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Musée Carnavalet: A Journey Through Parisian History

Explore the captivating history of Paris from its origins to the present day within the walls of two magnificent historic mansions.

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Located in the heart of the Marais district, the Musée Carnavalet is dedicated to the history of Paris from its origins to the present day. Housed within two historic mansions, the museum offers a captivating glimpse into the city's evolution through diverse collections and immersive exhibits.

A brief summary to Musée Carnavalet

  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • The permanent collections are free to visit, allowing you to explore Parisian history without any cost.
  • Check the Musée Carnavalet's official website for the latest information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with several metro and bus lines stopping nearby.
  • Visit the museum's gardens for a relaxing break amidst beautiful flowers, rose bushes, and lush hedges.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée Carnavalet is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Line 1 to the Saint-Paul station. Alternatively, you can reach the museum via Metro Lines 5 (Bréguet Sabin station), 7 (Pont-Marie station), or 8 (Chemin Vert station). Several bus lines also stop near the Musée Carnavalet, including lines 29, 69, 76, 91, and 96. A single metro or bus ticket costs €2.10 [https://www.ratp.fr/en/titres-et-tarifs/unit-tickets].

  • Walking

    From the Saint-Paul metro station (Line 1), the Musée Carnavalet is a short walk away. Exit the station and walk east along Rue de Rivoli. Turn right onto Rue de Sévigné. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Paris. A short taxi ride from a nearby location, such as Place des Vosges, to the Musée Carnavalet typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and time of day.

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Discover more about Musée Carnavalet

The Musée Carnavalet, also known as the Musée Carnavalet - Histoire de Paris, is the oldest museum in Paris dedicated to the city's history. Opened to the public in 1880, it is located in the Marais district, occupying two adjoining mansions: the Hôtel Carnavalet and the Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint-Fargeau. The museum's extensive collection showcases the evolution of Paris from its earliest settlements to modern times. Visitors can explore archaeological remains, historical artifacts, paintings, sculptures, furniture, and art objects that depict various periods of Parisian life. Highlights include exhibits on the French Revolution and meticulously recreated rooms that evoke the atmosphere of private residences from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The Musée Carnavalet also boasts a restored orangery, housing prehistoric and Gallo-Roman collections. The Musée Carnavalet is not only a repository of historical treasures but also a significant historical site itself. The Hôtel Carnavalet, a Renaissance mansion, once housed Madame de Sévigné, a prominent 17th-century letter writer. The museum's location in the Marais district, known for its well-preserved architecture, adds to its charm and historical significance. Following a major renovation, the Musée Carnavalet reopened with new and expanded exhibition spaces. The museum offers interactive installations and activities designed to engage visitors of all ages, making it an enriching experience for the whole family.

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