At 47 Rue Raynouard in Passy, Maison de Balzac is the former home of the French novelist Honoré de Balzac and a small museum devoted to his life and work. See manuscripts, letters, drawings, sculptures and personal objects, including his writing desk. Balzac worked here on La Comédie Humaine, and the garden adds a quiet place to sit with views of the Eiffel Tower. The permanent visit is free; a café is also set beside the garden.
Balzac’s home in Passy
Honoré de Balzac lived at Maison de Balzac from 1840 to 1847. He rented the apartment while trying to escape creditors, and worked there on La Comédie Humaine. The house is the only one of his Paris residences that remains.
The rooms and displays focus on Balzac’s life and writing. Manuscripts, letters, journals, first editions, portraits, drawings and personal objects offer a close look at his work and the people around him. The collection also includes portraits of Mme Hanska, with whom Balzac corresponded for years before they married.
The study and the collection
Look for Balzac’s writing desk and chair, along with manuscripts and drafts that show different stages of his work. The displays also include illustrations and sketches of characters from his novels, as well as books about the author and his writing.
Exhibition labels are mainly in French, though some have English explanations. If you are new to Balzac, the objects and manuscripts still give a sense of the scale of his literary work; readers of La Comédie Humaine can connect the rooms with the books he worked on here.
The garden and café
The garden is a peaceful place to sit after visiting the house, with flowers, plants and views towards the Eiffel Tower. The café has outdoor seating beside the garden, making it a convenient stop for a coffee break.
Balzac’s coffee is not served at the café. It is available for purchase in the upper boutique, so plan on a regular café stop if you want to sit outside.
Planning your visit
The museum is at 47 Rue Raynouard in the 16th arrondissement. Admission to the permanent collection is free; temporary exhibitions may have a charge. The museum is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm.
You enter through a modern book and gift shop. From there, steps or a lift lead to the garden level and the original house. Booking ahead is recommended, particularly if you intend to visit a ticketed exhibition.
FAQ
Is Maison de Balzac free to visit?
The permanent collection is free. Temporary exhibitions may charge admission.
How long should I spend at Maison de Balzac?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for the house and garden.
What can you see inside Maison de Balzac?
The collection includes manuscripts, letters, drawings, portraits and personal objects, as well as Balzac’s writing desk and chair.
Can you try Balzac’s coffee at the café?
No. Balzac’s coffee is sold in the upper boutique, not served at the garden café.
