Cluny Museum: reviews, price and practical tips

+29
recs
4.8/5 5 reviews
28 rue du Sommerard, 75005 Paris, France
28 rue du Sommerard, 75005 Paris, France
Included in the Paris Museum Pass (from $102*)
Booking recommended
Book now
La Dame à la licorne au Musée de Cluny

Visiting the Cluny Museum, a deep dive into medieval Paris

Right in the heart of the Quartier Latin, the Cluny Museum, officially known as the Musée national du Moyen Âge, offers a unique window into over a thousand years of history. Housed in a historic building, it brings together Gallo-Roman ruins and flamboyant Gothic architecture.

A place steeped in history

The museum occupies an exceptional site: the former hôtel des abbés de Cluny, built in the 15th century, right next to the ruins of the Gallo-Roman baths of Lutetia. This one-of-a-kind complex tells a major chapter of the history of Paris on its own. The frigidarium hall, a vast vaulted nave dating from the 1st century, is still open to visitors today. The architecture of the main building, complete with turrets, stained glass windows, and monumental fireplaces, makes the trip worthwhile on its own.

Rich and iconic collections

The Cluny Museum holds one of the finest collections of medieval art in Europe. Among the most famous pieces is the tapestry of La Dame à la licorne, an allegorical cycle in six panels woven in the late 15th century. You will also find stained glass from the Sainte-Chapelle, sculptures originating from Notre-Dame de Paris, and a series of liturgical objects, goldsmith work, and carved ivories. Art history enthusiasts will appreciate the variety and intricate detail of the displayed works.

A reimagined layout

Following several years of renovation, the museum reopened in 2022 with a redesigned, more intuitive visitor path. The ground floor focuses on ancient and medieval Paris, while the upper floors invite you to explore the collections through a thematic and chronological lens.

A small medieval garden, open in warm weather, lets you extend your visit in a quiet setting. Temporary exhibitions also keep the schedule active throughout the year.

Included in the Paris Museum Pass (from $102*)Booking recommended
Check availability

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 09:30-18:15
Wednesday 09:30-18:15
Thursday 09:30-18:15
Friday 09:30-18:15
Saturday 09:30-18:15
Sunday 09:30-18:15

Hours data: © OpenStreetMap contributors

Hours are indicative and subject to change

*Information subject to change

Reviews of the Cluny Museum

Summary of 5 reviews
4.8/5
Average rating
+29 recs +29 -0 Score weighted by contributor expertise level: a recommendation from a level 3 member counts as 3.
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.6
As a couple
4.8
With friends
5

Avygeo ranking

#61
in the world
#59
in Europe
#36
in France
#21
in Paris

The Lady and the Unicorn in person!

The Cluny Museum is a must-see for anyone who loves the Middle Ages. The building itself is built next to Gallo-Roman baths and therefore has a unique charm. The collection is not very large, but the Lady and the Unicorn is really worth a look. A pleasant experience in the heart of Paris.

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A beautiful renovation

I finally had the chance to discover the Cluny Museum after its long closure and I am not disappointed. It is the perfect place to discover medieval art in all its forms. Of course, The Lady and the Unicorn tapestry is sumptuous.

75
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Medieval treasures

For me, this is one of the most interesting museums in Paris. It features the magnificent Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, but also many other treasures, notably some very beautiful stained glass from Sainte-Chapelle and the golden rose that I would have loved to take home with me. Just recently renovated, Cluny offers a very pleasant layout, with well-organized spaces and a cute gift shop. It also hosts exciting temporary exhibitions. I am really looking forward to the one dedicated to unicorns that starts soon.

19
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The Middle Ages come to life

The highlight of the exhibit: the stunning Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, which represent the five senses and a sixth, more mysterious one. They are worth the trip all on their own! But that is not all, as you will also find superb objects that shed light on an era that we sometimes think of as dark and violent. The gift shop also offers some very original merchandise.

18
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Cluny Museum, a treasure in the heart of the Latin Quarter

The museum has had a makeover after being closed for ten years, and it is really worth it. Built on the Cluny thermal baths, the National Museum of the Middle Ages is packed with treasures, including The Lady and the Unicorn tapestry. It is best to visit in the morning right when it opens to avoid the tour groups. I recommend using the audio guide to really grasp all the riches of this museum, which remains my favorite in Paris.

19
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