The Best Small Museums in Paris That Most Tourists Miss

March 6, 2025

Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, such as the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, but beyond these iconic institutions lie hidden gems that offer equally enriching experiences. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore Parisian culture in a more intimate setting, these small museums should be on your list.

Click on the name of each museum for ticketing information. A map of all of the museums’ locations is provided at the end of this post. Note that many of these museums are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. By clicking some links, at no cost to you, I may make a small commission that helps me bring this content to my readers.

1. Musée Picasso

This is probably my favorite “small” museum in Paris. Located in the historic Marais district, the Musée Picasso is home to one of the largest collections of works by Pablo Picasso. Housed in the grand Hôtel Salé, the museum offers a fascinating journey through Picasso’s artistic evolution, displaying paintings, sculptures, drawings, and ceramics. It’s a must-visit for modern art lovers and those interested in the revolutionary styles that shaped 20th-century art.

Website

Address: 5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris, France

Closed Mondays

2. Musée Rodin

Dedicated to the works of the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin, the Musée Rodin is housed in the elegant Hôtel Biron, where Rodin once worked. The museum displays some of his most famous sculptures, including The Thinker and The Kiss, alongside sketches and lesser-known works. The lush gardens, dotted with sculptures, offer a serene escape in the heart of Paris.

Website

Address: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France

Closed Mondays

3. Musée Jacquemart-André

This elegant mansion-turned-museum in the 8th arrondissement was once the private home of art collectors Édouard André and Nélie Jacquemart. It features an exquisite collection of Renaissance paintings, decorative arts, and period furniture. The lavish interiors and grand staircase alone are worth the visit, offering a glimpse into Parisian high society in the late 19th century.

Website

Address: 158 Bd Haussmann, 75008 Paris, France

4. Musée Cognacq-Jay

Nestled in the heart of the Marais, the Musée Cognacq-Jay houses an impressive collection of 18th-century art and furniture, assembled by the founders of the La Samaritaine department store. With works by Fragonard, Boucher, and Watteau, this museum provides a fascinating look at the elegance and refinement of the French Enlightenment.

Website

Address: 8 Rue Elzevir, 75003 Paris, France

Closed Mondays

5. Musée Bourdelle

Art lovers will appreciate the Musée Bourdelle, dedicated to the works of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle, a student of Rodin. Located in Montparnasse, this museum showcases his powerful sculptures in both indoor and outdoor settings, allowing visitors to explore his artistic process in a peaceful atmosphere away from the usual tourist routes.

Website

Address: 18 Rue Antoine Bourdelle, 75015 Paris, France

Closed Mondays

6. Musée Nissim de Camondo

A must-visit for history and design enthusiasts, the Musée Nissim de Camondo is a beautifully preserved 18th-century mansion near Parc Monceau. It was once the home of the Camondo family, wealthy bankers of Sephardic Jewish descent. The museum offers a glimpse into their opulent lifestyle and features an exceptional collection of period furnishings, fine china, and tapestries.

Website

Address: 63 Rue de Monceau, 75008 Paris, France

Closed Mondays

7. Musée Gustave Moreau

Dedicated to the Symbolist painter Gustave Moreau, this museum in the 9th arrondissement is a hidden treasure. It preserves Moreau’s former residence and studio, filled with his intricate and dreamlike paintings. The museum’s spiral staircase alone is a work of art, making it a favorite spot for photographers and art lovers alike.

Website

Address: 14 Rue Catherine de la Rochefoucauld, 75009

Closed Tuesdays

8. Musée de Cluny – National Museum of the Middle Ages

Lady and the Unicorn Tapestry at the Musée Cluny

While not entirely unknown, the Musée de Cluny remains overlooked compared to larger museums. This medieval treasure trove is housed in a stunning Gothic mansion and features remarkable artifacts, including the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. The museum also offers a rare chance to see remnants of ancient Roman baths in Paris.

Website

Address: 28 Rue du Sommerard, 75005 Paris, France

Closed Mondays

9. Musée de la Vie Romantique

Musée de la Vie Romantique, Paris, France

Tucked away in the 9th arrondissement, the Musée de la Vie Romantique is a delightful escape into the world of 19th-century Romanticism. Housed in a charming villa, this museum was once the home of Dutch painter Ary Scheffer and now showcases memorabilia from the Romantic era, including pieces related to George Sand and Chopin. Don’t miss the tranquil garden café, perfect for a quiet afternoon retreat. Note: The museum is temporarily closed for renovations until March 2026

Website

Address: 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris, France

10. Musée de l’Orangerie (Honorable Mention)

Musée de l'Orangerie, Paris, France — Musée de l’Orangerie, Paris, France

Though more well-known, the Musée de l’Orangerie often remains underappreciated by visitors. Located in the Tuileries Gardens, it houses Monet’s stunning Water Lilies murals in an immersive setting, along with an impressive collection of works by Renoir, Matisse, and Modigliani.

Website

Address: Jardin des Tuileries, 75001 Paris, France

Why Visit These Small Museums?

These lesser-known museums offer unique perspectives on art, history, and Parisian culture. They provide a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the collections without the overwhelming crowds of larger institutions. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a new experience in Paris, these hidden gems are well worth your time.