Maison Gainsbourg brings together Serge Gainsbourg’s preserved home at 5 bis Rue de Verneuil and a museum at 14 Rue de Verneuil in Paris. In the house, original objects remain in place, and Charlotte Gainsbourg’s narration guides you from room to room. The museum across the street adds photographs, memorabilia and video about his life, family and musical collaborators. It is a personal visit for anyone interested in Gainsbourg’s work and home; book ahead, since house tickets are limited and can sell out.
A preserved home on Rue de Verneuil
Maison Gainsbourg occupies two sites on Rue de Verneuil: Serge Gainsbourg’s former home at 5 bis and a museum at number 14. The house preserves its rooms and original objects as they remained after Gainsbourg’s death in 1991. The visit focuses on the home itself and the details left in place, rather than on a conventional display with interpretation panels in each room. Charlotte Gainsbourg’s recorded narration provides context as you move through the house. The visit is timed, and the narration is arranged room by room. Allow about 30 minutes for this part of the experience.
The museum across the street
The museum complements the house with photographs, personal memorabilia and video. Its material covers Gainsbourg’s life, family and collaborators, giving visitors a wider view of the artist beyond the preserved rooms. The exhibition includes labelled objects, though the labels are in French. English audio guides are available. The museum’s display space is narrow, with exhibits and screens along the route. It can feel crowded when people pause to read or watch, so allow time to move through at your own pace.
Booking and visiting the house
Tickets for the house are limited, and advance booking is recommended. They are released every two months through the official website. Check the booking details before setting out, as access is timed and entry may not be available without a reservation. Photography is prohibited inside the house; exterior photographs are allowed. Reading about Serge Gainsbourg beforehand can help you follow the context of the rooms and objects. The two sites are across the street from one another, so you can include both in the same visit.
Häufige Fragen
Do you need to book Maison Gainsbourg in advance?
Yes. House tickets are limited and advance booking is recommended. Tickets are released every two months through the official website.
How long does a visit to the house take?
The house visit lasts about 30 minutes. The museum across the street is a separate part of the visit.
Can you take photos inside Maison Gainsbourg?
No. Photography is not permitted inside the house, but you can take photos outside.
Are English audio guides available?
Yes. English audio guides are available for the visit.
