Popular and Unusual Paris Museums in France

Paris is a treasure trove of museums that cater to all interests and tastes. Whether you are captivated by the masterpieces at popular museums like The Louvre, enchanted by the impressionist works at the Musee d’Orsay, intrigued by the military history at the Hotel National des Invalides, or fascinated by the unusual Paris museums like the Argonaute submarine, there is something for everyone, so do take the time to explore both the famous and the quirky or offbeat unusual museums to fully appreciate the diverse and vibrant cultural heritage that this city has to offer.

Map Paris museums

Visitors to this remarkable French urban city are genuinely spoilt for choice when it comes to the myriad of museums available, offering a rich blend of history, art, and unusual exhibits. While many people flock to the renowned museums, there lies an equally captivating world in the unique museums and castles such as the Chateau de Versailles, which attract millions of tourists every year. However, beyond these famous sites, there are numerous lesser-known and unusual Paris museums that deserve exploration, so this time we will endeavour to offer a flavour of what you can enjoy in these hidden gems.

Popular Paris museums

As you may realise, the city boasts a plethora of popular Paris museums that house some of the most famous artworks and historical artifacts known to humankind, and these museums attract millions of visitors each year, offering everyone a journey through centuries of artistic brilliance, cultural diversity, and historical significance.

Musee du Louvre La cour Marly

Musee d'Orsay historical building

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is arguably the most famous museum in the world. It is home to an extensive collection of art, spanning from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. The Louvre's iconic glass pyramid entrance leads visitors into a treasure trove of masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, the ancient Greek statue of the Venus de Milo, and Eugene Delacroix's Liberty Leading the People. With over 35,000 works of art, the Louvre is also the largest museum and offers an immersive experience that transports visitors through the annals of history and creativity.

Musee d'Orsay

Situated on the opposite bank of the River Seine, the Musee d'Orsay is housed in a former railway station, which is an architectural marvel in itself, and it begins its collections from where the Louvre Museum finishes. Because of this, you will find that this has become one of the popular Paris museums renowned for its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces inviting visitors to gaze upon the works of Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir, among many others, and thus the Musee d'Orsay provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of modern art from the mid-19th to the early 20th century, making it a must-visit for art aficionados.

Hotel National des Invalides

Whereas in complete contrast, the Hotel National des Invalides stands as a remarkable complex that narrates the storied military history of France. Located in the heart of Paris, this architectural gem was originally commissioned by Louis XIV in 1670 as a hospital and retirement home for war veterans. However, today, Les Invalides serves as a profound tribute to the nation's military heritage, housing the Musee de l'Armee along with the Tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte under the renowned Eglise du Dome, in addition to other significant and unusual Paris museums, historical artifacts including canons, and memorials, some of which you can also experience for free.

Hotel National des Invalides and The Dome des Invalides

Musee Petit Palais and internal garden

Free Paris Museums

Thinking of free Paris museums, you will find that the city offers a wealth of cultural experiences for the discerning traveller, all showcasing the artistic and historical heritage without the need to spend any money, so whether you are an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply a curious traveller, these and other free museums provide a rich and diverse tapestry of Parisian culture, inviting you to explore, learn, and be inspired, not forgetting there are also numerous works of art found in gardens that also make them free open air museums, just like the Musee de la Sculpture en Plein Air.

Musee Petit Palais

The first of these we’ll highlight, nestled near the Champs-Elysees and its gardens, is the Musee Petit Palais, which is an architectural marvel that boasts a facade adorned with Corinthian columns, intricate sculptures, and sweeping staircases that beckon visitors to explore its grandeur and its extensive art collections, promising an unforgettable journey through centuries of creativity and expression, all together making this a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the artistic heritage of the city for free.

Musee Carnavalet

Then you have the Musee Carnavalet that stands out as an essential destination for anyone fascinated by the history of the French capital. Located in the Marais district this is the oldest of the municipal free Paris museums, that offers free access to its permanent collections, which depict the story and history of Paris from a dugout canoe dating from 4600BC through to the present day, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience via its extensive collections.

In fact, even the architecture of the building itself and its impressive history are also worth discovering, being that this museum came about when Baron Haussmann was reconstructing Paris, because he felt the mansion in a Renaissance style dating from the 1500s was worth saving, in order to also become a part of the history of Paris, which is yet another reason why this is also one of the popular museums.

