- History and visit the Picasso Museum in Paris
- Attractions around the Picasso Museum
- Transfer to the Picasso Museum in Paris
History and visit the Picasso Museum in Paris
The Picasso Museum, nestled in the Hôtel Salé in Paris’s 3rd arrondissement, stands as a testament to the genius of Pablo Picasso. Since its inauguration in 1985, the museum has housed an impressive collection of over 5,000 works, attracting art lovers from around the world. In 2009 alone, it welcomed 249,775 visitors. Accessible via Saint-Paul metro, RER Chatelet-Les Halles, and several bus lines, the museum is also friendly to visitors with disabilities. For a comfortable journey, consider a chauffeured private car transfer to the museum.
The Hôtel Salé, an architectural marvel in the Marais, has been the museum’s home since its inception. Designed by architect Jean Boullier in the mid-17th century and adorned with exquisite sculptures by Gaspard, Balthazar, and Martin Desjardins, the mansion is named after its first owner’s salt tax-derived wealth. Over the centuries, it has served various roles, from the Venetian Republic’s Embassy to educational institutions, before becoming a city-owned property restored to its original grandeur to house the museum. Its classification as a historic monument in 1968 and the subsequent renovations by Roland Simounet and Diego Giacometti have preserved its historical integrity while making it a fitting venue for Picasso’s works.
The museum’s expansive collection spans paintings, sculptures, collages, and other forms, offering insights into Picasso’s vast artistic endeavors and the works of his contemporaries and admired artists. Ongoing expansions and modifications aim to enhance the museum’s offerings and visitor experience, with reopening slated for late 2013 under the guidance of architects Jean François Bodin and Stephane Thouin.
Attractions around the Picasso Museum
The area surrounding the Picasso Museum is rich with cultural and historical landmarks. The vibrant Marais district, known for its well-preserved pre-Revolutionary buildings and trendy boutiques, offers a glimpse into Paris’s storied past and contemporary fashion scene. Nearby, the Place des Vosges, one of the city’s oldest planned squares, invites leisurely strolls and picnics under the shade of its symmetrically planted trees. Art enthusiasts can extend their exploration to the Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, and the Maison de Victor Hugo, where the famed writer once lived.
The neighborhood’s narrow streets are lined with galleries, cafes, and artisan shops, making it an ideal area for an afternoon of exploration. The Seine’s banks, a short walk away, provide scenic views and access to other iconic Parisian landmarks, ensuring visitors have a wealth of experiences at their fingertips.
Transfer to the Picasso Museum in Paris
Conveniently located, the Picasso Museum is accessible from Paris’s major airports. It lies 23.9 km from Orly Airport, a journey of approximately 45 minutes by car. From Charles de Gaulle Airport, 27.8 km away, the transfer takes around an hour. For those arriving from Beauvais, situated 95.9 km away, the museum can be reached in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Our transfer services offer a seamless and comfortable travel option, ensuring you arrive at the museum ready to immerse yourself in the world of Picasso and the rich tapestry of Parisian art and culture.