Is the Musée de l'Orangerie free on Sunday?
How does it work
On the first Sunday of the month, the museum only accepts visitors with a reserved time slot. Without a time slot, entry is refused, even if entry is free. Time slots run out quickly, especially those in the morning, and they are booked online a few days in advance, not at the door on the same day. The free ticket works like the others: one per person, presented at the "visitors with ticket" entrance. On site, it's worse than on Saturday afternoon: the two oval rooms are full from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the central bench is never free.
My opinion
If paying for entry is within your means, come on another day at 9 a.m. You will see the Water Lilies in silence, which is worth the difference. If you are under 18 or under 26 with a residence in the EU, you enter for free all year round, upon presentation of an ID, and you have no reason to wait for the first Sunday. In any case, read should you book before choosing the date, and the opening hours to check that this Sunday is not a closing day.
If you insist on the free Sunday, take the very first time slot and do the oval rooms before the basement. At 9:30 a.m., the first room is already full.
Book a time slot on another day
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book on the first Sunday of the month?
Yes, it's mandatory on that day. Without a time slot, you won't get in. See do I need to book.
Are other Sundays free?
No, only the first of the month. Under 18s and 18-25-year-olds residing in the EU enter free every day. Details on the pricing page.
Is the free Sunday a good time to see the Water Lilies?
It's the busiest day. For a peaceful visit, prefer a weekday morning at 9 a.m. See the best time.