Experience the best of Musee Carnavalet

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Tickets

Carnavalet Museum Tickets: Permanent & Temporary Exhibitions

Trace history through permanent and changing displays, with full museum access at your pace.

Everything you get: Enjoy entry to Carnavalet Museum's permanent collection, tracing Paris's history from ancient times to today, plus access to the current temporary exhibitions. Explore at your own pace, moving between permanent displays and temporary shows across the same visit.
Why choose this: Ideal if you want a museum visit that fits any itinerary, without fixed tour times or audio routes.

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Extended validity

Explore at your pace

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Guided Tours

Carnavalet Museum Guided Tour

Follow Paris's past into the present through stories in the museum's permanent galleries today.

Everything you get: Enjoy entry to the Carnavalet Museum and access to its permanent exhibition as a guide explains key artworks. Hear how each room reflects different historical periods so you connect events, people, and objects across Paris's long story. From its origins to today.
Upgrades: Upgrade from a shared English group visit to a private tour in English or choose to walk with a French guide
Why choose this: Choose this if you like a structured visit with a clear route and narration instead of planning every stop alone.

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Flexible cancellation

Book now, pay later

2 hrs

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Combos

Combo (Save 5%): Carnavalet Museum & Picasso Museum Direct Entry Tickets

Get the best of Parisian history and art with one ticket for two museums.

Delve into Parisian history with this combo ticket to the Musee Carnavalet and Picasso Museum. Explore the French Revolution exhibit and marvel at over 5,000 artworks.
Discover over 50,000 historical objects, including the scale model of the Île de la Cité, tracing Paris’s evolution from prehistoric times to the 21st century.
Marvel at over 5,000 of Picasso’s paintings and trace his journey to Cubist period art with anti-war works like “Guernica.”
Discover how comics influenced the artist’s work and explore contemporary comic forms in the museum's basement.

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Extended validity

Explore at your pace

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Walking Tours

Carnavalet Museum & Marais Food Tour

Explore a historic Paris neighborhood through 40+ food stops, guided by an offline GPS audio app.

Everything you get: Enjoy a self-guided food tour of Le Marais with the TouringBee app, including 40+ food stops, an offline GPS map, and audio in English or German. Your ticket also includes entry to the Carnavalet Museum, its permanent collection, temporary exhibition, and a 1-year audio guide.
Why choose this: Enjoy the flexibility to discover Le Marais on your own schedule, taking breaks for food, photos, or the museum whenever it suits you.

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Explore at your pace

Audio guide

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Combos

Carnavalet Museum & Seine River Sightseeing Cruise Experience

Book Carnavalet’s Paris history museum visit and an Eiffel Tower Seine cruise together for significantly less than buying separately.

What you get at Carnavalet Museum: Direct entry to the permanent collection plus current temporary exhibits, explored at your own pace.
What you get at Seine River sightseeing cruise: A 1-hour round-trip cruise from the Eiffel Tower with hourly departures, multilingual audio guide, and a sweet tasting onboard.
Why this combo works: Carnavalet puts Paris’s story in context through objects and period rooms, then the Seine cruise lets you spot the city’s landmarks as a connected riverside skyline. One booking also keeps costs lower than purchasing both separately.

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Explore at your pace

Audio guide

Meals included

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Combos

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour with Summit Access & Carnavalet Museum Direct Entry

What to bring

Eiffel Tower

Valid ID (passport or ID card) to access the tower grounds

What's not allowed

Eiffel Tower

Smoking
Large luggage
Non-folding buggies/prams, baby strollers
Rollerblades, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards
Large rolling objects (except foldable pushchairs; medical or assistance vehicles for persons with reduced mobility)
Sharp objects, glass bottles, padlocks, cans

Carnavalet Museum

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage

Accessibility

Eiffel Tower

1st and 2nd floors are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible
Summit is not wheelchair or pram/stroller accessible

Carnavalet Museum

Wheelchair-friendly venue
Free wheelchair hire at the museum
Visits in French sign language with a deaf guide

