The permanent collections at Parisian museums are classics that are always worth seeing. Equally exciting are the wide range of temporary exhibits on display at any given time. French Side Travel has rounded up a list of the best exhibits to see this summer in Paris.
The Best Exhibits to See this Summer in Paris
Avant l’Orage at the Bourse du Commerce
Through September 11th, Avant l’Orage (Before the Storm) is on display at the Bourse du Commerce. The exhibit highlights works from 20 different contemporary artists focused on the theme of climate change and the relationship between man and nature. The exhibit is divided into two parts, and beginning at the end of May a work by Tacita Dean is presented in the Rotonde and Galerie 2. Details and tickets.
Léon Monet. Brother of the Artist and Collector at the Musée du Luxembourg
Located in the heart of the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Musée du Luxembourg is one of the most beloved small museums in Paris. Through July 16th, Léon Monet. Brother of the Artist and Collector is on display. Léon Monet supported his now well-known brother Claude along with his Impressionist friends by amassing an important collection of modern art. The exhibition presents this collection of approximately 100 works, including drawings and paintings by Claude Monet, Berthe Morisot, Alfred Sisley, Auguste Renoir and Camille Pissarro. Also not to miss is Claude Monet’s portrait of his brother from 1874 along with various family photographs and archives. Details and tickets.
Where to Stay in Paris
Hotel Nolinski
This elegant 5-star hotel is located just a stone’s throw away from the Louvre Museum and the Opéra Garnier.
The hotel, with unique character, blends contemporary aesthetics and classical prestige. Hues of blue and emerald green, precious materials and custom-made furniture and furnishings intertwine to orchestrate a lyrical and harmonious ensemble. The usage of noble materials, iconic pieces, moldings, and ceramics give the rooms the look and feel of private apartments. Some of the rooms and suites have step-out balconies overlooking the city.
The restaurant with its warm environment and seventies style serves an array of gastronomical French cuisine with a modern twist.
The spa features a pool, a hammam, and a sauna with a full menu of body treatments, massages, and facials. It invites its guests to experience a moment of serenity in an intimate setting.
Manet / Degas at the Musée d’Orsay
Discover the similarities and differences of 19th century painters Edouard Manet and Edgar Degas together at the Musée d’Orsay. This former train station turned museum is one of the largest in Paris behind the Musée du Louvre. Through July 23rd, take an in-depth look at the friendship and rivalry of these two artists. You’ll discover not only their masterpieces, but also learn more about the artists personally including their families, mutual friends, and acquaintances in the art world. Details and tickets.
Norman Foster at the Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is a hub for modern and contemporary art in Paris. The structure of the museum itself is quite different from any other museum in Paris and offers incredible views of the city thanks to its height. Through August 7th, view the Norman Foster exhibit dedicated to the highlights of the British architect’s career including the Millau Viaduct and Millennium Bridge in London. Foster was known as the leader of the “high-tech” trend. The exhibit features over 100 of Foster’s projects including workbooks, models, and prototypes. Details and tickets.
Basquiat X Warhol. Painting Four Hands at the Fondation Louis Vuitton
After a successful exhibition on Jean-Michel Basquiat in 2018, the Fondation Louis Vuitton presents Basquiat X Warhol. Painting Four Hands through August 28th. Visitors can discover the collaborations that took place between the two artists from 1984 to 1985. During this period, they co-created 160 paintings, some of which are among the most monumental in their respective careers. This exhibit presents more than 100 of these paintings, and is accompanied by a selection of individual works by Basquiat and Warhol, as well as artists belonging to this artistic movement that developed in New York in the 1980s, including Keith Haring and Kenny Scharf. Details and tickets.
Sarah Bernhardt, and the Woman Created the Star at the Petit Palais
Through August 27th, discover Sarah Bernhardt, and the Woman Created the Star. The exhibit details the career of the artist and actress, who was regarded as perhaps the first “influencer” in the world. Through nearly 400 works, visitors can get a glimpse of the star’s life in the public eye as well as in her studio. Highlights include a portrait of Sarah Bernhardt by George Clairin and well as the artist’s own sculptures. Discover Bernhardt’s greatest theatrical roles, her activities as an artists and creative, as well as her personal life and entourage which included Gustave Doré, Alphonse Mucha, Victor Hugo and Sacha Guitry. Details and tickets.
Where to Stay in Paris
Hotel Montalembert
This five-star boutique hotel is located on Paris’s Left Bank. It occupies a Haussmann building in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, so you’ll enjoy the feel of classic 19th-century Paris. Fans of art will love that the Louvre Museum is just a 10-minute walk away.
Breakfast is served in the hotel’s breakfast room or in guests’ rooms upon request. The hotel restaurant offers gourmet cuisine, with meals and drinks that can be enjoyed on the terrace in nice weather.
Spa treatments are available for guest comfort.
Chagall, Paris – New York at the Atelier des Lumières
Through January 7th, visitors can experience an immersive sound and light show into the creative universe and major works of Marc Chagall at the Atelier des Lumières. The accompanying jazz, classical, and klezmer music was specifically chosen thanks to its influence on Chagall. Both Paris and New York greatly inspired Chagall. The exhibit features some of his favorite subjects including circuses and the opera as well as his different art forms including ballet costumes and stained glass. Details and tickets here.
We hope this list of the best exhibits to see this summer in Paris gives plenty of cultural inspiration in the French captial. We would love to help you plan a dream trip to France with a custom, completely tailor-made itinerary. Some of our favorite destinations in France include Paris, the South of France, Normandy, and Paris. Get in touch with a travel designer today to start the planning process!