Compare Orsay ticket types, best booking windows, pass coverage, and smart combos to minimize lines and maximize art time.

Bottom line: Book a timed-entry slot in advance (especially Fri–Mon and school holidays), arrive 15 minutes early, and combine with Orangerie if you love Monet's water lilies.
| Option | Includes | Best For | Trade-Offs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timed Entry (Standard) | Museum access at chosen slot | Most visitors | Slot adherence needed |
| Dated Guided Tour | Licensed guide + admission | Story-focused travelers | Fixed pace |
| Paris Museum Pass | Access (no on-site purchase) | Multi-museum trips | Still reserve slot in peak |
| Orsay + Orangerie Combo | Both museums (separate slots) | Monet fans | Coordination of time |
| Evening Ticket (Thu) | Late opening hours | After-work/low-crowd seekers | Partial services late |
| Free 1st Sun (Oct–Mar) | Free entry window | Budget travelers | High demand; arrive early |
Policy notes: Security screening applies; large bags discouraged. Some exhibitions may require special time slots even with passes.
| Time | Action | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 09:15 | Security queue buffer | Smooth start; bag check |
| 09:30 | Enter; map scan and coat drop | Travel light inside galleries |
| 09:40 | Head to upper-level Impressionists | Beat later crowd waves |
| 10:45 | Short café break | Reset eye focus for sculpture halls |
| 11:10 | Rodin/Carpeaux loop | Variety of media and scale |
| 12:00 | Exit or cross to Orangerie slot | Monet water lilies in sequence |
Late start (15:30): Consider Thu evening when available; galleries thin out after 19:30.

Reserve a timed slot, prioritize the Impressionist floor early, and use a combo if Monet is a priority.

Created to help you enjoy Orsay wisely—clear pace and context.
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