Paris and the Ile-de-France region are brimming with cultural institutions sure to please. But if on your first visit you've discovered everything about the Louvre and its mysteries, the Centre Pompidou and its pipes, the Musée d'Orsay and its clocks, don't think you've discovered all the capital's secrets. Here you'll find a short list of original and unusual museums that also deserve a place on your itinerary.
These unusual museums offer unique experiences that are well worth discovering, whether to enrich personal culture or to get off the beaten track.
Among these surprising places are spaces dedicated to specific subjects, atypical collections or unusual themes. These museums, located in buildings that are sometimes historic, sometimes modern, are invitations to explore unexpected facets of culture. Far from the hustle and bustle of the big museums, they offer a more intimate and often interactive approach to art and history. Here are a few not to be missed on your next cultural getaway in and around the capital.
Musée national du Patriarcat: offbeat exhibition and socially conscious programming at the Rotonde Stalingrad
From October 31 to November 10, 2025, the Rotonde Stalingrad will host the National Museum of Patriarchy, conceived by the association En avant toute(s). With its offbeat exhibition and socially conscious programming, this festival questions systems of domination through humor, fictional artifacts, and participatory experiences. [Read more]
The Musée de la Libération de Paris, a visit to the heart of the Resistance
Lovers of contemporary history will be delighted by the new Musée de la Libération de Paris - Musée du Général Leclerc - Musée Jean Moulin. Inaugurated in August 2019, it brings together works and other historical documents from the Musée du Général Leclerc, originally located above the Gare Montparnasse, as well as from Antoinette Sasse and the Fondation du Maréchal Leclerc de Hauteclocque. [Read more]
The Musée du Service de Santé des Armées: a little-known site on the history of military medicine
The little-known Musée du Service de Santé des Armées retraces four centuries of military medical history in the heart of the former Val-de-Grâce abbey, featuring medical instruments, casts and scientific developments. [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]
Paradox Museum Paris unveils 5 new immersive experiences and a Hans & Gretel Café
Paradox Museum offers nearly a hundred immersive experiences, from visual illusions and optical tricks to sensory overloading, right in the heart of Paris. Prepare to be fooled and to capture surrealist photos like never before. Five brand-new interactive installations have just been added to the journey — now’s the perfect time to challenge your senses! And as a sweet bonus, a brand-new indulgent café, Hans & Gretel, awaits to spoil you. Don’t miss the special offer running from January 19 to 23. [Read more]
Musée Dalí Paris: a museum of surrealist works
Sponsored - Dalí Paris presents over 300 works from a private collection acquired from Salvador Dalí and major collectors. Surrealist paintings, sculptures, engravings, objects and furniture bring to life the eclectic ideas of an insatiable explorer, fascinated by atomic science, Antiquity and the Renaissance, alchemy and religion. [Read more]
Discover the free Legion of Honor Museum: a journey through the history of honors
Immerse yourself in the history of honors at the Musée de la Légion d'honneur et des ordres de chevalerie, housed in the magnificent Hôtel de Salm in Paris. [Read more]
The Pharmacy Museum: Paris’s Most Hidden and Unexpected Free Exhibit Space
Nestled within a historic townhouse just steps from Parc Monceau, one of Paris's most discreet museums awaits— the Museum of Pharmacy. Visitors can explore the fascinating history of the site for free, now home to the National Order of Pharmacists and an eclectic collection of curiosities. [Read more]
The Musée de la Magie, a mysterious and fun place in the heart of Paris
Let yourself be surprised by the Musée de la Magie, an unusual cultural and family venue in the Marais district of Paris. [Read more]
The Mineralogy Museum: the incredible collection of crystals and meteorites at the Ecole des Mines
Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Musée de Minéralogie houses one of the world's finest collections of minerals, gems and meteorites. A fascinating journey among nature's true treasures, in an exceptional 19th-century setting. [Read more]
The Bouglione family circus museum, a well-hidden nugget - our photos
Well-hidden museums abound in the capital, but the circus museum is only accessible to the lucky few. Located in the heart of the Cirque d'Hiver and owned by the Bouglione family, it features exceptional costumes and priceless memorabilia. [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]
Le M., Musée du Vin in Paris: tastings, restaurant, exhibitions, concerts & parties!
