Visiting Musée Carnavalet: The Best Hidden Courtyard in Paris
What is Musée Carnavalet?
Are you looking for free things to do in Paris? You need to visit this beautiful museum when you’re in the city. Musée Carnavalet is one of the oldest museums in Paris, showcasing the rich history of the capital. Since you are visiting, you might as well learn about this iconic city! It’s my favorite museum in Paris, and for good reason.
It has the most beautiful courtyard that is a must-visit after you’ve explored the art rooms. It’s such a gem, and I won’t gatekeep it here! This museum truly is a hidden oasis in the heart of Le Marais.
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The Secret courtyard of Musée Carnavalet
The Architecture and Statues
The building itself is stunning, from the indoor exhibits to the outdoor courtyard. Just when you think you’ve seen the best of it, the courtyard delivers elegance on a whole new level.
The On-Site Café: Coffee in a Parisian Garden
The onsite restaurant, Joli, is a chic, beautifully designed space that serves classic French cuisine and signature cocktails, the perfect way to start your dining experience. It’s highly recommended to book a table here in advance! on Joli restaurant. Next to Joil, is the cafe where you can order drinks and have them in the courtyard. The small tables in the courtyard can be sat on without any reservations. But if you fancy a meal, book a table at Joli restaurant.
There are plenty of quiet corners in the courtyard where you can sit, admire the stunning architecture, or enjoy a drink. However, on very hot days, finding shade can be a challenge since there are no umbrellas over the small garden tables.
How to Visit Musée Carnavalet
- Entry to the museum and courtyard are completely free.
- The collection rooms are free entry unless there is a private exhibition for which you’d need a ticket.
- Location/Getting There: the closest metro stations are Saint-Paul or Chemin Vert.
- Best Time to Visit: the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm. The best times are when it opens or 2 hours before close time.
The art collections inside Musée Carnavalet
Is Musée Carnavalet Worth Visiting?
Absolute yes! As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, this is my go-to place when I want to escape the busy crowds and major tourist attractions in Paris. Musée Carnavalet is a true hidden gem, it has the most beautiful hidden courtyard in Paris. It also happens to be one of the best free things to do in Paris! You can admire wonderful art and learn about local history, all while having a quiet courtyard to sit in and take in the view.
Whenever I’m in Paris, I always make a stop at Musée Carnavalet and once you visit, it will draw you back every single time you return to the city.
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Travellers Stays
Travellers Stays is a travel blog by a solo female traveler, sharing travel guides, honest hotel reviews and solo tips to help readers plan unforgettable trips.
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