Centre National d’Art et de Culture Georges Pompidou

M° Rambuteau or Hôtel-de-Ville
Paris
IIe-de-France
France
01 44 78 12 33

http://www.cnac-gp.fr/english

Type: Cultural Interest

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The instantly recognizable Pompidou Center, with its controversial “inside- out” architecture, hardly needs an introduction, but a plan of action will make for a better visit. Known officially as the Centre National d’Art et de Culture Georges Pompidou. this modern center for the arts is made up of the National Museum of Modern Art, a public library (see below), the Atelier Brancusi sculpture studios, plus an art house cinema, concert halls, gift shop, bookstore, café and the trendy Georges Restaurant on the top floor. The long lines at the main entrance can be discouraging, especially if it’s cold or raining outside. Try to visit after 5 pm, or use one of the sneakier entrances. The red elevator (just to the left of the main entrance) is reserved for those going to the Georges. If you feel that the prices are a bit high (or it’s not time to eat yet), enjoy the amazing panoramic views before taking the escalators down to the main lobby. The public library (Bibliothèque Publique d’Information, a.k.a. BPI) has its own entrance on the Rue de Renard, with an exit leading directly into the main lobby. Try not to make it too obvious that you’re just there for the shortcut! The lobby is where visitors will find the ticket machines, post office, information desk, free cloakroom, bookstore and entrances leading to the Museum, Atelier Brancusi, cinema and concert auditoriums. Overlooking all this action is the mezzanine café and Printemps design boutique. The Pompidou Center is open daily except Tuesday from 11am to 10pm (until 11pm on Thursday). The Museum is open 11am to 9pm (last admission 8pm), and the Atelier Brancusi is open 2pm to 6pm. Entry to the Centre Pompidou is free; for the Museum and Atelier the fee is Euro 5.50, Euro 3.50 for visitors ages 18 to 25, free for kids under 18. Museum Pass accepted. A combined day pass for the Museum, Atelier Brancusi and temporary exhibits is Euro 10, Euro 8 for visitors 13 to 25, free for kids under 13 (and for everyone the first Sunday of the month). Prices vary for music, dance and theater concerts, cinema screenings, and concerts. Guided tours are Saturdays at 4pm, Euro 4 (plus entrance ticket).