Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in France:
1Alsatian Museum
StrasbourgThe Alsatian Museum, also known as Musée Alsacien, is a significant regional museum for Alsace. It was established in 1902 and is situated at 23, quai Saint-Nicolas in the old town of Strasbourg. The museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of the Alsace region, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in understanding the region's past and its influences. 2Castle Vodou Museum
StrasbourgThe Vodou Castle, also known as the Vodou Castle Museum, is a unique cultural institution located in Strasbourg, in the Bas-Rhin department of Alsace. This museum offers visitors a chance to explore the rich and diverse world of Vodou art and culture. 3Arquebuse Botanical Garden
DijonThe Arquebuse Botanical Garden, located in Dijon, Burgundy, France, is a 5-hectare botanical garden and arboretum. It is a municipal administration and is also a public garden, rose garden, natural history museum, ethnology museum, and planetarium. The garden is a member of the prestigious 'Botanical Gardens of France and Francophone countries'. 4Musée du quai Branly
ParisThe Musée du quai Branly museum is a large ethnographic museum in Paris. With four buildings, the museum, designed by architect Jean Nouvel, covers an area of 40,600 m², with one wall of 200 meters long and 12 meters high covered with plants on the outside, designed by the French botanist Patrick 5Musée des Explorations du Monde
CannesHousing ancient items, artworks and musical instruments from all around the world, this museum is a perfect place for every history buff. 6Natural History Museum
GrenobleThe Natural History Museum of Grenoble, founded in 1851, is a municipal museum located in Grenoble, France. It is a significant institution that has been presenting a rich natural heritage to the public since the opening of its building in 1855. 7Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de La Rochelle
La RochelleThe Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de La Rochelle is a renowned natural history museum situated in the city of La Rochelle, in the Charente-Maritime region of France. It offers a rich collection of natural history and ethnography exhibits, making it a significant destination for those interested in these fields. 8Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée
MarseilleThe MuCEM - Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée (The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) is a national museum in Marseille that is dedicated to European and Mediterranean civilisations. The museum is located at the entrance of the harbour, next to the 17th-centu 9Museum of Lourdes
LourdesTravel back in time and get to know the early life in Lourdes. Discover a wide collection of ancient tools and costumes, all in one place. 10Musée historique de Haguenau
HaguenauThe Musée historique is a city and cultural history museum located in the municipality of Hagenau in Alsace, which is now part of the Région Grand Est in France. The museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the region, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in understanding the past and present of Hagenau and Alsace. 11Église Sainte-Anne
DijonThe Sainte-Anne Church in Dijon is a unique architectural structure. It is a circular church with a copper dome, built in the 18th century. The church is dedicated to Saint Anne and is associated with the Bernardines monastery of Dijon, which dates back to the 17th century. This combination of religious and architectural history makes it a fascinating place to visit. 12Camargue Museum
ArlesThe Camargue Museum is situated in the town of Arles, specifically at Mas du Pont-de-Rousty. It is conveniently located 8 km away on the departmental road 570, in the direction of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area. 13Musée des Confluences
LyonMusée 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', ' 14Musée Picarvie
Saint-Valery-sur-SommeThe 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. 15House of Sugar
Les Trois-ÎletsThe House of Sugar, situated in the town of Les Trois-Îlets in Martinique, is a regional museum that provides a comprehensive history of sugarcane from the time it was introduced to Martinique in the mid-17th century. This museum is easily visible from the road between Les Trois-Îlets and Rivière-Salée. 16Mémorial ACTe
Pointe-à-PitreThe Mémorial ACTe Museum, located in Pointe-à-Pitre, the capital of Guadeloupe, is a significant institution dedicated to the history of slavery. Established in 2015, the museum was funded by the European Union, the Cultural Senate of Guadeloupe, and the city of Pointe-à-Pitre itself. This museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the history and impact of slavery, making it a significant destination for those interested in historical and cultural exploration. 17Dauphinois Museum
GrenobleThe Musée dauphinois, situated in Grenoble, France, is a museum that focuses on the ethnography, archaeology, history, and society of the former province of the Dauphin. This museum provides a comprehensive insight into the cultural and historical aspects of the region, making it a significant destination for those interested in understanding the rich heritage of the area. 18Pyrenean Museum
LourdesThe Pyrenean Museum of Lourdes, located in the fortified castle of Lourdes in the Hautes-Pyrénées region, is a museum dedicated to all aspects of the Pyrenees. It has been housed in this location since 1921, offering visitors a comprehensive look at the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Pyrenees region. 19Museum of Brittany
