Paris: Rodin Museum Private Guided Tour with Reserved Entry

If you’re visiting Paris and have a soft spot for art, a private guided tour of the Rodin Museum is worth considering. While it might not be the most obvious choice compared to the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay, this experience offers a peaceful, intimate look at some of Rodin’s finest works. It’s a chance to go beyond just seeing sculptures and really understand the stories and techniques behind these iconic pieces.

What we particularly appreciate about this type of tour is the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide and the reserved entry, which means you skip the long lines and get straight into the art. Plus, the setting itself—a mansion surrounded by lush gardens—adds a special charm that’s hard to find in busier museums. One caveat? Since the tour is only two hours, it’s a relatively brief overview, so it’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in Rodin or sculpture in general.

If you’re after an in-depth art experience, enjoy walking through beautiful outdoor sculpture gardens, or simply want a more relaxed, private environment to explore, this tour could be a great fit. Keep in mind, though, that it’s not designed for visitors with mobility issues or wheelchair users, given the gravel paths and walking requirements. Still, for most travelers wanting a personalized, insightful art encounter, this pretty much hits the mark.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: Enjoy personalized insights from a knowledgeable guide.
• Skip the Lines: Reserved entry ensures a hassle-free visit.
• Focus on Rodin’s Iconic Works: Masterpieces like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell take center stage.
• Beautiful Surroundings: Discover the expansive sculpture garden and tranquil mansion setting.
• Educational and Engaging: Learn about Rodin’s creative process, techniques, and influence.
• Cost and Duration: $269 per person for a 2-hour deep dive into one of Paris’s most inspiring collections.

This 2-hour private tour promises a curated journey through the life and works of Auguste Rodin, one of the giants of sculpture. You’ll meet your guide outside the museum entrance on Rue de Varenne, ready to kick off a personalized exploration that feels more like a conversation than a lecture. The museum, housed in the historic Hôtel Biron, is a peaceful sanctuary filled with sculptures, sketches, and casts—all artifacts of Rodin’s creative process.

Your guide will lead you through the various galleries, sharing stories behind each piece. You’ll get close enough to The Thinker and The Kiss to really appreciate the details—something that often gets lost in larger crowds. Along the way, you’ll hear about Rodin’s inspiration, his techniques, and how his works revolutionized modern sculpture. This tour isn’t just about looking; it’s about understanding how these masterpieces came to be.

Once outside, you’ll stroll through the sculpture garden, where bronze figures are displayed amid greenery and natural light. It’s a lovely setting that enhances the viewing experience, especially for those who appreciate outdoor art. Inside the mansion, expect rooms filled with sketches, models, and personal memorabilia, giving you a nuanced view of Rodin’s process and personal life.

Given its private nature, the tour offers flexibility. If you’re passionate about art, your guide will tailor parts of the discussion to match your interests, whether it’s Rodin’s techniques, his muse Camille Claudel, or his influence on contemporary sculpture.

The museum’s location on the Rue de Varenne, in the former residence of Rodin himself, adds a layer of authenticity. Surrounded by exquisite gardens and set in a refined Parisian neighborhood, it creates an environment where art and tranquility coexist. We loved the way the outdoor sculptures are integrated into the landscape, making it feel like stepping into a living sculpture garden rather than just a museum.

The art collection itself is impressive but manageable—perfect for a brief visit that doesn’t feel overwhelming. You’ll see the more famous works, but also some lesser-known pieces, which can be a real treat if you’re eager to deepen your understanding of Rodin’s range. The guided aspect helps contextualize each piece, making it more meaningful than just viewing them solo.

From the reviews, visitors often mention how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. One person noted, “Our guide was incredibly insightful, explaining not just what we were looking at but how Rodin’s creative process evolved.” Many also appreciated the skip-the-line entry, which saves valuable time, especially during busy periods.

At $269 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but when you consider the exclusive access, expert guidance, and skip-the-line privilege, it can be a good value—especially if art is a passion. The two-hour duration is just right for a focused, engaging visit, but don’t expect to see every single piece. It’s more about quality than quantity.

The hours of operation are important to note—the museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Since the tour is private, you can choose a time that suits you, which adds a layer of flexibility. Being a private tour means fewer strangers and more tailored conversation, allowing you to ask questions freely and go deeper into topics that catch your interest.

• Wear comfortable shoes—the paths in the garden are gravel, and there’s some walking involved.
• Weather matters—since a good part of the experience is outdoors, check the forecast.
• Bring a camera—photography is allowed, but remember not to use flash inside the galleries.
• Arrive a few minutes early to meet your guide and get settled.
• Consider your mobility—the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the terrain.

This experience is ideal for art lovers eager to go beyond the surface of Paris’s more crowded museums. If you enjoy learning about artists’ techniques and stories, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly suited to travelers who prefer a more relaxed, personal setting rather than large groups. The focus on Rodin’s masterpieces makes it an excellent choice for sculptors or those interested in modern art’s evolution.

However, if you’re traveling with young kids or need accessibility accommodations, this might not be the best fit. The gravel paths and the focus on art appreciation are more suited to adult visitors or those comfortable walking.

Overall, a private guided tour of the Rodin Museum offers a meaningful glimpse into the mind of one of sculpture’s greatest figures. It provides a more intimate, educational experience that’s perfect for art enthusiasts who want to avoid crowds and enjoy detailed insights. The combination of stunning sculptures, beautiful surroundings, and expert guidance makes it a worthwhile addition to any Paris itinerary.

While the price might seem high, the quality of the experience, the skip-the-line access, and the tailored approach make it a solid choice for those genuinely interested in Rodin’s work. If you’re looking for a slower-paced, enriching art experience that allows you to truly connect with the sculptures, this tour might just be what you’re after.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is geared toward adults interested in art and sculpture. It’s not specifically designed for children, especially since the paths are gravel and may require some walking.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay in full later, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
The tour is available in English, French, Spanish, and Italian.

Does the tour include entrance to the museum?
Yes, your ticket includes admission to both the museum and the gardens, along with skip-the-line access.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, which is enough time to see the highlights and hear insightful commentary.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
The museum is closed on Mondays. No flash photography is permitted inside the galleries. Food and drinks are not allowed inside.

If you’re after a more personal, relaxed way to experience Rodin’s masterpieces amidst beautiful surroundings, this private tour really delivers. It’s a chance to appreciate art with expert guidance, away from the crowds, in one of Paris’s most charming spots.