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Admission prices & discounts for tickets to The Paris Museum & Historical Society in Paris

The following overview lists the admission prices and various discounts and discount codes for a visit to The Paris Museum & Historical Society in Paris . All prices are displayed per age group or reduced rate group. You can also directly book your discounted online ticket for the The Paris Museum & Historical Society here, if available, or make a reservation to reserve a timeslot if applicable.

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Tours & tickets near The Paris Museum & Historical Society

Here are some tours and tickets near The Paris Museum & Historical Society, including discount cards & passes, skip the line tickets and tickets to events & activities in Paris.

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Paris Museum Tour Guide

Paris museum private tour guide.

Paris Museum Tour Guide : Paris is renowned for its world-class museums, housing some of the most iconic artworks and historical artifacts. From the Louvre to the Musée d’Orsay, these institutions offer a glimpse into centuries of artistic and cultural evolution. However, navigating the vast collections can be overwhelming without proper guidance. This is where the choice between a private tour with a licensed guide and an audioguide becomes crucial.

Paris Museum skip the line ticket booking without or with a licensed guide is possible ONLY within a PARIS BY EMY bespoke package .

Licensed Guide vs. Audioguide

When it comes to experiencing Parisian museums, travelers often face a dilemma : should they opt for a private tour with a licensed guide or rely on an audioguide ?

What is a licensed guide ?

To be a licensed guide, you need to have the professional “guide-lecturer” bachelor degree including 3 compulsory modules : guide-lecturer skills, professional simulation exercise and foreign language, in order to obtain the “licensed guide lecturer” professional card delivered by the prefecture. In addition, some guides have degree in art history, history or went to an art school. Each guide has its own art specialty, art selection tour and art expertise according to actually specific fields or museums such as the Louvre museum, Versailles Palace…. They give you their knowledge with their own personality and subjectivity as well.

Benefits of Paris museum tour guide

Licensed guides undergo extensive training and possess in-depth knowledge of the museum’s collections. They can offer historical context, artistic insights, and captivating stories behind the masterpieces you encounter. Their expertise transforms the museum visit into a rich learning experience, enriching your understanding of art.

Benefits of an Audioguide with skip-the-line ticket

These portable devices provide audio commentary allowing to explore at your own pace. You can pause, rewind, or skip ahead that pique your interest, making it ideal for independent travelers. For budget-conscious travelers, audioguides present a cost-effective alternative, a fraction of the cost of hiring a licensed guide and offer flexibility in terms of itinerary and timing.

In both case, PARIS BY EMY will set and book your so famous “skip-the-line tickets” with audioguide or with a licensed guide from its business partners network of licensed guide Parisian companies. The choice between a licensed guide or simply having an audioguide depends on your preferences and budget.

• A private tour guide offers personalized tours tailored to the interests and preferences of individual travelers or small groups, providing flexibility, and one-on-one interaction. In contrast, a group tour guide leads larger groups of travelers on pre-planned itineraries with fixed schedules, and no flexibility.
• Guided tours play a vital role in enhancing the museum experience. A knowledgeable guide can provide context, insights, and anecdotes that bring the artworks to life. With their expertise, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance and artistic merit.
• Opting for a private tour with a licensed guide in Paris can elevate the museum experience to new heights. Unlike audioguides, which offer pre-recorded commentary, a live guide can engage with visitors in real-time, answering questions and fostering dialogue.
• Licensed guides undergo rigorous training and certification, ensuring that they possess in-depth knowledge of the museum’s collections and history. With a private tour, visitors can bypass long lines, access exclusive areas, and gain insights that are not available to the general public.

Skip-the-line ticket Booking

• PARIS BY EMY books skip-the-line tickets for museums or landmarks if you want to visit a site, museums with or without a licensed guide.
• Landmark and museum tickets are not refundable et changeable at the opposite of our tour (time frame, stops modification etc).

The 3 Most Famous Sites

Paris is home to a plethora of world-renowned museums, each offering a unique perspective on art, history, and culture. Some of the most famous museums include :

• The Louvre : check our private tour page for the biggest museum
• Musée d’Orsay : check our private tour page for impressionism art
• Versailles Palace and garden : check our private tour page for the Sun King

For more details, check our Top art museums and less known Paris museums . Each of these institutions boasts a diverse collection of masterpieces. Don’t forget to look at the PARIS MUSEUM PASS for more than 60 museums and landmarks including the Louvre, Orsay, Arc de Triomphe and Versailles.

Museum Tour Guide and Audioguide

Before making a decision, consider your budget, and preferences. While licensed guide tours may offer a more immersive experience, audioguides can be a cost-effective alternative.

• Licensed guide tours offer in-depth insights into artworks, historical context, and hidden gems within museums. However, they can be costly and may require advance booking, potentially limiting spontaneity during your visit.
• Audioguides provide flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace making it ideal for independent travelers. They are often more budget-friendly and readily available, but lack the personalized attention and interaction provided by a live guide.

Luxury Paris Tour Package

PARIS BY EMY with its business partners offer Paris Museum Private Tour with a licensed guide, expert for such and such museum. And more : Full stay custom-made Paris itinerary from 3 day stay, private walking tour guide , luxury Paris Tour Package for essentially couple, family, small group and business or solo traveler, private car services and airport transfer, hotel and restaurant recommendations, luxury private shopping tour , and any leisure activities you would like to do in Paris.

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... six self-guided walking tours of Paris organized around six eras of Paris history and architecture. The walks are free, fun, and easy to follow. They’ll help you explore the city of Paris, and its many layers of history, at your own pace.

Most Paris walking tours are organized geographically around particular sections of the city. They usually cover a lot of historical territory and can get a bit overwhelming at times — too many people, events, and building styles — from too many centuries — all jumbled together.

These Paris “history walks” are different . They’re organized historically around eras of Paris history. As a result, you can focus — on common historical themes — a limited cast of characters — and buildings with similar architectural styles.

The walking guides for these walks are easy to print out, fold up, and take with you.

• Each guide begins with some historical background for the walk you’re about to take. Short summaries focus on politics and economics, religion and philosophy, architecture, and urban growth and development.

• You’ll also find a walking tour route map, detailed descriptions of the buildings and monuments on the tour route, walking directions, information on opening times and admission fees, and lots of photos.

To get started , just click on one of the pictures or titles to the left. The link will take you to an overview of that walk, and a quick list of information you’ll need to plan your day. From there, all you have to do is click on and print the Guide and Map pdf and you’re on your way.

Contact: [email protected]

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The 9 Absolute Best Museums in Paris in 2024

Sean Finelli Last Updated: May 2, 2024

In Paris, you only need to see the Louvre, right? Wrong! There’s so much more to see in one of the world’s greatest cities for arts and culture! There are entire museums dedicated to Rodin, Monet, and Picasso beyond the Louvre. In this article, discover the best museums to visit in Paris.

Pro Tip: Planning your trip to Paris? It’s easier to organize your trip with all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our Paris Guide for more planning resources, our top Paris museum tours for a memorable trip, and the best things to do in Paris.

The Top 9 Paris Museums To See

Paris boasts around 130 museums from the Louvre to the Arab World Institute, the Musée d’Orsay, and even a museum created by the Louis Vuitton Company—that’s right, the one that makes expensive bags.

Many of the world’s greatest artists came to live and work in Paris. Here, art and culture are elevated and well-preserved. That makes it the perfect place to get lost in the halls of historical buildings housing the greatest works of art spanning various artistic movements, time periods, and cultures.

Here’s a list of the top museums to visit in Paris for lovers of art and culture. To discover more cool things to do in Paris, explore the menu below.

Not ready to book a tour? See if Paris tours are worth it .

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9. Louis Vuitton Foundation

The architecture of this building alone makes a visit worth it. If you thought you were cool for going to the Paris Modern Art Museum (below), now you’re in a completely new league. This is one of my favorite Paris museums for a casual visit.

The building was designed by renowned architect Frenk Gehry. Once inside, you’ll find mostly modern art and very elaborate art installations. There are works of art by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Ellsworth Kelly, Olafur Eliasson, Gilbert & George, Jeff Koons, and many others.

Due to the elaborate and innovative architecture, the building hosts many Parisian events including the occasional Louis Vuitton fashion show (2015). The admission ticket costs €16, but they offer reduced prices for youths and family discounts.

Address: 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi

8. Paris Museum of Modern Art

Been to Paris so many times and you’re way too cool for the Louvre? Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris or MAM is one of the most fun Paris museums. It’s much less intense than other massive collections and a great museum to visit with kids.

The museum has a pretty cool collection that you can pass through on your own possibly after a cocktail and before seeing the Eiffel Tower. It has a few huge works of art and a ton of other eye-grabbers. See it for yourself —I think you’ll be convinced.

The Paris Modern Art Museum is technically free to visit, but they ask for a non-mandatory donation of €5 to see the permanent artwork. This museum is also great for exhibitions.

They charge between €7 to €13 for different exhibitions beyond the free permanent exhibits. While we love and appreciate classical art, we recommend visiting this museum to promote the curation and creation of modern art. One day, our modern art will be the classical art of future generations and it won’t compare without our support.

Address: 11 Avenue du Président Wilson |  Hours:  Tues – Sun, 10 am – 6 pm (closed Mondays)

Our Best Versailles and Paris Louvre Tours

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Secrets of the Louvre Museum Tour with Mona Lisa

The Louvre is the largest art museum on Earth and the crowning jewel of Paris, which is why it’s on everyone’s bucket list. Don’t miss out on an incredible opportunity! Join a passionate guide for a tour of the most famous artwork at the Louvre. Skip-the-line admissions included.

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Skip-the-Line Palace of Versailles and Gardens Tour from Paris

Versailles isn’t that difficult to get to by train, but why stress over the logistics? Meet a local guide in central Paris who will purchase your train tickets and ensure you get off at the right stop. Then enjoy a guided tour of the palace and the unforgettable gardens. Skip-the-line admissions included to the palace and gardens.

Not ready to book a tour? See our  best Paris tours to take and why .

7. Musée Marmottan Monet

Similar to the Picasso Museum, the Monet Museum is mostly about Monet. It is the proud home of over 300 paintings by Claude Monet including one of the most influential paintings of the Impressionist movement, Impression, Sunrise. According to scholars, it is the epoch painting and namesake of the Impressionist Movement.

You will also find Nympheas and many other works by the master. The museum is only what it is today thanks to Michel Monet’s (second-born son and heir) famous donation of his father’s remaining works of art.

Instead of allowing the works to enter private collections, Michel left them to the state of France to be memorialized—an extremely French thing to do. If you’ve been to Paris a few times or love Monet, this museum is a must. Admissions will run you from €9 to €14.

Address: 2 Rue Louis Boilly | Hours: Tues – Sun, 10 am – 6 pm, late nights on Thursdays until 9 pm (closed Mondays).

6. Rodin Museum

Auguste Rodin remains the most famous French sculptor to date. You’ve likely seen his most famous sculpture named The Thinker , located at the Rodin Museum in Paris, France. You can find the museum next to Invalides metropolitan station where there’s a garden and two structures, one of which is a gift shop and café, Boutique du Musée Rodin.

Then there is the main structure, a mansion named Hôtel Biron. The name comes from a very wealthy previous owner by the name Louis-Antoine de Gontaut-Biron. Hence, Hôtel Biron.

The mansion sits in a large well-manicured garden dotted with various sculptures created by the master himself. There are also works from other artists including Rodin’s prize student Camille Claudel.

Technically, there are over 6,000 sculptures in the collection but many are housed off-site. You will find  The Thinker  outside in the garden. This museum is a wonderful visit with a local guide, but to get you started, don’t miss our art historian’s recommendations for the top art you have to see here . Tickets are just €13.

Address: 77 Rue de Verenne | Hours: Tues – Sun, 10 am – 6:30 pm (closed Mondays)

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Musée Rodin .

5. Musée National Picasso-Paris

Pablo Picasso is Spanish, not French. Like most artists, he loved Paris and Paris loved him back. The City of Lights loved him so much, in fact, he has a museum named after him. The Picasso Museum is in Hôtel Salé, tucked into the Le Marais district of Paris.

The museum is home to thousands of Picasso works in all forms of media from painting to ceramics. Unlike the Rodin Museum, which contains works from many artists, the Picasso Museum keeps its collection closely tied to the master.

There are works by others, but they are mostly artists copying, mocking, or paying tribute to Picasso. The museum also features newspaper clippings and other historic items to form a sort of chronological timeline of Picasso’s 70 years of dedication to the evolution of art. Tickets cost €14 but can vary when the museum takes on an exhibition.

Address: 5 Rue de Thorigny | Hours: Tues – Fri, 10 am – 6:30 pm; Sat and Sun, 9:30 am – 6 pm (closed Mondays)

4. Musée de l’Orangerie

When you think of Paris, the Louvre and Versailles will definitely come to mind. You may also think of the Musée d’Orsay. When someone mentions the Rodin Museum, people normally say, “Oh yeah, I forgot about that one.” Well, if you didn’t study art, you’ve probably not heard of the l’Orangerie Museum. You do, however, know who Claude Monet is.

Monet’s Water Lillies installation is not the only thing to see in the l’Orangerie Museum , but it is definitely the highlight. It may not qualify as an art installation by today’s measures, but at the time it was painted (1918 post-WWI armistice) it was the only installation.

The term didn’t even fully exist at the time and wasn’t used in popular art culture until the 1950s. Regardless, Musée de l’Orangerie is one of my personal favorite museums to visit in Paris for a few reasons: At €12.50, the tickets are a great price, and you won’t find large crowds of people, and it’s near the Louvre and Musée D’Orsay. It’s an easy museum to visit after your post-Louvre lunch.

Sound good? Check out the best restaurants near the Louvre or near Musée D’Orsay , for a lovely lunch before you head to Musée de l’Orangerie.

Address: Jardin Tuileries

3. Musée d’Orsay

This museum is conveniently located just across the river from the Louvre, which makes it easy to find. What makes this museum so interesting is the masterpieces it houses but its history.

Formerly known as the Gare d’Orsay, or the Orsay train station, most of the architecture from the original structure remains. It was famous for being the first electrified urban train station in the world when it was inaugurated in 1900.

The museum is home to around 80,000 works of art, mostly dating from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. It has a really cool layout and is a bit easier to see and much less intimidating than its older sibling the Louvre. You’ll find far fewer crowds in this gallery.

Does it deserve a visit or a tour? It is an impressive art collection that comes in just behind the Louvre in terms of dedicated art museums. However, it may not warrant a visit on your first trip with so much to see in Paris unless you have several days in the city.

If you have a time slot of 2 to 3 hours, you should definitely visit it. Like any museum, the artworks need to be brought to life by a licensed local guide. Read more about the top things to see at Musée d’Orsay in preparation for your visit.

