Musée Carnavalet Paris
Explore the Musée Carnavalet Paris, a captivating journey through the histoire de Paris housed in two stunning mansions. Discover unique artif...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the small crowds and enjoy tranquility
Musée Carnavalet Paris
Best Time
Beat the small crowds and enjoy tranquility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the Musée Carnavalet Paris, a captivating journey through the histoire de Paris housed in two stunning mansions. Discover unique artifacts, art, and reconstructed rooms, all with free admission in the charming Marais district.
"An extremely well-done and free museum dedicated to the history of Paris, with unique displays and a gorgeous terrace.
"🎟️ Enjoy Free Admission!
The Musée Carnavalet Paris is completely free to enter, making it a top budget-friendly activity .
🚶♀️ Explore the Marais
Located in the historic Marais, combine your visit with a stroll through this charming district .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The History of Paris Collection
Explore centuries of Parisian life through art, artifacts, and historical objects, revealing the city's evolution and unique displays.

The Courtyards & Gardens
Hôtel Carnavalet & Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint-Fargeau
Wander through the beautiful courtyards and gardens, offering a serene escape and stunning architectural views. Don't miss the gorgeous terrace.

Revolutionary Era Exhibits
Delve into the dramatic period of the French Revolution with powerful displays and artifacts from this pivotal time in Parisian history.
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Avoiding Crowds
Location in the Historic Marais
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Enjoy Free Admission!
The Musée Carnavalet Paris is completely free to enter, making it a top budget-friendly activity.
🚶♀️ Explore the Marais
Located in the historic Marais, combine your visit with a stroll through this charming district.
🌿 Don't Miss the Terrace
Take time to relax and admire the beautiful terrace and courtyards for a peaceful moment.
🏛️ Pair with Archives Museum
The National Archives Museum is nearby and also free, perfect for a double museum day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Enjoy Free Admission!
The Musée Carnavalet Paris is completely free to enter, making it a top budget-friendly activity.
🚶♀️ Explore the Marais
Located in the historic Marais, combine your visit with a stroll through this charming district.
🌿 Don't Miss the Terrace
Take time to relax and admire the beautiful terrace and courtyards for a peaceful moment.
🏛️ Pair with Archives Museum
The National Archives Museum is nearby and also free, perfect for a double museum day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Musée Carnavalet Paris as a free and exceptionally well-done museum offering a deep dive into the histoire de Paris. Many appreciate its less crowded atmosphere compared to other major attractions, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of its unique displays and beautiful historic setting. The gorgeous courtyards and terrace are frequently highlighted as unexpected delights.
"A very extensive museum that goes into detail about the history of Paris, right from the old era of the mesolithic to the 21st century. Very well maintained and beautiful displays. The audio guide on the app is also superb, just scan the qr at the entrance from the courtyard to the interior of the museum. You can spend 2 hrs just passing by, or 2 days if you listen to the audio guide in detail. Amazing experience"
Likhit K
"Have been to Paris many times for leisure. So glad that I finally made it to visit this museum on history of Paris city. Very informative. Very spaceous. Lockers are available at entrance. Quiet, no crowd when we were here at 10:00am. And free of charge. Very lovely district area in Paris too. You will find many little boutiques and bistros around too."
Gladys Sauerwein-Ho
"A fantastic and free museum in Paris (aug. 2025). Really appreciated the old Parisian signs part of the museum. Funny how vendors tried to attract customers. Also impressive to see something like Voltaire's seat being displayed. Would recommend, especially for history lovers."
Simon van de Beek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is situated at 23 rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris, France, right in the heart of the historic Marais district. It's easily accessible by metro, making it a central point for exploring the musee carnavalet paris marais area.
You can take Metro Line 1 to Saint-Paul or Hôtel de Ville, Line 8 to Chemin Vert, or Line 5 to Bréguet-Sabine. All stations are a short walk away, making it convenient for visitors to the museum carnavalet paris.
Absolutely! The National Archives Museum is right next door and also free to enter. You're also steps away from Place des Vosges and the vibrant streets of the Marais, perfect for exploring before or after your visit.
Yes, its central location in the Marais makes it quite straightforward to find. Look for the grand historic mansions that house the museum, blending seamlessly into the charming Parisian architecture.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Notre Dame Cathedral, allowing you to soak in the Parisian atmosphere as you head towards the museum in the Marais.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, absolutely! The Carnavalet Museum Paris offers free admission to its permanent collections, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the musee carnavalet histoire de paris.
The museum is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM. It is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays. Always check the official website for the most current hours before your visit to the le carnavalet museum paris.
For the permanent collections, advance booking is usually not required as admission is free. However, for temporary exhibitions, there might be a fee and booking is often recommended.
Groups may have specific entry procedures or require reservations, especially for guided tours. It's best to consult the museum's official website or contact them directly if you're planning a group visit to the musee de carnavalet paris.
Many travelers suggest visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons (Tuesday to Friday) to experience the museum with fewer people. It's known to be less crowded than other major Parisian museums.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases the rich histoire de Paris through a vast collection of art, archaeological finds, historical objects, and reconstructed rooms, spanning from prehistoric times to the 20th century. You'll find unique displays and items that are extremely well done.
Most visitors spend between 2 to 3 hours exploring the extensive collections. However, you could easily spend more time if you delve deeply into specific periods or enjoy the beautiful courtyards and gardens, including the gorgeous terrace.
The museum has made efforts to improve accessibility. Lifts and ramps are available in many areas, but due to its historic nature, some sections might still present challenges. It's advisable to check their accessibility guide beforehand.
Yes, the museum offers guided tours, often in French and sometimes in English, focusing on different aspects of Parisian history or specific exhibitions. Check their program for schedules and booking information for the musee de carnavalet paris.
Don't miss the reconstructed period rooms, the French Revolution collection, the stunning courtyards, and the beautiful terrace. The diverse collection offers a unique perspective on the city's past and its histoire de paris.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography without flash is permitted for personal use in the permanent collections. However, flash photography, tripods, and professional equipment are usually prohibited. Always respect any specific signage.
The ornate courtyards, the grand staircases, and the beautiful terrace are popular for photos. Inside, the reconstructed period rooms and unique historical artifacts offer great photographic opportunities, capturing the essence of the hotel carnavalet paris.
Short videos for personal use are often allowed in the permanent collections, similar to photography rules. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash or blocking pathways.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Amenities
Yes, the museum features a charming cafe, "Fabula," located in one of its beautiful courtyards. It's a lovely spot for a coffee, light lunch, or snack, especially on a nice day at the museum carnavalet paris.
Yes, restrooms are available for visitors within the museum premises.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the exhibition areas. You can enjoy refreshments at the museum's cafe or find many options in the surrounding Marais district.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
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