With its craftsmen's workshops, historic factories and technical museums, theParis region is brimming with places where expertise is honored. From engraving to haute couture, perfume to ceramics, these crafts perpetuate age-old gestures while reinventing themselves. It's another way to discover the region: by observing those who shape, assemble and invent, far from the shop windows. It's a living heritage, handed down from generation to generation, that you can discover in museums or at the heart of factories.
In some places, you can follow the development of an object, from its conception to its manufacture, in an approach that is both scientific and sensitive. You'll gain a better understanding of their evolution, the know-how required and even the machines and instruments needed to make them! Many offer demonstrations and even introductory courses, allowing visitors to immerse themselves for a few hours in the history of a fully-fledged craft.
Whether you're a true enthusiast of tapestry, fashion or cars, or simply curious to broaden your cultural horizons, Paris and the surrounding region have something to offer you a whole new perspective on a whole host of centuries-old traditions, in a way that's fun and accessible to all! Here's a selection of museums and places dedicated to savoir-faire:
Fabrique de la Flèche: immersive cinema, workshops, and a tour of the construction site at the Basilica of Saint-Denis
By 2029, the Basilica of Saint-Denis will have regained its spire on the north tower, which disappeared centuries ago. But while waiting for the work to be completed, you can visit the site and discover the expertise required for this restoration, starting October 17, 2025, with stone cutting, a forge workshop, and sound and light shows! [Read more]
The Musée des Arts et Métiers: a historical journey through the greatest inventions
The Musée des Arts et Métiers is the kind of fun, family-friendly museum we love. Come and discover the world's greatest technical and technological inventions, housed in a historic monument. [Read more]
L'École des Arts Joailliers: the art of jewelry at the heart of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
Discover the fascinating world of jewelry at the École des Arts Joailliers, housed in a sumptuous 18th-century townhouse in the heart of Paris. All year round, free exhibitions and workshops await you to learn more about the art of jewelry. [Read more]
Cité de la Céramique: Sèvres porcelain factory and national ceramics museum (92)
For an artistic getaway just outside Paris, head for Sèvres, where a unique museum invites you to explore the art of ceramics in all its forms, from antique pieces to the most refined porcelain. [Read more]
Musée Yves Saint Laurent: the temple of fashion closed for renovation until autumn 2027
Housed in the designer's former couture house, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is a true sanctuary dedicated to the couturier and his works. A must-see fashion temple for all haute couture aficionados. The museum is closed for renovation until 2027. [Read more]
Rosny-Rail, the railway and train museum at Rosny-sous-Bois station (93)
The Rosny-sous-Bois railway station in Seine-Saint-Denis is home to a museum that is, to say the least... unusual. Run by volunteers with a passion for railroads, the Musée du Rosny-Rail is a must for all train enthusiasts. [Read more]
The Manufacture des Gobelins: go behind the scenes of Mobilier National's know-how
Heir to centuries-old expertise, the Manufacture des Gobelins perpetuates the art of tapestry and exceptional furniture in the heart of Paris. Between tradition and contemporary creation, this place steeped in history can be visited to admire the craftsmen at work and discover the treasures of the Mobilier National. [Read more]
Choco-Story, the gourmet chocolate museum in Paris
Few can resist it: we love chocolate! Discover its history and secrets with Choco-Story, the ultra-gourmand and fun chocolate museum in Paris. [Read more]
Le 19M, la Manufacture de Mode Chanel: art gallery, creative workshops, café & couture houses
Le 19M, la Manufacture de Mode Chanel, located in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, is home to eleven Maisons d'art, as well as a gallery hosting free fashion exhibitions and a café. A must-see! [Read more]
The Musée de la Carte à jouer, a unique collection dedicated to our card games, in Issy (92).
Just south of Paris, in Issy-des-Moulineaux (92), you'll find a museum that's unique in France: the Musée de la Carte à jouer, a cultural venue devoted entirely to card games, from the first models to appear in the 15th century, right up to the present day. [Read more]
La Monnaie de Paris: an unusual cultural and historical institution in Paris
Do you know how coins are made in France? Come and find out by visiting the Monnaie de Paris, the institution that teaches us more about the history of silver and the minting of medals, in a place steeped in history. [Read more]
The Fragonard Perfume Museum: a little-known treasure just a stone's throw from the Palais Garnier
The Musée du Parfum Fragonard is an iconic museum that delights the senses with its presentation of the art of perfumery. Young and old alike can enjoy this unusual museum, which takes us on a journey through the history of perfume. Don't miss the free tours among the incredible smells. [Read more]
The Viaduc des Arts: a must-see along Paris's green corridor
The Viaduc des Arts in Paris is a key stop on the coulée verte, attracting walkers and design enthusiasts alike! Find out more about this exciting spot in the capital's 12th arrondissement. [Read more]
The Musée de la Toile de Jouy, a journey into the world of cotton printing
The Musée de la Toile de Jouy, dedicated to the emblematic fabric printed with floral motifs and characters, is nestled in the Château de l'Églantine in Jouy-en-Josas (78). In addition to its historic collection, the museum regularly exhibits contemporary artists and organizes creative workshops! [Read more]
Manufacture Arribas, official glassblower of Disneyland Paris, opens its doors to you
If you're a lover of fine glassmaking, get your diary ready! Manufacture Arribas, known as the official glassblower at Disneyland Paris, is offering tours and workshops at the Château de Condé Sainte-Libiaire, in the Val-de-Marne region of France. An opportunity to learn more about this exceptional craft! [Read more]