Address: 1 Rue de la Legion d’Honneur

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Musée d’Orsay .

2. The Palace of Versailles

The palace of Versailles is so incredibly rich with history that it is a must-see while in Paris. It’s a short ride on the RER and a 10-minute walk to the golden gates of Versailles. The structure is both a museum and a massive estate all in one. If the Louvre didn’t exist, it would be the greatest museum near Paris, but we’re better off with both!

It is one of the greatest destinations to visit in France and the world due to how diverse of a location it is. Not only is the museum (palace) full of art and history but the gardens are immense. Most people who visit don’t see a tenth of the estate. Find out more about how to visit and what to see at Versailles .

Address: Place d’Armes

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Versailles tour is worth it .

1. The Louvre Museum

The Louvre is the largest museum on Earth boasting more than 380,000 works of art in a gallery that is 652,300 square feet (60,600 square meters). It’s considered by many historians to be the greatest collection of art on Earth and, without a doubt, the top museum in Paris.

The Louvre is famous for many works of art including the Mona Lisa and the famous pyramid entrance, which was added to this beautiful complex in the 1980s. But there is so much more to see and love beyond da Vinci’s famous work that’s smaller than you think. Don’t miss the Coronation of Napoleon , the Winged Victory of Samothrace , Venus de Milo, and many other great works that an art history guide can lead you to.

The meaning of the word “Louvre” is loosely related to a type of old window. Read more about how to visit the Louvre and check out our dedicated guide to the Louvre for more planning resources.

Address: Rue de Rivoli

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Louvre Museums tour is worth it .

Where To Stay in Paris

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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Historic Sites in Paris: The Ultimate Guide

The city of light has captured the hearts and minds of all who wander through it for centuries. here's our pick of 10 of the best historic sites to visit while you're there..

Lucy Davidson

12 sep 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

From impassioned revolutionaries and ostentatious royals to the world of ancient Gaul, the history of Paris is filled with drama, intrigue, and excitement. Thus it is of little surprise that this is not only one of the world’s most beautiful and romantic cities, but that it is also brimming with fantastic historic sites.

There’s a host of top historic places in Paris to explore. Among the very best are the world famous Musee du Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and Sainte Chapelle. Other popular sites include Notre Dame, Les Invalides, and Pere Lachaise Cemetery.

Here’s our pick of 10 of the city’s must-see sites.

1. Les Invalides

Les Invalides was originally built by the order of Louis XIV as a hospital and home for ailing soldiers. Following its initial construction, several further additions were made to Les Invalids, including a chapel in 1679 and the striking Dome Church or ‘Église du Dôme’, which incorporates the royal chapel built by Louis XIV and completed in 1706. Today, this iconic building is made up of several buildings and now stands as the largest complex of monuments in Paris, including its comprehensive military museum, Musée de l’Armée. Les Invalides operates numerous types of tours, including those specifically dealing with historical, cultural or artistic issues. There is even a tour dedicated entirely to Napoleon. The multimedia presentation on the life of Charles de Gaulle is also worth seeing.

2. Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris

Notre Dame is a world famous gothic cathedral in Paris’s fourth arrondissement. Notre Dame is still an operating church, but visitors are also welcome to tour the building and appreciate both its beauty and sheer size. Some of the highlightsinclude its stained glass windows, gothic architecture and many sculptures. Free tours are conducted throughout the year.

The nearby tower outside the cathedral is also worth a visit. Dating back to the 13th century, it houses the 17th Century Emmanuel Bell as well as Viollet-le-Duc’s 19th century chimera and gargoyles. Those feeling particularly fit can climb its 387 steps for magnificent views.

3. Sainte Chapelle

Sainte Chapelle is a gothic church built by Saint Louis in Ile de la Cité in the centre of Paris. Construction began in 1246 and was carried out with the specific purpose of housing the relics of the Passion of Christ, including the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the true cross. The relics are now housed in the Treasury at Notre Dame but there are still many attractions in Sainte Chapelle. With its two impressive upper and lower chapels and imposing gothic architecture, Sainte Chapelle a top tourist attraction.

Audio tours are available guiding visitors through and explaining the significance of its colourful stained glass windows and statues. In particular, the windows at Sainte Chapelle depict over a thousand images relating to the Old Testament and the Passion of Christ.

4. Pere Lachaise Cemetery

Pere Lachaise Cemetery was established by Napoleon I in 1804. From singer Edith Piaf, novelist Marcel Proust and impressionist painter Camille Pissarro to playwright Oscar Wilde, an array of famous figures are buried there today. One of the most popular graves at Pere Lachaise Cemetery is that of The Doors’ front man Jim Morrison, probably attracting the largest number of visitors, but all of the graves are fascinating, including those of the regular citizens.

Maps are available to buy at the entrance, but you can also use the directories on the grounds. Overall, Pere Lachaise Cemetery is a peaceful and interesting way to spend an afternoon.

5. The Eiffel Tower

The iconic Eiffel Tower is an imposing iron monument on Paris’ Champ de Mars by the river Seine. The Eiffel Tower was built between 1887 and 1889 based on the design of engineer Gustave Eiffel, after whom the tower was named.

Today, the Eiffel Tower is a tourist hotspot and visitors can climb or use the lifts to reach the first or second floors, the latter of which is 115 metres high. The most expansive views can be found on the Eiffel Tower’s third level at 276 metres, which has its own separate lift from the second floor. A backstage tour is available, which details the workings of the Eiffel Tower and its history.

6. Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles was originally the hunting lodge of France’s King Louis XIII, but was transformed into a magnificent residence by his son and successor, Louis XIV. The ostentatious monarch built the Grand Apartment of the King and Queen which included the magnificent Hall of Mirrors before moving both his court and the government of France to Versailles in 1682. It remained so until the French Revolution from 1789.

There are numerous places to visit at the palace and a range of tour options, while audio headsets are a better option for some. When visiting the Palace of Versailles, you can also see Marie Antoinette’s estate and The Grande Trianon.

7. The Pantheon - Paris

The Pantheon was built as a result of King Louis XV’s determination to create an edifice to the glory of St-Genèvieve, the patron saint of Paris. The Pantheon’s crypt is now the burial place of many French icons and bears the inscription ‘Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissante’, meaning “To the great men, the grateful homeland”.

Those buried there include Rousseau, Émile Zola, Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Jean Moulin, Marie Skłodowska-Curie, and the architect of the Pantheon Jacques-Germain Soufflot. In fact, Soufflot died before the Pantheon was completed, meaning that his vision of a semi-gothic building with elements of basic principals was somewhat compromised. Guided tours of the Pantheon are available and last approximately 45 minutes.

8. Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a 162 foot monumental arch in the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle. It was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, shortly following his victory at Austerlitz, with the aim of commemorating French soldiers, particularly those who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

Visitors can climb to its peak for magnificent views or enter the small museum inside it, both of which are included in the entrance fee. A further attraction at the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which commemorates those who fought in the two World Wars with an eternal flame.

9. La Conciergerie

La Conciergerie is located on an important site which once formed the seat of the city’s Roman leaders during their occupation of Gaul. La Conciergerie itself originally formed part of thirteenth century Palais de Justice, the royal palace built by King Philip IV.

It served this role until the 1350’s, when the French royals moved to the Louvre. Visitors to La Conciergerie can enjoy its impressive medieval architecture, such as its large Hall of the Men at Arms and its history, both royal and as an instrument of punishment. Its original torture chambers can still be viewed.

10. Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde in Paris was the site where King Louis XVI was executed on 21 January 1793. Place de la Concorde became the focus of the executions of France’s elite during the Reign of Terror, a period of exceptional violence during the French Revolution. Over 1,300 people were executed here, amongst them Louis XVI’s wife Marie Antoinette and even leading revolutionary figures such as Danton and Robespierre.

Today, the site is  home of the Luxor Obelisk. This monument was gifted to the French by the viceroy of Egypt in 1833 and it once formed part of the ancient Luxor Temple.

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Discover the backstage of the famous Grand Slam tournament field Roland-Garros

In the footsteps of Karl Marx in Paris

Enter the 19th-century Parisian life of Karl Marx, accompanied by the peerless guide Anouk Colombani, in collaboration with the Museum of Live History of Montreuil. 

The Parisian Chinatown

Discover the Chinatown district of the south of Paris with this guided tour. You will learn many things about Asian community of Paris : temples, food, usages.

Historical Guided Tour within hôtels particuliers of the Île de la Cité and the Île Saint-Louis in Paris

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating aventure of Paris's historic treasures during an exclusive guided tour of the Ile de la Cité and the Ile Saint-Louis, with a passionate guide from L’Echappée Belle, who will reveal the secrets and fascinating history behind each iconic monument and hôtel particulier (private mansion).

The Paris Marais: the birthplace of parisian private mansions

Explore the elegant essence of Paris's Marais district on a captivating guided tour, by L'Echappée Belle, of its sumptuous hôtels particuliers. 

Parisian Père Lachaise cemetery: in the kingdom of celebrities

L'Echappée Belle will take you through the graves of renowned figures of this famous cemetery, a parisian relaxing place in the shade of the big trees.

Parisian Splendours: guided tour from the Place de la Concorde to the Louvre

Let's take a guided stroll by L'Echappée Belle through the most emblematic places in Paris, discovering the wealth of our heritage and the interactions between France and other countries through the ages. 

The French Revolution in the Paris Marais

With your guide from Interkultur, dive into the tumult of the French Revolution in Paris, where every stone in the Marais harbours the secrets of an era seething with ideals and revolt.

Ciné-balade, guided walking tour in Montmartre in the footsteps of your favorite movies

During this ciné-balade (a movie-themed guided walk) in Montmartre, Juliette Dubois will tell you anecdotes and facts about the film industry in this famous Parisian district, the most filmed of the capital. 

Art route at Paris Père Lachaise cemetery: in the footsteps of the great masters

Join us on this two-hour tour to discover the poets, writers, musicians and painters in their final resting place, the Père-Lachaise cemetery.

An artistic stroll: discovering artists at Paris Montparnasse cemetery

Welcome to our guided tour of Montparnasse Cemetery, a place steeped in history and emotion where great artists rest in peace. Join us for a captivating exploration of this sanctuary of creativity and memory. 

Memorial of the former deportation station of Bobigny

Following a vast restoration and development project, the memorial of the former deportation station of Bobigny opened its doors on January 18, 2023. Visit this site with a guide, and discover the only example in France of a railway site used for the deportation of Jews that has remained almost in its original state.

Guided tour of the Shoah Memorial Drancy

This historical guided tour will take you to the Shoah Memorial, opened in 2012 in Drancy, a place of history and education, opposite the Cité de la Muette also known as the World War Two Drancy internment camp.

Women in the Paris Commune (1871) !

Join local guide Anouk Colombani on a tour of the streets of Paris in the footsteps of the women who took action during the Paris Commune.

Historical guided tour of Montmartre

Thanks to a guided tour that follows the Montmartre hill towards the rue de Clignancourt before starting its ascent and descent, discover the stories of the popular and working-class Montmartre with local guide Anouk Colombani.

Guided tours of the most important or most private heritage sites in Paris. Museums, archives, monuments ... discover France's architectural treasures.

Explore Paris also invites you to discover the skills and trades that help safeguard and restore France's national heritage in foundries, workshops of national monuments, museums, etc.

Learn more about the places and people who wish to pass on the history of the industrial, architectural, artistic and gastronomic heritage of Paris and its region . Don't miss our visits around craft and industrial know-how.  

Complete Guide to Paris Museums & Monuments

• Paris Museums & Monuments

Paris offers an astonishing number of museums and monuments  - 130 at last count, although the number grows all the time.

Although the Louvre Museum leaps to most people's minds as the most famous repository of art in Paris, you'll find many, many more places in this guide where you can immerse yourself in art, culture, and creative visions.  

In fact, you'll probably discover at least a few visit-worthy museum and monuments you've never heard of.

Traditional "art" is just the beginning what they have to offer. So whether your interests focus on fashion, military history, economics, scientific innovations, graffiti (street art), wine, chocolate, vintage carousels, immersive art, architecture, or magic, you'll find at least one Paris museum or monument devoted to your favorite subject.

We also include institutions with living exhibitions:  botanical gardens, zoos, and aquariums.  Just like museums, their mission is to maintain, research, and protect collections. 

In case you want to explore more than one museum or monument in a day or simply want to find out what's nearby, this guide groups them by arrondissement (Paris administrative districts). It also includes a few places in the Paris suburbs and nearby towns, such as the Palace of Versailles and even Monet's home and gardens in Giverny.

If you do plan to visit more than one museum in a day (or if you're planning an even more intense museum binge over the course of a few days), consider getting a Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 days, as it can save you a lot of money.  Sadly, it doesn't cover all museums and monuments, but it gets you in for free (aside from buying the pass) at most of the city's top museums plus many others.

Interested in the museums in a specific arrondissement or neighborhood?  Use these quick links, as this is a very long list: 

• 1st and 2nd Arrondissements - The Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, La Conciergerie
• 3rd and 4th Arrondissements - Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Pompidou, Picasso Museum
• 5th Arrondissement - Cluny Museum, Natural History Museum, Pantheon
• 6th Arrondissement - Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides (Army Museum)
• 7th Arrondissement - Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides (Army Museum), Rodin Museum, Maison Gainsbourg, Fluctuart
• 8th Arrondissement - Arc de Triomphe, Jacquemart-André Museum, Petit Palais
• 9th Arrondissement - Palais Garnier (Paris Opera House), Grevin Wax Museum, Vie Romantic Museum
• 10th, 11th, and 12th Arrondissements - Arts Forains (Carnival Arts Museum), Atelier des Lumnieres, Choco Story (Chocolate Museum)
• 13th, 14, and 15th Arrondissements - Catacombs, Montparnasse Tower, Musée de la Libération de Paris
• 16th Arrondissement - Musée Guimet, Palais de Tokyo, Fondation Louis Vuitton
• 17th and 18th Arrondissements - Sacre Coeur Basilica, Montmartre Museum, Musée National Jean-Jacques Henner
• 19th and 20th Arrondissements  - Pere Lachaise Cemetery, Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, Musée de la Musique
• Beyond Paris - Palace of Versailles, Monet's Gardens in Giverny, La Défense Open-Air Museum
• Botanical Gardens, Zoos, & Aquariums in Paris

More about Visiting Paris Museums & Monuments

5 Fun Paris Museums with cool exhibitions

Louvre Museum Guided Tour - What you'll see

Versailles Palace - Best ways to get there from Paris

• Eiffel Tower - How to get your tickets

Skip the Line Tickets - When are they a good idea?

Museum Exhibitions - Find out what's on!

