Science & technology museums in France

Les Machines de l’île is an exhibition project located in Nantes, France. It displays the mechanical creations of the performance group 'La Machine' in an exhibition hall situated in the port of Nantes. The project was founded by François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice and was inaugurated in 2007 in a large warehouse in the Loire port on the l’Ile de Nantes.

The Monaco Automobile Museum is home to a significant personal collection of a hundred restored collectible cars. These vehicles were collected over more than thirty years, reflecting the personal tastes and passion for cars of Prince Rainier III. Visitors can appreciate the meticulous restoration work and the historical value of each vehicle in the collection.

The majestic complex now serves as a museum entirely dedicated to the maritime history of the area. Well worth the climb!

The Bordeaux Submarine Base was designed to accommodate up to 30 submarines. It featured dry docks and two basins connected by locks. This impressive infrastructure showcases the strategic importance of the base during the war and provides a unique insight into the naval operations of the time.

Musée Miniature et Cinéma (the Miniature and Cinema Museum), formerly a museum of miniatures and film sets is a private museum in Lyon. The musuem is founded by the miniaturist artist Dan Ohlmann and is housed in the historic listed building of the 'Maison des avocats'. The museum holds two permanen

Lille-Saint-Sauveur, once a goods train station, has been transformed into a recreational and exhibition space. This transformation took place in 2009 during the events of Lille 3000. The station's buildings now serve as a unique venue for various activities and exhibitions, offering a unique blend of history and modernity.

The Musée National de l’Automobile - Collection Schlumpf in Mulhouse, France, is recognized as the world's largest car collection. It boasts an impressive array of 500 cars from 98 different brands, spanning from the year 1878 to the present day. This extensive collection provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of the automobile industry.

The Jules Verne Museum, located in Nantes, France, was established in 1978. It is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned writer Jules Verne, who was born in this city. The museum offers a deep dive into the world of this famous author, providing a unique opportunity to explore his life, his works, and his influence on literature and science fiction.

Le Secq des Tournelles Museum is a unique destination in Rouen, France. It is a museum dedicated to ironwork and is housed in a former church. This gives the museum a unique atmosphere, combining the historical and religious significance of the building with the artistic and practical aspects of the ironwork on display.

Learn about the way paper was produced in the 15th century. There is a museum and you can buy artisan paper and souvenirs in the gift shop.

The Cité du Train, situated in Mulhouse, France, is recognized as one of the ten largest railway museums globally. This museum is a testament to the rich history and evolution of railway technology, making it a significant destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Since 1988, the Maillé-Brézé has been a museum ship docked at the Fosse quay in the port of Nantes. It has been classified as a historical monument since 1991, making it a significant part of the city's cultural heritage.

The Musée des Blindés, also known as the Musée Général Estienne, is a renowned tank museum situated in the picturesque town of Saumur in the Loire Valley of France. This museum is a significant destination for those interested in armoured vehicles and the history of their development. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a vast collection of tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles from different periods and nations.

The Musée zoologique de la ville de Strasbourg is a renowned natural history museum that manages and displays the zoological collections of the city of Strasbourg. It is a place where visitors can explore a wide range of zoological specimens, offering a unique insight into the natural world.

The Flaubert and History of Medicine Museum is a unique cultural site located in Rouen, France. It is situated in the birthplace of the renowned French novelist Gustave Flaubert, in the former Hôtel-Dieu. This location adds a historical significance to the museum, making it a place of interest for those who appreciate literature and history.

The Delloye pit, also known as Joseph Delloye, was once a coal mine operated by the Aniche Mining Company. Located in the Nord Pas de Calais mining basin in Lewarde, this site has a rich history. After being closed for fourteen years, it was transformed into the Lewarde Mining History Centre. This transformation has allowed visitors to explore the history of mining in the region and understand the importance of this industry in the past.

The Musée de Vauluisant, also known as the Museum of Hosiery, is a museum located in Troyes, France. It is dedicated to the art of Troyes from the 16th century and the hosiery industry. The museum is housed in the Vauluisant Mansion, which is a classified historical monument. The museum offers a unique insight into the history and culture of Troyes, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in art, history, and industry.