Musee Carnavalet building and courtyard

Musee Cernuschi displays

Musee Cernuschi

Yet in the 8th arrondissement of Paris very close to the picturesque Parc Monceau, the Musee Cernuschi stands as a beacon for aficionados of Asian art, and this exquisite free museum is renowned for its extensive and carefully curated collection of over 12,000 artworks from China and Japan spanning several millennia, and second only to Musee Guimet, it provides a rich and immersive cultural experience to its visitors, who can enjoy its permanent collections for free, which include funerary statues, ceramics and much more.

Family Paris Museums

Although Paris is often thought of for romance and couples, there are actually a wide variety of options for families from places to visit through to accommodation along with museums that are ideal for families, and these offer enriching and entertaining experiences that cater to the interests and curiosity of both children and adults.

Whether it be art and history or science and magic, this is just a small selection of the unusual Paris museums that provide a diverse array of educational opportunities, which make learning a joyful adventure, and every member of the family will enjoy.

Musee des Arts Forains

To start with, found within the Bercy area the Musee des Arts Forains, or the Fairground Art Museum, is a whimsical celebration of vintage fairground attractions, and this is one of the unusual Paris museums that invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the magic of carousels, carnival games, and theatrical performances, and with the museum's many interactive exhibits plus its vibrant atmosphere, it makes a delightful experience for both children and adults alike.

Musee des Arts Forains, Fairground Museum

Cite des Sciences et de l'Industrie

Whereas, the largest of its kind in Europe, this massive science museum is located in Parc de la Villette and a paradise for inquisitive minds. The Cite des Sciences et de l'Industrie features interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and a special section called "Cite des Enfants", designed specifically for children aged 2 to 12. Here, kids can engage in hands-on activities that explore various scientific concepts, from physics to biology, making learning fun and engaging, which makes this one of the extremely popular Paris museums that the whole family can enjoy.

Musee du Chocolat

Upon entering the Musee du Chocolat, also known as Choco-Story, visitors are greeted with a fascinating display that traces the origins of chocolate, but one of the highlights of the Musee du Chocolat is its interactive exhibits, which is where visitors can watch live demonstrations of chocolate-making from skilled chocolatiers who craft exquisite treats right before your eyes, that you can even taste.

These demonstrations not only showcase the artistry involved in chocolate production but also provide insight into the science behind tempering and moulding chocolate, in addition to the fact there are workshops where you can make your own creations to savour later. So, whether you are a seasoned chocolate connoisseur or simply someone with a sweet tooth, this is another of the unusual Paris museums that offers an enchanting experience which is sure to delight.

Musee Grevin

Yet a visit to The Musee Grevin is a journey through time, offering an unparalleled experience of history and celebrities. Whether you are a fan of classic Hollywood, intrigued by historical figures, or simply looking for an engaging and educational outing, the Musee Grevin is a waxwork museum that has something to offer everyone. It is a testament to the enduring allure of wax sculpture and the power of art to bring stories and characters to life. So, the next time you find yourself in Paris, make sure to include this as one of the family friendly Paris museums to visit for an unforgettable adventure.

Musee du Chocolat displays

Musee Grevin, Waxworks Museum

Quirky and Unusual Paris Museums

Now visiting any of the quirky or unusual Paris museums offers a delightful departure from the traditional tourist itinerary, with each museum providing a unique window into Paris's rich tapestry of culture and history, inviting visitors to explore the city's hidden corners and discover its lesser-known treasures, which in turn offer unforgettable and enriching experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Paris Sewer Museum

A truly unique experience awaits at the Musee des Egouts, or Paris Sewer Museum, which lets its visitors have an immersive and educational journey through the subterranean corridors that make up the city's sewage system. The exhibits showcase a variety of artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that illustrate the development of Paris's sewers from their rudimentary beginnings to the advanced system in place today, plus, the guided tours offer insightful commentary on the technological advancements and engineering techniques that have been employed over the years.

The S636 Argonaute Submarine museum

Although by stepping on board the Argonaute Decommissioned Submarine at its permanent resting place in Parc de la Villette, you will discover that it is more than just one of the unusual Paris museums to visit, as it offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of French maritime history and journey into the depths of maritime life, naval innovation and how the crews lived and worked. So, if you are a naval history enthusiast, a curious learner, or simply looking for a unique experience in Paris, the Argonaute offers an unforgettable adventure into the world beneath the waves.

Musee des Egouts Paris Sewer Museum

S636 Argonaute Submarine Museum

Musee de la Contrefacon

Now the Musee de la Contrefacon (Museum of Counterfeiting) offers a captivating look at the world of counterfeit goods and intellectual property rights. Operated by the Union des Fabricants, this museum displays a wide range of counterfeit products, from luxury items to everyday objects, which are all positioned alongside their authentic counterparts, and through its exhibits, this unusual museum aims to educate the public about the economic and social impact of counterfeiting and the importance of protecting intellectual property.

