Paris: Picasso Museum Ticket & Optional Seine River Cruise

Paris: Picasso Museum Ticket & Optional Seine River Cruise is a charming combo that interests many travelers looking to soak in some art and enjoy the iconic sights from the water. Priced reasonably at around $21, this tour offers a visit to the only museum dedicated to Picasso’s complete works and a relaxing cruise down the Seine. It’s a straightforward, affordable way to see a slice of Paris’s artistic and scenic highlights in one day.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines two very different ways of experiencing Paris – the intimate discovery of Picasso’s creative universe, tucked away in a 17th-century mansion, and the sweeping views of the city from the river. Plus, it’s wheelchair accessible and flexible, allowing you to visit during the museum’s open hours and hop on the cruise at your convenience. The only real consideration is that transportation to and from the attractions isn’t included, so plan for that if you’re trying to optimize your day.

This experience works best for those who want a balanced mix of art and sightseeing without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s perfect if you’re already in Paris and want a manageable, budget-friendly way to enrich your day. Art enthusiasts, curious travelers, or those simply seeking a relaxing way to see some of Paris’s most famous sights should find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Unique Art Collection: The Picasso Museum holds over 5,000 works, including sketches, sculptures, photos, films, and documents, providing a comprehensive view of the artist’s creative process.
• Architectural Charm: The museum is housed in a beautifully renovated 17th-century mansion, offering a historic and visually impressive setting.
• Scenic Views & Relaxation: The optional Seine River cruise offers spectacular views of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre-Dame.
• Flexible & Affordable: With a combined price of $21, plus optional add-ons, it offers good value, especially considering the quality of the museum’s collection and the stunning river views.
• Accessibility & Convenience: The museum is wheelchair accessible, and tickets are valid during operating hours, providing flexibility for visitors.
• Real User Feedback: While some found the museum a bit old-fashioned, many appreciated the chance to see Picasso’s work up close and loved the city’s views from the river.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Picasso Museum and Seine Cruise Experience

If you’re headed to Paris with an interest in art or simply want a relaxing way to see the city, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. Let’s start with what’s on offer: a ticket to the Picasso Museum, set inside a grand 17th-century mansion, and an optional Seine River cruise that promises a different perspective of the City of Lights.

The Picasso Museum: More Than Just Art

The Picasso Museum is a standout part of this experience, primarily because it’s the only facility worldwide that displays Picasso’s entire oeuvre — painted, sculpted, engraved, illustrated — as a meticulous record of his creative journey. This comprehensive approach means you’re not just seeing finished artworks but also sketches, drafts, notebooks, etchings, photographs, and even films. It’s a peek into Picasso’s mind and process, which is quite rare in other museums.

The museum spans 22 rooms, each offering a different aspect of Picasso’s work and personality. The building itself is worth noting: a beautifully renovated historic mansion with stunning architecture, including a majestic grand staircase adorned with sculptures. As you walk through, you’ll notice the blend of old-world charm and modern renovation, making the visit feel intimate yet grand.

Visitors often comment on the variety of works, with some saying, “Very interesting to see his work in person!” The museum does contain a lot, totaling over 5,000 pieces, and the archives include tens of thousands of additional items, making it a treasure trove for art lovers. The collection’s depth gives you a fuller understanding of Picasso’s evolution and experimentation.

The Experience of the Museum Itself

From the architecture to the curation, the museum offers an intimate atmosphere. The collection showcases Picasso’s creative process, including studies, drafts, and studies in various stages, alongside finished works. Seeing these different phases is quite insightful for anyone interested in what goes into creating art.

The museum’s hours are reasonable: open from Tuesday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with extended hours on weekends and holidays, and closed on Mondays. The last admission is at 5:15 p.m., so plan accordingly. Accessibility is important here—most areas are wheelchair accessible, with assistance available upon request. Plus, the building’s historical parts, like the grand staircase, are part of the charm, even if a few rooms are less accessible.

The Rooftop Café and the Architecture

One of the highlights of visiting the Picasso Museum is the terrace of the Café sur le toit—a lovely spot to unwind and take in views of the surrounding neighborhood, especially on a clear day. It’s a rare chance to relax with a coffee or snack, surrounded by the beauty of historic Paris.

