Carnavalet Museum (Musée Carnavalet)

The Basics

One of the few examples of Renaissance architecture in Paris and one of the oldest town houses in the city, the Hôtel Carnavalet was first acquired by the city in 1866, under the advice of Baron von Haussmann. The museum opened within the manor in 1880 and quickly grew; just over a century later, the Musée Carnavalet officially expanded into the Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint Fargeau, another impressive manor located just next door. In 2016, the museum closed to the public to undergo a major renovation,which is ongoing.

The Musée Carnavalet is included on walking tour itineraries of the Marais and is also easy to visit independently.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Musée Carnavalet is one of Paris’ oldest museums and welcomes upwards of 400,000 visitors annually.

• The landmark is as renowned for its architectural beauty as its collection and has been a certified Historic Monument since the mid-19th century.

• Following its revamp, the Musée Carnavalet will be fully accessible to disabled visitors.

• As part of its renovation, the museum is host to a new tearoom, which overlooks its gardens and is accessible even when the museum is closed.

• The museum has its own smartphone app, which visitors can use to purchase tickets, source information, and embark on an audio tour of the collections.

How to Get There

The museum is conveniently located in the heart of the popular Marais district. If traveling by Metro, take line 1 to Saint-Paul or line 8 to Chemin Vert. It is also served by bus lines 29, 69, 76, and 96 and can be reached on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.

When to Get There

The Musée Carnavalet is closed for renovation until the beginning of 2020, after which it opens Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm. The museum hosts an array of temporary exhibitions, as well as workshops and other events, so it’s worth making return journeys.

Collection Highlights

The Musée Carnavalet features a wide range of collection highlights, from a 16th-century scale model of Paris to objects that belonged to Napoleon and Émile Zola. Other notable items include paintings by Jacques-Louis David and a reconstruction of the room where Marcel Proust wrote his masterpiece, In Search of Lost Time.

Please note: The Musée Carnavalet is currently closed to the public for renovations. The reopening is scheduled for 2020.

Ways to explore

One of the few examples of Renaissance architecture in Paris and one of the oldest townhouses in the city, the Carnavalet Museum would be a thrill even if it weren’t a fabulous museum inside. But it is, and you can explore some 40 decorated rooms and galleries, every inch showcasing Paris’ remarkable history and growth

The Carnavalet Museum is included on some walking tour itineraries of the Marais, and it’s easy to visit independently, not least because admission is free.

Accessibility

Apart from three rooms, the museum is fully wheelchair accessible via lifts and ramps. Wheelchairs are available for loan from the reception. Service animals are welcome. Sign language guides are available.

Age limits

None

What to pack

The museum app, if desired

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, layers (go smart-casual for Parisian-friendly attire), small bag

Not allowed

Flash photography, tripods, large bags, luggage

Amenities

Restaurant, gardens, accessible toilets, ramps and elevators, bilingual guides, cloakrooms

Address

The Carnavalet Museum isn’t far from Parisian landmarks, including Place de la Bastille. It’s a great stop after a walking tour of the Maris, or simply get there via public transit or a rideshare.

Driving

Parking in Paris’ Marais district is challenging at best. If you can, avoid driving; if you can’t, there are paid parking garages a few minutes’ walk from the museum.

Public transportation

This is the way to go. Take metro line 1 to Saint-Paul or line 8 to Chemin Vert. The museum is also served by bus lines 29, 69, 76, and 96.

Best times to visit

Mornings or late afternoons typically have fewer visitors. Leave enough time to explore—the last entry is 5pm.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to have fewer visitors than weekends, but note that the museum closes on Mondays.

Best months to visit

January to March and November tend to be quieter months in Paris, which usually means a more relaxed museum experience.

Special events

The museum hosts rotating exhibits and programming throughout the year—check its online calendar for more information.