VIBE

The Renzo Piano architecture of this brightly colored museum is a classic work of modern art in itself–in a textbook 1970s experiment with form, all of the “inner workings” of the building are on the outside (think pipes, wires, and even escalators). Once inside, the displays at the Musée National d'Art Moderne (top two floors) are equally impressive, and understandably so, given that this is the largest modern art museum in Europe; holdings include major works by Matisse, Modigliani, Picasso, and Warhol, among others. Also onsite is Atelier Brancusi (a reconstruction of Brancusi’s studio, with many of his works displayed), a cinema and a performance space (both with a busy schedule of events), a public library, and a sexy top floor lounge called Restaurant Georges (which offers great cocktails and even better views).

GO HERE WITH

Modern art and architecture fans; friends; a date; kids

WHY WE LIKE IT

Parisians love to hate the painfully modern architecture of the Centre Pompidou, so the building is worth seeing just to get a feel for the design which has sparked so much local controversy. That said, the art inside is also not to be missed, especially because the innovative display techniques used make it possible for you to get really close to the works–a nice change from the standoffish Louvre. And, of course, we always like to cap off our visit with cocktails and city views at top floor lounge Restaurant Georges.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

"Youth" tickets are not available online–annoying if you’re traveling with an 18–25-year-old.

GOOD TO KNOW

Museum tickets also include entrance to any special exhibitions. Entrance to the museum is free on the first Sunday of the month, and there are free guided tours in English offered every Sunday at 3:00pm. (No reservations are accepted for the tours.) Audio guides are available for a fee. No large luggage is allowed in the museum, but smaller bags are permitted and the coat check is free.

CLOSEST COMPS

The Museum of Modern Art (New York); Guggenheim Museum (New York); Tate Modern (London)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to Paris