The Hôtel de Mauroy is a private mansion situated in Troyes, France. It has been classified as a historical monument since 1862. This recognition highlights the building's historical significance and architectural beauty, making it a point of interest for tourists who appreciate history and architecture.

The Maritime and Port Museum of Dunkirk is a unique blend of maritime and societal history, housed in a building that dates back to 1868. This building, known as the Bourdon store, was once a tobacco warehouse, adding a layer of historical significance to the museum's location.

The Strasbourg Observatory, known as Observatoire astronomique de Strasbourg in French, is an astronomical observatory located in the city of Strasbourg, France. It is a significant site for astronomical research and education, and it also holds a rich history dating back to the late 19th century.

The Château de Compiègne, located in the Oise department of France, is a royal residence that was originally built for Louis XV and later restored by Napoleon. This historical site was one of three seats of royal government, the others being Versailles and Fontainebleau. Today, it is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the lives of French royalty.

The Musée du Compagnonnage is a municipal museum situated in the city of Tours. It is located to the north of the rue Nationale, a significant street in the city. This museum is a part of the city's rich cultural heritage and offers a unique insight into the history and craftsmanship of the region.

L'Exploradôme is a unique museum that specializes in making scientific and digital culture accessible to all. It was created with the aim of providing a fun approach to science, encouraging individuals to develop their own reasoning and critical thinking skills. The museum's mission is to stimulate interest in the world around us and promote better living together.

Cité de l'espace is a theme park focused on space and the conquest of space in Toulouse in France. It features full-scale models of the Ariane 5 rocket, Mir space station, and Soyuz modules and a planetarium where shows are presented. Furthermore there are (interactive) exhibits in the Cité de l'Esp

The Maritime, Fluvial and Harbour Museum of Rouen is an associative museum that offers a comprehensive history of the port of Rouen and navigation in general. It provides an in-depth look into the maritime and river navigation, making it an ideal destination for those interested in maritime history and culture.

Musée des Confluences is a science centre and anthropology museum in Lyon. It hold a collection of natural science, anthropology, and Earth Sciences and exhibits related to arts and crafts. The museum features 4 main exhibitions called 'Origins - Stories of the World', 'Species - the Web of life', '

Le Vaisseau, located in Strasbourg, is a center for scientific, technical and industrial culture (CCSTI). It is specifically designed to engage children and young people aged between 3 and 15. The center uses various means of scientific mediation to present science and technology in a fun and interactive way, allowing visitors to find the approach that suits them best.

The Musée des arts et métiers (Museum of arts and professions) is a museum in Paris that houses the collection of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers, which was founded in 1794. The museum has a collection of more than 80,000 objects, of which 40,000 are exhibited in the museum, including

The Vieux-Fort Lighthouse, also known as the Pointe du Vieux-Fort Lighthouse, is a significant landmark located at the southernmost point of Basse-Terre Island, in the territory of the commune of Vieux-Fort in Guadeloupe. This lighthouse is a key navigational aid for sailors, marking the entrance to the Basse-Terre harbor and signaling the passage of the Saintes channel in its northwest limit.

The Musée Picarvie, located in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, is a museum dedicated to showcasing the old Picard trades from the 19th century. This museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the history and culture of the Picard region during this period.

Fantastic collection of more than two hundred vintage cars and motorbikes boasting special pieces such as Hitler's Mercedes.

The Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which was first established in 1961 under the name 'Automobile Museum of Sarthe', is a French museum that is dedicated to car racing. It is conveniently located near the main entrance of the 24 Hours circuit in Le Mans. This makes it an ideal destination for tourists who are interested in the history and evolution of car racing.

The Rum Museum of Sainte-Rose, located in Guadeloupe, France, offers an in-depth explanation of the manufacturing process and cycles of rum. Visitors can gain a comprehensive understanding of how this popular spirit is produced, from the initial stages to the final product.

Le MAGASIN – Centre National d’Arts et de Cultures (CNAC) is a contemporary art museum located in Grenoble. The museum was opened in 1986 and has since been a hub for modern and contemporary art and culture.

