Musée Grévin

Musée Grévin, established in 1882, showcases over 200 wax figures of celebrities and historical figures in a historic Parisian setting.

Planning your visit

Musée Grévin opened in 1882, founded by a newspaper director who wanted readers to see the faces of the people they read about, in the era before photographs were routinely printed. That origin gives it a claim the modern waxwork chains cannot make: it is a Parisian institution rather than an import, and it holds over 200 figures across French history, politics, sport, cinema and music alongside international celebrities.

The building is the reason to go even if the figures leave you cold. The Palais des Mirages — a hall of mirrors and shifting light created for the 1900 Universal Exposition and moved here — still operates, transforming the room through Indian temple, jungle and Alhambra scenes. The Grand Theatre and the baroque Hall of Columns are period interiors of real quality, with painted ceilings and gilt.

It sits on the Grands Boulevards in the 9th arrondissement, close to the Opéra.

Bookable options include entry tickets and combination formats pairing the museum with a Seine river cruise. It works well with children and as an indoor option in poor weather. Current availability is listed below.