Paris is home to some of the world's most iconic and popular museums such as The Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, Musée de l'Orangerie and many others. If you already have these under your belt and want to try something new, check out our selection of museums that celebrate the diverse cultures, art and music that make France what it is today.
Musée du quai Branly
A museum dedicated to the art, history and artifacts of the world's cultures, Musée du quai Branly is housed in a striking modern building on the banks of the Seine not far from the Eiffel Tower. In addition to their fascinating exhibits, the museum also hosts many concerts by musicians from around the world, as well as screenings of world film, lectures and other activities.
Institut du Monde Arabe
A center focused on the history and cultural expressions of the Arab world, the Institute du Monde Arabe is a great place to spend a day in Paris. The award-winning building alone is worth experiencing, along with its fascinating exhibits, excellent book and music store as well as a number of appealing cafes offering treats from Morocco, Egypt, Algeria and beyond.
Musée d’art et d’histoire du Judaïsme
The Museum of Jewish Art and History is housed in a beautifully restored chateau in the Marais, the picturesque neighborhood that has long been home to a large Jewish community. Featuring work by Marc Chagall and Amedeo Modigliani, the museum offers a fascinating overview of Jewish life and cultural expression in France and beyond.
Musée de la musique
For music and architecture fans, the Museum of Music is worth the trip to La Villette on the outskirts of Paris. Surrounded by a lovely park and a series of striking buildings, including the soaring Cité de la Musique building where the museum is located, this center offers a peek at thousands of unique musical instruments and works of art.
Musée Édith Piaf
A quirky little museum devoted to the quirky little French singer whose powerful voice and outsized personality has earned her the top spot on the pantheon of French musical icons. Located in a small apartment where she once lived, fans of "La Môme" will enjoy peeking at some of Piaf's personal items and picking up some books and CDs from the gift shop.
UNESCO Headquarters
The headquarters for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO, is worth visiting for its striking architecture and public art collection devoted to the theme of world peace featuring works by Picasso, Bazaine, Miro, Tapiès, Le Corbusier and many others.
- Written by Jacob Edgar