The Museum of Time in Besançon is a unique institution that combines history and horology. It is situated in Besançon, a city renowned as the capital of watchmaking. The museum is located in the Doubs department, within the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France. This location adds to the museum's significance, as it is nestled in a region with a rich history of timekeeping and watchmaking.

Take a tour around the factory and discover how the planes are assembled and tested. You will see huge aircrafts, and also the famous A380!

The Textile and Fashion Museum of Cholet is a cultural establishment located in the city of Cholet in Maine-et-Loire. It is recognized as a "Museum of France", a label that signifies its importance and contribution to the cultural heritage of the country. The museum traces the history of the textile industry and its techniques, serving as a memory of a territory marked by the presence of textile activity.

The Grand Palais is a Beaux-Arts building that was erected for the 1900 World Exposition. Nowadays it houses many exhibitions beneath its huge Art Nouveau glass roof. The complex comprises of several separate galeries nationales (individual exhibition rooms) and also of the Palace de la Découverte,

The Living Museum of Railway is a unique destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Managed by the Association of Young People for the Maintenance and Conservation of Old Trains (AJECTA), the museum is situated in the old locomotive depot of Longueville, near the SNCF station. This location is in the Seine et Marne department, in the Île-de-France region, making it easily accessible for visitors from Paris and the surrounding areas.

The Bavay Ancient Forum is an archaeological site museum situated in the town of Bavay, in the Nord department of France. This museum allows visitors to explore the remnants of the forum and fortress, as well as a museum that traces the history of the site and more broadly, of ancient Bagacum. Today, the Bavay forum remains one of the most significant in the entire Roman world, covering more than 2.5 hectares. The site and museum are located opposite the Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church on rue de Gommeries, near the center of Bavay, at 2 allée chanoine Biévelet.

The Espace des Sciences is a center for scientific, technical and industrial culture, also known as CCSTI, which was established in 1984. It is a place where visitors can learn about various scientific, technical and industrial topics through interactive exhibits and displays.

The LAAC (Lieu d'art et action contemporaine) is a contemporary art museum located in Dunkirk. It is surrounded by a picturesque sculpture park and presents art from the period between 1940 and 1980. This museum is a great place for tourists who are interested in contemporary art and want to enjoy a peaceful walk in a beautiful park.

The Maritime Museum of La Rochelle is a unique floating museum situated in the trawler basin of the Old Port. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore three different ships, each with its own rich history and significance. In addition to the ships, the museum also has two sections on land that host a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions. These exhibitions provide further insight into maritime history and culture, making the museum a comprehensive destination for those interested in seafaring.

The institut du monde arabe (Institute of the Arab World) is a building and an organization in Paris. The building houses, among other things, the Museum of the Arab World and a library. It is part of the Grands Travaux which is the legacy of the presidency of François Mitterrand. The building was d

This workshop offers a chance to discover manufacturing techniques of the handmade statues sold here. Do not forget to get a unique souvenir!

The Palais de la découverte is a science museum in Paris that is housed in the west wing of the 19th-century Grand Palais. The museum was founded in the run-up to the Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne, which took place in Paris in 1937. There are permanent exhibits

The Ecomuseum of Saint-Nazaire is situated on the autonomous port of Nantes-Saint-Nazaire, facing the Chantiers de l'Atlantique. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of the region. The museum's location also allows for easy access for tourists visiting the area.

A group of volunteers put together one of the biggest collections of aircraft in the country. This is a must if you are a fan of planes.

The Normandy Victory Museum is a privately owned institution situated in Catz, a delegated municipality of Carentan-les-Marais, in the Manche department of Normandy. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the events of World War II, making it a significant point of interest for those visiting the region.

Make an appointment if you want to visit this institution. Its goal is to present the development of electricity and tools related to it.

The Electropolis Museum, located in the Dornach district of Mulhouse, is a significant destination for those interested in the history of electricity and household appliances. As the largest museum in Europe dedicated to these topics, it offers a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of electricity, from its earliest discoveries to its modern applications in everyday life.

