Paris: Picasso Museum Ticket & Optional Seine River Cruise

A delightful blend of art, architecture, and scenic views—this tour combines a visit to the Picasso Museum with an optional Seine River cruise, all for a reasonable price of $21. You’ll explore a beautifully restored 17th-century mansion housing over 5,000 works of Picasso, then relax on a boat sailing past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see Picasso’s entire creative process, from sketches to sculptures, all in a historic setting that adds charm and context. The scenic cruise offers unique angles of Paris’s most famous landmarks, making it an excellent way to see the city from a different perspective.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the Picasso Museum has mixed reviews—some find it less engaging than other Parisian museums. Also, as the cruise is optional, some travelers might feel it’s an add-on rather than a core part of the experience. Still, if you’re after an affordable way to combine art and sightseeing, this tour suits those who appreciate authentic cultural moments and stunning cityscapes.

This experience is perfect for curious art lovers, first-time visitors wanting a balanced taste of Paris’s cultural and scenic highlights, and travelers on a budget who want to maximize value.

Key Points

• Affordable Entry: For just $21, you gain access to the Picasso Museum’s extensive collection and optional Seine cruise.
• Unique Art Collection: The museum presents Picasso’s complete works, including sketches, photographs, films, and sculptures—highlighting his creative evolution.
• Architectural Wonder: The museum is housed in a 17th-century mansion, offering a chance to admire its historical architecture and beautifully restored interiors.
• Spectacular Views: The Seine cruise provides postcard views of iconic Paris landmarks, especially from the terrace of the rooftop Café sur le Toit.
• Flexible Timing: You can visit during museum hours at your convenience, with no specific start time, offering flexibility.
• Mixed Reviews: While some travelers are captivated by Picasso’s work, others find the museum less engaging compared to others like Orsay or Orangerie.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Picasso Museum and Seine River Tour in Detail

What to Expect at the Picasso Museum

The Picasso Museum is a true haven for lovers of the legendary artist’s work. Set in a stunning 17th-century mansion, the building itself is a major highlight—its grand staircase, sculptures, and architectural details are worth the visit aside from the art. You’ll find 22 rooms filled with over 5,000 works, providing an expansive look at Picasso’s creative journey.

What makes this museum special is its focus on Picasso’s entire output, including rarely seen sketches, drafts, and photographs that reveal the artist’s process. It’s the only facility dedicated to presenting Picasso’s paintings, sculptures, engravings, and illustrations in such a comprehensive way, making it a must-visit for serious fans or those wanting to understand the full scope of his genius.

You’ll appreciate the organized display of sketches and drafts, which gives insight into Picasso’s evolving styles and ideas. The collection also includes films and documents that shed light on his life and work, making the visit both educational and inspiring.

Architectural Highlights and Atmosphere

Walking through the museum, you’ll notice the majestic staircase and ornate details that showcase the building’s historical significance. The renovation has preserved many original features, yet modern touches ensure a comfortable visit.

In good weather, the Terrasse du Café sur le Toit offers a chance to relax and admire the surroundings from above. With gorgeous views over the city, it’s a perfect spot for a coffee or snack after exploring the collection.

Tips for Visiting the Picasso Museum

• The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, with extended hours on weekends and school holidays. It closes on Mondays, January 1, May 1, and December 25.
• Admission is flexible; your ticket is valid during operating hours, so no need for a specific time slot.
• The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, except for one historic room. Assistance devices are available free of charge.
• Remember to leave large bags and luggage in the cloakroom before entering—it’s free but mandatory to store these items.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Expect from the Seine River Cruise

The cruise departs from Pier number 3 at Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, making it a convenient and scenic addition to your day. Operated by Bateaux Parisiens, the one-hour cruise is a fantastic way to see Paris’s most iconic landmarks from the water.

Once onboard, you’ll glide past the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, the Louvre, Orsay Museum, and Notre-Dame, along with many bridges and historic quays. The boat’s large windows ensure excellent views, and the gentle movement of the water often makes for a relaxing experience.

Why the Cruise Is Worth It

The views from the Seine are different from those seen on land, offering a fresh perspective of the city’s architecture and monuments. Many travelers highlight the stunning vistas of the Eiffel Tower and the beautifully illuminated bridges, especially in the evening. The rooftop Café sur le Toit adds to the charm, giving you a relaxed spot to enjoy the scenery.

Practical Considerations

• The cruise tickets are easy to use, with departures during daytime hours included in your ticket if you purchase the combo.
• The boat is wheelchair accessible, and multiple language audio guides are available, making it suitable for many travelers.
• Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and be prepared for possible weather changes—outdoor decks can be delightful but exposed.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This combined experience works well for art enthusiasts who want a rundown of Picasso’s work in a historic setting, plus the chance to see Paris from the water. It’s also great for first-timers wanting to hit key sights without the hassle of multiple bookings, and budget travelers seeking value, given the very reasonable price point.

What Some Travelers Say

One reviewer mentioned, “Very interesting to see his work in person,” emphasizing the chance to connect with Picasso’s art directly. Others, however, expressed disappointment, calling the museum “really old and not interesting,” suggesting that those seeking a more dynamic or modern museum experience might prefer other venues such as Orsay or Orangerie.

Final Thoughts on Value

For the price of $21, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Paris’s artistic and scenic highlights. The museum provides a deep dive into Picasso’s creative process, housed within a building worth exploring itself. The optional Seine cruise enhances the experience with breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a good choice for a single-day cultural outing.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re interested in art, especially Picasso’s work, and enjoy historic settings, this tour offers a meaningful experience. The scenic cruise is a bonus for those wanting to see Paris from a different vantage point, especially since the views include famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. If you’re on a budget or prefer a flexible schedule, the low price and open timing make this a practical choice.

However, if you’re looking for a more modern or lively museum experience, or if you’re pressed for time and want to focus solely on art, you might prefer other Parisian museums like Orsay or the Orangerie. Still, for a tasteful blend of art, architecture, and city views, this experience hits a sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Picasso Museum accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with assistance devices available free of charge, except for one historical room.

Can I visit the Picasso Museum at any time during the day?
Your tickets are valid during the museum’s operating hours, which are Tuesday to Sunday, with longer hours on weekends and school holidays.

Does the cruise run in the evening?
The description mentions a 1-hour sightseeing cruise; check the starting times when booking, but daytime and early evening departures are typically available.

Are large bags allowed on the museum visit?
No, large bags, luggage, and umbrellas must be stored in the free cloakroom before entering.

Where is the meeting point for the museum?
The museum is located at 5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris, near the Seine and easily accessible.

How long does the entire experience take?
The visit to the Picasso Museum plus the cruise can be comfortably completed in a day, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Is the Seine cruise suitable for children?
While children aged 4-11 require a cruise ticket, the experience is generally family-friendly, especially if they enjoy scenic boat rides and views of Paris monuments.

To sum it up, this combined Picasso Museum and Seine River cruise offers a practical, enjoyable way to soak in some of Paris’s best art and sights without breaking the bank. Whether you’re an art lover, a first-time visitor, or simply seeking a scenic break, it delivers a balanced mix of culture, architecture, and picturesque views—perfectly suited for those who appreciate authentic Paris experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: