Few artists have left their mark on Paris quite like Auguste Rodin, and nowhere can you feel his creative spirit more than at his two homes: the elegant Rodin Museum in the city center and the sun-drenched, rather magical House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon. Both offer art, gardens and stories galore, but their personalities couldn’t be more different. Wondering which one is right for you? We break down what to expect from each—including the collections, the vibes, the best photo ops and the top local lunch spots—so you can sculpt the Rodin itinerary of your dreams.
The lowdown
Rodin Museum (Musée Rodin Paris)
- Iconic 18th-century Hôtel Biron surrounded by lush gardens in central Paris
- Gorgeous seven-acre rose-filled gardens with Rodin masterpieces including The Thinker, The Kiss and The Gates of Hell,
- Galleries inside also feature work by Rodin’s contemporary and muse Camille Claudel
- Lovely picturesque café terrace and scenic garden picnic spots
- Family trails, creative workshops, temporary exhibitions, gift shop
House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon (Maison d’Auguste Rodin)
- Rodin’s personal estate and studio on a leafy hill south-west of Paris
- Intimate museum, original studios and peaceful garden cemetery with Rodin’s tomb
- Often quiet—you’ll feel like you have Rodin’s world to yourself
- Atmospheric plaster casts, unfinished works and sweeping panoramic views over Paris
Sounds great, tell me more...
Sounds great, tell me more...
Rodin Museum
Step through the gates near Les Invalides and you’ll discover Rodin’s artistry on a grand, Parisian scale. The Rodin Museum at Hôtel Biron dazzles with Art Nouveau detail and sunlit rooms, each filled with masterpieces—think monumental marbles, intimate studies and bronzes so lifelike they almost move. Wander outside and the gardens take center stage, with statues around every corner, beds of fragrant roses, fountains, and endless lawns for stretching out with a book or a picnic.
Couples can vanish into hidden garden nooks, kids can join art trails, and everyone can enjoy long, slow mornings sketching or people-watching. The café serves salads, quiches and pastries in a delightful garden setting. Seasonal exhibitions, both inside and out, refresh every visit. Don’t miss the view of the golden dome of Les Invalides peeping over Rodin’s lush backyard!
House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon
Rodin’s Meudon home is the heart of the artist’s personal life: his creative sanctuary, untouched studios, and hillside escape. The visit is more intimate—fewer crowds, lots of birdsong, and a palpable sense of peace. Wander Rodin’s workspace, see plaster casts and unfinished pieces (capturing the very process of making art), and stroll quiet gardens that feel more country retreat than city park.
Outside, Rodin’s own tomb sits beneath a statue of The Thinker, while views from the estate reveal Paris shimmering in the distance. Family workshops, art classes and thematic walks make this a haven for anyone who enjoys slow discovery and connection to genius in an authentic, unfiltered way.
Which is most impressive?
The Paris museum is a blockbuster: its glorious mansion, gorgeous gardens and collection of some of the world’s most famous sculptures is second-to-none. Photos, picnics, romance—the museum has everything for first-timers and return visitors alike.
And which is more fun?
With family trails, seasonal workshops, sculpture scavenger hunts and a café terrace perfect for group lunches, the Paris museum wins for fun. You’re always a few steps from a surprise, a gorgeous backdrop for selfies, or an opportunity to get creative as a family.
Which is more beautiful?
It’s hard to beat the Hôtel Biron’s golden salons and those dreamy, sculpture-studded gardens—roses, fountains, blue skies and statues in perfect harmony. Every season offers new blooms and fresh photo ops. Meudon is soul-stirring for its restrained countryside beauty, but the Paris museum is sculpture heaven.
Which has the better view?
Which has the better view?
The hillside at Meudon boasts panoramic vistas over Paris—a view Rodin himself loved and captured in his letters. The museum’s peaceful cemetery under tall trees provides a moment of truly unique beauty, especially at sunset.
How do I get there?
Rodin Museum
- Metro: Varenne (Line 13) right to the garden gate, Invalides (Lines 8, 13; RER C) five minutes away
- Bus: 69, 82, 92
- On foot: Stroll from Les Invalides, Eiffel Tower or Saint-Germain
House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon
- Train: RER C or SNCF to Meudon or Meudon-Val-Fleury, then a 15–20-minute uphill walk or short taxi/bus ride
- Bus: 169 from Pont de Sèvres, disembark at ‘Paul Bert–Auguste Rodin’ stop
- By car: Free parking available, quickest for families or groups
Best choice for families, couples or friends
The Paris museum is great for families and groups: fun trails, workshops and room to roam keep all ages happy. Couples love the gardens, while friends can relax, chat and snap photos.
Meudon is the dream for a reflective, slow-paced outing—ideal for solo art lovers, contemplative couples, or anyone seeking time and space to make their own connection to Rodin. It’s less about ‘fun’ and more about inspiration and discovery in a genuinely tranquil and inspiring place.