Paris Museum Pass - How to get free entry

Top photo: The Pantheon in Paris's Latin Quarter, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

Paris Discovery Guide is a reader-supported publication.  When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost for you.  Learn more

1st & 2nd Districts: Paris's Most Famous Museums & Medieval Monuments

Musee des Arts Décoratifs (Decorative Arts Museum )

Design and decorative arts, including fashion.

Location:  107 Rue de Rivoli, Paris 1;  Metro: Tuileries or Palais Royal-Musee du Louvre Closed: Mondays as well as December 25, January 1, May 1

Conciergerie

Historical monument: medieval palace and French Revolution/Reign of Terror prison.

Find out more

Get tickets

Louvre Museum

Former French Renaissance palace, and now the world's biggest art museum; home to Da Vinci's Mona Lisa

Buy tickets

Find out about the top attractions you'll see on guided tours

Musée en Herbe

(23 Rue de l'Arbre Sec, 1st arr, Metro: Louvre-Rivoli) - Interactive art museum for children

Orangerie Museum

Art museum with Monet's massive water lily paintings and temporary exhibitions.

Location:  Tuileries Garden, 1st arr;  Metro: Concorde Closed: Tuesdays as well as December 25, January 1, May 1

Pinault Collection at Bourse de Commerce

The Pinault Collection, housed Paris's historical 18th century Bourse de Commerce (stock exchange) building, features revolving exhibitions of the avant-garde contemporary art from the private collection of French businessman Francois Pinault, as well as temporary shows. 

Sainte-Chapelle

Completed in 1248 on the Île de la Cité, this Gothic royal chapel features 15 soaring medieval stained glass windows, one of Europe's largest rose windows, and superb acoustics. 

In addition to being a historical monument, Sainte-Chapelle is one of Paris's top attractions and a popular location for candlelight concerts of classical music, including on Christmas and New Year's Eve.

Get entrance tickets

Book classical concert tickets

Saint-Eustache Church

Historical monument; flamboyant Gothic architecture, with Renaissance and Classical interior details; significant art in the chapels.

Tour Jean Sans Peur

Historical monument: a medieval tower which was once part of a medieval private mansion and contained bedrooms and a grand stairway on the lower level and a fortified upper level, and now the tallest remaining medieval tower in Paris; open for self-guided tours and a guided tour on Sundays.  The tower has five levels (be prepared to climb lots of stairs), usually two temporary exhibitions, and a small garden Location:  20 Rue Etienne Marcel, 2nd arr;  Metro: Etienne Marcel  Open: Wednesday - Sunday, 1:30pm - 6pm (may be closed on major holidays); tours on Sunday at 3pm (should arrive by 2:30)

More Information

Special Exhibitions at Paris Museums

In addition to their permanent collections, many Paris museums such as the Louvre also offer rotating temporary exhibitions.  You can check what's on here.

3rd & 4th Districts: Marais & Île de la Cité Museums & Monuments

• Archaeological Crypt of Île de la Cité - Archaeological museum with displays representing 2,000+ years of Paris history
• Arts et Métiers Museum - History of innovations in science, technology, engineering communications, transportation, materials (and more) - Tickets
• Carnavalet Museum - History museum focused on the history of Paris from the Romans forward
• Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (Hunting and Nature Museum) (62 Rue des Archives, 3rd arr, Metro: Rambuteau) - Beautifully curated exploration of the relationships between humans who hunt and the animals they pursue
• Centre Pompidou (Museum National d'Art Moderne) - Modern and contemporary art
• Cognacq-Jay Museum - House museum; primarily 18th century French decor and art
• Gaite Lyric - City of Paris cultural center with contemporary art, digital, and immersive exhibitions focused on cultural, social, democratic, and climate issues; usually closes for 6 weeks from August through mid-September
• Hotel de Ville (Paris's City Hall) - Historical monument
• Maison Européenne de la Photographie - Contemporary photography
• Memorial des Martyrs de la Deportation (7 Quai de l'Archeveché, 4th arr, metro: Pont Marie) - Memorial to the 200,000+ French and Eastern European Jews, Roma, and other people who the Vichy France government deported to Nazi death camps during World War II
• Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaisme (Jewish Art and History Museum) - History and art
• Musée de la Magie - Small museum devoted to magical arts
• Musée Pierre Cardin - Fashion museum; displays haute couture designs by French designer Pierre Cardin (closed through the end of 2022)
• Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral - Historical monument; Medieval Gothic architecture; priceless art and religious artifacts
• Pavillon de l'Arsenal - Paris urban planning exhibition space and resource center
• Picasso Museum - Modern art, mostly by Pablo Picasso
• Hotel de Sens - Medieval mansion, now occupied by the Forney Library (decorative arts), with a lovely formal garden
• Saint-Jacques Tower (Tour Saint-Jacques) - Historical monument: a 16th century Flamboyant Gothic tower; all that remains of a church destroyed during the French Revolution
• Shoah Memorial (Holocaust Museum) - History museum focused on the history of the Holocaust, particularly from the perspective of French Jews during World War II; outside the museum is the Wall of the Righteous, containing the names of 3,300 non-Jewish people who helped save Jewish people during the war
• Swedish Cultural Center (Institut Tessin) - Small permanent collection and temporary expositions of Swedish art.
• Victor Hugo's House - House museum; French writer Victor Hugo's apartment at Place des Vosges   

5th District: Latin Quarter and Jardin des Plantes Museums

• Arenes de Lutece - Historical monument: 1st century Roman arena
• Musée de l'Assistance Publique - History museum; focus is on the history of Paris's hospitals
• Cluny Museum - Roman and medieval art museum
• Galerie de Geologie et de Mineralogie (Geology and Mineralogy Gallery) - Museum in Jardin des Plantes with collections (and stunning displays) of rocks, meteorites, gemstones, and crystals
• Grande Mosquée de Paris - Historic monument; used by an Algerian branch of the French Resistance during World War II to hide rescued British parachutists as well as Jewish refugees.  Today, it is the largest mosque in France, with a beautiful interior garden, marble Turkish baths (for women only), and a popular tea room
• Histoire de la Médecine - Medical history museum
• Histoire Naturelle - Natural history museum
• Institute du Monde Arabe (Arab World Institute) - Renowned for its architecture by Jean Nouvel; its museum displays art and objects from the Arab world from pre-Islam times through the 20th century and hosts numerous special exhibitions.  A rooftop terrace offers some of the best skyline views of Paris
• Musée Curie - Historical science museum housed in Marie Curie's office and chemistry lab, and focused on the work of Marie and Pierre Curie; displays include the research apparatus used prior to 1940
• Musée de la Sculpture en Plein Air - Late 20th century sculptures displayed outdoors in Jardin Tino Rossi along the banks of the Seine River
• Musée du Service de Santé des Armées (Museum of Army Health Services) - Historical museum focused on French military medical services, on and off the battlefield
• Pantheon - Historical monument with tombs of "national heroes," including American singer Josephine Baker, honored for her work in the French Resistance during World War II
• Paris Police Museum - History museum focused on the history of the Paris police

Find current & future Paris museum exhibitions

6th District Paris Museums

• Delacroix Museum - 19th century painter Eugene Delacroix's final apartment and studio, with a number of his works on display.  Charming garden.  6 Rue de Furstembourg ;  Metro:  Saint-Germain-des-Pres or Mabillon; Tickets:  7€ adults; includes permanent collection plus exhibitions; free entrance with a Paris Museum Pass
• Fondation Dubuffet - House museum; personal archives and about 2,500 works of 20th century artist Jean Dubuffet, who created the museum himself in 1973 as a way to preserve his work. Open Monday - Friday, 2-6pm; closed during August.  Address: 135 Rue de Sèvres
• Musée de la Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint Museum) - Combines a museum and a factory for a unique experience Location: 11 Quai de Conti: Metro:  Pont Neuf (walk across the Pont Neuf bridge) Monnaie de Paris Tickets
• Mundolingua - Language museum - Objects, information, and artifacts related to languages, linguistic diversity, and language acquisition; 10 Rue Servandoni
• Musée du Luxembourg - Art museum; hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art; 19 Rue Vaugirard
• Saint Germain des Pres Church - Historical monument; one of the oldest churches in Paris with tower that dates back to around the year 1000.
• Saint Sulpice Church - Historical monument; second largest church in Paris (only Notre Dame Cathedral is larger), known for its historical Cavaille-Coll organ and an elaborate 18th century gnomon (the part of a sundial that casts the shadow); 2 Rue Palatine
• Zadkine Museum - Small house/studio museum displaying the work of this modern Russian-born sculptor who became known for his usage of Cubism.  Address:  100 bis, rue d'Assas. Admission: Free, except during (infrequent) special exhibitions.