Musee de la Magie

But for something light-hearted and fascinating for many, why not step into the enchanting world of illusions at the Musee de la Magie. This is one of unique and unusual Paris museums that offers an intriguing look at the history of magic and conjuring tricks. Children and adults alike will be enthralled by the collection of optical illusions, magic props, and live performances, plus with the museum's playful atmosphere and its captivating displays, this venue makes it a perfect outing for anyone looking to experience the wonder of magic.

Musee National de la Legion d’Honneur

The Musee National de la Legion d’Honneur is a hidden gem in the heart of Paris, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of one of France’s most prestigious institutions. Nestled opposite the Musee d’Orsay and beside the River Seine, this is one of the very unique and unusual Paris museums, which is housed in the magnificent Hotel de Salm that is an elegant 18th-century palace serving as a perfect backdrop to its impressive collections of medals, portraits and chivalric honours. Yet what makes it even more remarkable is that admission is free, making it one of the little known, but fascinating tourist attractions and free Paris museums.

Musee de la Contrefacon, Counterfeit Museum

Musee de la Magie, Magic Museum

Themed Paris Museums

Also, you will find that this remarkable French urban city boasts an unparalleled array of themed museums, each offering its own unique glimpse into the past and the many cultural treasures, all providing visitors with a captivating experience that is second to none.

Cite de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine

So let’s start with the Cite de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, which is located within the Palais de Chaillot and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art and science of architecture. Originally instigated by Viollet-le-Duc, you will find it offers a rich and immersive experience that spans centuries of architectural innovation, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty, complexity, and cultural significance of buildings and structures. Additionally, it is also the largest museum dedicated to architecture in the world, so no matter if you are an architecture aficionado or simply curious about the history of design, this is one of the unusual Paris museums that promises to enlighten and inspire.

Musee du Parfum

But for a bit of Parisian chic and lifestyle, how about the Musee du Parfum often known as the Scribe Museum due to its location by the Palais Garnier Opera House, or the Musee du Perfum Fragonard, and occupying a traditional 1800s townhouse, it is a privately run perfume museum owned by the Fragonard fragrance company.

This is one of the charming free Paris museums, nestled in the heart of Paris, offering visitors a captivating experience that delves into the art and science of perfume-making, so whether you are a perfume enthusiast or simply curious about the world of fragrances, the Musee du Parfum promises a delightful and immersive journey through the history and artistry of perfumery, where you can also purchase fragrances, or book a workshop to help create your own perfume.

Musee National de la Legion d'Honneur

Musee du Parfum

Musee du Vin

Another of the themed and unusual Paris museums is the Musee du Vin, which offers visitors a unique and captivating journey through the rich history and exquisite artistry of French wine-making, and situated in the 16th arrondissement, this museum is housed within a series of ancient cellars that date back to the 15th century, where the past and present weave seamlessly together to celebrate the profound cultural significance of wine in France. In addition, there is a restaurant and themed evenings plus wine events like tastings wine and cheese paring and so forth are also available for booking.

Musee de l’Homme

Whereas the Musee de l'Homme, translating to the Museum of Mankind, is a distinguished institution also located within the Palais de Chaillot in Paris, and dedicated to the natural and cultural history of humanity, this is one of the museums that offers a profound exploration into the evolutionary journey and the human adventure, presenting a unique perspective on our species' development.

Musee de la Chasse et de la Nature

And situated within the Marais district, the Musee de la Chasse et de la Nature is another of the quirky and unusual Paris museums, with this one being dedicated to hunting and nature. Its eclectic collection includes taxidermy animals, ancient hunting weapons, and contemporary art pieces, all presented in a unique and engaging manner, seamlessly blending the old with the new, offering an intriguing perspective on the relationship between humans and nature.

Musee du Vin, Wine Museum

Musee de l'Homme, museum of mankind

Paris Museums Dedicated to Famous People

Also today, Paris offers an unparalleled journey through the world, connecting visitors with the visions and expressions of some of history's most remarkable people, so whether you prefer writers, sculptors, poets, artists or even scientists, this city has something to inspire everyone. And by visiting these unique and unusual Paris museums, it not only enriches your understanding of these extraordinary individuals, but it can also deepen your appreciation of the cultural legacy and remarkable contributions from its luminaries, which makes Paris one of the most special cities to experience.

