The Thinker: Rodin Museum’s most iconic sculpture

Meet the Rodin Museum’s most recognisable masterpiece. The Thinker sits quietly in the garden, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to admire its expressive detail and contemplative mood.

Where is it located?

You will find The Thinker in the Rodin Museum's Sculpture Garden. It is placed near the central pathways, making it one of the first major artworks you will encounter outdoors.

How to access?

Access is included with all standard Rodin Museum tickets. There is no separate ticket required to view The Thinker.

From happy customers

Loved by 46 million+
Alex Flood
GB

Alex

United Kingdom
Jan 2026
5/5

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Having visited Paris several times over the years, I decided to take the family along. Knowing the queues for the museum we booked the fast track (timed) tickets and on arrival were thankful for doing so. The (normal) queue was several hundred metres in length. Whilst the fast track did not give you immediate entry, it was well worth paying the extra. We waited approximately 15 minutes. The museum itself was simply stunning and was able to enthuse our two boys also. On reflection I would probably start on the top floor (5th I believe) and work our way down. I have always been a fan of Impressionism and seeing the actual pieces of artwork that I have had hanging at home gave me goose bumps. Give yourself a minimum of two hours for the visit but realistically 3 hours would be best.
Pio nacarlo
IT

Pio

Italy
Jan 2026
5/5

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+2 more

Fantastic museum and it was one of the best experiences of my life. If you want to have an experience that gives you fantastic emotions, I recommend it😘
Bruno Cesar Goncalves da Silva
BR

Bruno

Brazil
Jan 2026
5/5

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The quality and comfort of the boat, as well as the guide presenting beautiful Paris in several languages, which is very good and makes it easier for tourists!
Kattia Morales
US

Kattia

United States
Dec 2025
5/5

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We loved the cruise ride the guide was very informative about the top places and prepared us before we saw them so we could take pictures.
Joao Rafael Neves e Souza
PT

Joao

Portugal
Dec 2025
5/5

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Visiting Les Invalides was impressive. The museum is huge, and the collection of knight armor is astonishing. Really enjoyed the visit.
Floriane Deneuville-Mayer
FR

Floriane

France
Nov 2025
5/5

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+1 more

Despite the crowds, I didn't have to wait for anything, and was able to take the tour as I wished, at my own pace and according to my own emotions. It's a magnificent place, steeped in history, where you feel accompanied by the people, young and old, who made it happen.
Kemilly Larissa Ferreira de Matos
BR

Kemilly

Brazil
Aug 2025
5/5

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The museum is beautiful. The garden is a spectacle in itself. It was the first museum I went to in Paris, a delight to spend the day in. Take your time, the museum isn't big but it's worth spending time sitting in the garden enjoying the view. I was surprised. Everything worked out with the ticket and it also avoided the queues.

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Frequently asked questions about The Thinker

Is The Thinker included in all Rodin Museum tickets?

Yes. All standard tickets include access to the Sculpture Garden where The Thinker is located.

Can I take photos of The Thinker?

Yes. Personal photography is allowed, and the outdoor setting offers great lighting throughout the day. Flash photography, the use of selfie sticks and tripods is generally prohibited.

How long should I spend at The Thinker?

Most visitors spend 10–15 minutes, but many stay longer to walk around the sculpture and observe details from different angles.

Is the area around The Thinker wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The main garden paths leading to the sculpture are accessible, though some gravel areas may require extra caution.

Does weather affect the visit to The Thinker?

A little. The sculpture is outdoors, so comfort depends on the weather, but it remains accessible year-round.

Is there a skip-the-line ticket to reach the garden?

Skip-the-line speeds up museum entry but does not change access to the garden itself.

Can I touch The Thinker?

No. The sculpture is protected, and visitors must maintain a respectful distance to preserve the bronze surface.

Is the sculpture in the garden the original Thinker?

The version you see is an official bronze cast made from Rodin’s original model.

Can I see The Gates of Hell near The Thinker?

Yes. The Gates of Hell is also displayed in the garden, only a short walk from The Thinker, making it easy to understand their connection.

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