Additional information

Eiffel Tower

You can’t purchase summit tickets on the 2nd floor; buy summit access before your visit
Maximum 20 people per group
Security check lines can take 2 to 4 hours during peak season
Summit access may close or be limited due to technical or crowd-related reasons; unplanned closure includes a partial refund (difference between 2nd and top floor ticket)

Carnavalet Museum

Closed on January 1, December 25, and May 1
Entry is free for job seekers, those on minimum wage, and disabled guests with their caregivers
“Madame de Sévigné show” runs only until August 23, 2026
Cloakrooms available for luggage storage
Guide dogs and assistance dogs welcome
Photography allowed without flash

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Explore at your pace

Guided tour

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Combos

Carnavalet Museum & Orsay Museum Entry Tickets with Audioguide

Paris history at Carnavalet, then 19th-century art at Orsay — priced a little lower together.

What you get at Carnavalet Museum: Direct entry to the permanent collection plus current temporary exhibitions. Explore at your own pace.
What you get at Orsay Museum: Entry to the museum’s permanent collections and any temporary exhibits on display, plus an audio guide for self-paced commentary.
Why this combo works: Carnavalet helps you understand how Paris lived and changed; Orsay shows how artists captured that city in the 1800s and early 1900s. Book both once, and you don’t have to buy separate tickets.

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Check availability

Explore at your pace

Audio guide

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Combos

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour + Palais Galliera Tickets

What to bring

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator: Reserved Entry to the Summit or Second Floor

Valid ID (passport or ID card) required to access the tower grounds

Palais Galliera: Paris Fashion Museum Tickets + Current Exhibition Access

Entry tickets: Book your free tickets online in advance to ensure smooth and quick entry, as general admission is free

What's not allowed

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator: Reserved Entry to the Summit or Second Floor

Smoking
Large luggage
Non-folding buggies/prams
Big bags
Baby strollers
Rollerblades
Scooters
Skateboards
Hoverboards
Other large rolling objects (except foldable pushchairs, medical or assistance vehicles for persons with reduced mobility)
Sharp objects
Glass bottles
Padlocks
Cans

Palais Galliera: Paris Fashion Museum Tickets + Current Exhibition Access

Food and drinks
Pets
Bags or luggage larger than 45x36x20 cm

Accessibility

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator: Reserved Entry to the Summit or Second Floor

The 1st and 2nd floors are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible
The summit is not wheelchair or pram/stroller accessible

Palais Galliera: Paris Fashion Museum Tickets + Current Exhibition Access

Fully accessible for wheelchairs and prams/strollers via step-free routes

Additional information

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator: Reserved Entry to the Summit or Second Floor

You cannot purchase summit tickets on the 2nd floor; buy summit access before your visit if you want to go up
Maximum group size: 20 people
Security check lines can take 2 to 4 hours during peak season
This is an English-guided tour; some guides may also speak French or Spanish, but this is not guaranteed
Summit access may close or be limited due to technical or crowd-related reasons; in case of unplanned closure, a partial refund (difference between 2nd and top floor ticket) is provided
Waiting times are expected for the entry security check

Palais Galliera: Paris Fashion Museum Tickets + Current Exhibition Access

On-site lockers available
On-site restaurant: Les Petites Mains (seasonal) serves lunch and dinner

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Explore at your pace

Guided tour

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Slide 1 of 4

Visiting Musée Carnavalet

Ways to explore: Choose from Musée Carnavalet exhibition tickets, guided tours in English and French, or combo tickets with Picasso Museum or Seine River Cruise.
What's included: Exhibition tickets include access to the Madame de Sévigné temporary exhibition and the museum's permanent collections, where you can trace the history of Paris from prehistoric times to today.
Queues & entry: While admission to the permanent collections is free, temporary exhibitions require timed-entry tickets. Booking online helps you secure your preferred timeslot.
When to book: Reserve your tickets 1–2 weeks in advance for weekends, holidays, and popular temporary exhibitions to avoid missing out.
Best upgrade: Join a shared or private guided tour in English or French for expert insights into the museum's collections and selected temporary exhibitions.

