4-day period, I’ll have a cost savings of €33.5 and it should also keep me from waiting in the ticket lines.
Further, buying the 4-day pass gives me more time to visit these attractions without trying to squash them into 3 days which may end up being too rushed.
How to Buy the Paris Museum Pass?
If you plan to buy a Paris Museum Pass, you can either purchase it online or in person once you are in Paris. You can also purchase it as part of the Paris Pass or Paris Passlib.
In Person: You can buy the Paris Museum Pass at a number of locations, including at many of the museums and monuments that accept the pass, several visitors’ centers in Paris, and the tourist information desks at both Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports.
If you plan to purchase the Paris Museum Pass at either of the Paris airports, you can look up tourist desk location information and hours here.
If you are planning to buy it in person, I would suggest purchasing the passes at a place where you won’t have to stand in line for long such as a tourist information center, a smaller museum, or airport information desk. If you try to get them at a place like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay, you’ll likely end up waiting in a long line.
Online with Hotel or Home Delivery: You can purchase the Paris Museum Pass from the Paris Tourist Office online here, and have them delivered before your trip or have them delivered to your hotel in Paris. However, you will have to pay shipping costs that will likely decrease the cost savings of the pass, so I would suggest just buying it in-person once you get to Paris or doing the voucher option below unless you need it in advance.
Online Voucher for Pick-Up: To avoid shipping costs, you can also order 2, 4, or 6 day Paris Museum Pass online and pick it up in Paris free of charge. There are several websites offering this service, we’d recommend comparing prices and pick-up locations.
- You can purchase the Paris Museum Pass directly from the official site here, and opt for in person pickup or for an e-ticket delivery.
- You can order online from the Paris Tourist Office online here and then collect your order free of charge with your purchase voucher from the central Paris Tourist Office located at 29 Rue de Rivoli, 75004 Paris or the Visitor Center Gare du Nord located at 18 Rue de Dunkerque, 75010 Paris.
- You can also purchase the 2, 4, or 6 day Paris Pass online from GetYourGuide and then pick it up with your voucher receipt at their office at 23 Rue d’Aboukir, 75002 Paris. The office is about a 10 minute walk from the Louvre museum.
Online with eTicket Delivery: As of 2022 you can now buy the Paris Museum Pass as an eTicket. This is delivered as a PDF to your e-mail address and you can either display it on your phone or print it out.
- As of June 2023 this service is currently only available via the official site here. Note that sometimes this service is not available.
As part of the Paris Pass: You can also purchase the Paris Museum Pass as part of the Paris Pass. In addition to the Paris Museum Pass, you get a Paris Attractions Pass that includes free additional attractions including hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus, Montparnasse Tower, Seine river cruise, Paris Aquarium, and the Dalí Museum.
You can read our review of the Paris Pass and you can learn more and purchase it online here. It is only available for purchase online.
Special Note about Visiting the Louvre with the Paris Museum Pass
If you are planning to visit the Louvre museum using the Paris Museum Pass, we strongly recommend pre-booking your time slot once you have your Paris Museum Pass. Since summer 2019, the museum has recommended that all visitors pre-book tickets online. Without a pre-booked ticket, you may have to wait longer and are not guaranteed entry.
You can book your timeslot here. In the past, you needed to have your Paris Museum Pass in advance to type in the pass number, but you can now book without having purchased your pass yet. We recommend booking at least a week in advance as the morning time slots available for pass holders often book out a few days in advance.
If you make a reservation for entry with the Paris Museum Pass, you will need to bring both your proof of reservation and a valid Paris Museum Pass to enter the museum.
If you are not planning to use the Paris Museum Pass, we strongly recommend booking pre-timed tickets directly from the Louvre website to guarantee entry. If the pre-timed tickets are sold out on the museum website for the date you want to visit, you can often still find pre-timed tickets on GetYourGuide here or Tiqets here.
Tips on Getting the Most Out of Your Paris Museum Pass
Here are some tips for using your Paris Museum Pass and getting the most out of your time in Paris with the pass.
- Plan ahead. Do a little research and figure out what attractions are included with the pass and which ones you plan to visit so you can make an informed choice of whether the pass makes sense for you or not.
- Remember that once you first use the pass, the time begins and it will only remain valid for the next 48 consecutive hours (2 days), 96 consecutive hours (4 days) or 144 consecutive hours (6 days), depending on the option chosen. NOTE: In the past (prior to June 24, 2019), the pass was valid for consecutive days and not hours. It is now valid for consecutive hours, not days.
- If you are in Paris for longer than the length of your pass, it is good to plan out which days you want to use the pass. When we had the pass, we thought about our days in Paris as either Pass days (focused on Pass attractions) or non-Pass days (focused on free things and attractions not covered by the pass).
- If you get to a museum and are not sure if you are in the correct line for pass holders, ask a security guard or museum personnel. We witnessed countless people with museum passes who were standing in the regular lines. While sometimes a museum won’t have any priority access lines open, it never hurts to ask as it may save you an hour!
- Note that the pass often isn’t a good value for children as they often get free or reduced entrance fees anyway. In fact, most museums covered by the Paris Museum Pass give free entry to children under age 18 accompanied by an adult. Currently, there are only 6 of the over 50 museums and monuments that do not provide free entry to children (e.g., Museum of French Cinema, Interactive Science Museum). So if you are traveling with children under age 18, they probably do not need a pass.
- Note that if you live in Europe (particularly those who are residents of the European Union), people age 25 and younger receive discounts or free entry at many museums in Paris. Some museums also give discounts to university students. For these discounts, you will need to bring a valid photo ID with proof of age and residency. For university discount, you will need a valid university ID.
- Many museums and monuments are free for disabled people and their companion so the Paris Museum Pass isn’t necessary. Just be sure to bring along ID and proof of disability.
- Make note if any of the attractions you want to visit offer a free admission day. If they do, you could always visit them on a non-pass day. For instance, we’ve visited the Louvre, Château de Fontainebleau, and Musée Cluny on free admission days without needing to have a pass.
- Most attractions in Paris shut down for at least one day per week. Smaller attractions may have limited hours and may only be open a few days each week. Also attractions may be closed or partially closed for long periods of time for restoration work. If you have a 2-day pass and plan to see 5 attractions, you should check ahead to make sure those attractions will be open and how you can best use your Pass days.
- Read the tips provided on the printed information that comes with each pass about each attraction regarding closures, best entrances, and best hours to visit. Even though we read that we should get to Versailles by 10am to best ensure priority access, we still decided to sleep in and arrived around 11am. We should have listened as there was a very long line by the time we got there!
- At most places you will get to be in a shorter priority line (perhaps even just walk inside); however, some places with tighter security still require that you wait in the same security line as everyone else. These include the Notre-Dame tower (ticketing and security line the same), Sainte-Chapelle (only priority access for ticketing, not security line), and Versailles (can skip ticketing line but must wait in same security line). For busy attractions like these (especially Versailles), I would suggest trying to get there around opening time to avoid a long wait.
- If you plan to visit the Louvre, be sure to book a timeslot in advance. It is free to make a reservation for those with Paris Museum Passes, but you need to have your pass number. You will need to bring both your timeslot reservation and your Paris Museum Pass to gain entry to the museum.
- In the past, you could use the Paris Museum Pass to visit the same attraction multiple times if you wished during the pass’s validity period. This has changed. You can now only visit each museum or attraction once. You will not be allowed multiple entries or re-entry. So plan your visits wisely if there is a place you want to spend a lot of time visiting.
- If you plan to visit the Palace of Versailles, the Paris Museum Pass includes free entry into the park and gardens as well as the general self-guided audio tour of the palace and the other estate properties (e.g., Trianon Castle and the Estate of Marie-Antoinette). The only exception is when the musical fountain shows or a special event is happening in the gardens, in which case you will need to pay extra to enter the gardens. I would just check ahead on the Chateau de Versailles website for the garden schedule to check to see if these events are taking place during your visit.
- If you want to visit the Eiffel Tower (like most visitors) it is not included as part of the Paris Museum Pass. We recommend booking your ticket in advance (or do a guided tour) to save time here waiting in line. See our guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower for lots of tips and advice for planning your visit.
- Don’t try to see all the museums (or even half) in one visit! Some people get their Paris Museum Passes and go down the list visiting as many as they can squeeze into their trip. We certainly know the feeling of wanting to see everything, but if you do this, you are going to be exhausted. Paris has so much to offer that is not on that list and you’ll want to take time to slow down and soak up the city whether it is lingering over a cup of coffee at a café, sitting in a manicured park, watching the sunset over the Seine, or dancing at a club. Hopefully you’ll be back again in the future to catch those attractions you miss, but don’t go through Paris as if it is one big checklist of famous museums.
Our Experience Using the Paris Museum Pass & Our Cost Savings
We have used the Paris Museum Pass twice so far, once in 2012 and then again in 2017. In 2012, we purchased 2 4-day Paris Museum Passes in person at the Tourist Information Desk at Charles de Gaulle Airport. Then in 2017 we purchased two 2-day Paris Museum Passes online as part of the Paris Pass.
In 2012, we had a week in Paris. Since we had made reservations to visit the Eiffel Tower on the first evening (not included in the Pass) and had tickets to a performance at the Opera Garnier for later in the week, we validated our pass on the second day of our trip.
All you need to do to begin using the pass is to scan it at the first place of use. It will be timestamped, and the barcode will be scanned at each attraction or museum you visit.
During our 4-day period, we ended up visiting 8 attractions covered by the Museum Pass. We would also visit the Cluny Museum, but we did so as part of a special evening event with free admission.
While we spent a lot of time in some of the attractions we visited (Louvre and Versailles for example), we spent much less time at some of the other museums such as the Panthéon. While my partner spent some quality time examining war artifacts at the Musée de L’Armée, I was able to walk over to the Rodin Museum and stroll around the pretty sculpture gardens before popping back over to take a look at Napoleon’s tomb. The great thing about having the pass is that you can drop by for a quick visit of the less crowded attractions that you might otherwise have not visited.
In all instances, we were able to bypass the ticket buying lines and it was great to be able to avoid a couple of really long lines with this pass. However, for a couple of the places we still had to wait in lines. Notably, the security line for Sainte-Chapelle and Versailles. These are places you should try to arrive early if you can, or alternatively visit later in the afternoons.
As we mentioned earlier, we had read that we should get to Versailles before 10am to try to get priority access and to get in early. But we didn’t do that on our first visit and by the time we got there, they were not allowing priority access for anyone since the lines were so long.
As far as cost-savings, here is how things worked out for us (with prices updated for 2018):
So in 2012 we saved €59 and a few hours saved from not having to buy tickets and being given priority access. We were definitely very happy with our decision and would highly recommend the pass to save both money and also precious vacation time. Today your cost savings will actually be even greater.
However, it should also be stated that we probably would not have visited all of these places if we did not have the pass. For instance we probably would not have taken the time to visit the Pantheon and I probably would not have paid the full admission price to only visit Napoleon’s tomb at Musée de L’Armée.
As a history lover, it would be easy for me to museum hop my entire visit, especially with the Museum Pass. But you don’t want to spend your entire time in Paris looking at artwork and learning about French history, so be sure you plan some down time to get to know the Paris beyond the walls of the museums.
Before your trip to Paris, I would highly recommend taking a look at what the Paris Museum Pass can offer and decide if it is a good value for you. For example, on a visit in 2013, we decided not to purchase a Paris Museum Pass as a lot of the things we wanted to do during our visit were not covered by the pass so it didn’t make sense financially to do so. Instead we visited several free monuments and museums and even planned it so we got free entry to both Château de Fontainebleau and the Louvre.
We used the Paris Museum Pass again in 2017, revisiting some museums and also going to some new attractions. We again found that the pass saved us money and time, and we continue to highly recommend this pass.
There are still a number of places covered by the Paris Museum Pass that we have yet to visit so it is likely we’ll use the Paris Museum Pass again on future trips to Paris!
We hope this information is helpful. Feel free to ask us any questions you have about the Paris Museum Pass in the Comments section below and we are happy to try to answer them! Also, we’d love to hear from others who have also used the passes.
zoe cowan Post author
Hello! Trying to figure out tix for Versailles and am a bit confused. So, if we get the Paris Museum Pass and are going on a Sunday in May that has the Musical Fountains, do we need to buy an extra pass for the musical fountains? What if we just want to see the fountains without the music? Is it possible to do that with the PMP or will we need the extra ticket? Also, I just checked buying tix and there is a free section for holders of the “Titulaire du pass culture”. Does this mean the PMP? There is a space for a promotional code. Assume this means I need to buy the PMP in advance for the number? Thank you so much for all your kind help!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Zoe,
Visiting and booking tickets for Versailles has always been a bit of a complicated issue and its become tricker in recent years when booking time slots in advance is necessary for Paris Museum Pass holders (and for anyone wanting to guarantee entry into the palace during the high season).
So normally the gardens at Versailles are free to everyone during public opening hours but this is not the case during the Music Fountains Show, Musical Gardens days, and special events. Only children under age 6 get in for free on those days, otherwise you need a ticket. These normally take place on the weekends and during the summer months. The Park area is still free but access to all the gardnes and groves requires a ticket.
So with a Paris Museum Pass you would need to still buy a seperate ticket to access the gardens on those dates. You can buy the Musical Fountains Show Ticket in advance online or you can buy them from the ticket booths in front of the main gardens entrance before or after your visit of the palace. They are available for sale on site at the entrance to the gardens: via the Princes’ Courtyard from the Palace or via the Queen’s Gate from the Park.
The Cultural Pass I think you may be referring to is the pass for French high school students (https://pass.culture.fr/). It is not the same as a Paris Museum Pass and the Versailles website specifically calls it the Paris Museum Pass or PMP.
The Paris Museum Pass gives you free access to the Palace of Versailles and Palace of Versailles and the Estate of Trianon. But as with all tickets or passes, you need to reserve a date and time slot on the Palace of Versailles official website. So with the Paris Museum Pass, you want to book the regular Palace ticket AND the Trianon ticket. You should see the text note: “Accessible to Paris Museum Pass (PMP) holders.” as part of the description for both. You’ll pick the date and time you want, and then under the ticket rates list, you want to choose the free ticket option. Fill out all the info. I don’t believe you need to have your Paris Museum Pass number for the booking but the PMP official website does say you should buy in advance but not sure it matters as long as you have it before your visit – but if asked do put in your number. On date of visit, you’ll want to bring your Paris Museum Pass and a photo ID.
Then if you wanted to add the Musical Fountains tickets for that date you can add it to the same order. Or you can wait to buy them on the day and decide. I would recommend visiting the Gardens at Versailles if you haven’t done so before.
Note that if you want to use one of the official audioguides you will need to pay extra for this and you can also book these in advance online if you want. You pick them up at a ticket desk once you enter the palace.