Musee Picasso

So we will start with a museum housed in the Hotel Sale, which is a grand 17th-century mansion, and the Musee Picasso is dedicated to the life and works of Pablo Picasso. You will find this museum’s extensive collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and ceramics created by Picasso throughout his prolific career and you will be able to trace the evolution of Picasso's artistic style, from his early Blue Period to his later Cubist works, plus this is one of those Paris museums that also features personal artifacts and photographs that offer insight into Picasso's life.

Maison Victor Hugo

Also within Le Marais area, just a walk away, is the Maison Victor Hugo, which is more than just another one of the popular museums, it is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of France's most influential writers, with his novels such as Les Miserables and The Hunchback of Notre Dame known by millions, and by preserving his home and personal artifacts, the museum allows visitors to step back in time and experience the world through Hugo's eyes, so, whether you are a literary scholar, a casual reader, or someone with an interest in 19th-century French culture, a visit to this museum offers a unique and enriching experience, plus it is also yet another of the free Paris museums.

Musee da la Chasse et de la Nature

Musee Picasso Paris

Musee Rodin

Yet situated opposite Les Invalides with its famous and popular Paris museums, you will find the historical Hotel Biron that showcases the remarkable artworks of Auguste Rodin. The beautiful architecture, exquisite gardens, and unparalleled art collections offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the world of one of history's greatest sculptors, therefore, it doesn’t matter if you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a serene escape in the heart of Paris, the Hotel Biron and Musee Rodin provide an unforgettable experience.

Espace Dali

Whereas a visit to the Espace Dali is a journey into the mind of one of history's most enigmatic and imaginative artists, and situated in the Montmartre area, this carefully curated collection offers a comprehensive overview of Salvador Dali's work, from his iconic sculptures to his lesser-known drawings and lithographs, and as you explore the galleries of this museum, you will be transported into a world where reality and fantasy intertwine, with the boundaries of the possible constantly being redefined.

Musee Curie

Yet for something completely different, how about discovering another of the unusual Paris museums called the Musee Curie, and located close to the Pantheon in Paris, this is a remarkable institution dedicated to the life and work of one of the most illustrious scientists in history, Marie Curie. Known for her groundbreaking research on radioactivity and her unyielding determination in the fight against cancer, Marie Curie's legacy continues to inspire millions around the globe and this museum serves as an enduring homage to her contributions, making it a destination of significance for both science enthusiasts and those touched by the impacts of cancer.

Maison Victor Hugo

Espace Dali Museum

Practical Tips for Visiting Paris Museums

Plan Ahead: Research museum opening hours, ticket prices, and if there are any temporary exhibitions that you would also like to discover, plus many of the popular and unusual Paris museums offer online ticket booking to avoid long queues.
Time Your Visit: Weekdays and early mornings are generally less crowded. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for a more relaxed experience.
Closures: We would, however, like to point out that the majority of museums will close either on a Monday or a Tuesday each week and most also close on major holidays such as Bastille Day, 1st May, and so on. Additionally, many of the famous museums will sometimes have specific areas closed, like for renovations or changing exhibits, etc.
Take Advantage of Free Admission: Many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month, which is a great opportunity to explore multiple museums without breaking the bank. In addition, there are also several free Paris museums like some we featured above.
Use Public Transport: Paris has an excellent public transportation system, so utilizing the metro, buses, and RER trains to conveniently reach different museums, although you will find that numerous museums are within walking distance of each other, so ensure you have a good map of Paris in order to navigate your way around.
Guided Tours: Opt for guided tours to gain deeper insights into museum collections and history, or if this is not possible, the majority of museums will have audio guides that are available in multiple language's, including some that also offer specific guides for children like ones with little booklets for a fun activity as well.
Accessibility: Most Paris museums are wheelchair accessible and offer services for visitors with disabilities, but, we would like to point out that large bags and luggage are not allowed, and even pushchairs or strollers are not always accepted due to space restraints, so do check museum websites for specific information.

Altogether, this remarkable urban city continuously reveals its many layers through its diverse range of museums, from beyond the well-trodden paths of the famous and popular Paris museums, there lies a realm of unique and lesser-known institutions that still offer enriching and memorable experiences.

So, whether you are drawn to the quirky and unusual Paris museums, those related to the arts, or the historical grandeur of former castles and mansions that house exceptional collections, there is something for every curious traveller. Therefore, the next time you find yourself in Paris, take the time to explore these hidden gems and discover the richness of history, art, and culture that they offer.

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