🗺️ Plan your visit to Musée Carnavalet >>

Compare your Musée Carnavalet ticket options

Ticket Type	Includes	Why pick this	Best for	Price from
Carnavalet Museum & Current Exhibition Tickets	Entry to the Madame de Sévigné exhibition + permanent collections	Experience the museum's headline temporary exhibition while exploring 2,000 years of Parisian history	Art lovers, first-time visitors	€15
Guided Tour	Museum entry + shared/private guided tour in English or French + permanent collections	Discover the stories behind Paris' history with expert commentary and skip researching on your own	Culture enthusiasts, first-time visitors	€100
Marais Food Tour + Exhibition	Self-guided Marais food tour + Madame de Sévigné exhibition + permanent collections	Pair Parisian history with the flavours of Le Marais for a unique cultural experience	Foodies, independent travellers	€27
Carnavalet + Picasso Museum	Entry to the Madame de Sévigné exhibition + Picasso Museum	Explore two museums showcasing Parisian history and modern art in one value-packed combo	Museum lovers	€31
Carnavalet + Musée d'Orsay	Entry to the Madame de Sévigné exhibition + Musée d'Orsay	Combine Paris' history with world-famous Impressionist masterpieces	Art enthusiasts	€45
Carnavalet + Seine River Cruise	Entry to the Madame de Sévigné exhibition + Seine sightseeing cruise	Experience Paris from both its historic streets and the Seine	Couples, first-time visitors	€36
Carnavalet + Eiffel Tower Guided Tour	Entry to the Madame de Sévigné exhibition + guided Eiffel Tower tour	Tick off two iconic Paris experiences while saving with a combo	First-time visitors, families	€47

What to expect on your Musée Carnavalet visit

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Step into Paris’ oldest museum

Enter the Musée Carnavalet, set across two adjoining historic mansions. As you walk in, expect high ceilings, molded cornices, parquet floors, and an atmosphere that immediately immerses you in centuries of Parisian history.

Wander through charming courtyards

Begin your visit by strolling through the cobblestone courtyards and manicured gardens, perfect for getting a feel of the museum’s old-world charm before you explore its collections.

Start underground: Explore ancient Paris

Head first to the basement galleries, where archaeological excavations introduce you to Paris from the Mesolithic and Neolithic Eras to early medieval times. Don’t miss the scale model of the island—a fascinating look at how the city began.

Move through centuries of Parisian life

Continue to Level 1, where Paris transforms before your eyes. Explore artworks and objects from the 19th century to the present, including the era of Napoleon III, Haussmann’s grand redesign, the Belle Époque, and the rise of modern Paris.

Step into revolutionary Paris

On Level 2, discover paintings and sculptures shaped by the spirit of 1789. These galleries offer an evocative look at France’s revolutionary fervor and the artistic responses to it.

If you have an exhibition ticket, don’t miss these

The museum frequently hosts notable temporary shows. If you’ve purchased access, make time for the current exhibitions:

Madame de Sévigné
9 April 2026 – 23 August 2026
Celebrate the 400th anniversary of one of France's most celebrated letter writers through more than 200 paintings, manuscripts, decorative objects, and rare works that reveal the life, legacy, and literary influence of Madame de Sévigné.
Visages Parisiens
17 Jun 2025 – 13 Sept 2026
An exploration of Parisian identity through portraits, faces, and everyday characters.

Book your ticket to temporary exhibition here

Wrap up with a slow stroll

End your visit by circling back through the courtyards or browsing the boutique, soaking in the feeling of having walked through 2,000 years of Parisian history under one roof.

Things to know before booking your tickets to Musée Carnavalet

Entry to the general collection of the Museum and the permanent exhibits is free.
Don't miss out on the Museum's temporary exhibits! These need you to purchase a ticket and you can find the tickets for the current exhibit about the French Revolution.
If you are a job-seeker or on minimum wage, you can explore the Musée Carnavalet for free. Just carry your proof of status. Disabled guests enjoy free entry as well.
Groups are required to book online for a free entry to the museum and its temporary exhibitions, with a reservation fee from €15 to €30 depending on the group size.
Groups of people under 26 years of age, students, social groups, and groups of disabled visitors or those from hospitals, retirement homes, and specialized institutions enjoy free entry to the museum.

