Musée des Arts et Métiers Paris
Explore centuries of scientific and industrial innovation in a stunning converted church, home to Foucault's Pendulum and early flying machines. A hid...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free entry, popular but manageable.
Musée des Arts et Métiers Paris
Best Time
Free entry, popular but manageable.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of scientific and industrial innovation in a stunning converted church, home to Foucault's Pendulum and early flying machines. A hidden gem for curious minds in Paris.
"This fascinating museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology, offering a unique, uncrowded experience."
🎯 Free Entry Days
Visit on the first Sunday of the month or Friday evenings (after 6 PM) for free admission!
🎧 Grab an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an English audio guide for deeper insights into the exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Foucault's Pendulum
Former Church of Saint-Martin-des-Champs
Witness the iconic pendulum demonstrating Earth's rotation, housed in the stunning former church nave. A true scientific marvel.

Original Flying Machine
Grand Staircase
Marvel at an early glider prototype from the late 1800s, dramatically suspended in the museum's central staircase. A unique photo op!

Automotive History Collection
Ground Floor
Explore a fascinating collection showcasing the evolution of automotive technology, from early engines to classic vehicles.
The Converted Church Setting
Main Hall
Experience the unique atmosphere of a former medieval church, now a grand exhibition space for scientific and industrial artifacts.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save Euros
English-Friendly Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Days
Visit on the first Sunday of the month or Friday evenings (after 6 PM) for free admission!
🎧 Grab an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an English audio guide for deeper insights into the exhibits.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The museum is quite large, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring all the halls.
🚗 For Car Enthusiasts
Don't miss the automotive history section, even if it's not a dedicated car museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Days
Visit on the first Sunday of the month or Friday evenings (after 6 PM) for free admission!
🎧 Grab an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an English audio guide for deeper insights into the exhibits.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The museum is quite large, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring all the halls.
🚗 For Car Enthusiasts
Don't miss the automotive history section, even if it's not a dedicated car museum.
📸 Capture the Glider
The original flying machine in the staircase makes for a stunning and unique photo opportunity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Musée des Arts et Métiers is widely praised as a fascinating 'hidden gem' in Paris, particularly for those interested in science and technology. Visitors appreciate its unique collections and the stunning setting of the converted church, often noting its refreshingly uncrowded atmosphere compared to other major museums. While some wish for more extensive English translations on all labels, the available audio guides and overall experience are highly regarded.
"a really cool place if you’re into inventions and science. It’s set inside an old church, which gives it a unique vibe. You’ll see all kinds of amazing stuff: old machines, early cars, flying machines hanging from the ceiling, Foucault’s pendulum, even early robots. It’s well organized by theme, so you move from one topic to another easily. Honestly, it’s both fun and educational even if you’re not a total tech geek."
Hassen Mbazaia
"Great museum with a diverse set of categorised rooms to discover. Plenty of interactive parts, great for kids. I took off one star since the age of this museum is starting to show, creaky floorboards, paint chipping of certain parts of the wall, and an accessibility elevator that was out of order.
It’s still a great museum to visit if you’re on a trip to Paris, easily accessible by metro."
Peter Burai
"So interesting. If you like details, and are interested in how tech developed across a huge range of disciplines, this is your place. Steam engines, bikes, blast furnaces, supercomputers, its all here. Only addition id love is for a few items to actually be demonstrated in some way, like a little steam engine for example. Well worth the visit!"
Mark Foley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Musée des Arts et Métiers is conveniently located in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. The easiest way to get there is by Metro, taking line 3 or 11 to the 'Arts et Métiers' station, which is right outside the museum. It's also easily accessible by bus or a pleasant walk from central areas.
The museum strives to be accessible. While housed in an older building, efforts have been made to provide ramps and elevators for most areas. It's always recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information before your visit.
The area around the Metiers Museum Paris is vibrant. You'll find charming cafes, the historic Le Marais district (great for exploring shops and architecture), and other smaller museums. It's a good base for exploring a less tourist-heavy part of Paris.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Musée des Arts et Métiers typically costs around €8-12, with reduced rates for students and seniors. However, remember that entry is free on the first Sunday of each month and every Friday evening after 6 PM, offering excellent value for visitors.
The Arts Metiers Museum Paris is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 9:30 PM. It is typically closed on Mondays and certain public holidays. Always check the official museum website for the most current opening hours before planning your trip.
While not always strictly necessary, especially given its generally lower crowd levels, booking tickets online in advance is recommended to save time and ensure entry, particularly if you plan to visit on a free entry day or during peak season. This also helps streamline your arrival at the museum arts metiers Paris.
Yes, the Musée des Arts et Métiers is one of many Parisian museums that offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. This is a popular time to visit, so expect slightly more people, but it's a fantastic opportunity to explore without a ticket fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Absolutely! The Musée des Arts et Métiers is very suitable for English-speaking visitors. Most exhibits have clear English translations on their signs, and comprehensive audio guides are available in English, ensuring you can fully understand and appreciate the collections.
Given its size and the depth of its collections, most visitors recommend allocating at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Musée des Arts et Métiers. If you're a science or history enthusiast, you could easily spend half a day delving into the various exhibits.
Don't miss Foucault's Pendulum in the former church nave, the stunning original flying machine suspended in the grand staircase, and the fascinating collection of early automobiles and scientific instruments. These highlights offer a great overview of the museum's unique focus.
Compared to other major Paris attractions, the Musée des Arts et Métiers is generally not crowded. Many visitors describe it as a 'hidden gem' where you can enjoy the exhibits at a leisurely pace without feeling overwhelmed by large groups. It's an excellent choice if you prefer a more tranquil museum experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Musée des Arts et Métiers, often without flash. The dramatic setting of the converted church and the unique artifacts, like the suspended flying machine, offer fantastic photo opportunities. Always be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🤓 Science & Tech Enthusiasts
Key recommendations for enthusiasts include:
- Spending extra time at Foucault's Pendulum for its scientific significance.
- Exploring the detailed mechanics and energy collections.
- Appreciating the automotive history section for its unique insights into vehicle development.
💰 Budget Travelers
Since the museum is generally less crowded, you can enjoy a leisurely visit without feeling pressured to rush through. Combine your free entry with a picnic lunch in a nearby park to keep costs down, making it an ideal and enriching activity for budget-conscious travelers.
🚶♀️ Those Avoiding Crowds
This peaceful atmosphere allows for a deeper appreciation of the intricate details and historical significance of the artifacts. It's a perfect escape from the bustling Parisian streets, offering a calm environment to immerse yourself in the history of innovation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Innovation
One of the most iconic exhibits is Foucault's Pendulum, a powerful demonstration of the Earth's rotation, suspended dramatically within the grand nave of the former church. This blend of historical architecture and scientific marvel creates a truly unique atmosphere. Beyond the pendulum, you'll discover early calculators, steam engines, and even the original flying machine by Clément Ader, which hangs majestically in the central staircase, a sight that often draws gasps from visitors.
Navigating the Collections & Unique Setting
Many Reddit users praise the museum for being rarely crowded, allowing for a more intimate and reflective experience compared to Paris's more famous institutions. This means you can take your time, read the detailed explanations (many with English translations), and truly absorb the history without feeling rushed. It's a place where you can step back in time and appreciate the foundations of our modern world at your own pace.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit