Paris is a city full of art, history, and culture. One of the best ways to experience this is by visiting its amazing museums. From world-famous places like the Louvre to hidden gems like the Musée de l’Orangerie, there’s something for everyone.
Paris is not just about the Eiffel Tower and delicious food. It’s also home to some of the most incredible museums in the world. These museums are filled with beautiful paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that tell the story of human creativity and history. Visiting these museums is like taking a journey through time and imagination.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best museums in Paris, sharing what makes each one special and why you should visit them.
21 Best Museums in Paris
Paris is a treasure trove of museums, each offering unique experiences and insights into art, history, and culture. Here are some of the best museums in Paris that you should consider visiting:
1. Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum, located at 99 Rue de Rivoli in Paris, is not only the largest art museum in the world but also a historic monument. It houses over 38,000 works of art, spanning from prehistory to the 21st century. The museum is divided into eight departments, including Near Eastern Antiquities, Islamic Art, Sculptures, Decorative Arts, and Paintings.
One of the most famous pieces in the Louvre is the Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci. Visitors can also see the Winged Victory of Samothrace and the Venus de Milo. The museum’s glass pyramid entrance, designed by Architect I. M. Pei, is a modern addition that contrasts beautifully with the historic architecture of the palace.
Is the Louvre Worth Your Time?
The Louvre is open every day except Tuesday, with extended hours on Wednesdays and Fridays. General admission is €22, but there are various discounts and free entry options for certain groups. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues. The museum also offers guided tours, audio guides, and various amenities like restaurants, cafes, and gift shops to enhance the visitor experience.
2. Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is a renowned museum in Paris, located on the Left Bank of the Seine River. It is housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, the Gare d’Orsay, which was built between 1898 and 1900. The museum is famous for its extensive collection of French art from 1848 to 1914, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and photography.
The Musée d’Orsay boasts the world’s largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Visitors can admire works by artists such as Claude Monet, Édouard Manet, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Georges Seurat, Paul Gauguin, and Vincent van Gogh. The museum’s collection also includes significant pieces from the Symbolist, Art Nouveau, and Realist movements.
The museum is open every day except Monday, with extended hours on Thursdays. General admission is €16, with various discounts available for certain groups.
3. Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou, located in the heart of Paris, is a unique cultural complex known for its modern and contemporary art collections. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, featuring an inside-out design with exposed pipes and colorful exterior. Location
Inside, the Centre Pompidou houses the Musée National d’Art Moderne, which is one of the largest museums for modern and contemporary art in Europe. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Jackson Pollock. In addition to its permanent collection, the Centre Pompidou hosts temporary exhibitions, film screenings, and live performances.
The Centre Pompidou is open every day except Tuesday, with extended hours on Thursdays. General admission is €15, with various discounts available for certain groups. The complex also includes a public library, a research center, and several restaurants and cafes.
4. Musée de l’Orangerie
The Musée de l’Orangerie is a charming museum located in the Tuileries Garden, near the Place de la Concorde in Paris. It is best known for housing Claude Monet’s magnificent Water Lilies series, displayed in two large oval rooms designed to provide an immersive experience. The museum also features the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume collection, which includes works by renowned artists such as Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, and Picasso. Location
The Musée de l’Orangerie is open every day except Tuesday, from 9 am to 6 pm. General admission is €12.50, with discounted rates available for certain groups.
5. Musée Rodin
The Musée Rodin in Paris is dedicated to the works of the famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin. Located in the elegant Hôtel Biron, a beautiful 18th-century mansion, the museum offers a serene and inspiring setting for Rodin’s masterpieces. The museum’s collection includes some of Rodin’s most famous works, such as “The Thinker,” “The Kiss,” and “The Gates of Hell”. Location
In addition to the indoor galleries, the Musée Rodin features a stunning sculpture garden where visitors can enjoy Rodin’s sculptures in a natural, outdoor setting. The garden is beautifully landscaped with trees, flowers, and fountains, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of Paris.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 5:45 pm. General admission is €14, with free entry for visitors under 18 and various discounts for certain groups.
6. Musée Marmottan Monet
The Musée Marmottan Monet, located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, is a treasure trove for art lovers, especially those who admire Impressionism. Housed in a charming 19th-century mansion, the museum boasts the world’s largest collection of works by Claude Monet. This includes the iconic “Impression, Sunrise,” which gave the Impressionist movement its name. Location
In addition to Monet’s masterpieces, the museum features an impressive collection of works by other renowned artists such as Berthe Morisot, Edgar Degas, Édouard Manet, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. The museum’s collection is further enriched by pieces from the Empire period, including furniture, paintings, and sculptures.
Louvre Highlights in 2-3 Hours
The Musée Marmottan Monet is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours until 9 pm on Thursdays. General admission is €12, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and groups.
7. Musée des Arts Forains
The Musée des Arts Forains, located in the Pavillons de Bercy in Paris, is a unique and enchanting museum dedicated to funfair and fairground objects from the 19th and 20th centuries. This private museum offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore a world of marvels through guided tours that include interactive performances and ancient rides. Location
The museum’s collection features a variety of fairground artifacts, including merry-go-rounds, carousels, and mechanical games. One of the highlights is the bicycle merry-go-round, where visitors can ride just as people did in the late 1800s. The museum is divided into different themed areas, such as cabinets of curiosities, carnivals, and incredible gardens, each offering a glimpse into the entertainment of the Belle Époque.
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Visits to the Musée des Arts Forains are by reservation only, and the tours are conducted in French, with English handouts available for non-French speakers. The museum is open daily from 11 am to 4:30 pm. General admission is €18, with a reduced rate of €12 for children under 11. The museum also hosts special programs during Heritage Days and the festive season.
8. Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, located in the Marais district of Paris, is a fascinating museum dedicated to the relationship between humans and the natural world, particularly through the lens of hunting. Housed in two historic mansions, the Hôtel de Guénégaud and the Hôtel de Mongelas, the museum offers a unique blend of art, history, and nature. Location
The museum’s collection is organized around three main themes: hunting weapons and instruments, hunting trophies and taxidermied animals, and artistic representations of wildlife and hunting. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries, ceramics, and furniture that depict the traditions and practices of hunting.
The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 am to 6 pm, with extended hours until 9:30 pm on Wednesdays. General admission is €10, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and groups.
9. Musée du Parfum
The Musée du Parfum, also known as the Fragonard Perfume Museum, is a delightful museum located near the Opéra Garnier in Paris. This museum offers a unique journey through the history of perfume, showcasing a collection of perfume-related artifacts from antiquity to the early 20th century. Housed in a beautiful Napoleon III-style mansion, the museum’s interiors feature painted ceilings, parquet floors, and romantic stuccoes, adding to the charm of the visit. Location
Visitors can explore the world of fragrance through a set design that combines ancient artifacts, archives, and videos of modern production. The museum’s collection includes ancient bottles, kohl pots, pomanders, perfume burners, and travel sets, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of perfume-making. One of the highlights is the opportunity to learn about the manufacturing secrets of French perfume and even create your own Eau de Cologne in a perfumer’s apprentice workshop.
The Musée du Parfum is open every day, with free entry and complimentary guided tours available in both English and French. The museum also features a boutique where visitors can purchase Fragonard’s entire collection of perfumes, soaps, candles, and other scented products.
10. Musée Carnavalet
The Musée Carnavalet, located in the Marais district of Paris, is dedicated to the history of the city. It occupies two neighboring mansions: the Hôtel Carnavalet and the Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint Fargeau. The museum’s extensive collection includes artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts that chronicle the history of Paris from its origins to the present day. Location
One of the highlights of the Musée Carnavalet is its beautifully recreated period rooms, which give visitors a glimpse into Parisian life across different eras. The museum also features exhibits on significant events in Paris’s history, such as the French Revolution and the Belle Époque.
The Musée Carnavalet is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm. The permanent collections are free to visit, while temporary exhibitions may require a ticket.
11. Musée de l’Armée
The Musée de l’Armée, located in the prestigious Hôtel National des Invalides in Paris, is one of the largest military museums in the world. It offers a comprehensive overview of French military history, from ancient times to the present day. The museum’s extensive collection includes weapons, armor, uniforms, and military decorations. Location
One of the highlights of the Musée de l’Armée is the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, located under the golden dome of the Invalides. Visitors can also explore exhibits on the two World Wars, the French Revolution, and the Napoleonic Wars. The museum’s galleries are beautifully arranged, providing a detailed and engaging look at the evolution of military technology and strategy.
