The best museums to visit in Paris with your students
Paris, the city of love and lights, is home to several iconic landmarks. Among its wide variety of attractions, the city proudly hosts some of the world's best museums, offering students a unique window into the past and present.
Whether you’re planning a primary school trip to Paris, or simply searching for ideal destinations to take your high school students, we’ve got you covered! Here are our top picks of the best museums in Paris.
Musée du Louvre
No school tour is complete without a trip to the Musée du Louvre. As one of the world's largest and most visited art museums in Paris, this former royal palace houses an extensive collection of art and artefacts. From the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa to the majestic Winged Victory of Samothrace and the timeless elegance of Venus de Milo, every exhibit within the Louvre ignites curiosity and sparks creativity.
Musée d'Orsay
Next on our list is the charming Musée d'Orsay, nestled along the banks of the Seine. Housed in a former railway station, this museum is a celebration of the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements. Students on an art and design trip to Paris can marvel at works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas, gaining insight into the revolutionary spirit that defined 19th-century art. With its world-class collection, the Musée d'Orsay offers a delightful blend of beauty and history. Fun fact: The Musée d'Orsay was also the venue for Olympic events at the 1900 and 1924 Games.
The Petit & Grand Palais
In the heart of Paris lies the splendid Petit and Grand Palais, twin palatial structures designed by Charles Girault for the World’s Fair of 1900 that stand as iconic symbols of French architecture. While the Grand Palais hosts temporary exhibitions of modern art and serves as the main venue for Chanel fashion runway shows, the Petit Palais offers a glimpse into Parisian life through its permanent collection of fine arts. With their ornate facades and opulent interiors, these palaces provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for educational exploration on cultural trips to Paris.
Mémorial de la Shoah
Delving into Paris's poignant history, the Mémorial de la Shoah is a solemn tribute to the memory of the Holocaust and the millions of lives lost during one of humanity's darkest periods. Through various exhibitions, documentaries, survivor testimonies, and educational workshops, students on a history trip to Paris can gain a deeper understanding of the Holocaust's impact on individuals, communities, and the world at large. Here, they’ll learn the importance of fighting intolerance, prejudice, and injustice in all forms.
Musée Carnavalet
The journey through Parisian history continues at the Musée Carnavalet. Housed in two stately mansions in the Marais district, this museum provides students a glimpse into the city's evolution, from its medieval origins to the present day. As one of the best history museums in Paris, students can explore recreated period rooms, archaeological artefacts and historical documents dating all the way back to the Gallo-Roman period in its elegant orangery.
Musée d'Archéologie Nationale
Finally, one of the best museums in Paris to visit with your students is the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale. Located just outside Paris in the picturesque town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, this museum invites students to explore its archaeological treasures spanning thousands of years. From Gallic artefacts to intricately sculpted prehistoric art, such as the female head of Brassempouy, the museum's diverse collection sheds light on France's ancient past, making it the perfect destination for students on a history or geography school trip to Paris.
Visit the best museums in Paris with NST
Ready to embark on an unforgettable educational trip to Paris? Let us help you plan the ultimate school trip, complete with visits to the city's finest museums. Contact us today to discuss your requirements. We’re always happy to help!
