Musée Edith Piaf

The Basics

Founded by Bernard Marchois—a former friend of Piaf’s—the Musée Edith Piaf is one of Paris’ most unusual museums. Housed in Piaf’s former apartment, the museum is adjacent to Marchois’ own residence. It is squarely aimed at fans of the iconic singer; in addition to photographs, accessories, records, and boxing gloves owned by Piaf’s lover (Marcel Cerdan, considered to be France’s greatest boxer), her famous black dresses are a highlight of the museum’s small but meaningful collection.

The Musée Edith Piaf’s location near to other Paris highlights (including Père Lachaise cemetery and the Canal Saint-Martin) makes it an easy stop during a day of sightseeing.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The museum is free to enter, but visitors can only go with an advance appointment.

• Museum tours are conducted mainly in French.

• Museum founder Bernard Marchois has written and contributed to several books about Edith Piaf, and he is an authority on the singer’s life.

How to Get There

Located in Ménilmontant, on the border of the 11th and 20th arrondissements, the Musée Edith Piaf can be accessed via numerous forms of public transportation. Take Metro Line 2 to the Ménilmontant station; take Lines 1, 2, 6, and 9 or the RER A to Nation station; or travel by bus Line 96. The museum can also be reached by Vélib’ bike, by car or taxi, or on foot.

When to Get There

The museum is open by appointment only, October through May, Monday to Wednesday, from 1pm to 6pm. Send a request in advance of your trip to make sure you secure an appointment.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

The Musée Edith Piaf is a short stroll from Père Lachaise, Paris’ largest cemetery and the final resting place of the Little Sparrow, as Piaf was known to her fans. Curious visitors can combine a museum visit with a trip to her grave site to pay their respects.

Ways to explore

Musée Edith Piaf is a gem of a museum that is open by appointment only, so fans should book in advance to gain access to the 4th-floor Ménilmontant apartment where Piaf once resided. Its location near Paris attractions, such as the Père Lachaise Cemetery and the Canal Saint-Martin, makes it an easy stop during a day of sightseeing, especially if exploring by bike or with a driver. Check off the city’s most famous landmarks with a walking, cycling, or hop-on hop-off bus tour, then dedicate some time to this and other lesser-known treasures.

Accessibility

The museum is on the fourth floor of a Parisian townhouse, accessible only by stairs.

Age limits

Although there is no official minimum age, this small museum is filled with delicate memorabilia and is not suitable for young children.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, cash for the small gift shop section

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

Visiting without an appointment, handling the collection

Amenities

Gift shop area, guided tour (in French only)

Address

Located in Ménilmontant, on the border of the 11th and 20th Arrondissements, the Musée Edith Piaf can be accessed via numerous forms of public transportation. You can also walk from nearby sights, including the Père Lachaise Cemetery and Canal Saint-Martin.

Driving

The historic Ménilmontant district is a maze of narrow streets and limited parking, which can be challenging for drivers. Take public transportation or arrive on foot.

Public transportation

Take metro line 2 to Ménilmontant station, or lines 1, 2, 6, 9 or the RER A to Nation station. Alternatively, board bus 96.

Best times to visit

The museum opens for limited periods in the afternoon, so visit whenever you can secure entry—the tiny museum can accommodate around eight visitors at a time.

Best days to visit

The museum is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Admission must be booked in advance.

Best months to visit

You can visit the museum all year round; book admission in December to honor La Môme’s birthday or in October to mourn her death.

Special events

The museum holds the Grasse à Edith festival each July to celebrate the beloved singer.