The Musée de l’Armée is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours on the first Friday of each month. General admission is €15, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and groups.
12. Musée de la Libération de Paris
The Musée de la Libération de Paris – Musée du Général Leclerc – Musée Jean Moulin is dedicated to the history of the liberation of Paris during World War II. Located at Place Denfert-Rochereau, the museum is housed in two historic buildings and offers a deep dive into the events of the French Resistance and the liberation of Paris. Location
The museum’s exhibits are organized chronologically, covering the period from the interwar years to the liberation of Paris in 1944. Visitors can explore a wide range of artifacts, including personal items, documents, photographs, and videos that tell the stories of key figures like General Leclerc and Jean Moulin. One of the unique features of the museum is the command post used by Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy during the liberation, located 20 meters underground.
The Musée de la Libération de Paris is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm. Admission to the permanent collections is free, while temporary exhibitions may have a fee.
13. Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, located in the Parc de la Villette in Paris, is the largest science museum in Europe. It offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities that make learning about science and technology fun for visitors of all ages. The museum covers various topics, including space, mathematics, physics, and biology. Location
One of the highlights of the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is the Planetarium, where visitors can enjoy immersive shows about the universe. The museum also features a submarine, the Argonaute, which visitors can explore to learn about life underwater. Additionally, there is a special area for children called the Cité des Enfants, designed to introduce young visitors to science through hands-on activities.
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The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 9:30 am to 6 pm, and on Sundays from 9:30 am to 7 pm. It is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays. General admission is €12, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and families.
14. Musée en Herbe
The Musée en Herbe is a delightful museum in Paris designed especially for children. Located at 23 Rue de l’Arbre Sec, it offers a fun and educational experience through interactive exhibits and workshops. The museum was established in 1975 by Sylvie Girardet and Claire Merleau-Ponty and has since become a favorite spot for families. Location
The exhibits at Musée en Herbe are based on the works of famous artists like Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso, and Niki de Saint Phalle. These exhibits are designed to engage children’s imagination and creativity through games of observation and identification. The museum also hosts various workshops where kids can create their own art inspired by the exhibits.
The Musée en Herbe is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm, making it convenient for families to visit. General admission is €10 for adults and children over 5, and €6 for children aged 2 to 4.
15. Fondation Louis Vuitton
The Fondation Louis Vuitton, located in the Bois de Boulogne in Paris, is a stunning contemporary art museum designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry. The building itself is a masterpiece, featuring a unique structure with glass sails that create a sense of movement and light. Opened in 2014, the Fondation Louis Vuitton aims to promote art and culture through its impressive collection and temporary exhibitions. Location
The museum’s collection includes works by modern and contemporary artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Gerhard Richter, and Ellsworth Kelly. In addition to its permanent collection, the Fondation hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, performances, and cultural events throughout the year. The museum also offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.
The Fondation Louis Vuitton is open daily, with extended hours on Fridays. General admission is €16, which also grants access to the nearby Jardin d’Acclimatation.
16. Palais de Tokyo
The Palais de Tokyo, located at 13 Avenue du Président Wilson in Paris, is one of Europe’s largest centers for contemporary art. Known for its bold and innovative exhibitions, the Palais de Tokyo is a dynamic space that showcases cutting-edge art from around the world. The building itself is a striking example of modern architecture, with its expansive galleries and open spaces designed to inspire creativity. Location
The museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, performances, and artist residencies, making it a vibrant hub for contemporary culture. Visitors can explore a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, video, and installation art. The Palais de Tokyo also features a bookshop, a café, and a restaurant, providing a complete cultural experience.
The Palais de Tokyo is open every day except Tuesday, with extended hours until midnight on Thursdays. General admission is €12, with a reduced rate of €9 for students, seniors, and other eligible groups.
17. Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection
The Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Paris, at 2 Rue de Viarmes. The building itself is a historical monument, originally constructed as a grain exchange in the 18th century. It has been beautifully restored and transformed into a modern art space by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Location
The museum showcases the contemporary art collection of François Pinault, featuring works by artists such as Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and Damien Hirst. The exhibitions are dynamic and frequently change, offering visitors a fresh experience with each visit. The museum also hosts performances, screenings, and conferences, making it a vibrant cultural hub.
The Bourse de Commerce is open every day except Tuesday, from 11 am to 7 pm, with extended hours until 9 pm on Fridays. General admission is €14, with reduced rates available for students, seniors, and other eligible groups.
