After the holiday season, once the gifts have been exchanged and the feasts enjoyed, you may be looking to explore the cultural offerings of Paris. If your budget is tight after the holiday season, don’t worry – the Paris Zigzag team has compiled a list of the best free and unique museums in the city.
1. The Curie Museum
Situated in the Val-de-Grâce district, in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, the Curie Museum showcases the history and scientific achievements of the Curie family. Visitors can explore the laboratory of Marie Curie, delve into the world of radioactivity, and learn about the family’s five Nobel Prizes. The museum features new technologies, archive documents, and ancient objects related to the family’s discoveries.
2. The Ennery Museum
This lesser-known annex of the Guimet Museum in the 16th arrondissement houses a collection of over 7,000 objects from Japan and China dating from the 16th to the 19th century. Visitors can explore a wide variety of items including Okimono, Kyoto ceramics, Noh masks, Buddhas, and netsuke for free. The museum offers a unique Belle Époque Japanese experience.
3. The Shoah Memorial
Located in the 4th arrondissement, the Shoah Memorial is a significant historical site dedicated to the memory of the Jews of France, especially during the Second World War. The museum, documentation center, and memorial sites, including the Wall of the Righteous, are free to visit and offer educational exhibitions throughout the year.
4. The Brancusi Workshop
Nested within the Pompidou Center, this expansive workshop showcases the works of 20th-century sculptor Constantin Brancusi. Visitors can gain insights into his creative process and explore his sculptures in a bright and intimate setting.
5. The Fragonard Perfume Museum
Situated in the Opera district, the Fragonard Perfume Museum offers free entry and explores the history of perfume manufacturing from antiquity to the present day. Visitors can learn about the evolution of techniques and scents, making it a must-visit for fragrance enthusiasts.
6. The Prefecture of Police Museum
Founded in 1909, the museum displays a unique collection of archives from the Prefecture of Police, offering insights into the history of the Parisian police from the 17th century to the present day. The museum is located in the police headquarters of the 5th – 6th arrondissement.
7. The Museum of the Legion of Honor and Orders of Chivalry
Housed in the Hôtel de Salm in the 7th arrondissement, this museum showcases the history of French decorations and orders of chivalry with an extensive collection of over 10,000 objects.
The city of Paris offers an array of free museums that provide a wealth of knowledge about its history, art, and culture. These unique and educational experiences are well worth exploring for visitors on a budget.