The Museum of Textiles in Labastide-Rouairoux is a unique destination that offers a deep dive into the history and techniques of the textile industry in the Thoré valley. Located in the southeast of the Tarn department in the Occitanie region, the museum is a testament to the region's rich industrial heritage. Visitors can explore the evolution of the textile industry and gain insights into the techniques that have been used over the years.

Estran Cité de la Mer is a scientific and technical cultural center that is located in Dieppe. The center is focused on the theme of the Upper Normandy coast. It provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the scientific and technical aspects of the sea and fishing.

The Froissy–Dompierre narrow-gauge railway, also known as P'tit Train de la Haute Somme, is a 7 km long railway with a gauge of 600 mm. It runs from Froissy, a district of La Neuville-lès-Bray, to Dompierre-Becquincourt, passing through Cappy in the Somme department in France. This railway offers a unique experience of travelling through the beautiful landscapes of the region.

The Musée de la Mine is a unique museum located in Cagnac-les-Mines, in the Tarn region of Occitanie. The museum is situated on the site of the former Campgrand mine shaft, which was part of the Carmaux coal basin. This location gives visitors a unique insight into the history and workings of the mining industry in this region.

The Musée de la résistance et de la déportation de Picardie, located in Tergnier, Aisne, is a museum dedicated to the history of the Resistance in the Aisne department in Picardy. It is recognized as a museum of France, a designation that signifies its importance and quality.

The Nice Observatory (Observatoire de Nice), but also known as the Cote d'Azur Observatory is an astronomical observatory in Nice on the summit of Mount Gros that was founded in 1879. The architect was Charles Garnier, and Gustave Eiffel designed the main dome. It is a working astrophysics and astro

The Rosny-Rail is a railway museum situated at the Rosny-sous-Bois station in Seine-Saint-Denis. The museum offers a comprehensive exploration of various themes related to the history of railways, including tracks, signaling, rolling stock, and more. It provides a thematic and chronological breakdown of significant railway functions from the late 19th century to the present day.

The Musée des Moulins, also referred to as Molenmuseum in Dutch, is a museum situated in the Cousinerie district of Villeneuve-d'Ascq. This museum is dedicated to the art and history of milling. It is managed by the Regional Association of Friends of Mills (ARAM), a group dedicated to the preservation and promotion of milling history and technology.

La Manufacture, also known as the Museum of Memory and Textile Creation, is a museum located in Roubaix. It showcases collections that are related to the textile industry. These collections include various tools and machines that were used in the industry, many of which are regularly demonstrated. The museum also features testimonies from textile workers, providing a glimpse into the lives and experiences of those who worked in the industry.

Maison des Canuts (The House of the Canuts) is a museum in Lyon that collects and exhibits traces of Lyon's industrial development based on silk produce. The House of Canuts offers guided tours with demonstration of weaving on a loom. During guided tours, the history of Lyon silk from 1536 until tod

The Cité des enfants in paris is designed to accommodate children aged 2 to 12 at the Cité des sciences et de l'industrie. It is divided into two spaces: space for 2 to 7 years, and space for 5 to 12 years. The former space is a space for actively experimenting and exploring that offers a series of

The Lapérouse Museum is one of the seven museums in the city of Albi. It is conveniently located near the Old Bridge, next to the Tarn. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum is dedicated to the navigator Lapérouse and has been receiving nearly 12,000 visitors annually since 2010.

Since 1882, the Pic du Midi de Bigorre has been home to an observatory where the universe is studied. This observatory is a significant part of the mountain's history and offers a unique insight into the study of astronomy. Visitors to the observatory can learn about the universe and the research conducted there.

The Cité des Bateliers is a museum in Longueil-Annel, France, dedicated to the history and culture of boating. It was opened to the public in July 2000 and offers visitors a unique insight into the world of boating. The museum is located in a region known for its rich boating history, making it a significant cultural site for those interested in maritime history.

The Musée des Arts et Métiers du Livre de Montolieu was established by Michel Braibant, a passionate bookbinder and bibliophile. This museum is a testament to his love for books and the art of bookbinding, offering visitors a unique insight into the history and craft of bookmaking.