Did you know that Paris has its own wine museum? Located in the capital's 16th arrondissement, this historic institution invites you to stroll through its 15th-century vaulted cellars and discover all the secrets of wine culture. Renovated and renamed M. Musée du Vin, the venue promises a rich program of restaurants, tasting courses, taste experiences, temporary exhibitions, concerts and Parisian soirées. [Read more]
The Musée du fromage in Paris is open, and we want to tell you all about it!
The first Musée du fromage has opened its doors in Paris, in the 4ᵉ arrondissement, since this June 13, 2024. A living museum that lets us discover the great French know-how, the making of different cheeses, the history and the many varieties to be discovered all over France. Did you know that there are almost 300 "origine contrôlée" cheeses? You'll have to stay in this world a little longer - and taste it, of course! [Read more]
The Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie Comparée, the Museum's nugget in the Jardin des Plantes
You've heard of the Muséum and the Galerie de l'évolution, but what about the Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie comparée, nestling at the entrance to the Jardin des Plantes on the Gare d'Austerlitz side? From living creatures to extinct dinosaurs, discover the world of bones in this sublime museum, well worth a visit. [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]
Art42: the free street-art museum that puts urban art in the spotlight in Paris
If you're a street-art fan, come and visit Art42, the street-art museum in Paris. This unusual place is open free of charge once a month, with guided tours. [Read more]
The Musée de la Poste, to delve into the history of French post office boxes in Paris
The Musée de la Poste, located in the Montparnasse district of Paris, is one of those museums where you could spend hours discovering how mail was delivered 100 years ago, what stamps looked like, or even the job of a letter carrier. An original visit to learn all about our French post office, unique in Paris! [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 Musée des Arts Forains - Pavillon de Bercy: an unusual and enchanting museum in Paris
Enjoy a magical immersive experience in Paris at the Musée des Arts Forains - Pavillon de Bercy, a museum that plunges you into a funfair atmosphere. A place that appeals to young and old alike! [Read more]
The Dior Gallery: a sublime exhibition at the couture house's historic address
The Galerie Dior is the must-see spot for fashion lovers in Paris! Located in the historic mansion at 30 Montaigne, it invites visitors to plunge into the heart of the fabulous universe of the House of Christian Dior. Between heritage(s) and reinvention, discover the new exhibition route of this cultural showcase, through a succession of immersive scenographies brought together in this veritable little museum. [Read more]
Mundolingua, the unusual museum of languages and linguistics in Paris
Lovers of languages and linguistics will want to check out Mundolingua, the unusual museum of languages, language and linguistics. An opportunity to learn all about the world's languages. [Read more]
The Musée Grévin, the wax statue museum where you can meet stars in Paris
The Musée Grévin has a lot to offer the whole family. The famous museum on Boulevard Montmartre awaits you with its ever-growing roster of stars. The constantly redesigned scenography offers an enriched, modern and more interactive visit than ever before. [Read more]
Unusual Paris: the incredible Musée des Moulages at Hôpital Saint-Louis
Want to immerse yourself in unusual Paris? We'd like to introduce you to the incredible and fascinating Musée des Moulages, located in the heart of the Hôpital Saint-Louis. Inside this unique place? A collection of over 4,900 medical waxes tracing the history of dermatological diseases, listed as a Monument Historique in 1992. [Read more]
Did you know? There's a Musée de la Contrefaçon in Paris!
Fans of luxury goods or works of art? Learn to tell the real from the fake at the Musée de la Contrefaçon in Paris. Housed in a sumptuous 16th-century townhouse, the museum is packed with varied collections built up from seizures and brought together for educational purposes. The ideal place to hone your eye and your analysis! [Read more]
The Musée de l'Illusion in Paris: a multi-sensory journey that will make you lose your head!