7th District Paris Museums

• Army Museum (Musée de l'Armée) - Military history museum focused on the French army; located in the huge Les Invalides complex which also contains the dome where Napoleon's Tomb is located in a shrine of leading French military figures - Ticket for Napoleon's Tomb & Army Museum Entry Find out about Aura, the immersive multimedia show highlighting the Invalides Dome's architecture and history: Aura tickets
• Egouts de Paris (Paris Sewers) - Museum in the sewers under the Quai d'Orsay, known for its sewer tours focusing on the history of the Paris sewers, roles of sewer workers, and water treatment methods
• Eiffel Tower - Historical monument (and some of the best views of Paris)
• Fluctuart - The work of street artists/graffiti artists/urban artists exhibited in a barge-turned-gallery floating on the Seine River; Admission: Free Where:  Seine River Bank, by the Port des Invalides bridge, Paris 7; hours: 12pm - 12am; Metro:   Invalides
• Fondation Custodia (121 Rue de Lille, 7th arr, Metro: Assemblée Nationale) - Private collection of Old Master drawings, prints, and paintings located in Hôtel Turgot (private mansion), with regular exhibitions
• Maillol Museum - Art museum, featuring the work of 20th century sculptor Aristide Maillol, as well as works by Degas, Matisse, Cezanne, Kadinsky, and Duchamp, established by Dina Vierny, Maillol's final model.  Address: 59-61 rue de Grenelle.  Open: Daily, 10:30am - 6pm (10pm on Wednesdays).
• Maison Gainsbourg - (5 and 14 Rue de Verneuil; Metro: Saint-Germain-des-Pres) - Part house museum, part cultural institution.  Visit famous French musician Serge Gainsbourg's home, and see permanent and temporary exhibitions related to the late artist's life and work. Tickets:   Book visits on the Maison Gainsbourg website More to Do:   Due to the house's small size and space limitations, tours are difficult-to-impossible to book right now, but if you're in the neighborhood, walk by and admire the ever-evolving graffiti created by fans as a tribute on the house's front façade.
• Musée d'Histoire Contemporaine - Military history museum, library, and archive center located in Les Invalides; includes documents, paintings and other art, photos, and even postcards
• Musée des Plans-Reliefs - Military history museum located in Les Invalides, with collections of military topographic models created between 1668 and 1870 of fortified cities
• Musée du Quai Branly Jacques Chirac (Non-Western Arts Museum) - Major art and ethnography museum focused on the indigenous peoples and cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.  Tickets:  12€ adults; includes permanent collections & temporary exhibitions in the Garden Gallery; some special shows may require a separate ticket.  Book online , or get free entry (not including ticketed shows) with a Paris Museum Pass Location:  37 Quai Branly (almost next door to the Eiffel Tower), 7th arrondissement;  Metro/RER:   Pont d'Alma
• Musée National de la Legion d'Honneur et des Ordres de Chevalerie  - Military history museum focused on France's medals, decorations, knightly orders, and honors from Louis XI to the present; includes an assortment of Napoleon souvenirs and 300+ portraits of military men
• Orsay Museum - Art museum with world-class collection of Impressionists and Post-Impressionists housed in a former railway building overlooking the Seine River -  Tickets
• Rodin Museum - Art museum dedicated to the work of French sculptor August Rodin; beautiful garden with outdoor sculptures and a magnificent rose garden - Tickets

8th District Paris Museums

Arc de Triomphe

Historical monument on Avenue des Champs Elysées, and one of the most iconic Paris attractions.

Find out more about what to see and do at the Arc de Triomphe

Get tickets to the rooftop

Cernuschi Museum - Asian art museum, founded by collector Henri Cernuschi in 1898 to display his collections of Chinese and Japanese art, but now much expanded to include art from Korea and Vietnam

Chapelle Expiatoire - Small chapel (now considered a monument) memorializes King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette

Grand Palais - Historical monument with an enormous glass dome, exhibition hall, and museum complex, currently closed for major renovations

Hotel de la Marine - 18th century mansion, now a registered national monument, which once housed the Navy Ministry offices, with stunningly elaborate decor rivals the Palace of Versailles; one wing contains Collection Al Thani, the private art collection of a Qatari sheik

Jacquemart-André Museum - House museum in a mansion owned by a wealthy banker and society painter who devoted a fortune to acquiring art (especially 15th and 16th Italian sculpture) and decorating their house in 18th-century styles; currently closed for restoration until September, 2024. Tickets:  15€ adults; includes permanent collections plus exhibition; museum website Location:  158 Boulevard Haussmann, Paris 8;  Metro:   Saint Philippe du Roule

Jeu de Paume - Modern and contemporary photography and digital arts museum

Nissim de Camondo Museum - House museum in a mansion built to display the owner's extensive collection of late-18th century French decorative arts

Palais de la Découverte - Children's science museum in a wing of the Grand Palais; currently closed for renovations

Petit Palais (Musée des Beaux Arts) - Fine arts museum

9th District Paris Museums

• Grevin Wax Museum - Fun museum where life-like wax figures of French and International celebrities bring to life French culture (music, sports, politics, kitchens) as well as the gorier parts of French history (medieval dungeons, the Inquisition, the French Revolution, Reign of Terror, etc)
• Gustave Moreau Museum - Art museum displaying the works of 19th century painter Gustave Moreau in his former apartment and studio/museum.
• Musée de la Franc-Maçonnerie - Small museum of Freemasonry; displays historical artifacts of Freemasonry, fraternal organizations with their roots in medieval craft guilds
• Musée de la Vie Romantique - Literary museum located in the New Athens neighborhood at the foot of Montmartre, this former home of painter Ary Scheffler displays items once owned by writer George Sand including some of her own watercolors, as well as works by many of the artists who once gathered here for the Friday night salons attended by Sand, Chopin, Delacroix, Ingres, Lamartine, Liszt, Dickens, and others.
• Musée du Parfum Fragonard (Fragonard Perfume Museum) - Offers guided tours showing how perfume is made, and displays an extensive collection of perfume bottles from Ancient Egypt through the 20th century
• Palais Garnier (Paris Opera House) - Ornate 19th century opera house used for operas and ballets, with dazzling public spaces and a museum gallery displaying costumes, art, and set models; historical monument.

