Musée Guimet, Paris - a large building with a lot of trees in front of it
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Musée Guimet Paris

4.6
·8k reviews·Paris, France

Journey through millennia of Asian art at Musée Guimet, a Parisian gem housing vast collections from Afghanistan to Japan in a stunning 19th-century s...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings (10 AM - 12 PM)

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Musée Guimet, Paris - a large building with a lot of trees in front of it

Musée Guimet Paris

Best Time

Weekday Mornings (10 AM - 12 PM)

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Journey through millennia of Asian art at Musée Guimet, a Parisian gem housing vast collections from Afghanistan to Japan in a stunning 19th-century setting. A true cultural escape.

4.6
(8k reviews)

"A fascinating deep dive into Asian art, offering a unique cultural voyage without leaving Paris. InstagramReddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Free Entry Day

Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission, but expect significant crowds.

👣 Wear Comfy Shoes

The `guimet museum paris` is large; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all the galleries.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Khmer Bronzes of Angkor

Khmer Bronzes of Angkor

Cambodian Galleries

Explore the exquisite royal bronzes from Angkor, offering a deep dive into ancient Cambodian artistry and history. Instagram

Ming Dynasty Gold Exhibition

Ming Dynasty Gold Exhibition

Temporary Exhibition Spaces

Discover the opulence of the Chinese imperial court with stunning gold artifacts from the Ming Dynasty, a truly fascinating display. Instagram

Afghan Buddhas & Tibetan Art

Afghan Buddhas & Tibetan Art

Specific Regional Galleries

Marvel at the unique collection of Afghan Buddhas and intricate Tibetan pieces, showcasing the spiritual and artistic heritage of these regions.

Journey Through East Asia

Journey Through East Asia

Various Galleries

Experience a cultural voyage through China, India, Japan, and Cambodia, all without leaving Paris, as highlighted by many visitors. InstagramReddit

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save on Entry

Planning your visit to Musée Guimet Paris strategically can enhance your experience. While the museum is free on the first Sunday of each month, expect high crowds. For a more serene visit, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons when the `asian museum paris` is less busy. Consider booking tickets online to save time. Instagram

Navigating the Vast Asian Art Collections

The `Musée national des arts asiatiques Guimet Paris` houses an immense collection spanning millennia and continents. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, Reddit travelers suggest focusing on specific regions or periods that interest you most, like the impressive East Asian art. Don't try to see everything in one go. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings (10 AM - 12 PM)
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Afternoons (3 PM - 6 PM)
Why
Tour groups thin out, quieter
Crowd
Medium
When
First Sunday of the Month
Why
Free entry, but very busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Last video about « Or des Ming » the amazing exhibition at @Musée Guimet museum ! I want to share with you my little knowledge, my opinion and my discoveries 🥰 Tell me if you like this kind of video ...
@binliang.alexander.peng
15.8K likes • 66.9K views

💰 Free Entry Day

Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission, but expect significant crowds. Instagram

👣 Wear Comfy Shoes

The `guimet museum paris` is large; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all the galleries. Reddit

My thoughts on #Museeguimet in #Paris and their biggest #Khmer collection outside of Asia, as a #Khmerdiaspora ❤️. Especially seeing the iconic #Jayavarmanvii statue was shocking 😥😥😥 What do you think...
@lovestruckfm
12K likes • 85.7K views
Don’t miss this museum if you’re into Asian art. Save this video for later 🔖 📍Musée Guimet (Musée national des arts asiatiques), 6 Place d’Iéna, 75116 Paris 🕒 Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM ...
parisexplorer
0 likes • 34K views

📜 Check Exhibitions

Always check the official website for current temporary exhibitions like the Ming gold or Angkor bronzes. Instagram+1

🔍 Focus Your Visit

With vast collections, pick a few regions or themes to focus on to avoid art fatigue. Reddit

🇫🇷 Voyager en Asie… sans quitter Paris 🎎🐉 Plongez au cœur de l’art asiatique au Musée Guimet. De la Chine à l’Inde, en passant par le Japon ou le Cambodge, ce lieu fascinant offre un véritable tour d’...
en_vols
465 likes • 8.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Free Entry Day

Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission, but expect significant crowds. Instagram

👣 Wear Comfy Shoes

The `guimet museum paris` is large; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all the galleries. Reddit

📜 Check Exhibitions

Always check the official website for current temporary exhibitions like the Ming gold or Angkor bronzes. Instagram+1

🔍 Focus Your Visit

With vast collections, pick a few regions or themes to focus on to avoid art fatigue. Reddit

📸 Capture the Art

Photography is generally allowed without flash, perfect for capturing the beautiful statues and displays. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Musée Guimet for its incredibly rich and diverse collection of Asian art, offering a unique cultural journey without leaving Paris. Many find it a fascinating and less crowded alternative to other major museums, though some note that the sheer volume of artifacts can be overwhelming without a focused plan.