The Musée de l'Illusion awaits you in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, in the Châtelet les Halles district. Come with friends or family for a unique and exciting experience! Immerse yourself in a fascinating world, where all your senses will be turned upside down... A multi-sensory visit that's a must. [Read more]
In Seine-et-Marne, this museum is housed within a historic building that used to be a public bathhouse.
In Fontenay-Trésigny, the Hippolyte Henry Museum is housed in a former bathing and shower facility built in 1911. This unassuming site offers visitors a lively staging of objects and memorabilia that reflect everyday life in the Briard region of yesteryear. [Read more]
Maurice Ravel House-Museum: the Boléro composer's haven of peace in Montfort-l'Amaury (78)
In Montfort-l'Amaury, in the Yvelines department, Maurice Ravel's home can be visited like a jewel box, untouched since the composer's death. With rare objects, carefully selected furnishings and a piano ready to sound, you can enjoy an intimate visit to the place where his music was born. [Read more]
The Maison Jean Monnet: behind the scenes of the creation of Europe at Bazoches-sur-Guyonne (78)
Nestled in the greenery of the Yvelines region, the Maison Jean Monnet offers an intimate, free immersion in European history. It was here, in this peaceful residence in Bazoches-sur-Guyonne, that Europe was born. [Read more]
Maison Van Doesburg: free tours of the Dutch painter's studio in Meudon (92)
In Meudon, Hauts-de-Seine (92), the house-workshop of Dutch painter Theo van Doesburg, pioneer of the De Stijl movement, reveals art in architecture. Built in 1929, it blends geometric shapes, primary colors and natural light. Discover it every first Saturday of the month by appointment or during the Heritage Days. [Read more]
The Auberge Ravoux and the Maison Van Gogh: a journey in the painter's footsteps at Auvers-sur-Oise (95)
Do you know the Auberge Ravoux? Nestled in Auvers-sur-Oise, this historic eatery is also home to the "Maison de Van Gogh", where you can follow in the illustrious Dutch painter's footsteps. [Read more]
A dog museum arrives at the gates of Paris (and it's dog-friendly!)
You read that right: a museum dedicated to dogs is coming to the gates of Paris! From May 16, 2025, curious visitors and animal lovers can discover this surprising place, and can even visit with their dog. As an added bonus, it's free until September 1, 2025. [Read more]
The Salis Flying Museum: plunge into the history of aviation in an extraordinary museum.
In Cerny, in the Essonne region of France, immerse yourself in collections that are unique in the world: welcome to the Salis Flying Museum, a must-see for all aviation enthusiasts. [Read more]
The Musée des Transports Urbains, a dive into the history of our transport system in Chelles (77).
What were the first metro trains like? What did public transport look like 150 years ago? Immerse yourself in the history of urban transport at the dedicated museum in Chelles (77). Are you ready? [Read more]
Musée Albarelle, an unusual museum dedicated to the world of pharmacy, Orsay (91)
Near Orsay, the Musée Albarelle presents its rich collections devoted to the history of medicine and the science of pharmacy. [Read more]
Pop Central: the museum of cult cars from vintage films and video games just a stone's throw from Paris
Who hasn't dreamed of getting behind the wheel of the Batmobile or reliving the atmosphere of the arcades of the 90s? In Étréchy (91), the Pop Central Museum awaits you on Wednesdays, Fridays and weekends, for a total immersion in pop culture, with legendary movie cars and vintage arcade machines galore. [Read more]
Des chevaux et des hommes: the touching exhibition at the Musée de la Grande Guerre in Meaux
The Musée de la Grande Guerre in Meaux looks at the place and fate of horses in war, in an exhibition on view from April 12, 2025 to January 5, 2026. The museum is open every day except Tuesday, from 9.30am to 6pm (May 1, December 25, January 1). Admission is free every 1st Sunday of the month. [Read more]
The Museum of Sufi Art and Culture: a spiritual journey in Chatou (78) - our photos
In Chatou, in the Yvelines department, the first museum dedicated to the art and culture of Sufism opens its doors to you to discover this spiritual current of Islam, through a collection of ancient objects and works of art. [Read more]
Domaine de Grosbois: guided tours of the château and trotting horse training center (94)
