Discover the extraordinary collection at the Musée Picasso Paris, home to the world’s largest assemblage of Pablo Picasso’s works. This intimate museum offers visitors a comprehensive journey through the legendary artist’s creative evolution in a stunning historic setting.
The museum and its setting
The Paris Musée Picasso is housed in the magnificent Hôtel Salé, one of the finest 17th-century mansions in the historic Marais district. Built between 1656 and 1659, this baroque masterpiece provides a dramatic contrast to Picasso’s revolutionary art. After an extensive five-year renovation completed in 2014, the museum now offers more than 40 rooms across five floors, presenting the collection in a chronological and thematic journey through Picasso’s prolific career.
The unparalleled collection
The Musée Picasso Paris holds over 5,000 works by the artist, including:
- Paintings: From early academic studies to Cubist masterpieces and late expressionist works
- Sculptures: An impressive range from traditional to experimental pieces
- Ceramics: Colorful pottery created during his years in the South of France
- Drawings and prints: Thousands of sketches revealing his creative process
- Personal archives: Letters, photographs, and documents from Picasso’s life
The collection formed largely from Picasso’s personal holdings, which his heirs donated to the French state in lieu of inheritance taxes after his death in 1973.
Highlights not to miss
When visiting the Paris Musée Picasso, make sure to see:
- “Self Portrait” (1901): A striking blue-period portrait from his early years
- “La Celestina” (1904): A haunting portrait from his blue period
- “Large Nude in a Red Armchair” (1929): A surrealist masterpiece
- “The Supplicant” (1937): A powerful sculpture related to Guernica
- “The Goat” (1950): An innovative sculpture made from everyday objects
- Studies for “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon”: Sketches for his revolutionary 1907 painting
Planning your visit
For the best experience at the Musée Picasso Paris:
- Allow 1.5-2 hours for a thorough visit
- Visit on weekday mornings (Wednesday-Friday) for smaller crowds
- The museum is closed on Mondays
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages
- Photography without flash is permitted in most galleries
Best times to visit
The Paris Musée Picasso tends to be less crowded:
- During January and February (except school holidays)
- Weekday afternoons, especially Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Early mornings right after opening
Summer months (June-August) generally see the highest visitor numbers.
Ticket information
- Regular admission: €14 for adults
- Reduced admission: €11 for various categories including seniors
- Free for visitors under 18 and EU residents under 26
- Free for everyone on the first Sunday of each month
- Included in the Paris Museum Pass
Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
For art enthusiasts and families
Art lovers should take advantage of the museum’s:
- Temporary exhibitions exploring specific aspects of Picasso’s work
- Guided tours offering deeper insights into selected works
- Evening events including lectures and performances
Families can enjoy:
- Free admission for children under 18
- Family workshops on weekends and school holidays
- Activity booklets available at the ticket desk
Beyond Picasso
While Picasso’s work dominates, the museum also displays selected pieces from his personal art collection, including works by Cézanne, Matisse, Miró, and African and Oceanic art that influenced his creative development.
The neighborhood
After your visit, explore the charming Marais district surrounding the Musée Picasso Paris with its boutiques, cafes, and historic Jewish quarter. The museum is also within walking distance of Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris.