Summary
Fragonard Perfume Museum
For those interested in the long and complex history of scent-making, the Fragonard Museum in Paris is a true gem. Situated in a rather unassuming but nevertheless regal nineteenth-century building right near the Palais Garnier (old Opera house), this museum only opened in 1983 but takes visitors on an old-world sensory voyage back to the origins of perfumery. It’s one of the best hidden museums in Paris.
This entirely free Parisian museum is often overlooked by tourists. However, it offers a magical look at the olfactory arts through an eclectic collection of artifacts and instruments related to perfume formulation, manufacturing, and packaging—many of these presented in old-world style glass cabinets. The collection traces the art of scents from Antiquity to the beginning of the 20th century, with a special focus on French traditions originating in the southern French town of Grasse, which remains a major world capital of perfumery.
The decor here is alluring, retaining much of the original nineteenth-century elements such as painted ceilings, stucco decoration, old fireplaces, and chandeliers. Visitors are immersed in a romantic setting while tracing the evolution of perfumery rituals and practices over the last 3,000 years, even dating back to ancient Egypt.
Dozens of varieties of old perfume bottles, vaporizers, and apothecary jars create an intriguing and visually inspiring visit. You’ll also learn about the craftsmanship that goes into blowing and designing the delicate and beautiful bottles.
For those wishing to take home a special scent or souvenir, there’s a small gift shop on the premises, where visitors can purchase custom perfumes and other scent-related accessories and gifts.
Location and Contact Details
The museum is located in the 9th arrondissement on the right bank of Paris, in close proximity to the old department stores district and the lively business area known as “Madeleine.” It’s also a fantastic area for shopping and gourmet tasting, with numerous boutiques and high-end food shops nearby, including notable spots for gourmet treats.
Address: 9 rue Scribe, 9th arrondissement
Metro: Opera (or RER/commuter train line A, Auber station)
Tel: +33 (0) 1 47 42 04 56
Website: Visit the official website (in English)
Opening Hours and Tickets
The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and on Sundays and public holidays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Entrance to the museum is free. Moreover, museum staff offers free guided tours of the collection during most opening hours; however, it is advisable to call ahead to confirm availability.
Sights and Attractions Nearby
You might visit this gem of a museum after exploring the sumptuous grounds of the Palais Garnier or enjoying the grand Belle-Epoque department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps just around the corner. Other worthwhile attractions include:
- Palais Royal
- Musee du Louvre
- Jardin des Tuileries
- Laduree Macarons and teahouse
- Rue Sainte Honoré and the Louvre-Tuileries shopping district
- Galerie Vivienne and the charming old passageways of Paris