Looking for deeper insights?

The Musée Carnavalet also offers shared and private guided tours in English and French, covering both the permanent collections and selected temporary exhibitions.

Sculpture of Louis XIV at Musée Carnavalet, Paris, with ornate building facade.

Popular highlights of Musee Carnavalet's collection

Madame de Sévigné’s Writing Desk

Marvel at the personal writing desk of Madame de Sévigné, one of the most celebrated figures of 17th-century Paris. Located on the first floor of the museum, the letters she wrote her daughter shed light on Parisian society during this era.

Sculpture of Louis XIV (1643-1715)

This majestic statue of Louis XIV from the 17th century is located on the first floor, is a rare survivor of the French Revolution. The king is depicted in a classical style, wearing a Roman breastplate and cloak. Originally displayed at the Paris City Hall, the statue now graces the Carnavalet Museum sine 1890, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Sun King's era.

Woodwork from the Villacerf Cabinet

This piece located on the first floor features 17th-century wood paneling from the study of the Colbert de Villacerf mansion, reinstalled in the Carnavalet Museum around 1914. This is a an example of the “French wood paneling” style with an innovative coved ceiling instead of the traditional beams. It also includes fanciful imagery that blends human figures with animals and plants.

Grotesque heads from Pont-Neuf

Located in the basement collection of the medieval relics, this piece is from the old Pont Neuf bridge built between 15th and 16th century to alleviate traffic congestion. The bridge was decorated with 381 different Mascarons like this one, featuring the heads of mythological divinities believed to ward off evil spirits.

Current exhibitions

Madame de Sévigné

Marking the 400th anniversary of one of France's most celebrated letter writers, this exhibition explores the life, legacy, and enduring influence of Madame de Sévigné through paintings, manuscripts, decorative arts, and rare personal objects.

Details:

Dates: 9 April 2026 – 23 August 2026
Theme: Literature, 17th-century France, and the art of letter writing
Highlights: Over 200 paintings, manuscripts, drawings, decorative objects, and archival pieces celebrating Madame de Sévigné's remarkable life and correspondence

Visages Parisiens

A contemporary exploration of Parisian identity, this exhibition looks at how artists capture the faces, moods, and daily life of today’s city through photography and visual art.

Details:

Dates: 17 June 2025 – 13 September 2026
Theme: Contemporary portraiture and the spirit of modern Paris
Highlights: Works by international artists, reflections on anonymity, community, and urban life

Continue your art journey across Paris

After exploring Musée Carnavalet's exhibitions, discover even more artistic treasures at the Musée d'Orsay. See two iconic museums with one value-packed combo ticket.

Orsay Museum facade along the Seine River in Paris.

Plan your visit to the Musée Carnavalet

Carnavalet Museum exhibition with historical portraits and artifacts in Paris.

The Musée Carnavalet is open at the following times:

Tuesdays to Sundays - 10am — 6pm
Last entry is at 5:15pm.
The exhibition rooms close at 5:45pm.
Late openings are until 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
The exhibition rooms close at 5pm on December 24 and 31
The museum is closed on: January 1, May 1, and December 25

More about museum's opening hours

Person navigating map on smartphone outdoors.

The museum provides a free app to explore all 5 sections chronologically. It highlights the best pieces and areas.
Cloakrooms are available at the venue to store luggage.

Girl in a wheelchair holding a smartphone on a city sidewalk.

The venue is wheelchair-accessible.
Wheelchairs can be hired free of charge at the museum reception.
The museum offers regular guided tours in French sign language for deaf visitors.

Courtyard of Carnavalet Museum in Paris with historic statue and ornate architecture.

Enter through the main courtyard to enjoy the architecture before heading into the galleries.
Start in the basement to follow the museum’s historical timeline in order—from ancient Paris upward.
Allocate at least 1.5–2 hours if you’re only doing the permanent collection; add more time for temporary exhibitions.
Visit early in the morning or just after lunch for the quietest experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the museum spans two mansions and multiple floors.
Don’t skip the courtyards and gardens; they’re some of the most atmospheric parts of the visit.

