Fondation Louis Vuitton: is it worth a visit?

March 23, 2025 Citie to Travel Comments Off

Fondation Louis Vuitton is one of the finest modern museums in Paris and absolutely worth visiting. The extraordinary building, designed by Frank Gehry, is immediately striking for its glass arches reminiscent of sails in the wind. Inside, you will discover changing exhibitions full of modern and contemporary art. Wondering what to expect? In this blog we share all the information for a visit to Fondation Louis Vuitton, including practical tips to get the most out of your visit.

What is Fondation Louis Vuitton?

Fondation Louis Vuitton is a modern art museum and cultural center in Paris, housed in a spectacular building that is itself a work of art. It was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry and opened its doors in 2014. An initiative of the luxury brand Louis Vuitton, the museum aims to bring together art and culture in a special way.

Constructed entirely of glass, steel and wood, the building is immediately striking because of the huge, glass “sails” that seem to float around the building like a cloud. Gehry was inspired by the shape of a sailing ship and the surrounding park, the Bois de Boulogne. Because of the abundance of glass, light plays a major role in the design, making the building look different at any time of day.

Inside you will find an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, interspersed with major temporary exhibitions. In addition to the art, Fondation Louis Vuitton also offers stunning views of Paris and a unique experience for architecture lovers.

What can you see at Fondation Louis Vuitton?

A visit to Fondation Louis Vuitton is highly recommended for lovers of art, architecture and modern culture. The museum offers a surprisingly diverse selection. Here’s what to expect:

1. Modern and contemporary art collection

You’ll find an impressive permanent collection of works by leading international artists, from paintings and sculptures to video art and installations.

2. Changing exhibitions

Regularly, Fondation Louis Vuitton organizes large, temporary exhibitions that highlight modern art and special themes.

3. Frank Gehry’s iconic building

Frank Gehry’s spectacular design, with its glass “sails” and organic forms, makes the building itself a work of art and an absolute landmark.

4. Panoramic terraces overlooking Paris

From the terraces, you can enjoy stunning views of the Bois de Boulogne and the Paris skyline.

5. Art in outdoor space

There are also artworks and installations around the building that complete the experience.

6. Workshops and activities

Fondation Louis Vuitton regularly organizes workshops, tours and educational programs for young and old that will help you get even more out of your visit.

Tickets to the Fondation Louis Vuitton museum

Want to visit this impressive museum? Then it is smart to order tickets to the Fondation Louis Vuitton museum online in advance. This way you can be assured of a seat and avoid long queues at the entrance, especially during busy periods and popular exhibitions.

Opening hours of Fondation Louis Vuitton

Fondation Louis Vuitton is open year-round, but it’s a good idea to check current pening times in advance. In general, the following times apply:

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. (often with evening openings and special activities)
Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Tuesday: Closed

Please note that during holidays or special events, Fondation Louis Vuitton’s opening hours may vary. It is therefore smart to always check the official website before your visit.

Where is Fondation Louis Vuitton located?

Fondation Louis Vuitton is located in the west of Paris, in the green and quiet Bois de Boulogne. The museum is located just outside the busy city center, making it a fine place to combine art and nature during your visit to Paris.

Address:
Fondation Louis Vuitton
8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi
Bois de Boulogne
75116 Paris, France

How do you get to Fondation Louis Vuitton?

Fondation Louis Vuitton is located in the west of Paris, in the beautiful Bois de Boulogne park. The museum is easily accessible by public transportation and there are several options for getting there:

Metro: Take metro line 1 and get off at Les Sablons stop. From there it is about a 10-minute walk to the museum. The route is well marked.

Shuttle bus: A special shuttle bus runs from Fondation Louis Vuitton. It leaves every half hour from Place Charles de Gaulle (Arc de Triomphe), Avenue Friedland exit. The shuttle takes you directly to the museum and is an easy option.

Car: Coming by car? There is a (limited) number of parking spaces nearby, but please allow for crowds and limited availability.

Bike: Paris is a true city of bicycles. A rented bike or Vélib’ will get you to Fondation Louis Vuitton in no time and you can enjoy a scenic route through the park.

Our experience at Fondation Louis Vuitton - is it worth it?

During one of our visits to Paris, we also went to Fondation Louis Vuitton. The building immediately stood out for its unusual architecture with huge glass “sails” – truly an impressive sight. For that reason alone, it is worth a visit.

Inside, we enjoyed the modern and contemporary art. The exhibitions were well cared for and the bright, open spaces make it nice to walk around. We especially liked the view from the terraces; you overlook the Bois de Boulogne and the city.

One small downside we found was the waiting time at the entrance. Even though we had bought tickets online in advance, we still had to wait in line. That was unfortunate, but fortunately once inside it was more than worth it.

All in all, Fondation Louis Vuitton is highly recommended, especially if you love art and architecture or just want to see something different in Paris.

Our 5 tips for visiting Fondation Louis Vuitton

After our visit to Fondation Louis Vuitton, we gathered a few handy tips that will make your visit just a little easier and more fun:

1. Buy your tickets in advance online

That saves hassle at the entrance and you are guaranteed entry, especially if there is a popular exhibition. Just keep in mind that it may still take a while at the entrance, but at least you are not waiting for nothing.

2. Go early in the day

We noticed that it became increasingly crowded later in the day. By going in the morning, you can walk around in peace and have plenty of time to enjoy the art and the building.

3. Don’t forget the roof terrace

Many people walk right past it, but the view from the terraces is really worth it. You look out over the Bois de Boulogne and have a beautiful view of Paris – a perfect ending to your visit.

4. Take advantage of the shuttle bus

A convenient shuttle bus runs from the Arc de Triomphe and takes you directly to the museum. Definitely a must if you don’t feel like walking a bit from the metro.

5. Finish with a coffee nearby

After your visit, it’s fun to linger at Le Frank Café, the café inside the museum itself. Or walk toward La Grande Cascade, a lovely terrace in the Bois de Boulogne – perfect for a coffee or lunch in the greenery.

Special offers for a city break to Paris

Are you going on a city break to Paris and would like to visit some sights and attractions? Then take advantage of the offers below! That way you will get the most out of your visit to this beautiful city and save on entrance tickets.