Musée des Arts et Métiers

The Basics

Officially the oldest science museum in Europe, the Musée des Arts et Métiers was established in 1794. It occupies a historical priory; following a period of major renovation in the 1990s, it increased its exhibition space with the addition of a second, adjacent building. Today, its wide-ranging collection includes thousands of diverse objects that represent important inventions, historical tools, and scientific advancements. Collection highlights span from Foucault’s Pendulum (a device created in 1851 to demonstrate the Earth’s rotation) to historic astrolabes, early vehicles, and more.

The Musée des Arts et Métiers is included in Paris Museum Pass schemes, so you can easily combine a visit with a sweep of the city’s other highlights.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Free entry to the museum is available on the first Sunday of the month and after 6pm on Thursdays.

• The museum is fully accessible to visitors of differing mobility levels, and hosts specialized tours for those with hearing, visual, or cognitive disabilities.

• The Musée des Arts et Métiers hosts free daily tours and demonstrations.

• Following a recent renovation, the on-site cafe is now open throughout the day and offers salads, sandwiches, and other fresh fare.

How to Get There

The closest Métro station to the museum is Arts et Métiers, accessible on the 3 and 11 lines. Buses 20, 38, 39, and 47 also stop nearby. As with most central Parisian landmarks, the museum is also easily accessed on foot, by taxi, or by Vélib’.

When to Get There

The Musée des Arts et Métiers is typically open from Tuesday–Sunday, from 10am–6pm (though it’s open until 9:30pm on Thursday evenings). The museum is closed on Christmas Day and May 1st each year. Because there are rotating temporary exhibitions, talks, and other events, it’s worth planning repeat visits.

The Arts et Métiers Métro Station

If you plan to visit the Musée des Arts et Métiers, it’s worth traveling by Métro; after all, the Arts et Métiers station is one of the most distinctive in the entire Paris Métro system, thanks to its copper plating, enormous cogs, and submarine-style portholes. The station was revamped by Belgian comic book artist François Schuiten in 1994, and its steampunk looks are an homage to Jules Verne.

Ways to explore

The Musée des Arts et Métiers offers an immersive journey through the history of technology with its broad collection, which is presented across seven themed sections: Scientific Instruments, Materials, Energy, Mechanics, Construction, Communication, and Transportation. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions that delve deeper into these themes as well as rotating art installations. Guided tours are available in French, or you can access a multilingual audio tour.

The Musée des Arts et Métiers is included in some Paris multi-attraction passes, so you can easily combine a visit with a sweep of the city’s other highlights.

Accessibility

The Musée des Arts et Métiers is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs are available for loan from the reception desk.

Age limits

While there are no official age limits, the museum is best suited for older children. The museum hosts hands-on workshops for younger visitors on weekends.

What to pack

Your sense of curiosity; headphones for the audio guide

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, light layer (it can be cooler indoors in summer)

Not allowed

Leave suitcases at home as only small bags are permitted inside; only coats and umbrellas can be stored in the museum’s cloakroom.

Amenities

Café, Wi-Fi, restrooms, folding chairs and strollers to borrow, cloakroom

Address

The Musée des Arts et Métiers is located in Paris’ 3rd Arrondissement. It’s easy to reach via the metro.

Driving

Follow Boulevard Saint-Martin onto Rue Réaumur, and parking is available at Parking Saint-Martin at 254 Rue Saint-Martin. However, driving in Paris is typically not recommended, and it’s far easier to reach the museum via public transportation.

Public transportation

Take metro lines 3 or 11 to the Arts et Métiers station, adjacent to the museum. Alternatively, board line 4 to Réaumur-Sébastopol station, a 2-minute walk.

Best times to visit

The museum tends to be less busy in the morning, soon after the 10am opening time.

Best days to visit

On Fridays, the museum stays open late (typically until 9pm). Note that it is closed on Mondays.

Best months to visit

The cool museum provides a welcome retreat during the hot summer months.

Special events

The museum participates in citywide cultural events, such as the European Night of Museums in May.