Note that the Trianon Estate (Grand and Petit palaces) do not open until 12:00pm (noon) so you cannot tour them until then and they tend not to really care what time you visit as long as you have your pass/ticket. Our normal recommended visiting order is to visit the Palace at opening (arrive a bit early to get in line) and then head to the Gardens (fountains normally start around 10am, you should see the timings posted on site and online for your date), and then head over to the Trianon Estate for noon opening and Queen’s Estate (Marie Antoinette hamlet). You can also visit the Coach Gallery before leaving Versailles if interested (free admission, check opening dates, located across the street). You can easily spend a full day here and taking a break for lunch is a good idea!
Hope that helps and just let us know if you have more questions, or have any tips based on your experience with this!
Best,
Jessica
Kay Wammack Post author
The Paris Pass website as of today, 7/7/2023 says it includes a Hop-On-Hop-Off bus ride AND a river cruise. But you say it does not. Which is correct?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Kay,
I think you are being confused by the Paris Pass versus the Paris Museum Pass. The article above is about the Paris Museum Pass which doesn’t and has never included a HOHO bus ride or a river cruise – it includes entry to about 50 museums in Paris. Now the Paris Pass (you can read our other review of that pass) does include both a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus ride and a Seine river cruise. The Paris Pass is sold by a separate company – the longer passes (4 or 6 day ones) also include the Paris Museum Pass.
There are actually several Paris attractions passes, but the Paris Museum Pass and Paris Pass are the two ones we recommend. If you want to take a Paris HOHO bus and river cruise, then the Paris Pass is probably the one to choose.
I would make a list the of the main attractions/museums you plan to visit to determine which would be the best for your trip. How many days do you plan to be in Paris?
Hope that helps, and just let me know if you have more questions as you plan your visit to Paris!
Best,
Jessica
Amy Post author
If I book a time slot and then realize I won’t make it, is it possible to change the slot? If yes do you have to cancel the first one? Can you be a no show and then book another time or will they know you already booked and count that as your one visit? Any info on trying to manage visits from your phone appreciated. I am specifically thinking of museums in Paris. For example let’s say I have slot at the Louvre at 10 and St Chapelle at 1 but don’t make it to St Chapelle. Can I book St Chapelle at 5? Or at 9:30 the next day, all assuming availability of course. Thank you.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Amy,
So this is going to be dependent on the specific attraction and their website. But in general, most websites allow you to chance your timeslot online. However, for many places you often can’t book same day, either because they don’t allow same day bookings or they are pretty much always fully booked. Also, as you noted, for popular places such as the Louvre and St. Chapelle, you are unlikely to be able to get a timeslot the same day.
I can’t comment on no-shows as we’ve never done that, but I would not recommend that if you can avoid it as better to cancel or reschedule if you can. But I am guessing you could do that but it would depend on the specific website/attraction.
Most Paris attraction websites are fairly easy to manage on phone, but some are definitely easier to use on a laptop or desktop. So we tend to book from our laptops when we can as it is usually less clunky but you can of course also do it with your phone or tablet.
So I would try to book once you know the dates/times you think you can make and allow extra time between sites as then you can be more relaxed in how much time you spend and sometimes getting between attractions (especially if not easily walkable) can take longer than anticipated.
Hope that helps and if you have specific questions about a particular attraction website in terms of changing time slots with a Paris Museum Pass, I would contact them directly for a more definitive answer. Feel free to share anything you learn/experience here if you do need to make changes as it would likely be helpful to future readers.
Best,
Jessica
Eli Post author
Hello! I am traveling to Paris for the first time this May. I am traveling with my boyfriend and we are both european students under 26. I´ve read that you can visit lot of monuments for free if you are a student, is that true? Or would you recommend buying some pass instead? I am worried about the waiting times even with booked time…
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Eli,
Yes, that is true for most European countries. Students age 18-25 can receive free or discounted entry into most of Paris’s museums. Generally, this applies to residents or students of the EU countries specifically or sometimes for those of the European Economic Area (EU, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein). Sometimes it is just for students but sometimes for any EU resident under 26. You will just need to bring a photo ID to prove your a student and ID with birthdate for your age. Many places do either require or recommend that you book your tickets in advance, even if you are eligible for a free ticket. So be sure to check ahead, especially for popular places like the Louvre or Sainte-Chapelle.
A Paris Museum Pass would probably not save you much money if you have your student ID and are under age 26. But I would recommend checking all the places you want to go and checking the rules for students and any costs that may apply. There are other discount passes like the Paris Pass, but again, because of your age and EU residency, you may not save enough money with it to make it worthwhile.
Now, the free entry mainly apply to museums and national monuments, but for attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Sewers, walking tours, HOHO buses, or Paris Montparnasse Observatory, you would still need to pay. Depending on your age, you may be eligible for a discounted ticket for some of these.
In terms of waiting times, normally if you have a timed ticket, the ticket is supposed to guarantee entry within 30 minutes of that time as long as you are in line on time. So if you have a 11:00am ticket, and you join the ticketed line by 11:00am or earlier, you should expect to get inside by 11:30am (or earlier). But of course if there is security, this could take a bit longer. There are no faster ways to get into places other than to have a booked time with a ticket or pass. So it is always best not to plan things too close together to give yourselves plenty of time to visit and then travel to the next place without feeling too rushed.
Hope that helps and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip to Paris!
Best,
Jessica
Kristy Post author
Thank you for the valuable information. If you make a reservation for Saint Chapelle, for example, but arrive at a different time (early or late) will you be able to enter? Is it possible to schedule times on arrival at some locations? For example, if I am walking the city and come upon a place I would like to enter that requires reservations, is it possible to get a reservation at that time (other than the Louvre of course)? Thank you.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Kristy,
Glad you found our Paris Museum Pass article helpful.
So if you book a timed ticket for Sainte-Chapelle, that ticket is only going to work for the timeslot that you booked. So for example a 10am timeslot allows you to get into line at 10:00am and should guarantee that you are able to enter by 10:30am at the latest. Just note there is also an airport-style security line here that can take a bit longer for this particular attraction.
But if you say book a 10am time slot and do not arrive until 11am, they are under no obligation to honor your ticket. So in that situation, you would be up to the mercy of the staff/guards in whether they allow you to still join the line, ask you to book another timeslot, or just deny you entry.
In general, many of the most popular attractions in Paris are moving to visitors needing to have a reserved timeslot and pre-purchased ticket or passe to guarantee entry. It depends on the attraction but sometimes you can book same day tickets online, but sometimes you need to book at least 1 day in advance. But even when it is possible to buy same day tickets at popular museums, this is often not a great idea if you can avoid it as you may find very limited or no availability.
So for places that say that a reservation is essential or strongly recommended, I would book your timselot in advance if they are places you really want to visit.
But for places that are not on your must-see list, you can always try to book a reservation on arrival if you are just walking by an interesting museum or attraction, but I would be prepared for being denied entry or having to wait for a much later timeslot to be available.
Hope that helps, and wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris!
Jessica
P. Glover Post author
I am trying to pre book slots at Versailles Palace. On their website, I don’t see anyway to do that with the Museum Pass as you can do with the Louvre website. I definitely don’t want to just “show up” even early with no reservation. How do I book that now on the website with the pass??
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hello,
Yes, so with the Paris Museum Pass for years, there was no way to book a timeslot but you were still guaranteed entry. We have done this but there is pretty much always lines at the Palace of Versailles so booking in advance is definitely recommended.
Recently, Versailles has advised all visitors (including pass holders) to book their time slot in advance and to show up at the reserved time to guarantee entry and minimize the time spend waiting in line.
To book the timeslot with your Paris Museum Pass you just need to go to the Versailles website and go through the process of booking a palace ticket with a timeslot (it tells those with a PMP to also book a free ticket). You can currently do that here: https://billetterie.chateauversailles.fr/palace-ticket-visite-chateau-css5-chateauversailles-lgen-pg51-ei755927.html
Hope that helps and wishing you a great visit to Paris!
Best,
Jessica
Kent Post author
Hi, we just booked time reservations for the Louvre because we are intending on buying the museum pass. However they did not ask us for a number on the back of the museum pass. Your article is very emphatic that this is not the case so perhaps it should be updated.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Kent,
Yes, you are correct. Those making a reservation and planning to gain entry with a valid Paris Museum Pass do not currently need to have the Paris Museum Pass in hand to book. This allows for those planning to buy the Paris Museum Pass in person later to still make booking in advance. Until recently, you needed the pass number (or to put a placeholder number) which meant people with short visits didn’t have much choice in time slots if booking only a day or two in advance.
But as noted you will still of course need to bring both proof of the prebooked reservation AND your Paris Museum Pass when you visit. We generally have both a paper copy of the reservation for them to scan and a backup digital copy saved to the phone in case they have issues scanning either version.
I have changed that sentence in the post so that section should be updated now. But you will see a lot of older discussion still in the comments section about the booking process as this was a very common question and issue for people in 2019 and 2020 after the Louvre started to strongly recommend and then require reservations.
This is a very good change that the Louvre has made for visitors who plan to buy the Paris Museum Pass.
Best,
Jessica
Christopher Post author
Hi there. Very cool webpage. Thank you for all the helpful info. I’m not sure you’re still monitoring this comments section, but if you are, I have a question. Do you whether and how the Paris Museum Pass (PMP) will get me into special exhibitions? I am interested in the special exhibition called Top Secret : cinéma et espionnage at LA CINÉMATHÈQUE FRANÇAISE – MUSÉE MÉLIÈS. And I am also interested in the Gérard Garouste exhibition at Centre Pompidou. I just bought a 4-day pass.
If the PMP does not get me into special exhibitions and I want to see one, will I have to pay just a little extra for access to the special exhibition, or will I have to pay for the entire ticket as if I did not have the Paris Museum Pass? The answer to the second question would have a big impact on whether this pass is worth the cost…
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Christopher,
Glad you are find our post about the Paris Museum Pass helpful in planning your trip. We do read all the comments and try to reply to them all.
So normally if an exhibition is free, it is included as part of your Paris Museum Pass ticket. But if there is a separate charge, it is generally not included. You would not need to purchase a ticket to the museum itself, just the ticket price for the exhibition. So you would still need to pay for the ticket for the exhibitions in most cases.
Since you already know which special exhibitions you want to see, I’d call or email the specific museums and ask what the price is for the exhibition for Paris Museum Pass holders. Then you can find out the price and if there are any reductions for pass holders. Then you can determine if it is worth it for all the places you specifically want to visit or not.
Hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful visit to Paris!
Best,
Jessica
Lydia Post author
With a Paris Museum Pass is it still necessary to book a time slot at museums other than the Louvre?
Thanks so much for your helpful info!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Lydia,
So the Louvre is the main one that you should book in advance as booking is required for all visitors. Others attractions that I believe booking is still required (or strongly recommended) is Château de Malmaison, Orangerie Museum, Palace of Versailles, and Sainte-Chapelle. So if you plan to visit any of those places with the Paris Museum Pass, I would book your timeslot or free ticket in advance.
Others that you may want to reserve a time slot online are La Conciergerie, Musée de la Musique, and Cinémathèque Française. However, reservations are not required and there is normally not a long line for these attractions so it is not necessary.
Best,
Jessica
Steven Post author
This is great information.
Question: can I purchase a museum pass today to get the pass number, then use that number to reserve a time at Sainte-Chapelle for a later date without “starting the clock” on the pass?
Sorry if you’ve already answered this question, but I didn’t see this directly addressed.
Thanks.
Laurence Post author
Hi Steven,
Yes, if you purchase the Paris Museum Pass and are planning to have it either delivered by mail or pick it up in Paris, you can make reservations for some of the museums in advance. This has not always been the case, but since the pandemic many of the museums that require or recommend reservations now have a way for pass holders to make reservation either with or without the actual pass numbers (since some people purchase the pass and then pick up in Paris but want to make reservations without knowing the number).
Making a reservation does NOT start your time. Only when your pass is first checked or scanned at an attraction in Paris. So you just need to make sure that all the places you visit are all within your pass’s time period – for example if you have a 48 hour pass, you just need to make sure each visit fits within that time period. When you make the reservations doesn’t matter, just your actual visits.
Each attraction works differently in regards to reservations. For Sainte-Chapelle specifically, you can make a reservation in advance on their website. You need to go to Buy a Ticket and then say you already have a ticket, and then complete the info. Then when you actually arrive, you will need to show your Paris Museum Pass to enter and they will scan it then.
This webpage from the Paris Pass (which includes the Paris Museum Pass) gives some good information for booking various attractions in Paris that require reservations. Just note that if you are buying just a Paris Museum Pass, some of these will not apply, but many of the museums are included on the Paris Museum Pass.
Hope that helps and just let me know if you have any further questions about the Paris Museum Pass or about planning your visit to Paris.
Best,
Jessica
Ann Cahill Post author
I am headed to Paris for a week and definitely want the pass. On the official website I cannot locate the form to fill out to purchase online. Am I missing something? I would prefer to do that rather than buying in person once I get there, but that might be what I have to do. Appreciate any guidance.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Ann,
Yes, the official website doesn’t seem to be working properly for buying the digital version (e-ticket) of the Paris Museum Pass as I couldn’t see the form either. As far as I know, they are currently the only ones selling the digital version and it has been in a testing phase. They also don’t seem to offer a way to purchase the physical paper pass online any longer. There have been issues with this website off and on for years. You can try sending them a message to see if they can get the form working again before you leave for Paris.
Alternatively, you can also currently book the physical Paris Museum Pass online here from the Paris Visitor Bureau for the same price here
– this pass can either be mailed to your home or picked up once you are in Paris. So this would allow you to get it delivered to you before your trip if you hav enough time before your trip.
You can also purchase it online via GetYourGuide here, this pass can then be picked up in Paris at an office near the Louvre. GYG is very easy to use but in this case there is an extra cost if you purchase it here as a third-party seller.
And of course, you also have the option to purchase it in person once you arrive in the airports, a number of participating attractions, as well as some ticket and tourism offices in Paris.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Ann Cahill Post author
Thank you so much. Glad it wasn’t just me. I’ll get it when we get there then!
Happy travels. Ann
Jim Ellison Post author
I can’t see timed entry reservations for Musee Rodin or d’Orsay. Do they not have them? We have the Museum Pass
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Jim,
I don’t think reservations are required at either of those museums if you have the Paris Museum Pass. Both websites say you just show the pass at entry. On the Musee d’Orsay website for example: “Holders of a Paris Museum Pass or of a ticket purchased from a third-party vendor do not need a time slot reservation.” At both museums, you’ll want to join the line for those with passes and untimed tickets.
I’d recommend checking out this webpage by the Paris Pass is a good one to check out for where you need to make reservations and how to do so. The Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass so should include all the places covered by your pass where you need to make reservations (as well as other only included on the Paris Pass portion). They do try to keep it up to date but of course the requirements have been changing quite a bit lately.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Jim Ellison Post author
When making reservations for a time slot at the Louvre, it asks me to sign in using my email. When I enter the email it says it is not valid. But I know I used that email to buy the passes. How can I fix this? Can’t find any support structure for the pass like online chat or even email support.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Jim
The login on the Louvre website is not related to the information you gave for your Paris Museum Pass. You need to press the “sign up” button if you don’t have a Louvre account and create a new account. Just remember to note down your account info so you can sign in again.
