The Louvre and the Pompidou Centre are far from being the only museums in Paris. The city has many lesser known, often private, museums that are well worth going out of your way to visit.
Another quirky place to visit is the Musée des Egouts comprising the largest network of sewers in the world, showing what Paris looks like below ground. The other major underground attraction, the Paris Catacombs dating from Roman times, is a labyrinthine network housing the remains of more than six million Parisians transferred here from the city’s cemeteries. The Catacombs draw a constant stream of visitors, though only 200 people are allowed inside at a time.
There is a completely different atmosphere at the Musée des Arts Forains, where visitors can relive the experience of a 19th-century funfair and learn how to restore an ancient merry-go-round. Natural history fans are invited to explore the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature with its unique collection of paintings and stuffed animals from all over the world. On the other side of the capital, in the 8th arrondissement, the Maison Elysée has an exhibition space showcasing historical objects linked to the presidency. This venue embodies the elegance and cultural heritage of the Republic.
Finally, Paris pays tribute to the age old art of perfume making. The Musée du Parfum Fragonard recreates the atmosphere of a 19th-century perfume factory for visitors. For fashion lovers, the Galerie Dior, located in the heart of the 8th arrondissement, is a tribute to the bold vision of Christian Dior and his six successors. A symbol of Parisian haute couture.