The Musée Régional des Télécommunications et de la Radio is a museum located in Marcq-en-Barœul, a city in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France. The museum is dedicated to the history and evolution of telecommunications, providing a unique insight into the development of this crucial aspect of modern life.

The National Marine Museum is the national navy museum in Paris that was founded in 1827. The museum is currently located in the Palais de Chaillot where a collection is exhibited that has the collection of Henri Louis Duhamel du Monceau from 1748 at its core, who was a French physician, naval engin

Cité des Sciences et de L'Industrie is Europe's largest science museum, located in Paris. Cité des Sciences tries to promote science and uses interactive ways of spreading knowledge. Here visitors can explore some of the permanent exhibitions such as Light Games or The Great Story of the Universe. P

The La Ferté-Alais Air Show is a yearly event that happens during the Pentecost at the Cerny airfield. This airfield is owned and operated by the 'Amicale Jean-Baptiste Salis' (AJBS). This event is a gathering of aviation enthusiasts, flight organizations, companies, and pilots from all over the world. It's a great opportunity for visitors to witness a variety of vintage aircraft displays and flight demonstrations.

The Musée de la Cour des Potiers is situated in the quaint town of Ferrière-la-Petite, in the Nord region of France. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the region's rich pottery heritage. The museum is easily accessible and provides an enriching experience for those interested in art, history, and craftsmanship.

The Dubocage de Bléville Museum is a significant cultural institution located in the city of Le Havre, in the Seine-Maritime region of France. The museum is housed in the former Dubocage de Bléville mansion, a historical building dating back to the 17th century. This provides a unique setting for the museum, adding to the overall experience of visiting.

The Departmental Forum of Sciences in Villeneuve-d'Ascq is a unique institution that specializes in the dissemination of scientific and technical culture. It is located in the Centre François Mitterrand, in the Hôtel-de-Ville district of Villeneuve-d'Ascq. The forum aims to spread scientific and technical knowledge to a wide audience, particularly children and adolescents, and to stimulate citizens' interest in societal issues related to science, research, and industry.

The Ecomusée du Creusot-Montceau is an industrial heritage museum that offers a unique insight into the region's industrial past. It is located in the territory of Creusot and Montceau-les-Mines and is owned by the Urban Community Creusot Montceau. The museum is a testament to the region's rich industrial history and is a great place for tourists interested in learning more about the area's past.

L'Aventure Michelin is a museum located in the city of Clermont-Ferrand. It offers a comprehensive insight into the history of the French company Michelin. The museum traces the development of the use of rubber for tires for various vehicles, starting from the company's inception in 1889.

The Maritime Museum of New Caledonia is a significant institution that focuses on the history of French colonial exploration in the Pacific. It provides a comprehensive insight into the maritime history of the region, making it an interesting destination for those interested in history and maritime exploration.

The Radiomuseum, known in French as Musée de la Radio, is situated in the municipality of Boeschepe, within the French Nord department. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of radio technology.

Learn more about the history and present of alpinism in this museum. Also, you can explore the local geology through interactive models.

The PLUS, a Centre for Scientific, Technical and Industrial Culture, is a part of the Urban Community of Dunkirk. It serves as a platform for sharing, observation, and questioning, aiming to engage visitors in ecological, energetic, and social transitions. The center emphasizes the importance of sustainable behaviors to preserve our planet's heritage, contributing to education for sustainable development.

The Museum of the Sea is a prominent feature of the city of Sète, situated in a prime location facing the Mediterranean Sea. It is nestled between two other significant landmarks - the marine cemetery of Sète and the Sea Theater. This strategic location offers visitors not only a rich cultural experience but also stunning views of the surrounding seascape.

The Musée Curie in Paris is a historical museum dedicated to radiological research. The museum is housed in the former laboratory of Marie Curie (a Polish and naturalized-French physicist and chemist who conducted pioneering research on radioactivity). The laboratory was built 1911-1914 and Marie Cu

The Musée des Bois Jolis is situated in the town of Felleries, in the Nord department of France. This location is important for tourists to know as it helps them plan their visit accordingly.

