Aimer, ce n’est pas se regarder l’un l’autre, c’est regarder ensemble dans la même direction
wrote Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.
His words ring especially true in a city like Paris, where love, experience and culture go hand in hand. While the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are some of the city’s most iconic museums, they can also be overwhelming due to their popularity. Don’t panic, for I have uncovered a selection of underrated wonders that cater to the more discerning and intellectual traveler. These hidden museums in Paris offer a more refined and sophisticated experience that is perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the city’s cultural heritage. So let us look together in the same direction, and uncover the Parisian museums that are sure to enrich our hearts and minds. As an added bonus, I’ve included a local wine pairings in each neighborhood.
Philharmonie de Paris
The Philharmonie de Paris is a music lover’s paradise, epitomizing refinement, elegance, and masterful storytelling. This museum houses an impressive collection of historical instruments and interactive exhibits that will leave music aficionados in a state of euphoria. As you explore the museum’s various floors, you’ll be transported back in time by the collections of period instruments from the middle ages and Renaissance. You’ll encounter an array of captivating instruments, including lutes, woodwinds, hurdy-gurdies, and even a theremin that you can try out for yourself! Fun fact: Did you know that only three octobasses exist in the world? The Philharmonie de Paris is home to one of them! The others can be found in the collections of the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. As an added bonus, local performers give demonstrations and performances throughout the day, showcasing a wide variety of instruments and musical styles.
Musée de la Vie Romantique
Nestled in a charming 19th-century mansion, the Musée de la Vie Romantique is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern Paris. This museum is dedicated to the romantic era and pays homage to the literature, art, and lifestyle of the intelligentsia of the time. As an avid enthusiast of the period, I hold this museum particularly close to my heart, as it houses a vast collection of memorabilia related to George Sand, one of France’s most prolific writers. Fun fact: Did you know that Sand is the second-most-sold author after Victor Hugo? Hooray for female writers, but it’s a nay for the fact that we don’t hear enough about them. And the best part? This museum is just a short stroll away from some of my favorite wine bars in the 9eme, including the appropriately named Le Bon Georges. This classic Parisian bistro retains its original charm, making it the perfect spot for a post-museum glass of vino.
Le Bon Georges – 45 rue Saint-Georges
Musée National Gustave Moreau
The Musée National Gustave Moreau is a under-the-radar treasure of Paris that should not be missed by any art and architecture enthusiast. This unique house-studio, located in the heart of Nouvelle Athènes, provides an intimate look into the techniques and subjects of the undisputed master of French Symbolism. Housed in Moreau’s family home, the museum has managed to retain the magic of its original atmosphere, complete with the stunning and strange cast-iron spiral staircase that links two grand ateliers on the top floor. The museum’s extensive collection includes hundreds of paintings, watercolors, and over four thousand drawings that give a broad perspective of Moreau’s artistic genius. It’s worth noting that Moreau’s work resonated with artists like André Breton, one of the surrealists who dreamed of breaking into the museum at night with a lantern. As you explore the small sentimental museum on the first floor, which displays family portraits and personal effects, Moreau’s spirit seems to guide you through the meticulously designed space, making it a truly memorable experience that transports you to the heart of the Parisian art world.
Pompette – 15 rue Hippolyte Llebas, 75009 Paris
Musée des Moulages de l’hôpital Saint-Louis
The Musée des Moulages de l’hôpital Saint-Louis is a fascinating and unusual museum in Paris that is sure to intrigue those with a passion for the cryptic and obscure. This off-beat marvel is dedicated to the history of dermatology and features an extensive collection of casts and wax models that offer a unique and intriguing look into the subject. From rare skin conditions to diseased organs, the intricate wax models on display are both eerie and captivating. In addition to the museum’s vast collection, visitors can also learn about the infectious diseases that plagued the city during this time period. It’s worth noting that the museum is only open to the public by appointment or on the “journee de patrimoine,” which takes place once a year, making it a rare and exclusive experience for visitors.
Wine: Liquiderie Cave – 9 Rue des Trois Bornes, 75011 Paris
Musée Jacquemart-André
The Musée Jacquemart-André is a destination not to be missed for those looking to experience the opulence of high society Paris. The museum, located in an exquisite private mansion, transports visitors to a palace of art and decorative arts. The collection is an impressive display of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and objets d’art from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The museum’s origins are rooted in the shared passion of Edouard and Nélie, whose marriage was more of a financial interest than a love match. The couple, childless but wealthy, dedicated their lives to acquiring art during their travels to Italy and the Near East, and even had their mansion’s interior renovated to showcase their collection. A visit to the Musée Jacquemart-André is a glimpse into a world of wealth and privilege, where money was no object in the pursuit of art. After your visit, take a moment to relax at the museum’s charming café, where you can indulge in a delightful tea and dessert.
Wine: Cèna – 23 rue Treilhard 75008 Paris
And there you have it, folks! Five fabulous hidden museums in Paris that will make you want to throw away your map, ignore the Louvre, and skip the crowds. From the music aficionado’s paradise at the Philharmonie de Paris, to the spooky and intriguing Musée des Moulages de l’hôpital Saint-Louis, these obscure delights offer a refreshing change from the usual tourist spots. So if you’re tired of elbowing your way through hordes of camera-wielding tourists, or if you just need a break from the Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile, why not take a detour and explore these quirky and offbeat museums? Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite artist or artifact, or at the very least, have a good story.
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