Paris Museums in the 10th, 11th, & 12th Districts

Arts Forains (Carnival Arts Museum)

Preserves merry-go-rounds, carousels, amusement rides, fair attractions and booths and other carnival artifacts

Atelier Anne Hoguet Eventails (Fan Museum)

Museum and workshop devoted to the art and craft of fan-making

Atelier des Lumières

Atelier des Lumières, an immersive art, video, and music exposition center in a former 19th century foundry, features new shows about once per year.   Location: 38 Rue Saint-Maur, Metro: Saint-Maur; 11th arr; buy tickets in advance online to get your desired date/time slot, as they often sell out

Choco-Story (Chocolate Museum)

Choco-Story is a fun museum devoted to the history and art of making chocolate Address:   28 Bd de Bonne Nouvelle, Paris 10; Metro: Bonne Nouvelle or Strausbourg Saint-Denis Admission & Classes: Get your admission ticket to Le Musée du Chocolat Choco-Storybook; sign up for a  Chocolate Making Workshop Open:   Monday - Sunday, 10am - 6pm

Edith Piaf Museum

Biographical museum about the life of French singer Edith Piaf

Musée de la Cinémathèque

Film museum devoted to the history of film and pre-cinema in France and around the world

Musée de l'Histoire de l'Immigration

Museum focused on the history of migration in France and the roles immigrants have played in the development of the country

Musée du Fumeur

Museum with a collection of objects related to smoking, including pipes snuffboxes, hookahs, cigars, and hemp-fiber clothing

Science Expériences - Immersive Museum in Bercy Village

Designed to make learning about science fun and entertaining through immersive and innovative means such as virtual reality, holograms, multisensory experiences, and videos, this new venue lets you move through multiple rooms and spaces to explore the universe, nature, the ocean, the center of the earth, the human body, electricity, depths of an abyss, and even quantum physics as you explore lasers, hovering, and teleportation. 

Location:  23 Rue de Pirogues, Cour Saint-Emilion at Bercy Village, Paris 12;  Metro:   Line 14 - Cour Saint-Emilion Tickets:  11€ ages 3-15, 19€ ages 16+; although you can buy tickets on site, online is better if you want a specific date/time because of space limitations

Paris Museums in the 13th, 14th, & 15th Districts

• Bibliothèque Nationale - Francois Mitterrand Library
• Paris Catacombs (Place Denfert-Rochereau, 14th arr, metro: Denfert-Rochereau) - Paris's famous underground City of the Dead, created in the late 18th century from abandoned stone quarry tunnels and containing the remains of around 6 million people.
• Fondation Cartier pour l'Art Contemporain - Contemporary art and photography exhibitions
• Galerie Itinerrance  (24 Boulevard du General d'Armée Jean Simon, 13th arr, metro/RER: François Mitterrand or Tramway 3a Avenue de France- Exhibition space with revolving displays of street and urban art located on the Université Paris Cité Grands Moulins campus; also oversees the Street Art 13 "canvases" (ie, sides of buildings) and recruitment of artists
• Gobelins Tapestry Manufacture
• Henri Cartier-Bresson Fondation
• La Fab - Contemporary art; exhibitions from the permanent street art collection of iconic French fashion designer, agnès b., as well as temporary exhibitions of other artists 
• Montparnasse Tower (33 Avenue du Maine, 15th arr, Metro: Montparnasse-Bienvenue) - Tallest building in France and considered a monument by some, although most Parisians consider it an eyesore; however, the observation deck on the 56th floor does provide magnificent skyline views of the city and beyond.    More places to enjoy Paris skyline views
• Musée Bourdelle - Art museum which incorporates French sculptor Antoine Bourdelle's studio, with over 500 of his works as well as his personal collection of his contemporaries including Rodin Ingres, and Delacroix.  18 Rue Antoine Bourdelle, Metro: Falguière, 15th arr; free admission to permanent collection
• Musée de la Liberation de Paris
• Musée Pasteur - Biographical museum; focused on the life of scientist Louis Pasteur
• Postal Museum - Philatelic museum focused on postal stamps and postal history of France 
• Street Art 13  (Boulevard Vincent Auriol, 13th arr, metro: Place d'Italie or Chevaleret) - Open-air street art museum along and near Boulevard Vincent Auriol, sanctioned by the 13th's Mayor

16th District Paris Museums

• Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris - Modern and contemporary art, including Raoul Dufy's gigantic mural depicting the history of the development of electricity
• Guimet Museum (Musée National des Arts Asiatiques-Guimet) - Ancient through contemporary Asian art; the top Asian art museum in Europe and one of the best in the world
• Cristal Room Bacarat - Includes a small museum along with a boutique and restaurant located in Baccarat's flagship location in a spectacular mansion.  Location:  11 Place des Etats-Unis; Metro – Boissière or Iéna
• Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine - Architecture museum with not-quite-life-sized casts of 12th to 18th century French cathedrals and monuments, copies of stained glass and murals from French Romanesque and Gothic churches, and models of mid-19th century to present-day French and international architecture
• Fondation Louis Vuitton - Modern & contemporary art, with two blockbuster exhibitions each year in a unique building designed by Frank Gehry on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne.  Find out more about the museum, and check out  more about the current exhibition
• La Roche House - House museum - Early 20th century house designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier (aka Charles Edouard Jeanneret) and his cousin, Pierre Jeanneret; Corbusier's apartment and studio are nearby and can also be visited
• Librairie du Compagnonnage - Small museum focused on French trade guilds
• Maison Balzac - (47 Rue Raynouard; nearest metro: Passy) - Located in a house cottage in Passy where the 19th century French novelist Honoré de Balzac ("The Human Comedy") once lived, this small museum features the writer's personal memorabilia, first edition copies of his books, manuscripts and illustrations.  Unless you're a Balzac fan, the best reason to visit is the lovely hillside garden with Eiffel Tower views and an outpost of Rose Bakery.  Admission is free, but there's a small charge to see temporary exhibitions. 
• Musée Clemenceau - House museum - The apartment and garden of French statesman Georges Clemenceau, who lived there for the last 34 years of his life
• Musée d'Art Dentaire Pierre Fauchard - History museum covering the development of dentistry in Paris, with a collection of about 1,500 instruments and other items, including some from the 1600s.
• Musée de l'Homme - Anthropology museum focused on the diversity of cultures as well as human evolution  Tickets:  Almost always include permanent collections & temporary exhibitions.  Book online , or get free entry with a Paris Museum Pass Location:  17 Place de Trocadero, 16th arrondissement;  Metro/RER:   Pont d'Alma
• Musée de la Contrefaçon - Small museum dedicated to showing the differences between authentic items and counterfeits, with side-by-side displays of hundreds of objects Find out more
• Musée National de la Marine - (17 Place du Trocadéro; nearest metro: Trocadero) - Naval history maritime museum, with ship models, maritime art, artifacts, and photos .  Buy tickets at the door, or get free entry with a Paris Museum Pass  
• Musée de Vin - Wine museum
• Musée Marmottan Monet - The world's largest collection of art by Claude Monet, plus other art - Tickets
• Musée Yves Saint-Laurent Paris - Fashion museum devoted to the couture of Yves Saint-Laurent located in the designer's former haute couture house - Tickets
• Palais de Tokyo - Contemporary and experimental art in all genres (including video and digital) by established and emerging artists; fantastic bookstore Location:   13 Avenue du President Wilson, 16th arr; Metro: Line 9 to Iena or Alma Marceau; RER C to Pont de l'Alma Tickets: Usually fast and easy to buy at the door, but you can also buy online
• Palais Galliera - Fashion museum, with exhibits of French fashion design and costumes from the 18th century to the present; closed during exhibitions
• Pavillon de l'Eau - Specialty museum focused on City of Paris water and the history of the city's water system
• Roland Garros Museum - Tennis museum; currently closed for renovations and updating, including the incorporation of immersive experiences