We’re not sure when the Louvre website started asking for people to also sign up for an account to book a reservation but this is fairly recent. But once you have signed up with an account, you should then be able to make a reservation with your Paris Museum Pass information.
Let us know if you have any further issues or questions.
Wishing you a great trip to Paris,
Jessica
Dude Cicle Post author
Thank you so much! That explains it. I really appreciate it
Jim
Nathaniel Post author
This is very well written and comprehensive.
Definitely helpful for my trip this November, 2021.
Here’s a list of places that needs a reservation in advance for PMP holders:
https://events.parisinfo.com/ec/pmp-acces-2021-fr.pdf
Thank you so much!
More power and take care.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Nathaniel,
So glad to hear our article was helpful, and thanks for sharing the latest link to the attractions that require reservations for Paris Museum Pass users.
For those reading this article, please note the list is changing regularly and you should double check the policy on the individual attraction website before your visit!
Also for those who don’t speak/read French, here is the English translations for the main terms used in the document and you might read on websites or see on brochures:
Réservation recommandée – reservations recommended
Réservation obligatoire – reservations are mandatory (need to pre-book your visit if you wish to visit, normally a specific time slot)
Réservation conseillée – recommendations are advised
Accès libre – means that access is free (meaning that reservations not required) and most also note for these that there is a limited number of visitors permitted each day
Fermé – closed, the attraction is currently closed to public visits
Oh and I also found the English version of the above document that Nathaniel kindly linked to above which you can read here.
Basically, for anything that says that reservations are suggested/recommended/advised, I would recommend booking in advance. Those that say it is mandatory or obligatory will only allow people in that have proof of pre-booked reservations. And of course make sure you have both your reservation booking and your Paris Museum Pass with you when you visit.
Thanks again Nathaniel and wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris next month!!
Best,
Jessica
Cris Post author
Indeed, the PMP will be effective in consecutive hours. I tried this with my sister, and we were able to use it for 3 days with perfectly-timed visits that we plan for each museum we planned to go to. I am going back to Paris next week (I only live in the south of France and I have a business trip anyway), and I will use PMP again with my cheque vacances. Let’s see how the experience will be with all the added conditions of booking reservations in the museums.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Chris,
Thanks for sharing your experiences with the Paris Museum Pass, and glad that it worked well for you. We love the Paris Museum Pass and have used it a number of times before. Yes, things are a bit different now with the pass and many places do require pre-booking the at moment due to the pandemic and visitor number controls. We would love to hear about your experience using the pass in Paris next week, as I am sure your experience and any tips will help readers who are planning to travel to Paris this year.
Best,
Jessica
Lena Post author
I would love to find out you were able to book museum reservations with the PMP. We travel in October and I am unsure if we should get the PMP now that advanced tickets are needed for museums. Any information you could share on your experience would be great.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Lena,
It is easy to do it at some of the museums, like at the Louvre, where have used the Paris Museum Pass and the Paris Pass since they have rolled out the reservation system there. They went to a reservation system a couple of years ago. But we haven’t had to do it with any of the other museums or attractions on the PMP that have implemented reservation policies due to the pandemic.
The skip the ticket line (and in some cases fast track entry) was definitely a great bonus with the Paris Museum Pass, and some of these are no longer there (at least temporarily). But the cost savings should still be the same with the pass so something to still keep in mind if you still plan to visit a number of places covered by the pass.
Yes, hopefully Cris can provide some more insight on what things are like in Paris now and how easy it is to use the PMP and make reservations as needed.
Best,
Jessica
Lori Morgan Post author
Can anyone confirm that the Paris Museum Pass is currently being sold and used for this summer? I’m looking at July 2021.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Lori,
Yes, the Paris Museum Pass is still working – I’d recommend buying it directly online or in person in Paris from the Paris Tourism Office – most other sellers don’t seem to be selling it at the moment.
But just note that there are still some sites are still closed due to the pandemic and many now require pre-booked reservations (even with a pass). Previously only a couple of attractions required reservations if you had the Paris Museum Pass (or Paris Pass which includes the Paris Museum Pass), but now a large number of attractions require you to pre-book a time slot to help control visitor numbers and allow for social distancing.
France is still in the process of coming out of its third national lockdown and restrictions are expected to lower over the summer.
So I would probably start checking now to what will be open and what attractions you want to visit require bookings first. Then you can decide if the Paris Museum Pass is a good value or not for you.
Wishing you safe & happy travels!
Best,
Jessica
LORI MORGAN Post author
Hi Jessica,
Thanks for the information. I think some of the Paris Tourism Offices are closed right now. Do you know if there is a Paris Tourism Offices at Orly airport? Would any of them open right now sell them? I have booked time slots already for many of them but I thought I would have a big problem if I can’t actually get the passes once we get there.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Lori,
Yes, a couple of the tourism offices have reopened (the Hôtel de Ville office in central Paris says it is open) but some are closed until further notice with no date of reopening given. So I would probably call or email (https://en.parisinfo.com/contact-us) them to ask where Paris Museum Passes will be available for purchase during the time of your visit. The Paris Museum Passes are sold at their official welcome centers as well as other ticket and tourism offices and stores in Paris, but they should hopefully be able to give you a few places that will definitely be open.
Both Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airport do have tourist information desks which sell the Paris Museum Passes normally. Orly is showing that at least one of the tourist information points is closed, as are some terminals, so I would check ahead if you want to buy them before getting into Paris. The Paris Convention Center (above) should be able to tell you or you can contact the airport directly.
Best,
Jessica
Selwyn Post author
Hi. This is a very interesting and useful read. I have just one question on the museum pass. I read above in your explanation it is mentioned that it is on an hourly basis for the 48 hour pass since June 2019 which means the pass is valid for 48 whole consecutive hours.
In a reply to a similar question you say that its on a day basis and not hourly. Apologies but I’m a bit confused. If it makes it any easier, I used my 48 hour museum pass on day 1 at 12.00pm and all through day 2. On day 3 I plan to use it between 9am to 12pm. Is it usable and valid? Would really appreciate your reply. I am out to use it tomorrow so I’m probably late but nevertheless worth a try and for the benefit of others. Thanks! Really love the level of detail I could find on your posts.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Selwyn,
Yes, that is correct, the Paris Museum Pass works on an hourly basis now so it is valid for a certain number of consecutive hours once it is activated. So if you had a 48 hour Paris Museum Pass, it will be valid for 48 hours from that time of first use.
We first reviewed the Paris Museum Pass several years ago so some of the Comments (which date back several years) are going to contain information that is now outdated. As we note above, the pass originally was only good for consecutive days and this was the case for many years. So if you used a 2 day pass on Monday evening, it would only be good for that Monday and Tuesday. But now the pass would be valid until Wednesday evening at the same time as the first use on Monday. So now it doesn’t matter as much when you start using it.
But many people still talk about the pass as a 2 day pass (48 hour), 4 day pass (96 hour), etc. as this is easier to think about. But just know that it works on a consecutive hour basis.
So yes, if your first use of a 48 hour Paris Museum Pass is at 12:00pm on Day 1, it will be valid until 12:00pm on Day 3. A total of 48 hours. Just note that it will use the exact time to activate and deactivate, so be sure to keep track of your pass activation time.
Best,
Jessica
Gel Post author
Hi Jessica, I have a related question to this. For instance, if I will be using a 6-day museum pass and have it activated on Monday at 2PM, will I still be able to stay inside the museum beyond 2PM considering I have one last museum visit on Sunday with 1PM admission time? Thanks in advance!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Gel,
Yes, if you have a 6 day (144 hour) Paris Museum Pass, you should be able to use it as long as you get there and your pass is scanned before the 144 hours ends, you should be fine. Most museums allow you to visit for as long as you wish. But if you try to use it at 144 hours or later, then you will obviously need to pay for your entry to the museum.
Just note you only get one entry per museum, so you cannot leave and re-enter museums with the Paris Museum Pass. Also note that if you are purchasing the Paris Museum Pass as part of the Paris Pass, note that the Paris Pass portion works on a consecutive day basis, not on a hourly basis.
Enjoy your time in Paris!
Best,
Jessica
Gel Post author
Thanks a lot for really detailed content and response right here. More power to you!!
darren chang Post author
Hi Jessica,
does museum pass include Montparnasse Tower? I have been reading but seems to be exclusive for paris pass holder only.
thanks in advance for any quick reply. appreciate the help
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Darren,
Yes, that is correct. Montparnasse is NOT included as part of the Paris Museum Pass, but is included as part of the Paris Pass. So if you want a pass that includes Montparnasse Tower, you will want to consider the Paris Pass instead. The Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass, a separate attractions pass (which includes Montparnasse Tower), and a public transit ticket.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Mary Theriualt Post author
I love your article and am grateful for some of your tips, but can you please tell me about the pass in regard to the Louvre. I hear it sells out almost immediately. I don’t understand how it works with the pass. I was told people have to have passes to get in months in advance. I am just worried about the process. Rick Steeves video of Paris made it seem like it was as easy as walking into the line with the pass and going right inside. I appreciate any insight here.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Mary,
As you have probably already read in our article and in numerous comments, the Louvre has recently changed its policies so most blogs and videos are just outdated. The Louvre is recommending that all visitors (with or without a pass) make a reservation either by buying a timed ticket or making a reservation with the Paris Museum Pass (or Paris Pass).
The time slots can book out in advance, particularly during busy periods, but we have never heard of them being booked out months in advance (again there is a lot of bad information out there). For example, there are tickets and time slots for Paris Museum Pass holders available for today and tomorrow when I checked today. But we have seen them booked out for a couple of days in advance during busy periods, particularly in summer and holidays.
So whether you want to have the pass sent to you in advance or not is up to you. If you are worried about it, I’d recommend just getting it shipped to you in advance for piece of mind so you know you will have the date and time slot you want.
Once you have your Pass, you’ll want to book your time slot. Then you need to bring both your Paris Museum Pass AND your timeslot reservation from the Louvre with you to get entry. You have to enter via the Pyramid line with a Paris Museum Pass. Once there, just be sure to get in the line for those with reservations.
Best,
Jessica
Iva Post author
Really great article! We’re visiting Paris in June so a bunch of excellent advice to start planning.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Iva, Glad you are finding our travel blog helpful. Just let us know if you have any questions about the Paris Museum Pass or other things in Paris as you plan your trip! Best, Jessica
Nadine Hamel Post author
My daughter is 20 and I know some places offer reduced tickets so I am wondering if it is still worth it to get the pass to avoid the longer lines she may have to stand in to get the reduced fares. She is going the 2nd week of March. Thank you for your help.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Nadine,
Yes, if she is 20 and a resident of the European Economic Area and has a valid ID showing age and residence, then she will receive free or discounted entry at many of the museums in Paris. This discount is for anyone 25 or younger within the EEA and she will just need to bring valid IDs showing this to get the applicable discounts. Sometimes museums have student-specific discounts instead of age ones, so if she is a university student within the EU, might be worth bringing that ID as well.
But yes, she will still have to wait in regular ticket and waiting lines if getting an age-related discount or entry so it may be advantageous in terms of time to get the Paris Museum Pass.
The busiest museums can have long waiting lines whereas the less popular ones often have fairly short waits. So it also depends where she plans to visit on her trip. But if this is her first time in Paris, she is most likley going to be visiting the most popular ones which tend to have the longest lines.
Best,
Jessica
Nadine Hamel Post author
Jessica,
Thanks for your reply. She is not an EU student, but from the US so I guess the Pass is best. My other question is..she will traveling with a student from the EU. Can the EU friend stand in line with my daughter who will have the Pass or will they have to wait in separate lines?
Kind regards,
Nadine
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Nadine,
Yes, the under 18 discounts/free entry is for anyone with ID. But the young persons discounts for those under 26 years of age are normally only for residents of EU/EEA. Some museums have university student policies, these are sometimes only for students in France or the EU, or may be worldwide, it just depends on the museum or attraction. So yes, I agree that a Paris Museum Pass is going to be better for her.
For her friend, I am not sure as this is not related to the Paris Museum Pass. I don’t know if those getting university free entry or discounts would be able to wait in the same line as passholders or not. I think it would vary by the museum or attraction as some lines are only for ticket holders and pass holders. Certainly, at places where she only gets a discount, rather than it being free, she would need to get a ticket.
This is something she may want to contact individual museums about that she plans to visit to find out their policies.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Robert M Pearson Post author
We plan to order the Paris Museum Pass, but have a couple of questions.
1) I need to order 6 cards. Will the fee to send us 6 cards in the USA be 24 euro total? Or 24 euro per card for a total of 144 Euro. Huge difference
2) If I simply pick up the cards in Paris after our arrival, how can I know my card number to book my desired time to visit the Louvre several weeks in advance as you suggest? Maybe I will be told my card numbers upon my order, even though I will not take possession of them until I arrive in Paris. Do you have any insights as to how this works?
Many thanks
RP
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Robert,
1.) I have not ordered directly from the Paris tourism board before, but I think they are now the only place you can get them mailed to you directly. The 24 euro DHL fee should be for your total order. I think the delivery fee is the same no matter how many passes or items you order. But as you go through the Checkout process this should be clear before you put in your credit card info and accept the order. So just the total amount looks correct.
2.) No, unfortunately, the only way as noted is to have your Paris Museum Pass in hand as you need to have the actual number from the back of the pass to make the reservation. The numbers are all unique and if you collect them in person, they just hand you the next available pass. So they would not know the number that they will be giving you in advance. If you want to make Louvre Museum reservations weeks in advance, you’ll want to get them sent to your before your trip.
But once you have the passes, it is easy to make the reservation online with the Louvre and then you just need to bring both the Louvre Reservation info AND your Paris Museum Pass. Make sure at the Louvre that you join the correct line at the Pyramid for Paris Museum Pass holders with reservations.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Michele Post author
This was the same question I was going to ask about making Louvre reservations in advance. Do you happen to know if they Paris Museum Pass tickets get booked up? I’d imagine they reserve some and since you need to have the physical pass in hand with the number to make the reservation, maybe they still have them available a few days before. Would love to know if you have any experience with this! Thanks so much!
To clarify…I mean do the Paris Museum Pass tickets at the LOUVRE get booked up. My friend said previously you just walked up with the Paris Museum Pass and were able to enter the Louvre, but as I’ve read above and in other places you now need to make a timed ticket with your Paris Museum Pass. My thought were that perhaps these at the Louvre do not get booked up as quickly since you need the physical pass in hand and most people will not buy it until they are actually in Paris, but still nervous about getting tickets. Any thoughts you have would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!!!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Michele,
Yes, so in the past, before the summer of 2019, you could NOT make a reservation using the Paris Museum Pass. You just had to arrive and get in the line and wait your turn to get through security and get in. Sometimes the line was short, sometimes it was really long.
But the Louvre is now requesting that everyone, not just pass holders, book a reservation in advance if possible. This is partly due to increased visitor numbers, and when we visited over the summer, they were turning people away everyone without reservations in the afternoon we visited as they had gone to capacity. This included those with passes and those with tickets without reserved times.
