We will be in Paris on the first Sunday in May and know that there is free admission to many musems. I'm sure the Louvre &
d'Orsay are very crowded, but what about the smaller museums such as Marmotton or Orangerie?

According to the Orangerie's website, this museum is free on the first Sunday of each month. The Marmottan is a privately-owned museum and does not offer reduced or free admission on Sundays; the museum does offer reduced admission for senior citizens.

I'm not sure I've ever been to the Musée d'Orsay on Sunday, but have been several times to the Musée du Louvre, and it didn't seem any more crowded that usual.

Thanks! We might try to see if we could get in to Orangerie - if the lines are too long, we could wait until later in the week. Just thought it would be good to get into one for free! Might even try one of the others in the late afternoon.

I have to say I loved Marmotton. Just sitting downstairs looking at Monet's water colors was a site to be seen. I have never been to Orangerie since everytime I have been there it's under construction.

If you are there May 19, it's this year's "Nuit des Musées," when all over France most Museums are free and some open til 1AM.

http://www.nuitdesmusees.culture.fr/

That sounds great, but unfortunately we leave on May 12. That's great information for anyone who will be there on that date!

blh, we were in Paris in March and waltzed into the Orangerie about 3:30 in the afternoon. You might try for a time like that.

Thanks! Sounds like a good idea - think we'll give it a try!

Take advantage of this opportunity.

Having had this 'advantage', go to Musee d'Orsay just as it opens. Walk from there to St. Chappelle, beautiful and also free.

Skip over to L'Orangerie. You shouldn't have any problems getting in.

I would avoid going to Le Louvre on a weekend (too many school children)and the lines are incredibly long. Go there very early or just before noon.