17th & 18th Districts:

• Citéco (aka Cité de l'Economie et de la Monnaie) - Economics museum housed in the 19th century Hôtel Baillard, a neo-Renaissance private mansion with much of its lavish interior paneling and other period details still intact and beautifully preserved
• Espace Dalí  
• Halle Saint-Pierre - "Outsider" art museum   
• Musée National Jean-Jacques Henner - Art museum focused on the works of early 19th century French painter Jean-Jacques Henner  
• Montmartre Museum - History museum with period furnishings focused on the history of the local area as documented through paintings, posters, photos, and manuscripts; don't miss the lovely Renoir Garden and adjacent vineyard Ticket & audio guide to museum & garden
• Sacre Coeur Basilica

19th & 20th Districts

• Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie - Science and technology museum, which much of the content kid-friendly
• Musée de la Musique
• Pere Lachaise Cemetery    

Museums & Monuments in Paris Suburbs & Nearby Towns

• Air et de l'Espace - Air and space museum at Le Bourget airport
• Chateau de Vincennes - Medieval castle, home to French kings in the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries, in the town of Vincennes, adjacent to Bois de Vincennes in the 12th arrondissement
• Grande Arche , La Defense
• L'Arche du Photojournalisme - Exhibition space devoted to photojournalism at the top of the Grande Arche at La Defense
• La Défense Open Air Museum - 69 mostly modern and contemporary, mostly massive sculptures located on and near the Esplanade de Defense
• Palace of Versailles
• Monet's Home & Gardens in Giverny    
• Saint-Denis Basilica Cathedral  

Botanical Gardens, Zoos, & Aquariums

Botanical gardens, zoos, and aquariums, with their displays of living plants, animals, and fish, have more similarities with museums than you might think.  The mission of both is to maintain, research, and protect collections of species; in that sense, they are fundamentally the same as, let's say, the Louvre.

Just as many Monet enthusiasts enjoy pairing a visit to the Orangerie to view his water lily paintings with a trip to see his water lily pond at Giverny in order to observe and appreciate his source of inspiration, animal lovers might want to pair a visit to the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (Hunting and Nature Museum) with a trip to the Parc Zoologique de Paris (Paris Zoo).

Here's a quick guide to the botanical gardens, zoos, and aquariums you'll find in Paris:

Botanical Gardens in Paris

• Parc de Bagatelle (16th) - Located in the center of Bois de Boulogne; best known for its rose garden with 10,000 rose bushes representing 1,200 different species; also has a waterfall, grotto, 19th century Chinese pagoda, a lush kitchen garden used to display new vegetable varieties, and a small chateau
• Jardin des Plantes (5th arr) - Formally founded in 1635 as a royal medicinal plant garden, plants are maintained and displayed in four large greenhouses, and specialized outdoor gardens where you can see displays of roses, ornamental cherry trees, alpine species, irises, decorative plants, and much more. More places to see cherry blossoms in Paris
• Jardin des Serres d'Auteuil (Greenhouses at Auteuil) (16th arr) - Located at the edge of Bois de Boulogne between Roland Garros and the Parc des Princes stadium; formal outdoor gardens including a Japanese garden, English garden, and rose garden, five large greenhouses, and about 6,000 plant species; one of four botanical gardens managed by the City of Paris
• Parc Floral de Paris (12th) - Fourth-largest park in Paris, located within Bois de Vincennes (the city's second-largest park); in addition to a spectacular floral display which differs each year, a variety of botanical gardens feature species such as ferns, rhododendrons, Japanese bonsai, cactus, Mediterranean plants, and much more

• Menagerie du Jardin des Plantes (5th arr) - Originally populated with animal rescued after the French Revolution from the royal zoo at the Palace of Versailles, it now includes many rare smaller and medium-sized mammals, plus numerous varieties of birds and reptiles
• Parc Zoologique de Paris ("Vincennes Zoo") (12th arr) - Part of the National Museum of Natural History, this large zoo in the Bois de Vincennes is dedicated to the protection of about 3,000 animals grouped into five biozones designed to replicate their natural habitats; also has a large greenhouse with a tropical rainforest habitat.
• Menagerie at Jardin d'Acclimatation (Bois de Boulogne, 16th arrondissement, Metro: Les Sablons) - Small collection of birds and animals, inaugurated in 1860 by Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie, in this lovely park with a Korean Garden and small amusement area next to Fondation Louis-Vuitton

Paris Aquariums

• Aquarium de Paris (16th arr) - More than 7,500 species, including a gigantic tank with 50 sharks and Europe's largest jellyfish exhibit
• Aquarium Tropical de la Porte Dorée (12th arr) - Piranhas, electric fish, sharks, and many more species of tropical marine life

More Articles about Paris Museums & Monuments

• 5 Fun Paris Museums - Fascinating museums where you'll have fun and see cool things
• Louvre Museum - What to expect on a guided tour
• Skip the Line Tickets - Are they really needed?
• Museum Exhibitions - Find the best current & future special shows & exhibits in Paris
• Paris Museum Pass - Use it to save on your museum entry fees

Top Attractions & Tours

• Eiffel Tower - Enjoy sweeping views of Paris
• Louvre Tour - Soak up art & see the Mona Lisa
• Palace of Versailles - Best way to see the famous Chateau
• Paris Museum Pass - Choose 2, 4, or 6 days
• Paris Disneyland - Get express tickets & transport from Paris

Happening in Paris

January in Paris

• The famous Paris winter sales, concerts, new museum exhibits

February in Paris

• Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year Parades

March in Paris

• Mardi Gras, Fountain Shows at Versailles, French Open

April in Paris

• Paris Marathon, Easter concerts, spring flowers

May in Paris

• Mother's Day, jazz festival, concerts

June in Paris

• Summer sales, Pride week, music fests, air show

July in Paris

• Bastille Day, Tour de France, beaches

August in Paris

• Free concerts & movies, Rock En Seine

September in Paris

• European Heritage Days, Fashion Week

October in Paris

• Wine festival, Halloween, Motor Show

November in Paris

• Armistice Day, Salon du Chocolat

December in Paris

• Christmas, New Year's Eve

Hanukkuh in Paris

• Menorah lightings 

Christmas in Paris

• Holiday celebrations & decorations

Christmas Markets

• Gifts, holiday food, mulled wine, and Santa

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Book Your Paris Hotel

Eiffel Tower Hotels

• Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle from your balcony

Arc de Triomphe Hotels

• Where to stay near the famous arch

New Hotels in Paris

• Stay in Paris's newest chic accommodations

Hotels near the Louvre

• Where to stay near the famous museum

Hotels near Notre Dame

• Wonderful hotels close to top Paris attractions

Deals & Discounts

• How to save on your Paris hotel

Plan Your Paris Trip

• Why visit Paris?
• What to do & see in each Paris district
• Check out top Paris attractions
• Paris Museum Pass:  Should you get one?
• Which neighborhood should you stay in?
• Choose your Paris hotel  
• How to spend your first day in Paris
• How to skip the ticket lines
• Day trips - Versailles, Giverny, Disney, & more
• 7 Reasons why you need travel insurance
• Electric adapters and converters  
• How to get Euros before you come
• Best Paris guide books
• Find cheap flights to Paris