The good side of the new system is that you should get in within 30 minutes of your time slot, so if you have a 10:00am slot, you should get into the museum by 10:30am.
Now, even though we were there in July and August at the height of crowds, you could still get tickets online for the next day on the days they were selling out. But time slots were limited. So it is unlikely that the Paris Museum Pass slots would be gone more than a couple days in advance but the system is quite new and I am not sure if they allocate separate slots for those with passes versus normal ticket buyers.
So if you are worried about not getting a certain time slot and are going during a busy time of year, I’d get your pass before your visit. If not and you have a few days in Paris, then you can probably wait until you arrive.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Ellen C Post author
I have been trying to see the list of all 60 locations included in the Paris Museum Pass but nothing happens when I click the link. where else is it available?
thanks
Ellen
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Ellen,
Yes, it looks like they have removed almost all information on the official Paris Museum Pass website where there used to be lots of information available about each attraction. I found this list on the Paris Tourism website which should be up to date, you can see that here.
Also if you purchase it directly from GetYourGuide, they also have a list of the attractions here if you look under the “Full Description” section.
Best,
Jessica
Anne Gee Post author
Hello, your post was very informative. I have a question in regards the the museum pass. I will be traveling with my daughter to Paris in April 2020. My daughter is 16. Do you feel it would be worth purchasing a museum pass for her so we can skip the ticket lines? I’m afraid if I purchase a museum pass for myself, that she will get stuck having to wait for a ticket for free entry anyway, and she will not be allowed to enter with me.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Anne,
I think most places will allow you both to enter together with just the Paris Museum Pass. For her, you’ll want to have a valid photo ID document (such as her passport) with you as some places will check her age for free entry. But we have heard some places will still make people collect free tickets, but we are not sure how often this is the case.
At less busy attractions, this is not too much of an issue as lines are short anyway but for places you plan to visit that may have long ticket lines (e.g., Louvre, Orsay, Versailles) I would recommend perhaps emailing them in advance and checking. I would just explain that you plan to have a Paris Museum Pass for yourself and your daughter is 16 and eligible for free entry and ask if she needs to collect a ticket or anything to enter.
Note that if you plan to visit Versailles, those under 18 get free entry (with proof of photo ID), but it is not free to visit the gardens on days when there are Fountains Shows and the Musical Gardens. This would be the case for you both so something to check on in advance. If you do plan to visit on one of those days, you can get a reduced-priced ticket for your daughter and a gardens ticket for yourself.
Hope that helps, and if you find out some information about ticket policies regarding children getting free entry, please share what you find out as it will help future readers traveling with children/teens.
Best,
Jessica
MJ Felix Post author
Help, please
I am trying to check available date and times to visit the Louvre with the Paris Museum Pass. I used both links in your article and also direct to the Museum.
It will not allow me to pick any dates. This is the message that is continuously returned:
Warning: Niche or request unavailable. Please try again or refresh the page.
I can”t get past that warning and cannot choose a date and therefore cannot check times and cannot choose two tickets.
Any advice. I have booked many tickets at other times and have not experience such a dead end.
Thanks
MJ
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi MJ,
Sorry to hear that. I just tried as well and got the same error. We’ve tried it before and it worked fine, so this is definitely an issue with the Louvre website. I would email or call them directly and let them know about the issue so they can get it fixed (although I am guessing they must be aware by now).
Hoping they get it fixed ASAP! The good news is that just about all the dates are showing as available so you should not have an issue getting a reservation once the system is fixed.
Best,
Jessica
kelly Post author
Hello! Thank you for the informative article! I have a question – if you order the Museum Pass online to be picked up upon arrival in Paris – do you get the pass number in advance to be able to make Lourve reservations in advance? Or do you have to wait until you have the Museum Pass in hand to actually get the number?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Kelly, No, you need to physically have the pass in hand to have the number to make Louvre reservations. You can either have it mailed to you before your trip or wait to pick it up in Paris. Best, Jessica
Kate Post author
Hi Jessica ! Thanks for such an informative explanation regarding the Paris Museum Pass (probably the most complete one I’ve ever read so far). I am going to Paris soon for the very first time, and I’m so excited about it. I would like to ask you something about using this Paris Museum Pass.
By using this card, do we still able to get those paper-printed tickets at the attraction? (Same as those that paid for the admission ticket)
I kinda wanna journaling down my whole trip in Paris, and I’d loved to keep those tickets for my journal book.
Hope to hear from you soon, and thanks in advance 🙂
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Kate,
Glad you found our Paris Museum guide helpful. At some museums, you will get a “free ticket” but at some you won’t get any kind of ticket. Note that more sites are trying to reduce paper waste so even those who wait in line for tickets may just get a sticker now.
When you don’t get a ticket, I’d consider instead using your photos for your journal or use the museum brochure (many give out a brochure or map plan).
Wishing you a great trip to Paris!
Best,
Jessica
Fabienne Post author
Hello! What a helpful and informative site, thank you! I am trying to purchase the Paris Musem Passes, but their website has been really wonky for about a month now. It makes me nervous to purchase the pass! Do you know anything about why their website is malfunctioning? Do you think it’s safe to proceed with them? Thanks so much!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Fabienne,
Yes, the official website for the Paris Museum Pass is a mess at the moment. I am not sure if they plan to fix it or not. The purchase page goes to the Paris Tourist Office (same as it always has) so the ordering should be a similar process. The pass itself changed in June, so that may be part of it as well.
I think the Paris Tourist Office website is the only place you can purchase it beforehand and have it mailed. So that is really your only option if you want it mailed before your trip. If you need to purchase from there and are having issues, I’d give them a call.
But if you are just planning to pre-purchase and pick up with a voucher in Paris, you can also purchase the Paris Museum Pass here (via GetYourGuide) or here (via TicketBar). If you plan to pick up in Paris, I’d just be sure to check the pick-up locations to make sure it is convenient for you.
Best,
Jessica
Gail S. Post author
Will be purchasing Paris Museum Passes at CDG airport upon landing. For the Louvre, per your advice, I plan to then immediately go online to register for a date/time slot. Once I register, will I need to print out a document to take with me to the Louvre? We are staying at an Airbnb apt. and won’t have access to a printer. Thank you!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Gail,
When you arrive at CDG, there are several tourist information booths, located in Terminals 1 and 2, where you can purchase the Paris Museum Pass.
You can print the Lourve reservation or just show it on your phone as it is an electronic ticket – just as long as it is readable and can be scanned by museum staff.
Enjoy your trip in Paris!
Jessica
Gail Sherman Post author
Thank you so very much Jessica! – Gail
ellen c Post author
Thank you. Since I will receive my museum passport at the airport, i will have to book my time slot only a couple of days before visiting the louvre (early April 2020). Might I have a problem getting the time slot i want?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Ellen,
Yes, that is correct. You need the Paris Museum Pass number on the back of the pass to use to book your reservation if you are using the pass as your ticket for entry. It is hard to predict how busy the museum might be then, but I think as long as you have some flexibility you should be OK in April if you only can book a couple of days in advance.
If you are worried, you could have the pass mailed to you at home and book before your trip.
Best,
Jessica
Lupita Post author
Thank you for this informative article! I was hoping you can answer a question for me regarding having the pass delivered to me in the United States. I noticed when inputting my address it does not ask for my state of residence – just the street address, town and postal zip code. Is this all that is necessary for international delivery?
Secondly, with regards to Versailles, I would like to attend on a Sunday and understand I will need to purchase a separate musical fountains ticket to access the gardens on this day. Does this PMP ticket include access to the audio guide tour, as well as everything included in the “Versailles Passport” ticket? If I am planning on attending on a Sunday in September, would’ve you recommend purchasing direct with timed entry?
Thanks in advance for your help with this!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Lupita,
Yes, that is a bit strange that they do not allow you to type in a state/province. But they are probably using software that inputs your state based on your zip code. But there is an “Additional Address Details” box where you could write your state if you wish. After you order, I would maybe send them an email just to confirm (you can contact them here: https://en.parisinfo.com/contact-us) in case there is something wrong with their address form. They generally reply fairly quickly.
I think delivery via DHL takes about 4 working days.
Yes, at Versailles, the PMP includes entry into the state rooms at Versailles, gardens (when there are no events in garden), the palaces of Trianon, and the coach gallery. The only thing you would need to pay for is the entrance to the gardens if the musical fountains are happening. You can purchase the gardens only ticket online on the Versailles website or you can purchase it in person when entering the gardens. The audioguides are currently free for all visitors age 8 and older. They are available in several languages.
If you want to skip the line for the audioguides (it is not usually too long) you can download the free app for your phone before you leave (works offline) and it includes commentary for the palace, gardens, Trianon, and coach gallery. YOu can see it here: http://www.chateauversailles.fr/decouvrir/ressources/application-chateau-versailles
Versailles is a popular attraction and there is always a line to enter here, with or without a pass. September will be less busy than summer, but the weekends will still be busy. I would recommend either using the pass and getting there early (a little before opening time is ideal) or purchasing the timed entry ticket (make sure it includes musical fountains ticket). We’ve done both, it really depends on how much time you have.
Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have further questions!
Jessica
Lisa Post author
I’m having a problem finding out whether the Louvre and Orsay will be free during European Heritage Days, Sept 20 – 22nd. Any ideas? Obviously affects the determination of whether the Pass is worthwhile . . . Thanks – wonderful set of articles. Very much appreciate your research and very clear tips and suggestions!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Lisa,
I am not sure, but I would guess not as I don’t see anything on their websites or on the French government’s European Heritage Days website. But there are thousands of events listed, and you can see that here: https://journeesdupatrimoine.culture.gouv.fr/
If you don’t find anything there, you might try contacting the museums directly to ask.
Both museums do usually participate in the European Museum Night each May and I have visited museums on Paris on those free days, so it is of course possible. But I see more events and temporary exhibitions rather than free museum openings on the schedule for the European Heritage Days.
Best,
Jessica
antonietta Post author
I’m extremely pleased to find this website. I wanted to thank you for your time due to this wonderful read!! I definitely savored every bit of it and i also have you saved as a favorite to look at new stuff on your site.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Antonietta, Happy you are finding the travel information you are looking for here, and we are happy to have you as a new reader! Best, Jessica
Daniel Post author
Hello
I just looked at the official tourist office website which now says under ‘Please note’ “The Paris Museum Pass grants 1 entry per site, whatever the duration of the pass.” Link here https://booking.parisinfo.com/il4-offer_i148-paris-museum-pass.aspx. Is this right? Was hoping to do multiple visits to the louvre, one on the afternoon I arrive and then the next day.
Also, if it’s the case that you can’t re-enter, can you leave for a short lunch break and return the same day? Or should you pack a snack?
Thanks!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Daniel,
I have checked into this further and it appears that the rules for the Paris Museum Pass have changed, as you noted, and they are no longer allowing multiple entries to the same attraction. Similar to other passes, you can now only use the Paris Museum Pass once per included museum or attraction.
So you will not be able to use the Paris Museum Pass to visit the Louvre on multiple days. They used to allow same day re-entry with a museum ticket, but this also appears to have changed now that they have a timeslot booking system. The following is noted on their website: “Please note that tickets are valid only for the chosen service, date and time. Once visitors leave the museum (through the Pyramid or the Porte des Lions), they will not be able to re-enter.” So you will not be able to re-enter.
So with the Paris Museum Pass, you will want to pre-book your timeslot once you have the pass in hand. You will then need to bring both your timeslot reservation information and Paris Museum Pas to enter the Louvre and they will be scanned. You will not be able to leave and return, so I’d consider having lunch within the museum itself or bringing in a small snack.
Note that bringing “excessive food or drinks” into the museum is prohibited and any food items need to be stored in closed plastic bags or containers. No food or drink, except water, is allowed to be consumed in rooms containing artwork.
If you know that one day is not going to be enough time, you can purchase a separate timed entry ticket for the following day.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Flora Post author
Thank you for the article! When purchasing a PMP online to pick up in Paris, do you see the pass number immediately? I would like to sign up for a timeslot at the Louvre, which requires the PMP number, and don’t want to waste time or money ordering it ahead of time if the only way to see the PMP number is if you have it physically in hand. Thanks!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Flora,
No, I believe that you will only see the actual pass number once you pick it up as each is individually numbered. When you pick it up, you will just receive an available pass at that pick-up location.
If you want to make Louvre reservations in advance of being in Paris with the Paris Museum Pass, I’d order one online and have it mailed to you before your trip. Otherwise you will have to wait until you arrive in Paris to use the PMP.
Reservations have never been needed for pass holders before, so this is very new (this was just instituted by the Louvre last month during our visit actually) so a new system may come into place to make this easier for those who purchase their passes in advance, but I don’t think you can get the number before having the physical pass.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Ailin Post author
Hi! I’m travelling to Paris in September and planning to buy the Paris Museum Pass. In almost every forum I read it says that, with the pass, you can access each museum ilimited times (For example, we could visit the Louvre 2 consecutive days). But on Paris info website it says that the pass only grants 1 entry to each museum. Is this a new policy?
Another question: I plan to buy the PMP online and pick it up on Gare du Nord, where we arrive from London. We arrive on monday, september 30th and plan to visit the Louvre on Wednesday, October 2nd. Do you think there will be available tickets for the Louvre if I book them the day I arrive to Paris? because I need the passes serial numbers to book the tickets online.
Thanks for all your advices, its a very helpful post! (Sorry for my bad English, I’m not a native speaker)
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Ailin,
Yes, unless they have very recently changed their policy, you should be able to visit the same museums more than once during the dates that your pass is valid. So if you wanted to visit the same museum on two different days, you should be able to do so. We’ve never had an issue with this.
Here is information directly from the Paris Museum Pass’s official website:
“Is it possible to visit the same museum or monument several times with the PARIS MUSEUM PASS?
Yes, the PARIS MUSEUM PASS allows you to visit as many museums and monuments as you wish and as many times as you care to.”
I expect by October, things should not be as busy as they are now and you shouldn’t need to worry as much. And the renovations they are doing may be completed. But if you are worried about getting next day reservations at the Louvre, you can always order the Paris Museum Pass in advance and have it mailed directly to your home or to where you will be staying in London. Then you can make the reservations as soon as you receive the pass.
Best,
Jessica
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Ailin,
An update to my prior answer, after looking into this further, they have changed their policy and you can only visit each museum or attraction included on the pass 1 time. You will not be allowed to visit the same museum for over 2 days.
The new rule is: “The Paris Museum Pass grants 1 entry per site, whatever the duration of the pass.”
When you have your Paris Museum Pass, you will want to book your timeslot online. You will need to bring both your Paris Museum Pass and timeslot reservation information to be allowed entry into the museum. Both will be scanned.
So if you would like to visit the Louvre for 2 days, I would book a separate Louvre timed entry ticket for your trip. You can visit once with the Paris Museum Pass and then once with a ticket.
Best,
Jessica
Lupe Post author
Hi Jessica and Laurence, Thank you for all the wonderful information on the Paris Museum Pass. We are going to Paris this August for 4 1/2 days. We are probably planning on buying the PMP. We have two teenagers 17 and 14 yo. How do we go about purchasing guided tours for the Louvre and Versailles if we have the PMP?