In the Val-de-Marne region of France, the Domaine de Grosbois is a veritable historical and equestrian treasure trove. This 17th-century château, surrounded by a vast park, is now a museum and a mecca for trotting horse training, with guided tours available. [Read more]
The Petit Moulin des Vaux de Cernay is transformed into a cultural restaurant with terrace (78)
Alert friends, the famous little Moulin des Vaux de Cernay in the Vallée de Chevreuse in the Yvelines (78), is being revived and transformed into a cultural restaurant that combines a place to eat, have a drink and relax in the sun with a cultural gallery where you can enjoy ephemeral exhibitions in a place steeped in history. [Read more]
La maison du Brie de Meaux, the cultural institution dedicated to the famous cheese, in Meaux (77)
For lovers of fine French cheeses, there's a museum near Meaux, in the Seine-et-Marne département, dedicated to the town's star product, Brie de Meaux. [Read more]
The Fondation de Coubertin Estate and Museum, the treasure of the Yvelines at Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse
The Domaine et Musée de la Fondation Coubertin, located in Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, is a real treasure of the Yvelines, nestled in a green setting. Discover the Jardin des bronzes, the Grandes sculptures in the park and the works of Joseph Bernard in the château. Open every weekend until July 14, 2024, this exceptional site invites you to enjoy a unique cultural experience. [Read more]
The living railway museum, a meeting place for train enthusiasts in Longueville (77)
Just a few kilometers from Provins, in the Seine-et-Marne département, you'll find the Living Railway Museum in the small town of Longueville. It's a must-see for young and old alike, for lovers of trains and locomotives. [Read more]
La Maison de Fer de Poissy, the unusual museum nestled in the Parc Meissonnier
La Maison de Fer à Poissy, a monument dating from 1896, is an atypical museum on the town of Poissy, to be discovered in the heart of the Parc Meissonnier. Discover its unique industrial architecture and history, and immerse yourself in the evolution of the town of Poissy. [Read more]
The Maison Zola, the Dreyfus Museum in Médan, Yvelines
In the heart of the Yvelines region, the Musée Dreyfus, in the grounds of the Maison d'Émile Zola, stands as a place steeped in literary and judicial history. Located in Médan, just an hour's drive from Paris, this historic house and museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the life and work of Émile Zola, as well as the Dreyfus Affair, two major elements of late 19th-century French culture. [Read more]
The Great War Museum, an immersion in the heart of the First World War, in Meaux (77)
At the Musée de la Grande Guerre du Pays de Meaux in Meaux, you can immerse yourself in the daily lives of civilians and soldiers during the Great War of 14-18. A historical museum to discover with friends or family, to plunge into the heart of French History. [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]
Le Rambolitrain, model train museum in Rambouillet (78)
In Rambouillet, in the Yvelines department, Rambolitrain boasts a unique collection of toy trains, whether miniature or life-size. History, scale models and guided tours: welcome to the temple of the toy train! [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]
Discover the Château Musée et atelier Rosa Bonheur in Thomery: a haven of inspiration
We're off to discover the Château et atelier Rosa Bonheur in Thomery, where the famous artist lived for almost 40 years in Seine-et-Marne. Soak up her creative world and her passion for animals on a guided tour full of discoveries. [Read more]
Jean-François Millet's Museum and Studio in Barbizon, a dive into history
Would you like to explore the world of Jean-François Millet, the famous 19th-century painter who inspired Van Gogh? Head to Barbizon, where you can visit his historic museum and studio. [Read more]
Discover the unusual Chinese Museum at the Château de Fontainebleau
Did you know that the Château de Fontainebleau houses a Chinese Museum? Discover this unique collection of murals, furniture, sculptures and textiles. Created in 1863 by Empress Eugénie, this hidden museum is housed in the château's Gros Pavillon. Its spaces feature some 800 objects of art and furniture, mainly gifts from China, Japan and Thailand. [Read more]
Whether you're from Paris or the Ile-de-France region, or just passing through, there are always some great little-known discoveries to be made. These original museums offer new perspectives for discovering the unusual gems of Paris and the Ile-de-France region.
Enjoy your visit!
