Musée Grévin is a wax museum at 10 Boulevard Montmartre in Paris, with figures from French history, international entertainment, sport and politics. Its visit starts with a show before continuing as a self-guided walk through staged scenes and interactive displays. The ornate rooms and theatrical lighting add more to see than the figures alone, while props make it easy to pose for photos. Plan around 1.5 to 2 hours, especially if you want time to explore the exhibits at your own pace.
A wax museum opened in 1882
Musée Grévin opened in 1882, following the arrival of Madame Tussauds in London. Its collection brings together French historical figures and personalities from entertainment, sport and politics, with international celebrities alongside them.
The exhibits are arranged in themed scenes rather than presented only as a line of figures. Historical settings sit alongside more recent cultural references, giving the museum a broad sweep across different periods and subjects.
Scenes, mirrors and photo stops
The museum uses sets, lighting and sound to give its rooms a theatrical feel. One section recreates notable moments from the 20th century, including Neil Armstrong walking on the moon. The scene is in a small gallery near the end of the route, reached by a spiral staircase.
The hall of mirrors is another distinct part of the visit. Its mirrored settings include an Aztec temple, and music accompanies the changing visual effects. Elsewhere, props and interactive displays give you chances to pose with the figures and take photographs.
How the visit works
A show opens the experience, followed by a self-guided route through the museum. This lets you move between the scenes at your own pace and stop for photographs. Near the end, a small gallery explains how wax figures are made.
The mix of historical scenes, celebrities and fictional characters can suit families as well as adults interested in the figures or the museum’s presentation. Children’s guided tours for ages seven to 12 are described as taking place on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays during term time, in French.
FAQ
How long do you need at Musée Grévin?
Plan around 1.5 to 2 hours for the visit, including the opening show and self-guided route.
Do you need to book Musée Grévin tickets in advance?
Booking online in advance can help reduce waiting. Tickets are not tied to a specific entry time and can be used during opening hours on the selected day.
What is there to see at Musée Grévin?
The museum has wax figures of historical figures and celebrities, staged historical scenes, interactive displays and a hall of mirrors.
Are there guided tours for children?
Children’s guided tours for ages seven to 12 are described as running on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays during term time. They are in French.