What do you think of the bicycle city tours? and the hop on/hop off bus tours.
Thank you for your time and great website.
Lupe
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Lupe,
Yes, the Paris Museum Passes are probably a good idea for you and any other adults, but it is probably not a great deal for your children as most attractions are free or discounted for those 18 and under in Paris if accompanied by an adult.
If you want to do a guided tour at the Louvre or Versailles, you will need to book it separately from the Paris Museum Pass. For the Louvre, many of the guided tours include your ticket entrance so you will likely not be able to use your passes if you book a tour at the Louvre. If you decide to do a guided tour, be sure that it includes a guaranteed entry.
Note that high visitor numbers, closures of certain areas, and the moving of the Mona Lisa is causing a bit of havoc at the Louvre this summer and those with Paris Museum Pass holders are strongly recommended to pre-book a reserved time slot to guarantee entry. So once you have your Paris Museum Pass you can pre-book a date and time slot online here: https://www.ticketlouvre.fr/louvre/b2c/index.cfm/pmpevent/eventCode/PMP
But for Versailles, if you book a guided tour on the chateau’s official website, the tours prices do not include your admission fee so you can use your Paris Museum Passes for your general admission and don’t need to purchase additional tickets (other than for the guided tour of course which are very reasonably priced). Just note that if you visit on a day that has the water fountain shows or musical gardens, then you will need to pay extra for entry as those attractions are not included on the Paris Museum Pass. But all the other main attractions at Versailles and the gardens are included.
We did a hop on hop off bus that was included with the Paris Pass and we enjoyed it as it was relaxing and there are some nice views from the top of the bus. If you haven’t been to Paris before, it is a nice way to get a feel of the layout of the city and a bit of its history and see some of the major attractions. But it is not a must-do in our opinion.
We haven’t done the bicycle tours in Paris but they are a popular way to do a tour. If you like cycling as a way to explore a city, then this might be a good fit. Many explore a section of central Paris but some I think go all the way out to Versailles. You can check out a number of tour options and read customer reviews of each here.
If you are looking for a walking tour (or guided day tour from Paris), we can recommend Take Walks as they lead a number of high-quality walks and tours (all in English) around Paris and the guides are usually excellent.
Hope that helps and let us know if you have further questions!
Jessica
Tim Post author
Is the 2-day Museum Pass valid for 2 calendar days or for 48 hours? I am seeing conflicting information on different websites.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Tim, It is for 2 calendar days. You are probably seeing conflicting information because you are reading about different types of Paris passes. But the Paris Museum Pass uses dates (not hours or specific times) for validity. So you would want to start using it in the morning of the first day to get the most out of it. Best, Jessica
Robert Post author
Very informative article.
Do you remember at which sites was your card actually scanned electronically ?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Robert, Most of the larger sites, including the Louvre, electronically scan your passes. But you need tp present your card at each attraction, the electronic scanning doesn’t make any difference as long as you have a valid pass. Best, Jessica
Shafia Post author
Hey helpful friend
I am traveling 5th Jul for 4days 3 of us ;Friday is half day and I leave 8th. I was thinking of buying 2 days Paris Museum pass and 10 tickets bundle first day do Montmartre Sacré couer. Next day louvre ; arch de triomp, Orsay,nepolean museum, and end by Eiffel hopefully, 7th versalies palace, return by evening and few more things if I can. Need suggestions pls help
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Shafia, I think that sounds doable. If you only get the 2 day Paris Museum Pass, I’d use it for the days you go to the Louvre and the day you go to the Palace of Versailles. I’d focus on the things included with the Paris Museum Pass for those 2 days and maybe move the Eiffel Tower to the first or last day since the Paris Museum Pass does not include entry to the Eiffel Tower.
A couple of posts that might be helpful is our 3 days in Paris itinerary and our Eiffel Tower visitor guide.
Best,
Jessica
Nora Salas Post author
Hi, I bought the Paris Pass for me as an adult, but not for mi daughter under 18. Will she be able to skip the line to get in to the Louvre with me?, or we should both make the line?
Thanks
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Nora,
She will be able to get in the same line with you. You’ll need to enter via the main entrance with the Paris Museum Pass (Pyramid).
No matter what kind of ticket or pass you have, you still have to wait in the security lines to get inside, but there are separates lines for those who have passes or pre-paid tickets. There are staff outside that can direct you to the correct line for pass holders.
Best,
Jessica
Sara Post author
Hello,
I have a couple questions…
1. We will be traveling with four children under the age of 18. Are the kids allowed in the faster pass holder line with me, or would they need to be in the regular line to get their “free children ticket”? Trying to figure out if I need to buy them a museum pass to make things faster.
2. Does Versailles have a separate pass holder line, which is faster than the regular line? I’ve read a lot of recent reviews where people were in line for hours. I’m tempted to buy the timed-entry if it would get us in faster. Thoughts?
3. We are planning to go to the Louvre on a Wednesday night. Have you heard if there is less/more people that evening?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Sara,
1. I am not sure, it depends on the attraction as they all have their own rules for entry. Normally kids (if they get free entry) can go in with a pass holder but there are some attractions where they may need them to collect a free ticket. Would love any feedback you may have in using the pass after your visit if you run into places that require children to collect free tickets, etc.
2. With the Paris Museum Pass (and Paris Pass) holders currently get “priority access” to Versailles. The experience differs depending on how many lines they have going during your visit. But often there are 4 lines: a line for ticket and pass holders without timed entry, a line for timed entry tickets, a line for groups, and a line for those without tickets. The lines for ticket holders and non-ticket holders is normally long, especially if going in summer. So we’d recommend going early or later in the afternoon if you don’t have timed entry. We have always used the passes and visited in the morning – there were lines but they moved fairly quickly.
You can pre-purchase a ticket with timed entry from the Versailles website which is supposed to guarantee entry within 30 minutes, so if you book a 11:00am ticket, you should be able to get into the Palace by 11:30am. There is normally a separate entry line and door for those with timed tickets. So if time is important, that could be a good option, as you may need to wait more than 30 minutes to get in with the pass.
3. Evenings are often the least busy times at the Louvre so that is a good time to go if you want to visit at a quieter time. I’ve been on an evening and it was definitely less crowded than during the daytime.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Sara Post author
Thanks for the quick response!
Janice Post author
We are going to travel to Paris in April 2020. Is it too early to purchase Paris Museum Passes in June 2019?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Janice,
Yes, there is currently no validity time limit on the Paris Museum Passes of which we are aware, so you could purchase them now for use next year. But you can of course wait until closer to your trip to purchase them as well.
Once you ready to use the Paris Museum Passes, you’ll need to write your name and first date of use on the pass before using it at the first attraction.
Best,
Jessica
Jenn G Post author
Thank you for the informative post and for breaking down the details on the museum passes. Later this Summer my family will be traveling to Paris. Do you know how the Parisiens determine a person’s disability for free entrance and/or assistance?. At the end of March 2019, I broke my leg in two places and by travel time (which was booked 9 mos before the accident) I will be using a cane and wearing a boot (removable cast) for stability.
Will I be considered a person with a disability as I will still be using an assistive device (cane) when traveling.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Jenn,
Glad you found our museum pass reviews helpful.
I am sorry to hear about your injury, and this is a good question about the disability issue. I would say normally to quality for disability benefits in many countries it has to be some sort of permanent or chronic disability or impairment rather than a temporary injury. Having a cane may make it more likely though. You can always stop in at the tourism office in Paris (bringing proof of your injury/disability) and talk to them to see what they advise.
There is no one policy in Paris (so each museum/attraction has its own) and this is what the tourism board for Paris says:
“Each museum or monument decides its own policy in terms of free admission, reductions, and priority access for disabled people and accompanying person. Where admission is free or where there is a reduction (proposed in most cultural and recreational venues), proof may be requested, such as a European Parking Card, disability official proof delivered by your country, or a medical document dated within 3 months of the time of your visit.”
Even if you don’t quality for free entry, it is worth asking when arriving at busier attractions if you could join the priority line (if not already in it with a ticket or pass) because of your injury so you don’t have to stand to wait so long to get into the more popular places. It never hurts to ask and I imagine many places could accommodate this and your family would be able to join you.
Given your limited mobility, I’d also check ahead about attractions and transport options to help plan your trip. Not all attractions in Paris are very friendly for those with mobility issues (e.g., lots of steps) and many of the metro stations do not have step-free access.
I actually injured my foot once while in Paris and spent several days hobbling around the city. I was shocked at the number of steps and how many of the metro stations do not have escalators or elevators although things are slowly getting better. So I would check out this guide to traveling in Paris with disability and it can be especially helpful when it comes to finding step-free transport options, museums with elevators, disability friendly toilets, etc: https://en.parisinfo.com/practical-paris/visiting-paris-with-a-disability/info/guides/practical-information-for-disabled-visitors
Hope this helps, and let us know if you have further questions. Wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris!
Best,
Jessica
Jessica Post author
Some places, like the Louvre, have timed tickets on their website if bought alone. Do I need to sign up for a time if I have a museum pass or can you just come in whenever you want?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Jessica,
The Louvre does now have timed tickets through their website, these do not allow you to skip the line but guarantee entry within 30 minutes of the stamped time date into the museum. So they are meant to guarantee you won’t want more than 30 minutes in line. So if you book a 10:00am entry, you should be able to enter the museum by 10:30am. The conditions currently state: “It is valid only for the chosen service, date and time. It is not a queue jump but gives access to the Pyramid within half an hour of the time shown on the ticket.”
The Paris Museum Pass essentially acts as an untimed ticket and you can join the line and enter whenever. You cannot reserve a time with the Paris Museum Pass.
When we were last at the Louvre, ticket holders and pass holders were all in the same line (they may make an additional line for members and timed ticket holder when busier). But if the lines are really long at the Pyramid, those with the time stamp may be allowed to go before pass holders. But members, pass holders, and ticket holders are all in a separate security line to enter than those without tickets.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Daniel Post author
Thank you for your helpful article!
Just wondering your advice re Versailles:
– Have you been on days with the musical gardens / musical fountains? Is it worth it, given crowds are busier those days (Tues/Fri/Sat/Sun)?
– I am going to Paris (first time!) for a week in late September, which day of the week is best for Versailles?
– Can you bring food/picnic, and any advice?
– Does the reduced cost Versailles timed passport (for musical garden/fountain days) apply to PMP holders as well as the other groups given free entry?
Many thanks!! 🙂
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Daniel,
The worst days, in terms of crowds, to visit Versailles are normally Sundays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays. Weekends are busy because more people out traveling and Tuesday because lots of other attractions in Paris are closed that day and the palace is closed on Mondays. So if you can choose a day I’d say Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday. September should not be as crowded as summer (unless you are going around a holiday).
I have been to Versailles 3 times but never for the musical fountains. I think it depends on how much you want to see/hear them. It does mean the palace is more expensive of course. But they are popular and lots of people enjoy seeing them. So I would leave this to you if they are a must-see or not.
You can bring food to eat and there are some picnic tables and benches in designated areas of the park away from the palace where you can eat either your own food or food from one of the takeaway places at Versailles. Just be sure to not pack anything that would not be allowed through security likes knives, sharp utensils, etc. I’ve brought a sandwich and snacks before and found a bench to sit down and eat. You can see more about that here.
If you plan to buy the Paris Museum Pass, then you just need to purchase a ticket just for the musical gardens if you plan to visit on one of those days. For the reduced price tickets, you have to meet one of the conditions such as being under 18 or having reduced mobility. But most people will need to purchase the regular ticket with a PMP.
Hope that helps!
Best,
Jessica
Loretta Post author
Regarding the separate ticket for the Musical Fountains which is outside the Museum Pass, is there a separate line for that ticket or do you have any suggestions that would make it easier.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Loretta, That is a good question. You can buy tickets at the palace itself, but I would recommend buying them online to save time waiting in line. You can purchase just a ticket for the musical fountains in the garden on the Chateau Versailles official website at the bottom of this page: http://en.chateauversailles.fr/plan-your-visit/tickets-and-prices
Then you can use your Paris Museum Pass to access to palace and will need to show your Musical Fountains ticket to access that section of the gardens during your visit.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Ellen M. Curry Post author
Hi Jessica,
When I try to buy Versailles tickets that include the musical fountains, the only time that appears in 9am. It seems to me that this is the only time offered, so I am guessing you can actually enter the gardens at any time during the day. Do you know anything further aobut this?
thanks,
Ellen
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Ellen,
Yes, I think that is correct. When we were last at Versailles over the summer, no matter what time we chose for the ticket I think the opening time was printed on the ticket for the gardens portion. Since the garden ticket is not timed, only the date is important so as long as it has the correct date you should be fine. The musical shows/water shows go on at intervals throughout the day.
Best,
Jessica
Shelley Post author
Hi there
I am traveling to Paris this week for Easter and I notice that some attractions will not be open on Easter Sunday or Monday. I arrive Thursday evening and so I would be using the pass all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday, returning Monday, so would you recommend me getting the 2 day pass for Friday and Saturday and getting separate ticket for Versailles as I’d like a guided tour? Any extra free time Sunday I could use free attractions if anyone open?
One main question is did you use travel card to move around? Because I would have thought it would be essential to include travel pass with attractions? I.e. combined travel/ attractions pass? Wouldn’t this be cheaper?
Thanks
It’s so sad that the Notre Dame is in flames. That really is a terrible shame, especially for the Parisiens themselves.
Cheers
Shelley
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Shelley,
Yes, since you will be visiting over Easter many things will be closed on Sunday and many on Monday as well. So it will be more important to really plan those days ahead so you know what you can visit and when. I think your plan for the 2 day Paris Museum Pass is a good one if you are trying to decide between a 2 day or 4 day pass, although I’d do the cost savings calculations just to be sure as it might still save you money to go with the 4 day pass if there are a couple places you plan to visit on Days 3 or 4.
The Paris Museum Pass does not have a travelcard or attractions pass, I think you may be referring to the Paris Pass? The Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass, Paris Attractions Pass, and a travelcard that includes public transit within Paris. But that is a different pass so be sure of which pass you want to buy.
If you purchase the Paris Museum Pass only, I’d recommend the carnet of 10 tickets for the metro, bus and trams as this is a good value. This also work within RER within Paris but you will need to buy a separate train ticket to get to and from Versailles as that is outside of Paris.
Yes, the Notre Dame fire is very tragic and sadly so much has been destroyed. It is one of my favorite buildings in Paris and one of the first places in Paris I visited at age 16. Very shocking. I hope some will be saved.
Hope that helps, let me know if you have further questions.
Best,
Jessica
Shelley Post author
Hi Jessica
That’s very helpful thank you. I think I might go for the 4 day because knowing me I’ll be up early Monday morning and there may be things I want to see before returning to St Malo.