"I visited the Musée Guimet in Paris a few days ago and was truly impressed. The collection of Asian art is extensive and deeply atmospheric—many of the pieces felt like they carried a spiritual energy. I’m not usually superstitious, but there was something powerful and even a little eerie about the experience that stayed with me.

The highlight at the end? The terrace on the top floor has an amazing view of the Eiffel Tower. Totally worth the visit—for both the art and the unexpected moments."

Asako K

"Very interesting and fun museum. It’s good to see how different can bouddha be according to different country. My special favorite would be the flower vase on the 3rd floor. Truly captivating!

Staff were also super nice and helpful at the gift shop. I asked for a pair of earrings and she carefully pack the gift bag for me."

Oom M.

"The museum itself was brilliant, my kids really enjoyed it. What takes it down a bit, was the rooftop cafe. €17 for a cup of instant noodles, is a ripoff. €121 for four people, food and drinks."

Kris Skov Olsson

What People Like

Vast Asian art collection
Less crowded than Louvre
Unique cultural experience

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming
Limited English signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The `Musée Guimet Paris` is conveniently located at 6 Place d’Iéna, 75116 Paris. You can reach it easily via Metro Line 9 (Iéna or Trocadéro stations) or Metro Line 6 (Trocadéro station). Several bus lines also stop nearby, making it accessible from various parts of the city. Instagram

While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several paid public parking garages are available in the vicinity, such as Parking Kléber or Parking George V. However, public transport is highly recommended due to Parisian traffic and parking costs.

The Musée Guimet is situated close to the Trocadéro gardens, offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, and is also a short walk from the Palais de Tokyo and Musée du Quai Branly.

Yes, the Musée Guimet is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, especially if you stroll through the Trocadéro gardens. It's a great way to combine two iconic Parisian experiences.

Yes, you'll find several Velib' (public bike rental) stations within a few minutes' walk of the museum, offering a convenient and scenic way to arrive if you enjoy cycling.

🎫 🎟️ Tickets & Entry

The Musée Guimet is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays and on certain public holidays. Last entry is typically 45 minutes before closing. Instagram

Standard adult admission is typically around €12-14, with reduced rates for students, young adults (18-25 from outside the EU), and certain other groups. Admission is free for EU citizens under 26, and for everyone on the first Sunday of each month. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for temporary exhibitions or if you plan to visit on a weekend or the first Sunday of the month. This helps you skip potential queues.

Yes, the Musée Guimet is included in the Paris Museum Pass, which offers free entry to over 50 museums and monuments in Paris and the surrounding region. This can be a great value if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

Yes, in addition to the first Sunday of the month, admission is free for visitors under 18, EU citizens under 26, disabled visitors and their companions, and certain other categories. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date free entry conditions.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The `Musée Guimet` specializes in Asian art, featuring extensive collections from Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Southeast Asia (Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia), China, Korea, and Japan. You'll find sculptures, ceramics, textiles, paintings, and decorative arts. InstagramReddit

A comprehensive visit to the `Musée Guimet` can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you explore temporary exhibitions. Many Reddit users suggest focusing on specific areas to make the most of your time. Reddit

The Musée Guimet is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available for most areas. It's always advisable to contact the museum directly beforehand to confirm specific accessibility needs and ensure a smooth visit.

Yes, the museum often offers guided tours (in French and sometimes English) and audio guides for rent, which can provide deeper insights into the collections. Check the museum's website for schedules and availability.

Small bags are usually allowed, but larger backpacks and luggage must be checked in the cloakroom. This policy helps protect the artworks and ensures a comfortable experience for all visitors.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Musée Guimet typically has a café or tea room on-site where visitors can enjoy light refreshments, snacks, and beverages. It's a perfect spot for a break during your exploration of the `asian museum paris`.

The area around Place d'Iéna and Trocadéro offers a wide range of dining options, from casual brasseries to upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. You'll find plenty of choices for lunch or dinner nearby.

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the exhibition areas to protect the artworks. However, you can usually consume them in designated outdoor areas or before entering the museum.

Given the museum's focus, it's fitting that the surrounding neighborhoods boast excellent Asian restaurants, particularly Japanese and Vietnamese. A quick search on your phone will reveal many highly-rated options within walking distance.

Yes, the Musée Guimet features a well-stocked gift shop offering books on Asian art, exhibition catalogs, reproductions, jewelry, and other unique souvenirs inspired by the collections. It's a great place to find a memento of your visit.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

💸 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the `Musée Guimet Paris` offers a fantastic opportunity to experience world-class art without breaking the bank. The most significant tip is to plan your visit for the first Sunday of the month, when admission is completely free for everyone.Instagram While it will be crowded, it's an unbeatable deal. Additionally, EU citizens under 26 years old enjoy free entry year-round. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the nearby Trocadéro gardens to save on food costs, as dining options around the museum can be pricey.

🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts

If you're an avid art and culture enthusiast, the `Musée Guimet` is a must-visit. It offers a deep dive into Asian civilizations, providing a refreshing contrast to the European art dominant in many other Parisian museums. Reddit users consistently praise its extensive and fascinating collection of East Asian art.Reddit Dedicate ample time (3-4 hours) to truly appreciate the nuances of each gallery. Don't miss the temporary exhibitions, which often feature rare and significant pieces, and consider an audio guide for richer context.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Older Kids

While perhaps not ideal for very young children, the `Musée Guimet` can be a captivating experience for families with older kids who have an interest in history, mythology, or diverse cultures. The visual richness of the sculptures, masks, and intricate artifacts can spark curiosity. To keep engagement high, encourage kids to pick a favorite region or animal to spot throughout the museum. The sheer variety of objects, from fierce guardians to serene Buddhas, offers plenty to discuss and discover together. Plan for breaks and perhaps combine the visit with a trip to the nearby Eiffel Tower for a well-rounded day.

💑 Couples & Day-Trippers

For couples seeking a unique cultural experience or day-trippers looking for something beyond the usual Parisian landmarks, the `Musée Guimet` offers a tranquil and enriching escape. It's a perfect spot for a romantic and contemplative stroll through ancient civilizations, away from the bustling crowds of more famous museums. Combine your visit with a walk through the Trocadéro gardens for stunning Eiffel Tower views, or explore the charming streets of the 16th arrondissement for a delightful Parisian day out. The museum's serene atmosphere makes it ideal for shared discovery and quiet conversation.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Asian Art Collections

The `Musée Guimet Paris` is renowned for being one of the largest museums of Asian art outside of Asia, offering an unparalleled journey through diverse cultures and artistic traditions. Its collections span from the ancient civilizations of Afghanistan and Pakistan (Gandhara art) to the intricate works of India, Southeast Asia (Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia), and the rich artistic heritage of China, Korea, and Japan. Visitors can marvel at everything from monumental Buddhist sculptures and delicate ceramics to vibrant textiles and exquisite lacquerware. Many Reddit users praise the museum for its depth and breadth, noting it's a fantastic alternative for those who have already seen Paris's more famous attractions.Reddit

Temporary Exhibitions: A Dynamic Experience

Beyond its permanent collections, the `Musée Guimet` regularly hosts world-class temporary exhibitions that delve into specific themes, artists, or regions of Asian art. These exhibitions are often a major draw, showcasing rare artifacts and offering fresh perspectives. Recent examples include the captivating 'Royal Bronzes of Angkor' Instagram and 'L'or des Ming' (Gold of Ming), highlighting the splendor of the Chinese imperial court.Instagram Checking the museum's schedule for these special events is highly recommended, as they provide unique opportunities to see pieces not usually on display and can significantly enhance your visit to this `asian museum paris`.

Photography and Engagement with Art

The `Musée Guimet` offers a welcoming environment for photography, allowing visitors to capture the beauty of its collections (without flash, of course). This encourages a more interactive and personal engagement with the art, as seen in Instagram reels where visitors creatively interact with the statues.Instagram The museum's architecture, a beautiful 19th-century building, also provides stunning backdrops. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the artworks while taking photos. The serene atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours, makes it an ideal spot for contemplative photography.

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