Rodin: The Kiss, The Thinker & a Rose Garden

The Thinker is only the beginning: Rodin's masterpieces, in his own mansion and its rose garden.

Quick Overview

• Your group only (up to 6 people)
• Duration: About 1.5 hours
• What we see: The Kiss, Camille Claudel's room, The Thinker, The Gates of Hell, The Burghers of Calais, Balzac
• What's special: Bronzes among the roses, and the story of Rodin and Camille Claudel, told honestly
• Days: Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays)
• Best season: April to October for the garden
• Pace: Unhurried, and shaped around what you love
• Languages: English; ask if you need another language
• Best for: Couples, art lovers, anyone who wants a calm, beautiful museum
• Your guide: Me, a state-licensed guide-conférencier with a background in French art history

The Experience

Rodin lived and worked in this mansion at the end of his life and left everything to France on condition it became his museum. Inside are his marbles and plasters; outside, his bronzes stand among the roses.

We start with The Kiss and the room of Camille Claudel, his student, lover and rival, a great sculptor in her own right. Then we walk the garden: The Thinker, who isn't a philosopher at all, The Gates of Hell, where he first appeared, The Burghers of Calais, and the Balzac that its commissioners refused.

From April to October the garden is at its best. In the rain we spend longer inside, and the marbles are just as beautiful.

Route & Walking Info

• Distance: About 1 km
• Terrain: Gravel garden paths, stairs inside (lift available)
• Pace: Whatever feels good to you. We take breaks when we need them.
• Accessibility: If you need to avoid stairs or long walks, tell me before booking and I'll adapt the route.

Good to Know

• Meeting Point: Entrance of the Musée Rodin, 77 rue de Varenne. I'll send a map link and very clear instructions once you book.
• Timing: Try to be there 10 minutes early so we can start smoothly.
• Rain: In rain we spend more time inside the mansion.
• Metro: Varenne (line 13).
• Shoes: Wear your most comfortable ones. Really.
• Bags: Keep them small; many sites have security checks.
• Late Arrivals: If you're late, it cuts into our time, but I'll make sure you still see the essentials.

Optional Add-Ons

• Invalides and Napoleon's tomb next door (a half day)
• Garden café stop
• Other Languages (Ask me about availability)
• Afternoon Planning (I can help you map out the rest of your day nearby)

After You Book

• A personal confirmation once I've checked the date. I confirm every booking myself.
• My meeting instructions, clear and simple.
• I'll ask what you're most curious about (or what you'd rather skip), and shape the visit around it.
• Mobility needs or children in the group? Tell me early and I'll plan for it.
• Want lunch or dinner afterwards? I'll suggest a table I'd book myself nearby.

FAQ

Is it really private? Yes. Just you, your group, and me.

Do I need tickets? Yes, you buy your own museum tickets; I'll tell you which ones.

Is it good for kids? Yes: the garden gives them space, and The Gates of Hell is full of stories.

Send me your dates and what you love most, and I'll shape the day around you.