Yes I’m gutted about Notre Dame, not only for the French people of course but also because have always wanted to see it and I was just about to! Me mind I’m sure I will still have a great time. Apologies one more question.. do you know if Palace Versailles open Easter Sunday? Thanks
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Shelley, I am not sure about Versailles, it says it is open every day except Mondays and lists no exceptions to this. However, if you look at the ticket calendar, there are no tickets available online for April 20th or 21st. So I am not sure if this is because they are sold out or not being sold for those dates. But I would call or email in advance to ensure they are indeed open and if you can get tickets/use your pass. If you do go over that weekend, expect it to be very busy inside the palace. The Louvre is open on both Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. Best, Jessica
Maricar Post author
Hi! My husband and I are going to Paris for the 1st time this June 14-18,2019. I want to buy the 2 days Paris museum pass. I am planning to start using the pass on Sunday and Monday. On Saturday we want to go to Versailles in the morning and Eiffel tower late in the afternoon. Do you think this is a good idea? I know June is a busy month for tourist and I don’t want to line up and wait for more than an hour in Versailles. What ticket should we buy for going to Versailles that we can skip the long line at the security check? Will this be expensive? Also what I found out that the paris museum pass does not cover the transportation. What will you recommend in regards with buying the pack ticket good for 4 days? Hope to hear from you. Thank you!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Maricar,
The Paris Museum Pass includes entry into Versailles and the gardens (extra cost for days with the musical fountains). But if you are not using the Paris Museum Pass for your visit, you should pre-book a ticket.
If you can, I’d recommend avoiding weekends and Tuesdays at Versailles as these are the busiest days of the week. But if you can’t avoid it, that is OK, but I’d recommend pre-booking a ticket and being at the palace at opening time or joining a guided tour.
For individual tickets, you can book the Passport tickets that have an entrance time on the Versailles official website and they guarantee entrance within 30 minutes of that time. You will join the line for those with pre-booked tickets and passes.
You can also book a guided tour (via the official website for an extra 10 euros to the regular ticket) and you will join the tour at a place in the courtyard and have access to the palace at the time of your tour and can visit the palace and gardens on your own after the tour finishes. That is one of the best ways to get fast access as you don’t need to join the regular line.
The other option is to join a guided tour (not the one offered by the palace staff) that will also include your transport to Versailles and back to Paris, such as this guided tour. Groups with booked visits are able to go through a separate line than individuals.
The transportation from Paris to Versailles is not very expensive, and you can take the RER C from central Paris to near the palace. You can just buy a ticket at the ticket machine or booth at the station. The station is Versailles-Château–Rive Gauche and be sure to keep your ticket as you will need to use it to get out of the station when you arrive at Versailles. It is about a 12 to 15 minute walk from the station to the palace.
If you want a 4 day pass that includes transportation, you might consider the Paris Pass. However while it includes a transport card, it still does not include transportation outside of Paris (such as to Versailles).
Hope that helps!
Jessica
MaRiCaR Post author
Thanks for the info Jessica. Do you think we can save money if we will buy the 2 days Paris Pass? We will arrive in Paris on Friday afternoon, so basically just half day on friday and we have 3 full day on Sat, Sun, and Mon. Then we will leave early morning on Tuesday. I was thinking buying the 2 days Paris Pass & use it on Saturday & Sunday only. For our Friday half day we will just visit the free museums and attractions and Monday full day we will visit the Eiffel Towe since it’s not part of the Paris pass. For the transportation we will just buy the individual tickets to use on that day. What you do think? Sorry for confusing you with my queries. Thank you!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi there, Yes, that sounds like a good plan to me. Just concentrate on doing all the included paid attractions with the Paris Pass for the two days that your passes are valid. Best, Jessica
Benjamin Post author
first time visitor in Paris . is it safe to buy the Paris Museum Pass on-line and then get the pass at their office in Paris ?
also , like to commend you regarding the very helpful tips you provided regarding the Museum pass . Kudos to you !!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Benjamin,
Glad you found our Paris Museum Pass tips helpful 😉
Yes, when you purchase it online from the Paris Visitors Bureau, you just need to bring the printed voucher and a valid ID to the office address provided on the voucher to collect the Paris Museum Pass. We have never had a problem with this and this pass has been around since 2006 and has a very good reputation. But if you feel uncomfortable purchasing the pass online in advance, you can also wait to purchase it in person at a visitor center, ticket office, or at one of the many attractions in Paris. I would just recommend choosing a place without long lines.
Best,
Jessica
benjamin Post author
thank you very much for the quick reply . it’s just awesome to received a reply right away . will there be a long line up if you purchase the pass from one of the visitors office or ticket office ?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Benjamin, It is impossible to predict but normally any lines move fairly quickly. Here is a list of visitor centers but you can also pick them up at the airport, certain FNAC ticket offices, and the attractions themselves. I’d just look for a place that is convenient to your travels.
Best,
Jessica
Mike Bankhead Post author
I’m a fairly experienced visitor to Paris for an American (11 times), and just wanted to drop a note to compliment you on the good information you provide here. I have used the Paris Museum Pass several time, think it to be very valuable, and usually recommend it to friends who are going to visit Paris. Going forward, I’ll try to remember this page, and send folks here if they want or need a second opinion. Also, it’s been a few years since I’ve visited, and I’m sure the security situation is more strict these days, so I appreciate getting the latest information on the security lines.
Another benefit of the pass… it can be challenging to find a restroom in Paris that is both clean and free. If you are holding a museum pass, you can drop into any of the less busy museums covered and take advantage of clean and free restrooms. (Of course, you can also have a look around the museum, but if you’re not interested, no worries.)
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Mike,
So glad you enjoyed our Paris Museum Pass review and yes, please feel free to refer other travelers going to Paris to our post. I have used the Paris Pass several times as well (since 2012 I think) and we still have yet to visit everything included on it. We also like to revisit some of our favorite places if it has been a while.
Yes, the security has become stricter since the terrorist attacks in November 2015. When we visited in December 2015, we had trouble just getting into hotels for meals. But they have loosened back up but places like the Eiffel Tower do have stricter security than ever before. But we haven’t seen a huge impact on the other sites on our last visit, but they ebb and flow with threats. Currently, the issue are the riots and protests, which have closed some of the monuments due to safety concerns, including the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower and for short periods of time.
That is a great tip for using the restroom! The city has been installing more free toilets (we saw more on our last visit) but there are never enough for the number of visitors so that is definitely a good tip!
Best,
Jessica
Pamela Lim Post author
What a great article, so informative! My husband and I will be going to Paris for the first time this June, and your inputs are so helpful. Thanks for writing this one!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Pamela, So glad our Paris Museum Pass review was helpful and thanks for taking the time to comment. Wishing you and your husband a wonderful trip to Paris in June. Best, Jessica
Sudeep Post author
I and my partner planning to visit Paris in end of Next March. I bought Paris All access Museum pass for 2 days. I want to visit Notre dam Cathedral with Treasury, Crypts and Tower. Is it preferable for me to buy a separate Guided tour or The pass itself is sufficient? If separate guided is required, can you please suggest me one which cover the whole thing for Monday?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Sudeep,
The Paris Museum Pass includes free entry into the Notre Dame crypt and to the towers. But it does not include any guided tours and does not include access into the Notre Dame Treasury.
If you would like a guided tour of the interior of Notre Dame you can book a Notre Dame tour this one or this one. But the guided tours don’t include the towers, treasury, or crypt as you will need to explore those on your own. Because of the tight spaces and number of people, I don’t think guided tours are common to these areas. But there are audioguides you can purchase at the entrance for a small fee and they are available in several languages.
The cathedral itself is free to enter, and your Paris Museum Pass will give you free entry to the tower and crypt. If you would like to learn or explore more, you may want to book the guided tour in advance to learn more about the cathedral, get audioguides for the tower and crypt (can be purchased at entrance to these), and buy a separate entrance ticket to visit the Treasury (can purchase on site).
Lines can be long to visit the Notre Dame towers as only a certain number of people can go up at once and there are a lot of stairs so I’d try to arrive early and do that part first if you can.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Ana blanchard Post author
Great article Jessica & Laurence! My husband and I are leaving for Paris this Saturday. It will be our first visit. We were told that you have to use the pass every day otherwise the pass expires. For example if you buy a six day pass and you go to museums on Monday and Tuesday, but then you skip Wednesday, that you cannot use it on Thursday and Friday. Is that true?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Ana, No, that information is not true. You can only use the Paris Museum Pass on consecutive days, but you do NOT need to use it every day it is valid. The Paris Museum Pass (and Paris Pass) are activated on the first day you use it and are then valid through the full period (whether it is 2, 4, or 6 days).
So if you have the 6 day Paris Museum Pass and go on a day trip on Day 4 and don’t use it, it will still be valid when you return for 2 more days. Hope that answers your questions and helps!
Wishing you and your husband a wonderful trip to Paris!
Jessica
Mary Henton Post author
Your site is helpful. Thank you. I’m confused about whether the Museum Pass will (1) provide entry to the Notre Dame towers and will (2) include a tour guide.
Thank you
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Mary, Yes, the Paris Museum Pass includes access to the Notre Dame towers as well as the crypt (separate lines). The main cathedral area is free to visit so you don’t need a pass or ticket for that. You do NOT get a guide or guided tour, but I think you get a brochure.
If you are wanting a guide or audioguide at the cathedral, you would need to pay extra for that.
If you want to visit the towers, the line for that is normally fairly long, so we do recommend going around opening (or later in the afternoon) if you can.
Best,
Jessica
Christa Post author
This article was a wonderful find, thank you!! Question: The Paris Museum Pass indeed sounds like a good deal. My concern though is that the attractions we plan to do on specific days (i.e.: Louvre on Friday, Versailles on Saturday, Notre Dame on Sunday) will fill to capacity and we will not get in unless we buy timed-entrance passes in advance. When you purchase the Paris Museum Pass, are you able to pick specific attraction entrance days/times in advance and have them loaded on the pass?
Thank you again!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Christa,
The Paris Museum Pass acts as a ticket to all the attractions so you already have a ticket and can just get in line. You are not able to do timed entrances with the Paris Museum Pass to any of the attractions you mentioned, but some do have fast-track entry.
Note: Notre Dame is free to visit, it is just the towers you have to pay and there is normally a long line to go up them.
I would just recommend going early to the busier places (such as Versailles, the Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, Notre Dame towers) so you do not have to wait in line as long. We have never not gotten into an attraction when using the Paris Museum Pass but you don’t want to show up near closing time and most attractions stop allowing people to enter either 30 minutes or 1 hour before the closing time. So just be sure to watch the closing times (and last entry times) and get there well before them.
If you want a timed entry ticket, you will need to pay more for those and buy them separately. But that will definitely cost you more, but you should do what is best for your trip!
Hope that helps,
Jessica
Robert Sal Post author
Jessica- Glad I ran across this website. Interesting information. I think given the dates and duration of our stay in Paris (July, six nights) I am thinking timed entrances to the Louvre might be a worthwhile investment… what I can’t seem to determine from anyone is how far in advance you can buy these items? Do you have any knowledge of this? Thanks no matter, and cool site!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Robert, So glad you are finding our Paris Museum Pass info helpful. Now the Louvre entrance is of course included with the Paris Museum Pass (as well as the Paris Pass). With the passes, you get to stand in the quicker priority line and this is also the same line that those with pre-purchased tickets, memberships, etc. stand in. Those without tickets or passes stand in the longer line, but all must go through the security checks.
So first, the Louvre changes its ticket and entrance policies often (and where certain types of guests can enter among the many entrances) but my understanding is that the “timed entry” tickets guarantee entrance within 30 minutes of the entrance time. So bear that in mind that if you have a 11:00am entry time, you may not get in until 11:30am. The tickets are currently available on the Louvre website 6 months in advance here.
July and August are definitely busy and crowded months. I would say that purchasing the tickets can be a good investment if you do not plan to visit early morning when it first opens or in the evening as those are the two ideal times to visit with shorter lines.
The one place we always recommend people pre-purchase tickets is for the Eiffel Tower. It is not included on any of the main Paris Passes and it will definitely save you time to have a pre-booked ticket although you still need to go through the security lines first.
Hope that helps,
Jessica
Robert Sal Post author
Thank you so much… it sounds like I should just stick with the Museum Pass as that acts the same as a timed entry, with the same shorter line. Definitely “on” the Eiffel Tower, as that is on my wife’s list. Will check the website for summit tix when they go on sale. We are traveling with our 15 year old, and it sounds like she does not need a pass at all. By the by, in perusing your site it appears that one of your photos is in Edinburgh- we were able to visit there last year. Still want to go back to Scran and Scallie! Thanks again.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Robert,
Yes, I would double check, but the last time I was at the Louvre we stood in the same security line (with a Paris Museum Pass) with the people who had pre-purchased tickets. But the website does show that there should be a different “entrance line” (not sure if they are referring to security line to get inside or line to enter the various sections of the museum) for those with timed tickets (separate from pass holders and those with untimed tickets)…when we last visited everyone was put into only 2 security lines. So you may save time with a timed entrance ticket and you may not, depending on how long the waits are during your visit. I would personally just use the free visit on the Paris Museum Pass and just visit at an ideal time.
I would recommend getting in line for the Louvre a little before opening in the morning if this is a priority site for you (weekdays are usually a bit better than weekends if you have choice) or visiting during one of the evening opening times. The Louvre does get super busy but people tend to mainly make a beeline for the Mona Lisa (that room is always way too crowded) and explore only that general area of the museum. So if she is on your list, I’d head there first before the museum is too busy and see that area of the museum, and then you can explore the less crowded areas.
To make the most of your time, I’d take a look at a map of the wings and rooms (either before you go or when you arrive at the museum) and devise a bit of plan for your visit based on your interests. You can easily spend a few days here so it can help to know what you are most interested in seeing.
Yes, I would not purchase the Paris Museum Pass for you daughter. I think the last time I checked there were only 6 of the Paris Museum Pass attractions that charge an entry fee for those under 18, so you are definitely better off not buying a pass.
We live just south of Edinburgh actually – we’ve been living in Scotland for 3 years now and still exploring 😉
Best,
Jessica
Jann Post author
Jessica—-a question for you please……we’re visiting Paris in November, so do you still think it would be beneficial to purchase the Museum Pass since obviously the busy tourist season would have ended? Also we’re bringing our 16 year old granddaughter with us and I see that children 18 or under are FREE in most all of the museums, so we wouldn’t need a Pass for her then. Would she be able to bypass the line and enter with us then if we did have passes?
Thanks.
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Jann,
Yes, I would still recommend the Paris Museum Pass for you and any other adults you are traveling with to Paris if you plan to visit more than 4 attractions during your stay. You should definitely check the prices to see if it will help you save money.
Although being able to skip the ticket lines, and the priority line features for some of the attractions definitely save you more time during the busy summer months, some attractions are just always busy so it will still help you save time (e.g., Versailles, Louvre, etc.). But the main reason to get it is to save money and if you are visiting several paid attractions in Paris that are covered by the Pass, you’ll probably save money.
For children/teens, yes, she would be able to enter for free at all but 6 of the attractions and museums currently covered by the Paris Museum Pass so there is no reason to purchase a pass for her. Now, the specific requirements for entry depends on the attraction but for most sites she should be able to just enter with you if you have the Passes. However, there may be some sites that may require her to get a free ticket.