18. Musée Picasso
The Musée Picasso, located in the historic Marais district of Paris, is housed in the elegant Hôtel Salé, a beautiful 17th-century mansion. This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. The Musée Picasso boasts the largest public collection of Picasso’s works, including over 5,000 pieces such as paintings, sculptures, drawings, ceramics, and prints. Location
Visitors can explore a wide range of Picasso’s artistic periods, from his early Blue and Rose periods to his later works. The museum also features pieces from Picasso’s personal archives, including sketchbooks, letters, and photographs, providing a comprehensive view of his creative process. Notable works on display include “The Weeping Woman,” “Self-Portrait,” and “Two Women Running on the Beach”.
The Musée Picasso is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:30 am to 6 pm, with extended hours until 10 pm on the first Wednesday of each month. General admission is €14, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and other eligible groups.
19. Musée Jacquemart-André
The Musée Jacquemart-André, located at 158 Boulevard Haussmann in Paris, is a splendid museum housed in a grand 19th-century mansion. This museum offers a unique blend of art and history, showcasing the private collection of Édouard André and his wife, Nélie Jacquemart. The couple traveled extensively, acquiring an impressive array of artworks, including pieces from the Italian Renaissance, French 18th-century art, and Flemish masterpieces. Location
Visitors can explore beautifully decorated rooms that reflect the opulent lifestyle of the 19th-century Parisian elite. Highlights of the collection include works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Botticelli, and Fragonard. The museum also features a stunning winter garden and a grand staircase, adding to the charm of the visit.
The Musée Jacquemart-André is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours until 7 pm on Sundays and until 10 pm on Fridays during exhibitions. General admission is €12, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and families.
20. Musée Nissim de Camondo
The Musée Nissim de Camondo, located at 63 Rue de Monceau in Paris, is a historic house museum dedicated to French decorative arts from the 18th century. The museum is housed in the elegant Hôtel Camondo, a mansion built by the banker Moïse de Camondo in 1911 to showcase his extensive collection of art and furniture. The mansion was designed to resemble the Petit Trianon at Versailles, combining the charm of 18th-century decor with the comforts of modern life. Location
The museum’s collection includes exquisite pieces of furniture, tapestries, paintings, and decorative objects created by some of the most renowned artists and craftsmen of the time. Notable items include works by Jean-François Oeben, Jean Henri Riesener, and Georges Jacob. The museum also features beautifully decorated rooms that have been preserved exactly as they were when the Camondo family lived there.
One of the most poignant aspects of the museum is its dedication to Moïse de Camondo’s son, Nissim, who died in World War I. After his son’s death, Moïse decided to donate the mansion and its contents to the French state in his memory.
The Musée Nissim de Camondo is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5:30 pm. General admission is €13, with reduced rates available for certain groups.
21. Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac
The Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac, located at 37 Quai Branly in Paris, is a unique museum dedicated to the indigenous art and cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Designed by the renowned architect Jean Nouvel, the museum’s building is an architectural marvel with its lush vertical gardens and innovative design. Location
The museum’s collection includes over 300,000 objects, with around 3,500 items on display at any given time. The exhibits are organized thematically and chronologically, offering visitors a fascinating journey through different cultures and time periods. Highlights include masks, textiles, musical instruments, and ritual objects that provide insight into the diverse traditions and practices of these regions.
The Musée du Quai Branly is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:30 am to 7 pm, with extended hours until 10 pm on Thursdays. General admission is €12, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and other eligible groups.
Conclusion
Paris is a city full of amazing museums. From the famous Louvre to the cozy Musée de l’Orangerie, each museum has something special to offer. Whether you love art, history, or just want to see something new, Paris has a museum for you.
Visiting these museums is like going on a fun adventure. You’ll see beautiful paintings, cool sculptures, and learn interesting stories. So, if you’re planning to visit Paris or just dreaming about it, make sure to check out these best museums in Paris. They are a big part of what makes Paris so wonderful.
Welcome to my Paris travel blog! I’m Shubham, a passionate traveler, foodie, and culture enthusiast with a deep love for the City of Lights. Over the years, I’ve explored every corner of Paris, uncovering its hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and culinary delights. Through this blog, I aim to share insider tips, detailed guides, and personal stories to help you experience Paris like a true local.
