Guimet Museum (Musée Guimet)

The Basics

Part of the Musée National des Arts Asiatiques (alongside two other Paris institutions: the Hôtel d’Heidelbach and the Musée d’Ennery), the Guimet Museum opened in Lyon, following Guimet’s travels in the Far East. After moving to Paris in 1889, the collection grew to include a broader range of exhibits. The Guimet Museumis conveniently included in the Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass schemes, each of which can save travelers time and money on sightseeing.

Things to Know Before You Go

• All ticket purchases at the Guimet Museumentitle you to a second visit within 14 days of the original visit.

• On the first Sunday of each month, admission to the museum is free.

• The Guimet Museumoffers an on-site restaurant, bookstore, and shop.

• The museum is fully accessible to visitors with limited mobility.

How to Get There

Located in Paris’ elegant 16th arrondissement, the Guimet Museumcan be reached by numerous forms of transportation. Take Métro line 9 to Iéna, located just steps away. The museum is also served by bus Nos. 22, 30, 32, 63, and 83, and can be reached by taxi, Vélib’ bike, or on foot.

When to Get There

The Guimet Museum is open every day but Tuesday. The museum is closed each year on Dec. 25, Jan. 1, and May 1.

Activities at the Musée National des Arts Asiatiques – Guimet

The Guimet Museumhosts a number of workshops throughout the year, which range from origami and calligraphy classes to lessons in ceramics, as well as family classes and activities. The Hôtel d’Heidelbach, part of the Musée National des Arts Asiatiques – Guimet, hosts Japanese tea ceremonies throughout the year.

Ways to explore

Tickets for the Guimet Museum include access to all temporary exhibitions and to the adjacent Hôtel d’Heidelbach, which exhibits Imperial Chinese furniture and items related to the art of tea. The museum’s other sister venue, Musée d’Ennery, which holds a collection of artworks and artifacts from Japan, is only accessible by reservation.

The Guimet Museum is included in several Paris museum and sightseeing passes, which can be a great budget option if you’re planning to visit multiple institutions and attractions across the city. Don’t miss views of the Eiffel Tower from its terrace, too.

Accessibility

The museum is wheelchair accessible via ramps and elevators. Wheelchairs are available for loan. Service dogs are welcome. Note that the Hôtel d’Heidelbach and the Musée d’Ennery are not accessible to visitors with limited mobility.

Age limits

None; under 18s receive free entry.

What to pack

Bring only essentials in a small bag.

What to wear

Dress comfortably as you’ll be walking around a lot. In the summer, bring a light layer to keep comfortable in the air-conditioned galleries.

Not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, touching the art, non-folding back baby carriers, flash photography

Amenities

Gift store, restaurant, rooftop terrace, bag check, baby-changing facilities, restrooms

Address

The Guimet Museum is on Place d’Iéna in Paris’ 16th arrondissement. It’s easy to reach by public transport via multiple metro or bus lines.

Driving

Heavy Parisian traffic typically makes driving challenging. Hail a taxi or book a rideshare instead.

Public transportation

Iéna station is a 2-minute walk, served by metro line 9; Boissière is a 5‑minute walk, served by line 6; and Pont de l'Alma is on RER C, and is 10 minutes on foot. Bus routes 32, 63, and 82 stop at Iéna.

Best times to visit

The museum is typically quietest in the morning, soon after opening at 10am. The admission desk closes 45 minutes before closing time, which is typically at 6pm daily.

Best days to visit

The Guimet Museum is closed on Tuesdays, but open every other day. Free entry is offered on the first Sunday of the month. On Saturday, you can also visit the Musée d’Ennery (with a reservation).

Best months to visit

Visit during the summer to best enjoy the views from the terrace, and to visit the rooftop bar and restaurant, which is only open in the summer months.

Special events

The museum’s Jean-François Jarrige Auditorium hosts film screenings, concerts, lectures, and more. Check the museum’s calendar for details.