If your granddaughter looks like she may be 18 or older, it can be good to have a photo ID with her if asked for proof of age.
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Jann Post author
I am so grateful that I stumbled upon your website here, as your information that you make available is just wonderful and so to the point, more so than many of the other venues out there. I think that we will wait to purchase these Museum passes when we arrive at the airport—-assuming that’s an easy place to get them. I was going to have them delivered to our hotel, but noticed that there’s a considerable add-on to the cost for each Pass to do this, so will save money by just purchasing them when we arrive. I will continue to watch and read your daily entries from now until we leave in November as with each one I pick up helpful advice. Thank you.
Mom P Post author
I read your prior reply regarding entry for children/teens stating as follows:
For children/teens, yes, she would be able to enter for free at all but 6 of the attractions and museums currently covered by the Paris Museum Pass so there is no reason to purchase a pass for her. Now, the specific requirements for entry depends on the attraction but for most sites she should be able to just enter with you if you have the Passes. However, there may be some sites that may require her to get a free ticket.
So therefore…we do not plan to purchase Paris Museum passes for our younger sons…they are considered “free”, as child/teen. Can you specifically provide names of the 6 attractions/museums included in the Paris Museum Pass which should expect to purchase separate tickets for our child and teen?
Also can you provide specific information about the locations where we should expect to wait in a separate line to get a free ticket for our child/teen? I’m referring to those sites where our child/teen will not just be able to enter with the adults holding the Paris Museum Pass.
We are really looking to avoid lines as much as possible…especially since having the kids with us! Kids are especially impatient in line! Thank you!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hello “Mom P”,
Yes, we don’t recommend the Paris Pass Museum for children under 18 as most sites are free for them.
You can find the most up to date information when you purchase the Paris Museum Pass included in the attached leaflet about entry fees and times for each museum to see which charge for children. These do not include any of the most popular attractions visited by tourists. But at last check there were six attractions included with the Paris Museum Pass that charge regular admission for children: Museum of French Cinema, Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (science museum), Palais de la Découverte (science museum), Abbaye Royale de Chaalis, Château de Chantilly, and the Sewer Tours. But you should check each attraction you plan to visit for the latest entry policies.
Each attraction operates differently and I’d recommend asking before getting into lines about whether you need to get a ticket for your children or not. If you want to report back what you find out during your trip, that information can be used to help future readers.
Best,
Jessica
Skye Post author
Hi Guys, great post! It was exactly what I was looking for as I will be down in Paris for a week in September and was looking to find the best pass/passes to purchase to make the most of my visit. The Paris Museum Pass seems like the best option for me. You did mention, but I just wanted to double confirm again – the Paris Museum Pass does allow for multiply entries to the same museums during the period the pass covers, right? E.g. If I bought the 6 day pass, within that 6 day period, I am able to enter, let’s say the Louvre as many times as I want?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Skye, So happy you found this helpful. Yes, for the Paris Museum Pass, you can use it to enter a participating museum or attraction as many times as you like within the pass’s valid date period. So if you have a 6 day Museum Pass (recommended if you will be in Paris for 1 week) you can visit the Louvre each of those 6 days if you wish (or twice in the same day) 😉 This is a great advantage this pass has over most other city passes which do not allow re-entry. Best, Jessica
Jaya Post author
Hi Jessica, thank you for this post. My husband and I will be in Paris at the end of September for a week, arriving Saturday mid-day and leaving the next Saturday. I have booked a 2 day Normandy & Brittany tour for the last 2 days. So we will have 4.5 days before that. I am leaning toward the 4 day Museum Pass – I figure Versailles would take a whole day, that gives us 3 days to use the pass for other things if we start on Sunday. We plan to see the Eiffel Tower on the day we arrive. I saw that there is also a 4 day Fast Pass that includes a Seine River cruise and hop on hop off bus x 2 days. It is more expensive but would you suggest going with that? Château de Fontainebleau seems enticing but would that become a whole day, in which case, am I being too ambitious for our first trip to Paris?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Jaya, I am so glad that our Paris articles have been helpful to you in planning your trip to Paris!
Yes, Versailles and/or Château de Fontainebleau will take a large part of the day for the travel and to have a leisurely visit, leaving you with not too much time to visit other places. So I would choose one or the other to visit. I’ve been to both castles twice, and while Fontainebleau is a great castle and has loads of history with less crowds, Versailles would be my choice for a first time visit as it has a bit more “wow” factor and the gardens there are really beautiful. I’d keep Fontainebleau for a second visit if you return 😉 I’d visit Versailles early (try to get there before it opens) or instead visit in the afternoon when crowds die down a bit for the best experience.
A 4 day Paris Museum Pass (or other Paris discount pass) does sound like the best for your trip.
I am not sure which 4 Day Fast Pass you are referring to, can you send me the name or link and I can take a look? Is it the Paris Pass? The Paris Pass can be a good value IF you are using the travel pass and plan to visit at least 4 of the added attractions (Seine River cruise and HOHO bus are 2 of them).
For any pass, I would look at which of the “extras” (those beyond the Paris Museum Pass) you would want to visit and then check what the prices would be if you bought the tickets separately. We’ve done a full review of all the Seine river cruise companies here.
For the sightseeing bus, it is great for getting an intro and overview and getting to some sites on your first day, but my guess is that you wouldn’t use it for the full 2 days as the metro is probably going to be faster to get from place to place so 1 day may be enough. You can look at sightseeing bus prices here.
Hope that helps!
Best,
Jessica
Nancy R Post author
Dear Jessica & Laurence,
So first thank you for this review it was very helpful. I actually used a Paris Museum Pass several years ago on my 1st visit to Paris and loved it – I found it saved me money, time, & hassle.
I’ visiting for a second time in 2 weeks, but this time I am traveling with my parents who have never been to Paris before. So I am thinking of getting it again. Trying to decide between the Paris Museum Pass alone or getting it with the Paris Pass. We’d like definitely do the Seine River Cruise, sightseeing bus, and opera tour but I am not sure yet about the other activities. I’ve read your helpful review and I guess I just need to do the cost calculations!
Ok, so my question is if you could tell me the best way to reach Palace of Fontainebleau from central Paris? We’ll be staying in the Marias area. I’ve never traveled outside Paris before and any advice would be much appreciated.
~ Nancy
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Nancy,
So happy to hear you are returning to Paris and had a such a good first experience with the Paris Museum Pass. We’ve used it a second time as well and still haven’t visited all the attractions on it so we can definitely recommend it for a second visit.
In terms of the Paris Museum Pass versus the Paris Pass, it really depends on what you want to do and see and if you will use the travel card. Normally we find if you want to see at least 4 attractions on the Paris Attractions Pass portion, you’ll save money with it. But there is also just the convenience factor.
The easiest way to get to Château de Fontainebleau is to take a train from Paris and then at the Fontainebleau train station, you can take a bus that stops in front of the castle. You can catch a train from Gare de Lyon, take the train for either Montargis Sens, Montereau. or Laroche-Migennes. The train takes about 1 hour. Get off at the Fontainebleau-Avon station, then take the ‘Ligne 1’ bus towards Les Lilas, getting off at the “Château” stop. Entry is free with your Paris Museum Pass.
There are also guided tour options that include transport to and from Paris such as these:
Guided Tour – includes Château de Fontainebleau & Vaux le Vicomte
Private Guided Tour – includes Château de Fontainebleau & Barbizon Castle
Hope this helps and wishing you a great time in Paris!
Jessica
Nicole Post author
Where did you find the Paris Pass for only 72 Euro? Their website has it listed for over 250 Euro per person!!!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Nicole, Just go to one of the websites listed in the article (here or here) above as it sounds like you are not looking at the Paris Museum Pass but some other pass. I would read the above carefully to make sure you know the pass you are buying. The Paris Museum Pass currently is 48 euros for the 2 day and 72 for the 6 day. Best, Jessica
Bev Alfred Post author
Hi, Great blog thanks. Next year will be my 4th trip to Paris and I will certainly try out the Paris Museum Pass. I arrive at CDG at 7am – do you think I would be able to buy the pass so early? For your other readers, in 2016 I purchased the Navigo Decouverte Pass, a reloadable smart card for travelling around Paris. It costs Euro 5 for the card then Euro 21.25 for one week’s travel. It includes travel around central Paris and zones 1-5 on metro, RER, buses and tramways. For me personally that means to and from CDG, Versailles, St Denis, and everything in central Paris. I found it much better than the carnet of 10 tickets. Downside is its not transferrable, only you can use it – (although I was never checked) and you need to a passport photo to stick on it (photocopy is fine). I still think this plus the museum pass is much better value than the Paris Pass
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Bev, I am not sure which terminal you will be coming in but there should be a Tourist Information Desk at CDG open by 7:30am so you should be able to pick one up there. Here are the dates from the Paris Tourism Office:
Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
Terminal T1, arrivals level. Gate 4. 7:15>20:45
Terminal 2A (seasonal desk), luggage delivery area. 7:00>14:00 (open from March 23rd to September 07th, 2016)
Terminal 2C, arrivals/departures level. Opposite Gate 5. 7:30>14:30
Terminal 2D, arrivals/departures level. Gate 7. 7:30>20:30
Terminal 2E, arrivals level. Gate 11. 7:15>20:45
Terminal 2F, arrivals level. Gate 11. 7:15>20:45
Closed on January 1st, May 1st and December 25th.
Of course, if the desk is closed, you can always pick the Paris Musuem Pass up in the city or at any of the participating museums, I would just avoid picking it up at a busy attraction like the Louvre or Orsay.
Thanks for the information about the Navigo Decouverte Pass – we haven’t tried it and just always do the carnet which work better for us traveling as a couple. We also normally arrive in Paris by train or car these days, so don’t need airport transport but I think this is another good option for travelers to consider!!
Enjoy your trip to Paris!
Jessica
Pui Kei Post author
Hello Jessica, do we have free access to the garden and park in Palace of Versailles by using Paris Museum Pass?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Pui, Yes, free entry to the Palace of Versailles park and gardens as well as the general self-guided audio tour of the palace and the other estate properties (e.g., Trianon Castle and the Estate of Marie-Antoinette) are included if you have the Paris Museum Pass (or Paris Pass). The only exception is when the musical fountain shows or a special event is happening in the gardens, in which case you would need to pay extra to enter the gardens. I would just check ahead on the Chateau de Versailles website for the garden schedule to make sure you don’t visit on one of those dates if you want to enter the gardens for free. Best, Jessica
Joey Tranchina Post author
The 2017 price of the 4 day Paris Pass is now 189€. The price of entry to the venues has increased about 20%. Unless you have more money that time, so it’s worth the price not to stand in line, the Paris Pass offers no financial benefit and is another luxury for speed travelers.
That one value the Paris Pass provides, in time, is sometimes negated for people traveling with very young children
because of venues that insist children, who are young enough to enter without fee, must still obtain a free ticket for which one must stand in line.
For the price of a 4 day Paris Pass a couple can budget 2 extra days in Paris — have a more relaxing vacation, while spending a little of the extra time practicing your Italian, Spanish or Chinese while talking with people in lines.
travelcats Post author
Hi Joey, I think perhaps you are commenting on the wrong article as this article reviews the Paris Museum Pass, not the Paris Pass, they are two separate passes. The Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass as well as several other features and a transport pass and therefore is more expensive, but this article only reviews the Paris Museum Pass and the prices listed in the article are the most updated as of today. Most people who are going to visit several museums in Paris will benefit from the Paris Museum Pass but not everyone and I’d recommend using the article to decide if it is a good fit for you or not. Have fun in Paris. Best, Jessica
Kelly Post author
Quick Question: If I buy a 2-day Paris pass and go to museums on Tuesday and Wednesday can I do the other attractions on Monday? Is the attractions card a separate card and can be used on a separate day than the Museum portion?
Thanks
Kelly
travelcats Post author
Hi Kelly, This is a good question and I was admittedly not 100% sure of the answer as I have never used the Paris Pass, just the Paris Museum Pass. However, I just checked with someone from Paris Pass to be sure and, yes, you should be able to use it as you wish as you’ll receive three separate cards/passes to use: Paris Museum Pass, Paris Attractions Pass and the Paris Visite Travelcard which you’d activate separately. Whereas most people would likely activate all three in the same day, you could activate one later in you trip although you still have to follow the rules of that pass.
There is also the 3-day Paris Pass option that includes a 2-day Paris Museum Pass that may also be an option for you and will also include 3 days on your travelcard. Hope you have a great trip to Paris. Best, Jessica
TravelMom Post author
Excellent Post!! We are leaving for Paris at the end of June and I have searched high and low putting together the “right” option for us. We are 3 families. My household has a 4 and 9 year old, another has 2 teens (almost 16 and 14) and our third has a 1.5 year old. Yes, I understand we will not all make it lol
In any case, I want to point out that after some heavy reading on the net, including TripAdvisor, I found the Paris Pass is terribly overpriced and should be illegal. The Paris Museum Pass is well worth it! We are going to purchase the 4 day pass to use July 1st – July 4th (heavy traffic season as well). For my household of 4, we will be purchasing a Carnet of metro tickets which is 10 metro tickets that can be used on Buses and Train for only $15. Even if we buy TWO carnet tickets (20 tickets) it’s only $30. In essence, we’re paying $69 for a PMP (x2) and $15 – $30 for metro tickets totaling $168 + Child price Carnet of 10 tickets is only $7.86. ONE PARIS PASS is way more than this! This a la carte option will be more than we need for a 5 day stay. Hope this helps some families out there…
travelcats Post author
Hi there, Thanks so much for sharing your experience, especially from the perspective of someone traveling with lots of children and young adults since we don’t have that particular experience. Yes, we have found the Paris Museum Pass continues to be a really good value from back when we first wrote this article (in 2013) through today. Even though prices have gone up in recent years, it is because the museum prices have risen at the same level.
The metro ticket carnets (packs of 10) are a great value as well and we always buy these when we visit Paris if we plan to use the metro. Have a great trip to Paris and I’m glad that you found our article helpful!
Happy travels,
Jessica
Sonal Post author
Hi Jessica and Laurence,
PLease let me know if Paris pass comes for 1 day ONLY?
How much is the cost of 2-day paris pass?
travelcats Post author
Hi Sonal, There are no 1-day passes. The Paris Museum Pass only comes in 2-day, 4-day, and 6-day passes. As of 2016, the 2-day Paris Museum Pass is 48 euros. The Paris Pass, a different pass than the Paris Museum Pass, comes in 2, 3, 4, and 6 day passes. The current cost for a 2-day Paris Pass is 129 euros. Please see our post for more information on the passes and what they cover. Best, Jessica
Bill Post author
Why do you feel the Paris Museum pass is better than the cheaper Paris Pass?
Thank you
travelcats Post author
Hi Bill,
Thanks for stopping by! This is a good question as the Paris passes can be quite confusing to visitors. First, the Paris Museum Pass (4-day adult pass is €62 in 2016) is much less expensive than the Paris Pass (4-day adult pass is €182 in 2016). As described in this article, the Paris Museum Pass includes free entry (and normally skip the line access) at over 60 sites in the Paris region.
