At the centre of one of Paris’s oldest districts, the Beaubourg plateau, stands tall an architecturally avant-garde building, Centre Pompidou. When the two architects, Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, envisioned it, they had in mind to create a living organism and voila! It’s what they achieved.
Although the building was inaugurated in 1977, it has since received mixed responses from the public. While some thought it was a bold design, others deemed it as an eyesore. Whatever is said and done, today the Centre Pompidou is one of Paris’s most Instagram-worthy backgrounds. So it’s a win, right?
Behind this colourful facade, get ready to discover the largest collection of contemporary and modern arts, featuring the works of great artists like Marc Chagall, Louise Bourgeois, and Yves Klein amongst others. Jump right in to plan a fun day out to the Centre Pompidou.
The structure is revolutionary in its design, showcasing exposed steel pipes and brightly coloured tubes. It creates a striking visual contrast in the heart of Paris, redefining the urban space around itself.
Housed within is a vast and impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by iconic artists across various mediums and styles, from Picasso to Kandinsky.
Enjoy sweeping views of Paris from Centre Pompidou’s rooftop terrace, offering a unique vantage point to spot Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur.
The centre hosts a dynamic program of exhibitions, performances, and events, fostering creativity and innovation across various artistic disciplines.
Centre Pompidou is a cultural space where artistic movements converge and evolve. It bridges history, modernity, and future innovation through its exhibitions and collections.
At Centre Pompidou, architecture itself is an art form. With its inside-out design, exposed pipes, and vibrant colours, the building challenges traditional ideas of structure and materials. As you explore, you'll discover how innovative design can reshape our perception of space.
From May 29–November 4, comics are ready to take over the Pompidou! An exceptional program specially curated to bring together multiple universes of the comic world; it’s purely fun. The event covers exhibitions, conferences, workshops, comic concerts, meet-and-greet, screenings, and more!
Home to Europe’s largest modern and contemporary art collection, Centre Pompidou showcases iconic works by Picasso and Kandinsky alongside cutting-edge pieces. Its rotating temporary exhibitions highlight emerging artists and unique themes, ensuring every visit provides a fresh and dynamic experience.
It's not just about visual art; it’s also a hub for live performances. The museum regularly hosts concerts, dance shows, and theatre performances, enriching the artistic experience. Staying true to its mission, the centre promotes multidisciplinary creativity, making it a dynamic cultural destination.
Constantin Brancusi's reconstructed studio is a must-see, offering a rare glimpse into his creative process. It showcases 137 sculptures, drawings, tools, and personal items, arranged as he left them. This intimate space reveals the artistic genius behind one of modern art's pioneers.
Wednesday–Monday
Closed on: May 1
Early closure on December 24 & 31 at 7pm
Museum + Exhibitions: 11am–9pm
Nocturnes: Thursdays, until 11pm (on Level 6, galleries 1 and 2)
Galerie des enfants: 11am–7pm
Bookshop and boutique: 11am–9:45pm
Doors to the museum and the exhibitions close 10 minutes before door closing times
Ticket desk closes 60 minutes before door closing times
The Library: Monday–Friday from noon–10pm
Weekends and on public holidays: 10am–10pm
December 25 & January 1: Noon–10pm
Address: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris, France
By metro: Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, and 14 | Rambuteau, Hôtel de Ville, and Chatelet
By RER: Lines A, B, and D | Chatelet Les Halles
By bus: Lines 29, 48, 47, and 75
Vélib stations are available
Car parking: entrance at 31 Rue Beaubourg
ParkingsdeParis.com: Reserve a parking spot at negotiated prices.
Priority access by Rue Beaubourg, on the corner of Rue Saint-Merri and Rue du Renard. This entry takes you directly to the Mezzanine level (level 1).
Parking spots are reserved for disabled visitors on levels -2 & -3.
Exit via the lifts to Rue Saint-Martin, above Place Georges Pompidou.
Seat sticks are also available for all visitors on levels 4 & 5, subject to availability.
Reservation: Necessary
Timings: Wednesday–Monday: Noon–11pm
Must-try dish: The caramelized black cod
Reservation: Not required
Timings: 11am–8pm
Must-try dish: The croque-monsieu
The Conciergerie, once a royal palace and revolutionary prison, offers a fascinating glimpse into Paris’s turbulent past, especially the French Revolution.
Distance: 12 minutes by walk
The Stravinsky Fountain is a playful, colorful installation of whimsical sculptures inspired by Stravinsky’s music, perfect for relaxing and photos.
Distance: Right next to the centre
The Church of Saint-Gervais is a peaceful retreat with stunning stained glass and over a thousand years of history.
Distance: 9 minutes by walk
The Hôtel de Ville, Paris’s grand city hall, features stunning architecture, lively square, and hosts exhibitions and events.
Distance: 5 minutes by walk
Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic masterpiece, is renowned for its breathtaking stained-glass windows and spiritual atmosphere.
Distance: 12 minutes by walk
Yes, at least two weeks in advance. Since entry to the museum is timed, booking in advance ensures you get the spot of your choice.
With a general entry ticket, you can access the museum's permanent collections, temporary exhibits in galleries 3 & 4, the museum, the kid’s gallery, the public library, and the rooftop terrace, which offers incredible views of Paris.
Since your ticket is timed, change of date/time won’t be possible.
Your entry ticket is non-refundable.
Standard tickets are usually for specific time slots, and once missed, you may need to purchase a new ticket. It’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes before to avoid any issues.
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
