Beyond the Louvre: The Best Museums Across France to Visit During Its Renovation
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Loading... - Ursula Haas
- 07 Feb 2025
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As the Louvre Museum in Paris prepares for extensive renovations starting next year, art lovers may wonder where to find enriching cultural experiences in France. With a renovation budget of €700–800 million, French President Emmanuel Macron has dubbed this project a “New Renaissance,” aimed at modernizing the world’s most visited museum. While the Louvre undergoes its decade-long transformation, here are some exceptional alternatives across France that promise to satisfy your cultural cravings.
1. Louvre-Lens (Lens, Hauts-de-France)
Louvre-Lens is like the Louvre’s cooler sibling, set in a sleek glass building on a former mining site. This museum showcases treasures from the Louvre’s vast collection on a rotating basis, allowing visitors to enjoy masterpieces without the crowds.
2. Pompidou-Metz (Metz, Grand Est)
An extension of Paris’s Centre Pompidou, Pompidou-Metz features striking architecture and avant-garde exhibitions. With works from artists like Picasso and Warhol, this museum offers a calm atmosphere perfect for immersing yourself in contemporary art.
3. MUCEM – Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)
Located on Marseille’s waterfront, MUCEM combines stunning sea views with fascinating exhibits on Mediterranean culture. Its modern design and beautiful setting make it an ideal spot for both culture and leisure.
4. Musée d’Orsay (Paris, Île-de-France)
For fans of Impressionism, the Musée d’Orsay is a must-visit. Housed in a former railway station, it boasts an incredible collection of works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir, all within a breathtaking architectural space.
5. Musée de l’Orangerie (Paris, Île-de-France)
Nestled in the Tuileries Gardens, this small museum is home to Monet’s iconic Water Lilies series. The natural light enhances the serene atmosphere, making it a peaceful retreat filled with masterpieces.
6. Musée Rodin (Paris, Île-de-France)
Set in a beautiful mansion with a tranquil sculpture garden, the Musée Rodin showcases the works of Auguste Rodin, including The Thinker. It’s a perfect escape for those seeking a quiet cultural experience in Paris.
7. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon (Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)
Often referred to as “the little Louvre,” this fine arts museum features a diverse collection from Egyptian antiquities to works by Rubens and Picasso. Its charming setting in a former abbey adds to the experience.
8. Musée Fabre (Montpellier, Occitanie)
A hidden gem, the Musée Fabre boasts an impressive collection from Renaissance to contemporary art. Its blend of historic and modern architecture provides a stunning backdrop for world-class art without the crowds.
9. Musée des Confluences (Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)
This ultra-modern museum, resembling a futuristic spaceship, explores the intersections of science, anthropology, and history. Its unique design and location at the confluence of two rivers make it a captivating destination.
10. Musée Soulages (Rodez, Occitanie)
Dedicated to the French abstract painter Pierre Soulages, this museum features his bold, monochrome works in a minimalist space. The dramatic design and peaceful setting make it a striking art experience worth exploring.
While the Louvre undergoes its renovations, now is the perfect time to discover France’s other incredible museums. Whether you’re interested in classic masterpieces, contemporary art, or fascinating history, there’s a cultural treasure waiting for you.