RennesThe Brittany Museum, known as Musée de Bretagne in French, is a social history museum situated in the Champs Libres cultural centre in Rennes, France. The museum is dedicated to the conservation, study, and presentation of the history of Brittany and Breton heritage from prehistory to the present day. It provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history and culture, making it a significant destination for those interested in understanding Brittany's past and present. 20Musée du Vexin Français
ThéméricourtThe Musée du Vexin français, an ecomuseum, was opened in 2001. It is situated in the commune of Théméricourt, within the Val-d'Oise department in Île-de-France. This location places it at the heart of the French Vexin, approximately 45 km northwest of Paris. 21Musée National des Arts Asiatiques - Guimet
ParisMusée National des Arts Asiatiques - Musée Guimet is a French museum of Asian art in Paris. Although the museum now covers almost all of East Asia, focus is on archaeological pieces and classical oriental art, with few to no contemporary or ethnological pieces. There is however an extensive textile 22Toy Museum
PoissyThe Toy Museum – Pierre-Pinel, located in Poissy, Yvelines, is a unique destination dedicated to the world of toys and children's games. It offers a fascinating journey through the history of play, showcasing a wide range of toys from different periods and cultures. Whether you're a child or an adult, the museum promises an engaging and nostalgic experience. 23Musée de Nouvelle-Calédonie
NoumeaThe Musée de Nouvelle-Calédonie is a museum situated in Nouméa, the capital city of New Caledonia. It is a significant cultural institution that showcases the rich history and diverse cultures of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that represent the indigenous Kanak culture, as well as other Oceanic societies. 24Museum of Corsica
CorteLearn more about Corsican customs, traditions and history in this museum. Don't miss the Genoese fortress - the entry is included in the ticket. 25Écomusée Créole Art
Sainte-RoseÉcomusée Créole Art is a private ecomuseum situated in the picturesque town of Sainte-Rose in Guadeloupe. This unique museum offers a deep dive into the rich cultural and botanical heritage of the island. 26Regional Museum of History and Ethnography
Fort-de-FranceThe Regional Museum of History and Ethnography is situated in the city of Fort-de-France, on the Caribbean island of Martinique. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the island, and its central location in the city allows for easy exploration of the surrounding area. 27La Savane des esclaves
Les Trois-ÎletsLa Savane des esclaves is a unique site located in the commune of Les Trois-Ilets, Martinique. It was created by Gilbert Larose in 2000 with the aim of preserving and promoting the island's heritage. This site offers a glimpse into the island's past and its cultural richness. 28Museum of Jewish Art and History
ParisThe Museum of Jewish Art and History (Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme) is a museum in Paris that is housed in the Hôtel de St-Aignan in Le Marais, where it brings together a number of collections that were previously spread throughout Paris. It is dedicated to French-Jewish culture from the Mi 29Museum of Guyanese Cultures
CayenneThe Museum of Guyanese Cultures is a cultural institution located in the city of Cayenne, Guyana. It is a place where visitors can learn about the diverse cultures that have shaped the history and identity of Guyana. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and displays that provide insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of the Guyanese people. 30Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
ParisThe Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (Museum of hunting and nature) in Paris is a private museum that holds the collections of the Fondation de la Maison de la Chasse et de la Nature. Exhibits focus on the relationships between humans and the natural environment through the traditions and practice 31Maison de la Bataille
NoordpeeneThe Maison de la Bataille de la Peene is a museum situated in the town of Noordpeene. It is dedicated to the Battle of Peene and the culture of French Flanders. The museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the region and understand the significant events that shaped its past. 32African Museum
Île-d'AixThe African Museum of Île d'Aix is a recognized French museum situated on the Île d'Aix in Charente-Maritime. It is one of the two museums on the island that hold the prestigious 'Museum of France' label, the other being the nearby Napoleonic Museum. This museum offers a unique cultural experience for visitors interested in African history and culture. 33Cave of Niaux
NiauxThe Pyrenean Museum of Niaux houses a vast collection of traditional objects that depict various aspects of daily life and activities. These include pastoralism, milling, domestic activities, religion, and glass and iron work. The collection provides a comprehensive view of the region's history and culture, from traditional practices to the beginnings of modern life. 34Musée de l'Homme - Palais de Chaillot
ParisThe Musée de l'Homme is an anthropology museum in Paris that is one of the seven departments of the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle. The Musée de l'Homme occupies most of the Passy wing of the Palais de Chaillot. 35Institut du Monde Arabe
