Discover 11 Parisian museums to visit without spending a cent

IN SHORT

  • Free museums in Paris
  • Explore culture at no cost
  • Access to 11 renowned museums
  • Ideal for art and history enthusiasts
  • Free permanent exhibitions
  • Discover unique collections
  • Enrich your knowledge
  • Enjoy the Parisian architecture
  • No need to worry about the budget
  • Sites just a stone’s throw from iconic monuments
  • Perfect for a cultural day

Paris, the capital of art and culture, is full of treasures to explore. If you want to enrich your stay without spending too much, know that there are many museums where you can enter without paying a dime. Whether you are a history buff, a modern art lover, or a sculpture enthusiast, this city is brimming with opportunities to satisfy your curiosity. Get ready to discover 11 must-visit Parisian museums that are accessible to all for an enriching and free experience!

Paris, the city of light, is a true Aladdin’s cave for culture lovers. And if you dream of exploring its incredible artistic heritage without blowing your budget, know that there is a selection of free museums waiting for you. Whether you are passionate about contemporary art, history, or even literature, these establishments will allow you to dive into the fascinating world of culture without spending a dime. Here is our selection of Parisian museums to discover for free.

Musée des Arts modernes de la ville de Paris

Set in the majestic setting of the Palais de Tokyo, the Musée des Arts modernes is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers. Housing more than 15,000 works, from paintings to sculptures, it highlights artistic genius both French and international. This place, just steps from the Eiffel Tower, offers an immersive experience at the heart of modern creativity.

Carnavalet Museum – History of Paris

For those who wish to trace the history of our beautiful capital, the Carnavalet Museum, located in the Marais, is the ideal address. Within splendid private mansions, it offers a vast collection of everyday objects, artworks, and archives. A true plunge into the past centuries that helps understand the evolution of Paris.

Musée de la Vie romantique

Dive into a sweet and nostalgic universe at the Musée de la Vie romantique. Housed in a charming townhouse, this museum will transport you to the heart of the 19th century. Although it is currently under renovation, its reopening scheduled for early 2026 promises to revive unforgettable moments of the romantic period.

Rodin Museum

The Rodin Museum is a true gem for discovering the work of the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin. Located in the Hôtel des Invalides, it offers a varied collection, ranging from his iconic works to magnificent gardens where his sculptures interact with nature. A place that is both artistic and relaxing.

Balzac Museum

Are you looking to explore the life of one of the greatest French writers? The Balzac Museum, located in one of the famous author’s residences, will allow you to discover his universe through his manuscripts, personal belongings, and a reconstruction of his daily life. An intimate journey into the heart of Balzac’s work.

Victor Hugo’s House

Literature lovers, do not miss the Victor Hugo’s House, located on Place des Vosges. This historic residence is the perfect place to explore the life of the author of Les Misérables. Through carefully crafted reconstructions, you will learn more about his passions and writings during his stay in Paris.

Cernushi Museum – Museum of Asian Arts of the City of Paris

For Asia enthusiasts, the Cernushi Museum is a treasure not to be missed. With its magnificent collection of objects and artworks from the Far East, you will be transported to the heart of Asian civilizations, from colossal Buddhas to delicate Chinese porcelain.

Zadkine Museum

Another forgotten jewel is the Zadkine Museum, dedicated to the sculptor Ossip Zadkine. His former studio, where he lived and created, is beautifully preserved. Don’t forget to visit the garden, where sculptures and greenery intertwine to create a fascinating dialogue between art and nature.

Cognac-Jay Museum

18th century art lovers will be charmed by the Cognac-Jay Museum. Housing an exceptional collection of artworks gathered by a passionate collector, this museum will immerse you in the refinement of the era with its numerous paintings and decorative art objects.

Petit Palais – Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris

The Petit Palais, located between the Seine and the Champs-Élysées, is a true architectural gem not to be missed. Housing collections from Antiquity to 1900, this museum will allow you to admire works by French masters as well as decorative art objects, for a total immersion in the history of art.

Liberation Museum – General Leclerc Museum – Jean Moulin Museum

Finally, the Liberation Museum is a powerful tribute to those who fought to free Paris during World War II. This interactive museum brings together testimonies and artifacts, offering a unique perspective on the Resistance and the role of art during this tumultuous period.