The collection may not be exhaustive, and you may not see any world-famous works, but you will enjoy a wonderful mix of periods and artists at this small-ish municipal fine arts museum, whose chronology stretches from the ancient Greeks to World War I. The paintings of masters like Monet, Ingres, and Rubens are displayed here, as well as the Art Nouveau dining room of Hector Guimard and the exquisite multilayered glass vases of Emile Gallé. Those interested in earlier works will find Greek vases, Italian Renaissance majolica, and a small collection of 16th-century astrolabes and gold-and-crystal traveling clocks. Intricately carved ivory panels and delicately sculpted wood sculptures (including a grinning, long-locked Saint Barbara who looks like she is about to burst out in a fit of the giggles) stand out in the small Medieval section, and a series of rooms dedicated to 17th-century Dutch painters like Steen and van Ostade is considered one of the best collections of its kind in France (after the Louvre). Refresh yourself after your visit at the cafe in the gorgeous inner courtyard.
Paris
Travel Guide
Paris› Attraction
Petit Palais
av. Winston Churchill, 8th arrond.

Our Rating
Neighborhood
Champs-Élysées, Trocadéro & Western Paris (8th, 16th & 17th Arrondissements)
Hours
Tues–Sun 10am–6pm; (until 9pm Fri during temporary exhibitions)
Transportation
Métro: Champs-Élysées–Clémenceau
Phone
01-53-43-40-00
Web site
Petit Palais
Other
Free admission to permanent collection

Map
av. Winston Churchill, 8th arrond. ParisNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.