In the Parc de la Villette in Paris’s 19th arrondissement, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie turns science into hands-on experiences for children and adults. Its exhibitions cover subjects from space and robotics to mathematics, genetics and communication. You can try interactive simulations, visit the Argonaute submarine and explore astronomy in the planetarium. Families can also head to the Cité des Enfants, which has areas for different age groups. Allow at least half a day to explore this large museum; some exhibits have limited English translations, and planetarium shows are mostly in French.
Science you can explore
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is in Parc de la Villette, in Paris’s 19th arrondissement. Its purpose is to make science and technology accessible through interactive displays and activities, with subjects ranging from physics and engineering to human anatomy, media and space exploration.
The permanent exhibition area, Explora, spans two upper floors. Its themes include space, life, matter and communication. Exhibits bring those subjects to life with models of satellites, aircraft and robots, alongside interactive experiences. The museum also has optical-illusion activities, including a delayed camera, and ways to create or see images in three dimensions.
Rather than moving through a collection of objects alone, you can take part in simulations and experiments. The mathematics section includes an activity that demonstrates rotating reference frames. Other experiences have included a simulated space-flight take-off and an exhibit on weightlessness; check ahead if a particular simulation is a priority, as availability can change.
The Argonaute and the planetarium
The Argonaute is a real diesel submarine displayed inside the museum. Its presence gives a visit focused on scientific concepts a tangible point of contrast: here, you can explore a vessel built for underwater navigation.
At the planetarium, shows introduce astronomy and the universe. Most are in French, so language may affect how much you get from a presentation. The museum also has a large-format cinema, the Géode, where films have covered scientific subjects and the natural world. Check current programming before planning your visit around a particular show or film.
Temporary exhibitions and activities add to the permanent displays. Past subjects have included robots and crowds, and the program can include workshops for children. The mix means you can choose a route around a particular interest instead of trying to see everything in one visit.
Planning a family visit
The Cité des Enfants has hands-on areas for children in different age groups. Activities for younger children encourage them to experiment with materials and elements such as water and air. Areas for older children include games and practical activities. Check the museum’s current program for which spaces are open and whether an activity needs to be booked.
Families can build a visit around the children’s areas, then add exhibitions that suit the group’s interests. The museum covers a wide range of subjects, so adults and older children can explore topics such as robotics, genetics, mathematics and communication alongside the younger visitors’ activities.
This is a substantial museum, and a short stop is unlikely to cover much of it. Plan for at least half a day if you want time for several exhibitions and an activity. Weekdays or other off-peak times can help you avoid some of the weekend crowds. If you do not speak French, prepare for some displays to offer limited English, and check the language of any planetarium show you hope to attend.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should you spend at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie?
Plan for at least half a day. The museum has many exhibitions and activities that can take several hours to explore.
Is the Cité des Sciences suitable for children?
Yes. The Cité des Enfants has hands-on areas designed for different age groups, and the museum’s wider exhibitions cover subjects including space, robotics and mathematics.
Are the planetarium shows in English?
Most planetarium shows are in French. Check the current program for details before choosing a show.
Are the exhibits available in English?
Some exhibits have limited English translations, so you may want a translation app if you do not speak French.