TourcoingThe Institut du Monde Arabe is not just an institute, but a complex that houses a museum, a library, an auditorium, a restaurant, offices, and meeting rooms. This makes it a multifaceted institution that caters to a variety of interests and needs, from cultural and historical exploration to culinary experiences and academic pursuits. 36Museum of Old Nîmes
NimesThe Musée du Vieux Nîmes, or Museum of Old Nîmes, is situated in the former episcopal palace of Nîmes. This historic building is located in the heart of the southern French city of Nîmes, in the Gard department. The museum is conveniently located on the Place aux Herbes, making it easily accessible for tourists. 37Musée de l'histoire de l'immigration
ParisThe Cité nationale de l'histoire de l 'immigration (CNH, Musée de l'histoire de l'immigration) is a museum dedicated to immigration to France, located in Paris. The permanent exhibition covers 1,100 m² and is dedicated to immigration to France since the early 19th century, focusing on the following 38Museon Arlaten
ArlesThe Museon Arlaten, also known as the Arles Museum, is a museum dedicated to the ethnography of Provence. It is located in the city of Arles, at 29, rue de la République. The museum is housed in the 15th-century hôtel particulier Laval-Castellane, which is now a monument historique. The museum was founded by the Provençal poet Frédéric Mistral and opened in 1899. 39Joseph Denais Museum
Beaufort-en-AnjouThe Joseph-Denais Museum, situated in Beaufort-en-Vallée in Maine-et-Loire, is recognized as a "Museum of France". It boasts a diverse collection that spans across various disciplines such as natural sciences, fine arts, decorative arts, Egyptian and Mediterranean archaeology, as well as French and foreign ethnography. The museum also provides insights into local history, making it a comprehensive destination for those interested in a wide range of subjects. 40Musée Vivant des Vieux Métiers
ArgolThe Musée Vivant des Vieux Métiers is a museum situated in Argol, a village on the Crozon peninsula in Finistère. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the region while enjoying the natural beauty of the peninsula. 41Natural History Museum
PerpignanThe Natural History Museum of Perpignan is housed in a unique location, a mansion known as Hôtel Çagarriga. This historic building is located in the city of Perpignan, nestled in the Pyrénées-Orientales region of France. The museum's location adds a layer of historical charm to the experience of exploring the natural history exhibits. 42Musée alsacien (Haguenau)
HaguenauThe Museé alsacien, also known as the Alsatian museum, is one of the three museums located in Haguenau, France. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a glimpse into the local history and culture. 43Space Museum Aimé Césaire
Fort-de-FranceMuseum displays traditional costumes of Martinique inhabitants. There are also Christmas figurines on exhibit. 44Edgar Clerc Caribbean Heritage Museum
Les AbymesAll the secrets about Guadaloupean history, trade with slaves, colonial heritage, simply all about the island will be revealed here to you. 45Flanders Museum
CasselThe Musée de Flandere, also known as the Museum of Flanders, is a French departmental museum located in the municipality of Cassel. It is situated at the Grand'Place, in the Nord department. This location is easily accessible and offers a rich cultural experience for visitors. 46Musée Départemental Alexandre-Franconie
CayenneThe Musée Départemental Alexandre-Franconie, located in Cayenne, French Guiana, is a museum that offers a wide range of collections. These collections span various fields including natural history, archaeology, ethnography, and local history. This museum provides a comprehensive insight into the rich and diverse cultural and natural heritage of French Guiana. 47Maison des Sources
Mauléon-BarousseThe 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. 48Japanese Culture House of Paris
ParisLa maison de la culture du Japon à Paris (Japanese Culture House of Paris) is managed by the Japan Foundation and aims to spread Japanese culture. The Japanese Culture House of Paris hosts exhibitions, shows, film screenings, lectures, cooking demonstrations as well as tea ceremonies and courses on 49Musée Palaisien du Hurepoix
PalaiseauThe Hurepoix Museum, located in the French town of Palaiseau, is dedicated to the former province of Hurepoix. It is situated in the Essonne department and the Île-de-France region, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area. 50Musée de la Bourrine du Bois Juquaud
Saint-Hilaire-de-RiezThe Musée de la Bourrine du Bois Juquaud is a French museum situated in the commune of Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, in the Vendée department and the Pays-de-la-Loire region. This museum is dedicated to showcasing and describing the traditional skills and customs of the marshland inhabitants of north-western Vendée during the 19th and 20th centuries. 51Musée du Terroir Marseillais
MarseilleThe Musée du terroir marseillais (Museum of Terroir Marseillais) is a museum of arts and popular traditions located in Château Gombert in Marseille. The museum holds collections that are presented in eight renaissance-style rooms, including costumes, furniture, utensils, musical instruments, cribs a 52Ecomuseum Marais Vendeen
La Barre-de-MontsThe Ecomuseum Marais Vendeen, also known as "Le Daviaud", is a French ecomuseum that was established in 1982. Located in La Barre-de-Monts, this museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the local natural and historical heritage. 53Musée des arts africains, océaniens et amérindiens
