Paris Off the Beaten Path Try Small Museums
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
Discover Hidden Gems: Explore Small Museums in Paris
Paris is renowned for its grand museums, but if you're looking to escape the crowds and discover something unique, consider visiting its smaller, lesser-known museums. These charming venues offer an intimate glimpse into Parisian art and history, often with fewer visitors.
Explore Unique Collections
Recently, I planned to visit the popular Vienne 1900 exhibition at the Grand Palais, thinking a weekday afternoon would be the perfect time to avoid the crowds. Unfortunately, I ended up waiting in line for over an hour in freezing weather. The bustling crowds inside made me rethink my strategy. If you'd prefer a more relaxed experience, try exploring smaller museums instead.
Here's a guide to some of Paris’s hidden treasures where you can enjoy fascinating displays without the frenzy. Despite being rich in content and offering English documentation, these spots often fly under the radar.
Musée Bourdelle
Located near the Gare Montparnasse on rue Antoine Bourdelle, the Musée Bourdelle was once the home and studio of the sculptor Antoine Bourdelle (1861-1929). As you enter, you'll notice a towering bronze horse in the garden. Bourdelle's grandiose works blend elements of Rodin's influence with Art Deco flair. Highlights include statues of historical figures like Sappho and Heracles, along with a notable portrayal of Polish poet Mickiewicz.
- Address: 18 rue Antoine Bourdelle, Paris 15th District
- Hours: Open daily except Mondays and holidays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Admission: Full entry €4.50; Youth €2.20; Under 14 free
- Nearest Metro: Montparnasse, Falguière
Musée du Montparnasse
Just steps away, the Musée du Montparnasse recognizes the vibrant 1920s artistic scene with figures like Hemingway and Picasso. Established in 1998 on the lovely Chemin du Montparnasse, this museum showcases photographs by legends like Robert Doisneau and Henri Cartier-Bresson, alongside watercolors and prints from local artists.
- Address: 21 avenue du Maine, Paris 15th District
- Hours: Open daily except Mondays and holidays, 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
- Admission: Full entry €5; Reduced €4; Under 12 free
- Nearest Metro: Montparnasse
Musée de la Poste
Nearby, the Musée de la Poste delves into France's postal history. Opened in 1973, visitors start on the fifth floor and spiral downwards through post-themed exhibits, including a working Chappe semaphore and artifacts from the pneumatic mail system.
- Address: 34 boulevard Vaugirard, Paris 15th District
- Hours: Open daily except Mondays and holidays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Admission: Full entry €5; Reduced €3.50; Under 18 and postal workers free
- Nearest Metro: Montparnasse
Paris Crime Museum
For something unusual, check out the Paris Crime Museum, or Musée des Collections Historiques de la Préfecture de Police. Here, you’ll find historical exhibits on crime and punishment, including early handcuffs and a guillotine blade.
- Address: 4 rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, Paris 5th District
- Hours: Open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Admission: Free
- Nearest Metro: Maubert-Mutualité
Musée du Vin
Wine enthusiasts should not miss the Musée du Vin. Situated in ancient quarries used by monks, this museum covers the history of winemaking from Roman times. The experience concludes with a wine tasting, and you can even enjoy lunch on-site.
- Address: Rue des Eaux - 5, square Charles Dickens, Paris 16th District
- Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Admission: €8 (includes wine tasting)
- Nearest Metro: Passy
With these delightful options, you can explore Parisian culture in a more personal setting away from the crowds. Enjoy the hidden gems of Paris and enrich your travel experience!
(This article is a collaboration between Phil Chavanne, Senior Editor, and Arthur Gilette, a regular contributor to www.Paris-Eiffel-Tower-News.com, who are delighted to share their knowledge of Paris.)
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Paris Off the Beaten Path Try Small Museums.
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