Discover the Magnificent Art of Paris

The French capital is an excellent destination for anyone who enjoys the freedom and independence of staying in hostels. Paris is often thought of as an expensive destination, but it certainly does not have to be. You can easily spend a weekend or longer here exploring all that it has to offer without spending a fortune. If you are an art aficionado, you can explore some of the most renowned galleries in the world as well as seek out some incredible street art - and it won't cost you the earth to do so. Here are some of the highlights of the city's artistic heritage.

Musée d'Orsay

The Musée d'Orsay is an important museum that should be high on your itinerary to visit when you book into one of the city's excellent central hostels. Paris was the home of the famous Impressionist movement, and the museum is home to the best collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art in the world. Van Gogh, Delacroix, Monet and many more artists are represented here, and you can spend many happy hours strolling around the gallery, discovering a new treasure around every corner.

Rodin Museum

The Rodin Museum is another popular site and houses an extensive collection of works from this famous sculptor. You'll be able to see some of his most famous works, including the evocative 'The Thinker', along with some works by other sculptors of the time. The tranquil and picturesque gardens of the museum are well worth exploring in their own right, providing a peaceful and contemplative haven from the bustle of the city outside.

The Louvre

This is the one art gallery you cannot miss when in the city (literally – it is huge), and its location makes it highly accessible from any of the central hostels. Paris is home to some renowned galleries and museums, but the Louvre is the biggest and the best. Often described as the best art museum in the world, it is filled to the brim with a diverse collection of works from all over the world. The Mona Lisa is the most high-profile highlight and it is also home to the stunning Venus de Milo, but you'll also be able to view countless masterpieces by artists including Caravaggio, Rembrandt and many others.

See the Street Art and the Smaller Galleries

As well as these large galleries, there are also many smaller, more out of the way galleries to explore, many of which house exciting collections. The Galerie Pierre-Alain Challier and the La Maison Rouge are well worth visiting, along with a host of others you may discover quite by accident.

One of the most wonderful things about the city is that some of the best art is displayed outside and is free to enjoy. Street art has been an important aspect of the city for decades, and you can stroll through certain areas and see some true modern masterpieces. Visit Boulevard Vincent Auriol, Place du Marché and Avenue d'Italie for just a few areas where you can see some of the best examples of street art.

A City Perfect for Art Lovers

For the independent traveller staying in one of the excellent city hostels, Paris is the perfect destination for total art immersion. There is so much to see when you have the freedom and independence to make your own itinerary. These galleries are just the start.

Looking for your dream travel experience? Jason H. Cunningham works for Hostelling International, a company with more than 4,000 hostels worldwide in fantastic locations. For the best hostels, Paris or anywhere else, join our global community and say hi to the world. From quality, affordable accommodation and backpacker tips, to meaningful volunteer opportunities and enriching our eco footprint, we are the world’s local hostelling hub.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.