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National Museum of Natural History: A Parisian Treasure Trove

Explore the wonders of nature and science at France's National Museum of Natural History in the heart of Paris.

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Located in the Jardin des Plantes, the National Museum of Natural History in Paris is a leading center for scientific research and home to an extensive collection of natural specimens. Founded in 1793, the museum offers a journey through the evolution of life on Earth.

A brief summary to National Museum of Natural History

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the ticket queues.
  • Allow several hours to fully explore the museum's various galleries and exhibitions.
  • Check the museum's official website for specific hours and special exhibitions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The National Museum of Natural History is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Line 7 to the Censier-Daubenton station or Lines 5 or 10 to the Gare d'Austerlitz station. Several bus lines also stop near the museum, including lines 24, 57, 61, 63, 67, 89, and 91. A single Metro or bus ticket costs €2.10.

  • Walking

    From the Jardin des Plantes, the main entrance to the National Museum of Natural History is a short walk. Follow the signs within the garden to the appropriate gallery or museum. From the nearby Grande Mosquée de Paris, walk north along Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire until you reach the Jardin des Plantes entrance. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available throughout Paris. A short taxi ride from the city center to the National Museum of Natural History typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app estimate before starting your trip.

Unlock the Best of National Museum of Natural History

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Discover more about National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History (Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle) in Paris, established in 1793 during the French Revolution, evolved from the Royal Garden of Medicinal Plants created by Louis XIII in 1635. Today, it stands as a premier natural history museum, boasting 14 sites across France, with its main location nestled within the Jardin des Plantes on the left bank of the Seine. The museum comprises several galleries and attractions, including the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution, which showcases over 7,000 preserved animal specimens, offering a captivating view of the evolution of species. The Gallery of Mineralogy and Geology displays a collection of rocks, crystals, and minerals, considered among the most prestigious in the world. The Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy features skeletons from around the globe, including extinct species. The Jardin des Plantes itself is a botanical garden where visitors can explore diverse plant species. The museum is not only a place for exhibitions but also a hub for research and education, focusing on biodiversity, evolution, and the environment. It provides interactive exhibits and workshops designed to engage visitors of all ages. The museum also manages other sites, such as the Paris Zoological Park and the Musée de l'Homme. Currently, visitors can explore the "Deserts" exhibition at the Grande Galerie de l'Evolution, which presents the planet's most extreme environments.

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