The museum scene in Paris can be overwhelming, making some reluctant to venture off the beaten path and explore less popular sites. This is unfortunate because there is so much more to see if you know where to go.

On a recent trip to Paris, I met up with my beautiful friend and professional artist Drea Cofield to celebrate her birthday. Although I had visited Paris several times, I admittedly had spent little time exploring the museums. On this trip, I had a personal guide who was not only knowledgeable about the museums, but also passionate about many of the works they contained. I was given the inside scoop on what to see and what to skip, which made for a more enjoyable experience. Below is an artist’s guide to the museums of Paris that you won’t find in the average guidebook.

THE LOUVRE

The Louvre may be one of the most recognizable museums in the world. The modern glass pyramid emerging from the stone floor is an unmistakable landmark. More familiar still is the famous painting it contains, the Mona Lisa. Some visit the Louvre just to get a glimpse of the renowned painting. So, it may come as a surprise that my friend says skip it! Instead, head over to the Rubens’ wing and experience the Marie de Medici cycle. The collection features a 24 painting series, which chronicles the life of Marie de Medici, the 2^nd wife of King Henry the IV.

2 other works that visitors may find even more impressive than the Mona Lisa include Liberty Leading the People, by Ferdinand Victor Eugène Delacroix and The Raft of the Medusa, an icon of French Romanticism by Théodore Géricault. Both are inspiring for their detail, scale and story and should not be missed.

LE MUSÉE DE L’ORANGERIE

The l’Orangerie is a much smaller museum than some of the others in Paris, but it should definitely be on your list. The museum’s main collection consists of 8 large scale water lily compositions by Claude Monet. The paintings are displayed in two oval shaped rooms drenched with natural light, which cause the painting’s colors to change throughout the day. Monet himself curated the space and insisted that the paintings be attached directly to the walls to ensure they could never be replaced by other works. The beautiful paintings fill the room with color and provide a tranquil escape for visitors. Located on the lower level you’ll find smaller scale paintings by the likes of Matisse, Renoir, Picasso, and Cézanne.

PALAIS DE TOKYO

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Another museum that you may not have on your itinerary, but should, is the Palais de Tokyo. This museum prides itself on promoting a fun and adventurous atmosphere and houses temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. Unlike most museums, the Palais de Tokyo stays open until 12am each night and provides a unique, late night hang-out where visitors can drink, dine and enjoy one of a kind works of art.

LE MUSÉE D’ORSAY

Many famous works are housed in this expansive museum including paintings by Monet, Picasso and Courbet to name a few. Be sure to make your way to the top floor where you can take in beautiful views of Paris just beyond the enormous clock window. If you find yourself in Paris before July 17^th, be sure to check out the Henri Rousseau show featuring many of his most notable works as well as several pieces by artists who influenced him.

THE POMPIDOU

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Another museum that comes highly recommended on every artist’s museum itinerary is the Pompidou. At first glance, the building can easily be mistaken for a giant hamster tube, but this structure actually houses a public library and Europe’s largest modern art museum, the Musée National d’Art Moderne. The museum is massive and contains the work of many great artists including Matisse, Picasso, Brancusi and Kandinsky.

BRANCUSI’S STUDIO

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Just outside the Pompidou, you’ll find Constantin Brancusi’s art studio. The Romanian artist spent much of his career in Paris and dedicated his entire studio to the French State upon his death. This included various sculptures, drawings, paintings and prints, which are now housed in an exact replica of his studio. If you’re not paying attention, you could easily miss this rather non-descript building, but it is definitely worth a visit. Believe it or not, it’s completely free and open daily (except Tuesdays) from 2-6pm.

SACRÉ COUER

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, known more commonly as Sacré Couer, isn’t a museum, but it is definitely worth visiting. Located in the Pigalle district of Paris, the basilica sits atop the summit of Montmartre overlooking the city. The majestic structure made of white travertine stone beautifully reflects the colors of the sky. Inside, there are intricate stained glass windows and mesmerizing architectural details at every turn. The view from the portico offers breathtaking views of Paris, and just below is a meticulously groomed garden for visitors to enjoy.

CLAUDE MONET’S GARDENS AT GIVERNY

Those looking to get off the beaten path and have a truly unique museum experience should head to Monet’s gardens at Giverny. Located 46 miles outside of Paris, the house and grounds that inspired Monet’s many works are truly a sight to behold. The museum can be reached by train by exiting at the Vernon station then taking a taxi the rest of the way or by car. Visitors can peruse the elegant gardens and take a glimpse inside Monet’s home, which has been fully restored. It is a must see for artists and art lovers alike.

I was so lucky to have a pro to help guide me through the museums of Paris. Rather than feeling daunted, I was able to narrow down what to see and what to skip and thoroughly enjoy the many museums in the city of light.

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What is your favorite museum in Paris? What art work have you always wanted to see? Share your comments below! And for tips on how to experience Paris like a local, click here!