Paris: Musée d'Orsay & Montmartre Private Art Tour

Impressionist masterpieces then Montmartre’s winding streets and artists’ cafés

You’ll trace the story of Impressionism from inside Musée d’Orsay’s echoing halls to Montmartre’s winding lanes with a private guide by your side. See works by Monet and Van Gogh up close, ride between districts in comfort, wander past artist haunts like Moulin Rouge and Place du Tertre, and pause inside Sacré-Cœur — all at your own pace.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Impressionist art and Montmartre

• Tour Museum d'Orsay artworks
• See Manet and Renoir paintings
• Learn about Impressionist artists
• Admire Monet and Van Gogh works
• Travel by private car to Montmartre
• Visit Moulin Rouge windmill
• Walk cobbled streets of Montmartre
• See Van Gogh’s house on Rue Lepic
• Explore Place Dalida square
• Stroll Jardin Sauvage de St-Vincent
• Visit Le Clos Montmartre vineyard
• See Le Lapin Agile cabaret
• Enter Sacré-Coeur Basilica
• Pass Place du Tertre artists’ square
• View Espace Dali museum
• See Bateau-Lavoir artist residence
• Visit La Maison de Dalida

The Experience

Hands tucked in my jacket pockets, I followed our guide through the Musée d'Orsay, and for some reason, the smell of old wood and varnish hit me before anything else. She paused by Manet’s “Luncheon on the Grass” — I’d seen it in books but up close, the colors felt almost defiant. Our guide (Marie — she had this gentle way of talking about scandal) explained how these paintings shocked people back then. There was a moment by Monet’s poppies where I just stood there, not really listening, just letting the brushstrokes blur into each other. The museum itself is beautiful in that slightly faded way train stations are — high ceilings, echoes everywhere.

Afterwards we climbed into a car (I was grateful for that; my feet were already protesting), and headed for Montmartre. The driver took us past the Moulin Rouge — its red windmill turning slow as if it couldn’t be bothered to hurry. Marie pointed out Van Gogh’s old place on Rue Lepic; honestly, I’d have missed it if she hadn’t stopped us. The streets here are steep and cobbled, and you can hear snippets of French from open windows or cafés. There was this little square dedicated to Dalida — someone left fresh flowers on her statue’s hand. We wandered past Le Clos Montmartre vineyard (tiny but stubbornly green), then stopped at Au Lapin Agile where artists used to drink and argue until sunrise.

The climb up to Sacré-Cœur is no joke — I nearly lost count of the steps. Inside it was hushed except for shuffling feet and the faint sound of coins dropping into a donation box. Light spilled through stained glass onto the floor in strange colors. Outside, Paris sprawled below us in every direction; someone nearby started humming “La Vie en Rose.” I still think about that view sometimes when I hear an accordion back home.

Top questions

How long does the Impressionist Paris tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours including both Musée d'Orsay and Montmartre with private transportation between them.

Is transportation included from Orsay to Montmartre?

Yes, private transport is included between Musée d'Orsay and Montmartre during the tour.

Are entry fees for Musée d'Orsay included?

All entrance fees are included with reserved entry to avoid waiting in line at the museum.

Do we visit inside Sacré-Cœur Basilica?

Yes, there is time allowed to explore inside Sacré-Cœur Basilica during the walking part of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or strollers?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; moderate physical fitness is recommended due to walking and hills.

What language does the guide speak?

The tour is led by an expert local guide who speaks English (other languages may be available upon request).

Are meals or drinks included on this tour?

No meals or drinks are included; however there are opportunities to purchase snacks or drinks during breaks in Montmartre.

Can I take photos inside Musée d'Orsay?

You may take non-flash photos in most areas of Musée d'Orsay; some rooms may have restrictions which your guide will explain.

What’s included

Your day includes reserved entry fees for both Musée d’Orsay and all scheduled stops in Montmartre, private guided touring throughout, comfortable transport between museum and hilltop district, plus time to explore inside Sacré-Cœur Basilica before returning on your own schedule.