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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 09 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Anna Brooke

The Centre Pompidou revolutionised both Paris and art museums when it opened in 1976 – and this multi-coloured glass and steel structure, designed by ‘starchitects’ Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano, is still one of the city’s most exciting modern buildings.

Inside, the fabulous Musée National d’Art Moderne – Europe’s largest collection of modern and contemporary art – takes you from Picasso, Matisse and Kandinsky, via Pop Art and Arte Povera, to the latest installation and video art. The multidisciplinary spirit encompasses exhibitions, a cinema, performing arts space, library, bookshop, design shop and a trendy restaurant, Forest.

The celebrated ride up the escalators is still unmissable, providing one of the best views in Paris as the city unfolds before you.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The nearest metro station is Rambuteau. It’s a 2-minute walk from there. There’s also a car park you can book into. See details on the website.

The permanent collection is free and doesn’t require an advance ticket, however, you will need to book ahead for exhibitions.

Download the museum app before you go – there’s a bilingual tour of the key highlights and masterpieces for adults, and a special family-themed art discovery tour if you have kids in tow.

When you’ve had your fill of art, head to the top-floor restaurant ‘Forest’ – a fashionable destination as much for the funky setting, people-watching opportunities and views as the cosmopolitan modern brasserie cuisine. There’s also a simple café downstairs.

When to do it

It’s open all year round, from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday.

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Hotel Duo Paris

Paris, Ile-de-France, France[0.3 miles]

A designer boutique bolthole that’s perfectly positioned for the stylish, gay-friendly Marais district and Centre Pompidou.

Official star rating:

Hotel Bachaumont

Paris, Ile-de-France, France[0.8 miles]

A hip, Haussmann-style hotel is a fab base for anyone looking to mix sightseeing with shopping and nightlife. Uber-central, close to the Louvre, and with a brasserie and bars worth staying in for.

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La Pavillon de la Reine

Paris, Ile-de-France, France[1.1 miles]

Smack bang in the museum-filled Marais, this ivy-clad hotel with a spa and restaurant is a romantic spot for couples.

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Hotel d’Aubusson

Paris, Ile-de-France, France[1.1 miles]

A grand, historic boutique hotel, set in a 17th-century St-Germain townhouse, offers both history and a brilliant, contemporary Left Bank location.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Paris

Ile-de-France, France

Crammed with iconic buildings, world-class art and a culinary scene steeped in history, Paris is one of the world’s great capitals, overflowing with style, romance, and art de vivre. 

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La Conciergerie

Paris, Ile-de-France, France[0.7 miles]

This vast Medieval palace was most famous as the ‘antechamber to the guillotine’ in the French Revolution. Three thousand prisoners were tried and convicted here, including France’s last queen Marie Antoinette.

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The world’s most visited museum, a treasure trove of art from around the world. Admire the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and many, many more…

Best for ages: 16+ | £15

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