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The Seine River Cruise: Seeing Paris from the Water

The Seine River cruise is an optional add-on but easily the highlight for many. Departing at the foot of the Eiffel Tower from Pier number 3, Bateaux Parisiens offers a 1-hour sightseeing trip that’s well worth including. Once onboard, you’ll glide past some of Paris’s most recognizable landmarks—Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Orsay Museum, Notre-Dame, and the grand bridges linking the city’s historic districts.

The boat itself is comfortable, and with multiple departure times, you can fit it in conveniently after your museum visit. The views are spectacular, especially if you’re lucky with weather. Many reviews note how special it is to see Paris’s skyline from the river, especially with sunlight bouncing off iconic monuments.

Practical Details and Tips

Since transportation isn’t included, plan how you’ll get between the museum and the cruise pier. The museum is located at 5 Rue de Thorigny, in the Marais district, while the Seine cruise departs near the Eiffel Tower. Public transit makes this straightforward, but keep in mind that timing might require some planning if you want to do both in one day.

The cruise is accessible, and if you choose the guided audio option, you’ll enjoy commentary in a variety of languages, including English, French, Hindi, Arabic, and more. Boarding is easy, and the boat’s layout offers good vantage points for photos.

The Cost & Value

At $21 per person, this combined experience is quite reasonable, especially considering the high-quality collection of art and the scenic cruise. When you factor in the chance to see Picasso’s entire oeuvre, including sketches and photographs, it becomes a smart choice for art aficionados. The optional cruise adds a scenic, leisurely element that rounds out the day.

Some reviews mention the museum feeling a bit old-fashioned or less modern compared to other Paris museums like Orsay or Orangerie. One traveler from Israel mentioned, “The museum was really old and not interesting,” suggesting it might not appeal to everyone expecting cutting-edge presentation. However, many visitors enjoy the historic setting and the depth of Picasso’s collection.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you want a manageable, budget-friendly way to combine art and sightseeing. Art lovers, especially those interested in Picasso, will appreciate the extensive collection and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his work. The scenic river cruise is perfect for anyone wanting stunning views of Paris’s most famous landmarks without the hassle of multiple tickets or tours.

It’s also great for those who value flexibility: tickets are valid during the museum’s operating hours, and the cruise can be taken at your convenience. If you prefer an organized, guided experience, the available audio guides add extra value.

However, if you’re looking for a modern, cutting-edge museum experience or a guided tour with detailed commentary, you might find this tour a little simple or traditional. It’s more about enjoying the art in a beautiful setting and relaxing on the water.

The Sum Up

For a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Picasso’s complete works and experience a classic Parisian river cruise, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who value historic charm, art depth, and scenic views, all at an accessible price point. The museum’s impressive collection, housed in a historic mansion, offers a unique environment to appreciate Picasso’s genius, while the Seine cruise provides fresh perspectives of the city’s iconic skyline.

While some may find the museum’s atmosphere a bit dated, many visitors leave feeling inspired by the works and views. With flexible timing, wheelchair accessibility, and the option to add a scenic water tour, it’s an experience that balances culture and relaxation without feeling overwhelming.

This combo is a solid choice for travelers in Paris who want a thoughtfully curated, budget-conscious outing. Art enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to combine cultural richness with scenic vistas should consider giving it a try.

FAQ

Is transportation between the museum and the cruise included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your route between the Picasso Museum and the Seine River departure point. Public transit makes this simple and flexible.

Can I use my tickets during the entire museum hours?
Yes, your tickets are valid during the museum’s operating hours, giving you the flexibility to visit any time within that window.

What’s the age requirement for children?
Children aged 4-11 require a cruise ticket for entry. This tour doesn’t include cruise tickets for children, so be sure to purchase separately if needed.

Is the Picasso Museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum is fully wheelchair accessible, except for one historical room. Assistance can be requested at the reception desk.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The optional audio guide is available in several languages, including English, French, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

How long is the Seine River cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour and offers views of the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame, and other landmarks.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and leave large bags or luggage in the coatroom. Pets aren’t allowed.

When is the museum closed?
The museum is closed on Mondays, January 1, May 1, and December 25. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours on weekends and holidays.

If you’re eager to experience a blend of art, architecture, and scenic views in Paris without breaking the bank, this tour offers a well-rounded option. Just prepare for a leisurely day that’s both educational and beautiful.

You can check availability for your dates here: