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Musée d’histoire de la médecine, Ile De France Travel Guide

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Explore the evolution of medicine through a fascinating collection of historical instruments and artifacts in the heart of Paris.

The Musée d’histoire de la médecine (Museum of the History of Medicine) in Paris offers a fascinating look into the evolution of medical practices and instruments. Located in the heart of Paris, it houses one of Europe's oldest collections of surgical, diagnostic, and physiological instruments.

A brief summary to Musée d’histoire de la médecine

  • Monday 2 pm-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 2 pm-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 2 pm-5:30 pm
  • Friday 2 pm-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 2 pm-5:30 pm
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Musée d’histoire de la médecine.

  • The museum is closed on Sundays and Thursdays.
  • Photography is allowed, but be respectful of the artifacts and other visitors.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's collection.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée d’histoire de la médecine is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. The closest metro stations are Odéon (lines 4 and 10) and Saint-Michel (line 4). Several bus lines also stop near the museum, including lines 27, 38, 63, 70, 72, 75, 86, and 96. A single T+ ticket costs €2.50 and is valid for travel on the Metro and RER within zone 1.

  • Walking

    The museum is located in the 6th arrondissement and is within walking distance of many central Paris landmarks, including the Panthéon and the Jardin du Luxembourg. From the Jardin du Luxembourg, walk north along Rue de Médicis, then turn left onto Rue de l'École de Médecine. The museum will be on your right. Walking from Montparnasse takes approximately 41 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paris. A taxi ride from Gare du Nord to the Musée d’histoire de la médecine typically costs between €15 and €20 and takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic. From Montparnasse, a taxi ride to the museum will also take approximately 20 minutes. Keep in mind that taxi fares in Paris start at €4.10, with additional charges per kilometer.

Discover more about Musée d’histoire de la médecine

Located at 12 Rue de l'École de Médecine, in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, the Musée d’histoire de la médecine provides a unique glimpse into the history of medicine from antiquity to the 19th century. The museum is situated on the second floor of the historic École de Médecine building, now part of the Paris Cité University.The museum's collection, one of the oldest of its kind in Europe, was initiated by Dean Lafaye in the 18th century and expanded with pieces covering various branches of surgery up to the late 19th century. Visitors can explore a wide array of medical instruments, including those used in the care of Louis XIV, as well as rare physician and surgeon kits.The museum also features anatomical pieces and exhibits detailing the evolution of medical specialties such as obstetrics, ophthalmology and ENT. The collection includes a table made entirely of human body parts offered to Napoléon III.From June 28 to October 25, 2025, the museum will host the exhibition “Il était une fois l'anesthésie”, which explores the history of anesthesia since the 19th century. Note that the museum will be closed to the public from the evening of July 25 to August 24, reopening on August 25.

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