MarseilleMusée des arts africains, océaniens et amérindiens (The Museum of African, Oceanic and Native American Art), is a museum in Marseille that is located on the second floor of the Vieille Charité. The museum presents works exclusively from the African, Oceanian and Native American continents. 54Musée d'Ethnographie de l'université de Bordeaux
BordeauxThe Musée d'Ethnographie de l'université de Bordeaux, abbreviated as MEB, is a university museum that was established in 1894. It is situated within the premises of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine of Bordeaux, which is now known as the University of Human and Social Sciences of Bordeaux. The museum is a significant part of the university's history and continues to be an integral part of its academic and cultural life. 55Tjibaou Cultural Centre
NoumeaThe Tjibaou Cultural Centre, inaugurated in May 1998, is a significant cultural hub located in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia. It serves as a venue for cultural events of the indigenous Kanak people, along with hosting a variety of exhibitions, conferences, and concerts. 56Natural History and Ethnography Museum
ColmarThe Musée d’Histoire Naturelle et d’Ethnographie is a museum dedicated to natural history and ethnography, located in the French city of Colmar. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural world and diverse cultures through its extensive collections. 57Musée de la Vie Paysanne
NagesThe Musée de la vie paysanne en Haut-Languedoc is situated in the commune of Nages, in the Tarn region of France. This location is significant as it provides visitors with a chance to explore the rural and cultural heritage of the Haut-Languedoc region, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area. 58Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions
DraguignanThe Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions of Middle Provence, also known as the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions (ATP), is a recognized "Museum of France". It specializes in Provencal ethnography, offering a deep dive into the cultural practices and traditions of the region. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, providing a unique perspective on the local history and way of life. 59Agathois Jules Baudou Museum
AgdeThe Agathois Jules-Baudou Museum is a municipal museum situated in the heart of Agde, a city in the French department of Hérault, Occitanie region. The museum specializes in arts, popular traditions, and fine arts, offering a rich cultural experience to its visitors. 60Alpilles Museum
Saint-Rémy-de-ProvenceThe Alpilles Museum is a cultural institution located in the charming town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in the Bouches-du-Rhône department of France. This museum offers visitors a chance to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. 61Musée de Cerdagne
SaillagouseThe Musée de Cerdagne, located in Sainte-Léocadie, is an ethnology and history museum. It has been recognized as a "museum of France" since 1997. This recognition is a testament to the museum's significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of French history and culture. 62Musée Cévenol
Le ViganThe Musée cévenol is situated in the picturesque town of Le Vigan, nestled in the Gard department of the Occitanie region in France. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the area, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. 63Archaeological Museum of Val d'Oise
Guiry-en-VexinThe Archaeological Museum of Val d'Oise is situated in the quaint village of Guiry-en-Vexin, nestled in the French Vexin region. This location is approximately 50 km northwest of Paris, making it a feasible day trip for those staying in the capital. The museum's location within the French Vexin Regional Natural Park adds to its charm and appeal.- 64
Museum of Saint Martin
Saint-Martin-de-BellevilleTake a guided tour through the museum and explore 150 years of history. It shows the development of society and tourism in the town. - 65
Crystal Museum - Tairraz Centre
Chamonix-Mont-BlancLearn interesting information about the mountains and the people who climb them. The exhibition is playful and interactive. - 66
Chasal Lento Museum
Mont-de-LansDiscover the history and traditions of the Les Deux Alpes region in this museum. You will see various historical artifacts here. - 67
The Smoking Museum
ParisThe Musée du Fumeur (Smoking Museum) is a museum in Paris on smoking that holds and exhibits a collection of smoking objects. Its collection includes European pipes, 17th century clay pipes, Native American ceremonial pipes, hookahs, Chinese opium pipes, Egyptian sheeshas, snuffboxes, cigars and tob - 68
Museum Comtois
BesançonThe Comtois Museum, located in the prestigious setting of the Royal Front of the Citadel of Besançon since 1960, is an ethnographic museum that showcases the history, traditions, and culture of the Franche-Comté region. The museum was born out of the interest of a priest, Abbé Jean Garneret, who dedicated a significant part of his life to collecting and studying thousands of objects representative of the regional skills and traditions of the 19th and 20th centuries. - 69
Ua Huka
Ua HukaFor tourists planning to visit Ua Huka, the island is conveniently accessible by air. The island has its own airport, Ua Huka Airport, which facilitates easy travel to and from the island.