However, when you buy the Paris Pass it now includes the Paris Museum Pass, extra included attractions, and a public transportation pass, the Paris Visite travel card, for the length of the main pass. Basically you are paying more for the public transit card and for a few extra attractions not included on the Paris Museum Pass including a Paris Bus Tour, entrance to the Grevin Wax Museum and Paris Opera House, and a Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise. So if you are going to visit many of the extra attractions and use the transit card a lot, it might be worth it to buy a Paris Pass; however, for many visitors such as ourselves the extra cost was not worth it so we just bought the Paris Museum Pass.
I would suggest seeing first what is offered by the Paris Museum Pass and then check out the Paris Pass to see if the extra attraction and transit benefits are worth the extra price given what you plan to see and do during your time in Paris.
Happy travels! ~ Jessica
Eugene Post author
May I ask whether the price for the Paris Museum Pass is the same at CDG (buying when we arrive) as it would be if we purchased online and picked them up at one of the welcome centers?
travelcats Post author
Hi Eugene, If you buy the Paris Museum Pass online, normally it does cost more because of shipping costs; however, a recent change is that there is now a way to avoid shipping costs, you can collect your order free of charge from the central Paris Tourist Office : 25 rue des Pyramides, Paris 1st. Then the price would be the same as buying it directly at the airport, museum, or visitor center. But honestly, it will not save you much time verses just picking it up at the airport as you’ll still need to pick it up even if you order it online in advance. Enjoy your time in Paris! Jessica
Sara Post author
Just chanced upon this site! This is very helpful! We will be in Paris October 24-27 and then joining a river cruise on the 27th to the Normandy beaches. I will map out the sites and see if the PMP is worth it. Likely a 4-day pass. You mentioned that there is no skip the line access at Tower Notre Dame and Saint Chapelle and that it would be best to go first thing in the morning. Which of the 2 sites should we visit first?
travelcats Post author
Hi Sara, sounds like a great trip. I’ve been to Paris several times, but have yet to get out to Normandy! Yes, there is no special access for these two places (at least not the last time I visited) so you’ll have to stand in line like everyone else (except you don’t need to buy a ticket of course). Generally the lines are longest at Saint Chapelle because of the extra security so getting to that one when it opens is probably going to save you more time. Just be sure to check the schedules for both when you visit:) They are a 5 minute or so walk apart so easy to get from one to the other quickly. Also suggest checking out the Deportation Memorial located right next to Notre Dame. Have a great visit! ~Jessica
Jane Ruhnke Post author
We will be arriving at Versailles, coming from the Northwest (Normandy, Giverny). Is there any convenient place to pick up our Paris Museum Passes before we arrive at Versailles or will we have to order them online and pay the expensive delivery charges. It does not seem to make sense to pick them up at Versailles as it appears we will have to stand in line. We will be getting (4) 2-day passes. If we have them sent to one address, I would expect we would have to pay for only one delivery charge. Is this correct? Thank you. Jane
travelcats Post author
Hi Jane, Let’s see other than from the palace itself, if you are going to be flying into Orly or CDG you can get passes at both airports. Otherwise, you might have the pass sent to your lodging in Normandy or Giverny early and just pick it up from them as that will save significantly on postage which is cheapest within France (allow at least 7 business days for delivery). And yes it should just be one delivery charge even if you order 4 passes as long as you purchase them together within the same order. According to the Paris Museum Pass website, the pass is also currently available at the Versailles Tourism Office information desk located at 2 bis avenue de Paris 78000 Versailles which is likely to be far more convenient than the actual chateau which is always busy – I would just email or call ahead to confirm you can purchase the pass there as I did not see it listed on their website. The office is within walking distance of the chateau. So hopefully one of those two options may work. Good luck and enjoy your vacation in France! ~Jessica
Lex Campbell Post author
Enjoyed reading the comments and your responses as many of my questions were answered. My wife and I are Planning a trip to Normandy in late October, as my brother landed there, and will be in Paris October 30 and 31st. Are the lines usually shorter in Late October for the Paris attractions or is this just wishful thinking on my part?
travelcats Post author
Hi Lex, Good news, lines will definitely be shorter in late October compared to late Spring through late Summer when lines can get very long. But still expect lines at key places (e.g., Versailles) and those with heightened security (e.g., Saint-Chapelle) but with the Paris Museum Pass and going in late October I think lines should be very manageable! Just note that the weather will be cooler and damper at this time of the year so just pack accordingly! I haven’t been to Normandy yet but look forward to visiting there! Have a great trip to France! ~Jessica
Eve Post author
Thanks for the tips. I think I’ll get the pass upon arrival, to save shipping charges. I think I’ll get a 6 day, since I’m there for 7 and it allows me to be leisure and unplanned.
Thanks again.
travelcats Post author
You’re welcome Eve and yes we’d advise to get it there and not have to pay the shipping charges.
Terry Post author
The museum pass is worth the money just in saved time. One rainy day, when everyone headed for the Orsay — we did too. I’m guessing there was over 500 folks lined up in the ticketing line. However, we found the museum pass line with only about 10-15 folks and we all just walked in flashing our passes. We found our Versaille experience very similar. Folks were lined up all the way across the courtyard (and for those not familiar the front court is as grand as the palace) and we found our queued museum pass line waiting to be 5 minutes!! Although, we had to queue up to enter the L’Orangerie. we had less than 1/4 of the folks in our line. Considering the expense one spends to travel to Paris and the few precious days we can afford to be there — the Museum Pass an excellent investment.
Law Post author
Hello Adriana,
I went to Versailles last month. I arrived at about 10:00 there was already a long line to the chateau. So I went to the garden first, no waiting line, straight in. If you have budget, you can rent a golf cart near the garden entrance. I can’t remember the exact charge but something around 30-40 euro per hour. There are various restaurants in the gardens to choose from, also depends on your budget. I went to the chateau after lunch at about 3 pm. There were fewer crowds at this time so I could take good pictures of the Hall of Mirrors.
I bought the 4 days pass which was worth it!
http://en.chateauversailles.fr/prepare-my-visit-/single/faq-en#prevoir
By the way where will you stay? Last time I stayed at St Roch Hotel which was great and within 10 minutes’ walk to the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Paris Opera etc and there were good restaurants around.
travelcats Post author
Thanks Law for sharing your experiences with Adriana!
Adriana Post author
This info is really helpful!! I am planning a trip to Paris on december and I was considering to buy the pass but I wasnt sure if it was worth it! I had a couple of questions regarding Versailles. How long did it take to make the whole trip? And also, Ive read different things about the access that the pass gives, are all important sites of Versailles accessible with the pass? Thanks a lot 🙂
travelcats Post author
Hello Adriana, glad you found this information about the Paris Museum Pass helpful. So it depends where you are in Paris but you’ll probably want to take the RER C line from Paris to Versailles and depending on your location, it can take as little as 20 minutes to up to 90 minutes. But 30-45 minutes is probably average…check online from your actual location. The walk from the train station to the chateau is about 5 minutes. The access provided by the current Paris Museum Pass (2014) to Versailles is very good and covers everything (and more) than most people want to see, including access to the chateau, gardens, and smaller properties. According to the website (Nov. 2014): “The PARIS MUSEUM PASS includes access to all unguided tours, open according to the season: the ‘Grands Appartements’, the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Bedchamber, the Queen’s Bedchamber, the apartments of “Mesdames” Louis XV’s daughters, exhibitions, the Trianon Castle and the Estate of Marie-Antoinette. Not included: shows, musical water shows, musical gardens, conferences, restaurants and transport services.” Enjoy and try to arrive before opening or when the chateau opens to avoid lone lines if you can:)
Law Post author
Great Post! Thanks for sharing, very helpful. I will be going to London and then to Paris this October with my wife to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary.
travelcats Post author
Thanks Law, glad this was helpful. I can help answer your Paris itinerary questions via email.
Onashan Pillay Post author
Hi, Thanks for the info, it’s really helped my planning.
Is there a list of the attractions where we would get priority entrance anywhere? Thanks!
travelcats Post author
Hi Onashan,
Good question. Yes, generally you should have priority access at all the sites under normal circumstances; however there are three places where this is not the case:
Tower Notre-Dame > No priority access because security and ticket are the same line.
Sainte-Chapelle > No priority access for the first security line (entering the Court), but priority access for ticketing line
Versailles > No queue to buy tickets but no priority access for the security line.
For these three attractions, I advise you to go early or be prepared for a bit of wait. During our trip we also had a long wait at the Musée d’Orsay as for some sort of security reason that day they could not handle two lines. But generally you should have priority access and be in a much shorter line (or even no line at all!). Hope this helps and I will add this info later to the article so other readers can easily find it as well.
deb Post author
Thanks for a clear and thorough description of the PMP. Any advice on a good time to go to Ste Chappelle to minimize wait?
travelcats Post author
Hi Deb, lines can be quite long at Sainte Chapelle because of the small size of the chapel and the extra security here. We walked by this a lot and the lines seem to vary, but I would advise to go at or as close to morning opening as possible to minimize wait. Weekdays are going to be less crowded than weekends. Good luck, it is a beautiful gem.
Kay Hill Post author
Love your blog. Question: I am grandma taking 2 adult daughters, and 3 granddaughters aged 15. If I buy 3 adult Paris Museum Passes, and the 3 teens get free entrance with student I.D., would we be able to use to fast lane to get in? Or the regular line to pick up the free tickets?? Thanks.
travelcats Post author
Hi Kay, thanks. Yes, I think it will depend on the individual attraction as each has its own procedures.
Here is what the official Paris Museum Pass website has to say on the issue: “Do children in my party under 18 years of age have to queue up to get in? Answer No. The few establishments that issue tickets for free entry are not among the most often visited attractions.”
So the answer above seems to indicate that there will be a few places that will ask the teens to stand in line, but in many places (at least crowded places) you should be OK. If you are concerned about a particular attraction, I would probably contact them directly as each site determines its exact entry procedure. Hope this helps! BTW, if others have experience on this issue, please feel free to chime in!
Judi Post author
Great info! Do you happen to know if one can use the Museum Pass to get into a museum like the d”Orsay and once inside buy a separate ticket for a special exhibit. I know they have one on Van Gogh coming up and we’ll be there during that time in May… OR do you have to get into regular ticket line and buy the special exh ticket, show your pass and go in whenever all the people who just bought tickets. enter?
Thanks!
travelcats Post author
Hi Judi, I am not sure, but my guess is that you will have to get into the regular ticket line to pay the fee for the exhibition as this is typically how museums work. I would call or email someone at the d’Orsay to find out for sure. Have a great time in Paris in May – our favorite time of the year there.
Judi Post author
I was hoping for a miracle answer but knew I’d probably need to call the museum. Thanks for replying!
travelcats Post author
Of course:) I have found that places in Paris are pretty good at replying to emails though, I usually send messages in English with a Google Translate translation in French below. Have a great time at the d’Orsay, it is one of my favorites but it gets quite crowded so I would recommend going early or late.
jessica Post author
Great to know! I will have to forward this post to my MIL. She is planning to go back to Paris soon. Stopping by from SITs. Have a great evening!
travelcats Post author
Yes, the Paris Museum Pass is really a money-saver, and perhaps more importantly a time saver, for many visitors. Just reading the list of attractions offered by the Pass is a good way for someone to start thinking about potential places to visit.
Jenn Post author
Great tips. My teenage daughter was there with my parents. I’m hoping for a visit sometime over the next few years. Before I’m too old to enjoy it..lol
travelcats Post author
I am not sure you can ever be too old to enjoy the beauty of Paris;)
Nicole Post author
I love using the paris museum pass. I’ve used it every time I’ve gone to paris and it has been a lifesaver!
oh and thanks for linking up with Treat Yo’ Self Thursday last week!
travelcats Post author
Hi Nicole, great to hear that you have used it multiple times. There are just too many places covered to do them all in one or two visits!
Mal Post author
Great post!! I would have loved to read such a post about Rome passes before I went there. It would have helped a lot I think. Thanks for sharing 😉
travelcats Post author
Thanks Mal for stopping by!
Meghan Post author
I used one of these passes when I was in Paris in 2010 and for me, the hands-down biggest advantage was being able to skip lines. It’s true that I usually still had to go through security, but the pass still saved me many precious sight-seeing hours. Thanks for a comprehensive look at how it works and how to calculate whether it will save you money. Even though I went to only a tiny fraction of the museums to which the pass grants admission (maybe 3 or 4?) I still saved money.
travelcats Post author
Thanks Meghan for sharing your experience in using the Pass with my readers! Seems like a lot of us out there have definitely benefited from buying the Paris Museum Pass.
Melanie Fontaine Post author
Great, informative post! I get free admission in most museums in Paris, because I’m a EU citizen under 25, but if I weren’t museum prices in Paris would definitely quickly add up – tickets are just so expensive! I think for people that want to visit a lot of attractions in Paris, this pass may be well worth it!
travelcats Post author
Lucky you! I always wished that more places in Europe gave free admission to all students with an ID, but now I am too old anyway:)
Louisa Post author
What a brilliant idea and certainly something I would buy when our boys are old enough to appreciate these places. Is there ever a quiet time of year at Versailles? (Just out of interest)
travelcats Post author
Louisa, Fall and Winter are the quietest times at Versailles. Avoiding weekends and Tuesdays (when tons of popular attractions close down in Paris) is generally recommended, especially in the Spring and Summer months. Getting there before 10am is one of the best ways to avoid the crowds. The palace itself is problematic when crowded but the gardens are so expansive you can always find some place to get away, and only a small percentage of visitors continue on to the other smaller palaces (Trianon & Domaine Marie Antoinette) so that is another way to get away from crowds.
Bonnie Rose Post author
This is great! Last time in Paris we only were there for the weekend so we did not take advantage of this, but from reading your post this is something I would love to do next time as well as spending much more time in Paris. We did something similar while we were in Napoli, Italia and it was so worth it! I love museums when traveling! x
travelcats Post author
Yes, checking out these types of passes when traveling can often save you quite a bit of money (and time) as we keep discovering:) We are looking into a palace pass for our next trip to South Korea and it looks like it will save us quite a bit on entrance fees. Yeah!
Kelly Post author
I will definitely have to try this out when I go to Paris, thank you so much for the suggestion!
travelcats Post author
Glad it was helpful! Just let us know if you have any questions.
Megan Post author
I bought and used a Paris Museum Pass last month. I only had to visit three locations to end up saving money by buying the 2-day pass for 42 Euros. Being able to skip the ticket lines at the Louvre, the Musee d’Orsay, and the Arc de Triomphe was also a nice perk. I will definitely buy one again when I return to Paris!
travelcats Post author
Thanks Megan for stopping by and sharing your experience using the pass! Sounds like it was a good choice for you.
Kaelene Post author
It can be hard to tell if buying a pass is a better option than individual ticket prices. Great post breaking down the options!
travelcats Post author
Yeah, I think many times it is the best deal but not always. But planning a bit ahead can really help.