Places to visit near Musée Carnavalet

Place des Vosges courtyard with fountain and historic buildings in Paris, France.

Situated 280 meters from the museum, this historic square is a beautiful place to admire the architecture at the Pavillon du Roi and the Pavillon de la Reine, and people-watch.
Visit the Maison de Victor Hugo located within the square and explore insights into the life and work of the famous French writer.

Plan your visit to Carnavalet Museum

Hotel de Sully courtyard with manicured hedges and historic architecture, Paris.

The 17th-century mansion, a masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture with its impressive facade and beautiful gardens, is located 600 meters from the museum.
The Marais district, a haven for independent boutiques, art galleries, and mouthwatering bakeries, invites you to wander its charming streets.
Don't miss the Musée Picasso, situated nearby, featuring an extensive collection of Picasso's masterpieces.

Centre Pompidou in Paris with its colorful exterior and surrounding cityscape.

Perfect for art buffs, this iconic museum houses a vast collection of 20th and 21st-century art, including works by Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol.
Walk less than 3km, and take the elevator to the top floor for stunning views of Paris.
Visit the rooftop restaurant and enjoy a meal with breathtaking views of the city.

Frequently asked questions about Musée Carnavalet

The Musée Carnavalet is dedicated to the history of Paris, showcasing collections spanning prehistoric times to the 20th century, including artifacts, art, and interactive displays.

Experience the best of Musee Carnavalet

Carnavalet Museum Tickets: Permanent & Temporary Exhibitions

Carnavalet Museum Guided Tour

Combo (Save 5%): Carnavalet Museum & Picasso Museum Direct Entry Tickets

Carnavalet Museum & Marais Food Tour

Carnavalet Museum & Seine River Sightseeing Cruise Experience

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour with Summit Access & Carnavalet Museum Direct Entry

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Carnavalet Museum & Orsay Museum Entry Tickets with Audioguide

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour + Palais Galliera Tickets

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Top things to do in Paris

How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

We curate the best ways to experience

Visiting Musée Carnavalet

Compare your Musée Carnavalet ticket options

What to expect on your Musée Carnavalet visit

Step into Paris’ oldest museum

Wander through charming courtyards

Start underground: Explore ancient Paris

Move through centuries of Parisian life

Step into revolutionary Paris

If you have an exhibition ticket, don’t miss these

Wrap up with a slow stroll

Things to know before booking your tickets to Musée Carnavalet

Popular highlights of Musee Carnavalet's collection

Madame de Sévigné’s Writing Desk

Sculpture of Louis XIV (1643-1715)

Woodwork from the Villacerf Cabinet

Grotesque heads from Pont-Neuf

Current exhibitions

Madame de Sévigné

Visages Parisiens

Plan your visit to the Musée Carnavalet

Places to visit near Musée Carnavalet

Frequently asked questions about Musée Carnavalet

What is the Musée Carnavalet known for?

How much time should I plan for a visit?

What interactive experiences are available?

Does the museum have a restaurant or café?

What ticket options are available?

Are there any restrictions on photography?

What’s the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

What languages are available for the tours and displays?

More reads

Plan your visit

About

Directions

Sculpture of Louis XIV (1643-1715)

Woodwork from the Villacerf Cabinet

Grotesque heads from Pont-Neuf

Madame de Sévigné

Visages Parisiens

Plan your visit

About

Directions

Madame de Sévigné’s Writing Desk

Experience the best of Musee Carnavalet

Top things to do in Paris

Carnavalet Museum Tickets: Permanent & Temporary Exhibitions

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Carnavalet Museum Guided Tour

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Combo (Save 5%): Carnavalet Museum & Picasso Museum Direct Entry Tickets

Carnavalet Museum & Marais Food Tour

What to bring

Additional information

Carnavalet Museum & Seine River Sightseeing Cruise Experience

What to bring