I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities?
The Paris museum’s seasonal art workshops, family notebooks, scavenger trails and wide-open gardens keep young hands and minds busy. Meudon runs creative sessions, but the city museum’s variety, space and staff support win for young adventurers.
What’s the accessibility like?
Rodin Museum
Mostly wheelchair-friendly with ramps, elevators and accessible restrooms. A few historic rooms may have narrow doorways.
House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon
Historic site with some uneven ground and steps; partially accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, but check ahead—the cobbled garden and old studios can present mild challenges. Staff are welcoming and happy to assist.
Best lunch spots nearby?
Near Rodin Museum
- Café du Musée Rodin: Lunch in the garden—quiche, fresh salads, pastries and coffee among the roses.
- Le Recrutement Café: Parisian bistro with a terrace, ace croque-monsieurs and glimpses of the Eiffel Tower.
- Boulangerie Poilâne: World-class bakery for grab-and-go tartines, pastries and picnics in the Rodin gardens.
Near House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon
- Le 58: Warm family brasserie in Meudon center, serving bistro classics and homemade desserts.
- Les Jardies: Small-town café with cheerful service and menu du jour favorites, just a short stroll from the museum.
- Parc de l’Observatoire: If you’re up for a picnic, grab supplies from a local boulangerie or épicerie near Meudon station and enjoy a meal with panoramic views in the leafy public park just a short walk from the Rodin house.
Where are the best photo opportunities?
Where are the best photo opportunities?
Rodin Museum
- In the gardens: Frame The Thinker with blooming roses or catch the dome of Les Invalides as a dreamy background. The curved garden paths make for beautiful, candid family/group shots.
- In the mansion: The light streaming through tall windows onto marble and bronze in the salons is pure Instagram gold.
- Café terrace: Capture bursts of color and sculpture as you sip coffee amidst greenery. Go early or late for quieter scenes and gentler light.
House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon
- The hillside: Shoot sunset or sunrise over Paris, or grab a peaceful landscape shot with Rodin’s tomb and The Thinker in the foreground.
- Studio interiors: Candid photos with plaster casts, chisels and the artist’s workspace tell a tale of creativity and timelessness.
- Quiet garden corners: Intimate moments among old trees, wildflowers and rustic fences. On misty mornings or golden afternoons, Meudon has dreamy painterly light.
We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar nearby?
Near Rodin Museum
- Le Basilic: Classic Parisian wine bar—friendly, affordable and full of neighborhood spirit.
- Bar du Central: Stylish but unpretentious, serving everything from a bubbly French 75 to hearty local reds. People-watching on the terrace is top-notch.
- Rosa Bonheur sur Seine: For a celebratory rosé, head to this lively floating bar on the Seine with music and views.
Near House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon
- Le Vieux Meudon: Traditional café/bar in the historic town center, serving espresso, chilled rosé and local beers.
- Le Café de la Gare: Casual spot near Meudon station, perfect for winding down with a cold drink and swapping travel tales.
- Tabac du Parc: Relaxed, authentic French bar-tabac with welcoming staff and affordable drinks—great for a quiet chat post-museum.
Any other good stuff nearby?
Near Rodin Museum
- Musée d’Orsay: World-class Impressionist masterpieces inside a dazzling Beaux-Arts former railway station—a must for art lovers.
- Army Museum and Napoleon’s Tomb: Grand history, dazzling armor and the famous golden dome of Les Invalides.
- Seine River Cruise: Board at Pont Alexandre III for unforgettable Paris views.
Near House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon
- Observatoire de Meudon: Stroll to the famous observatory for panoramic Paris views and leafy forest trails.
- Bois de Meudon: Vast woodland for hiking, jogging, or just a peaceful moment after your museum visit.
- France Miniature: Just a bit further out, this quirky theme park lets families see France’s greatest monuments in a day—great for kids and curious grown-ups.
- Palace of Versailles: On the same RER C line, perfect to combine with Meudon for a day of cultural riches and beautiful gardens.
In summary…
Whether you crave sprawling Parisian gardens full of world-famous sculpture or a pilgrimage to Rodin’s tranquil hilltop studio, both the Rodin Museum in Paris and the House of Auguste Rodin at Meudon deliver unforgettable encounters with genius. For impact, fun and family adventures, the Paris museum is a clear favorite—while Meudon is a soulful, off-the-beaten-track sanctuary perfect for reflection and artful daydreams. But why choose just one? Entry to both attractions is included with The Paris Pass®, alongside dozens more Paris bucket-listers.
Enjoyed this? Then you might also like our comparison of Saintee-Chapelle and the Sacré-Coeur. Going to Meudon? Check out our guide to all the great (free!) things you can do nearby.
Step up your sightseeing with Go City®
We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.
See more, do more, and experience more with The Paris Pass® - just choose a pass to get started!
?_a=BAVAZGDY0)
