We're big Paris Museum Pass believers. It saves time, and sometimes it can save money (but time in Paris is worth something in itself).
My question - is it beneficial to have the Museum Pass on the 1st Sunday of the month when the museums are free? Does it get you past any lines? Or is it basically money wasted when everything is free anyway?
Thanks.
What month are you traveling in? That would make a difference in how long the lines are. We went to the Louvre a few weeks ago and the line outside was very long and people were standing in the cold for a long time. We took the metro and went in the entrance from the train. It was much faster. Also, many museums have a security checkpoint now. You might have to stand in line just to get through that. A museum pass wouldn't help in that situation.
You'll encounter hordes at the Louvre on Free Sundays, it can take the fun out of it. It's only €6 after 1800 on Wed & Fridays. Or, get the Museum Pass. As Rick says, in Paris there are two types of sightseers: those with a Museum Pass and those who stand in line. With the Pass, go Thurs - Sat and not in the mornings, to minimize crowds. With the Pass you can use the group entrance in the pedestrian passageway between the pyramid and rue de Rivoli.
We're in Paris now. Based on advice obtained elsewhere, we purchased a 2 day pass - and planned a trip out to the Loire Valley on Sunday, 1 February.