The Gallery of Mineralogy and Geology in paris is part of the French National Museum of Natural History, in the Jardin des plantes. The museum/gallery holds and exhibits a collection of old and important crystals, gemstones and minerals. The permanent exhibition of the Gallery of Mineralogy and Geol

The Maison des Sources is a unique destination situated in the scenic town of Mauléon-Barousse, nestled within the Hautes-Pyrénées department. The site is part of the Syndicat des Eaux Barousse-Comminges-Save, a regional water authority, which adds a unique aspect to its location.

The Moulin de la Mousquère is a significant historical site located in the commune of Sailhan, in the Hautes-Pyrénées department of the Occitanie region. This hydraulic mill is a testament to the region's rich history and its reliance on natural resources. It offers visitors a glimpse into the past and an opportunity to learn about the traditional methods of milling.

In the Soierie Vivante museum, visitors can visit the workshop to learn more about weaving techniques and experience the technique of weaving by themselves.

The Musée Pasteur (Pasteur Museum) is a museum in Paris that is dedicated to Louis Pasteur (1822-1895), who was a French biologist, microbiologist and chemist renowned for his discoveries of the principles of vaccination, microbial fermentation and pasteurization. The museum is located in the Pasteu

The Moulin-musée Wintenberger is a museum located in the town of Frévent, on the banks of the Canche. It is dedicated to preserving the agricultural memory of Ternois. The museum is a part of the town's heritage and offers a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region.

The Musée des Usines Municipales in Colmar is a unique institution that focuses on the industrial heritage associated with the city's municipal activities. These activities include water, gas, electricity, and public transport. This museum provides a fascinating insight into the city's industrial past and the evolution of its infrastructure over time.

The Musée de la Nacre et de la Tabletterie is situated in Méru, in the southern part of the Oise department in the Hauts de France region. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and craft of mother-of-pearl and tablet making. The region was once a hub for this craft, and the museum aims to keep this tradition alive.

The History of Medicine Museum in Paris (Musée d’histoire de la médecine) is a museum in Paris occupies the second floor of the Paris Descartes University. Its collections, the oldest in Europe, were brought together by professor Dean Lafaye in the 18th century, and an important collection was later

The History of Medicine Museum (Musée de l'Histoire de la Médecine) in Toulouse is housed in the Jean-de-Rudelle space, at Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques, a former hospital listed by UNESCO. The museum holds a collection of objects that originate from the second half of the 19th century to the present day

The Moulin de la Bruère is a historical mill that was constructed on the Loir river in the 14th century. It is situated near the town of La Flèche in the Sarthe department of France. This mill is a significant part of the region's history and offers a glimpse into the past.

Nestled in the countryside near Lyon, the Ampère Museum invites visitors to explore the birthplace of modern electricity — in the very house where André-Marie Ampère (1775–1836) lived and worked. Visitors can follow the evolution of electrical science, from the first experiments with static elect

The Paris Observatory (Observatoire de Paris or Observatoire de Paris-Meudon) is the most important observatory in France and one of the largest astronomy centers in the world. The historic main building is sitauted on the left bank of the Seine in the center of Paris. The observatory was establishe

The Monnaie de Paris is the national French mint. The actual production of the coins does however not take place here, but takes places in Pessac, where since 1998 the Euro is also coined. In addition to the head office, the Hôtel de la Monnaie also houses an extensive numismatic collection, the Mus

The Aeronautics and Space Museum Safran is a private museum dedicated to aeronautics, located in Réau, a town in the Melun agglomeration in France. The museum showcases a collection of aircraft engines, tracing the history of aviation from its origins to the present day. The engines on display were produced by various French engine manufacturers, such as Gnome and Rhône, and Snecma, which are now represented by the French group Safran, the creator and manager of the museum.

The Pavillon de l'eau is a museum in paris that is devoted to water with a permanent exhibition about the water supply of Paris and its history from Roman aqueducts to the present. Paris has experienced four periods of production and distribution of water: The Roman age, the Middle Ages, the Modern