Fragonard Perfume Museum (Musée du Parfum Fragonard)

The Basics

Located on the site of the former Éden-Théâtre—a popular 19th-century theater—the Perfume Museum opened to visitors in 2015. Its one-of-a-kind collection focuses on the traditions and history of perfume-making and showcases everything from ancient Mesopotamian artifacts and historical perfume labels to copper stills. The museum also offers a number of interactive attractions, including an olfaction room where visitors can sniff different ingredients and test their noses and a functioning perfume laboratory.

Advanced bookings are not required for this free attraction, which makes it simple to plan a spontaneous, drop-in visit. The museum can be woven into bespoke Paris walking tours or combined with other sightseeing stops in the area.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The museum is free to visit, and complimentary guided tours (available in English and French) are offered every 20 minutes throughout the day.

• The Musée du Parfum does not have a cloakroom, so it’s best to avoid bringing large bags or other cumbersome items.

• You can purchase scents, accessories, soaps, cosmetics, and other souvenirs in the on-site gift shop.

How to Get There

Given its central location near Opéra Garnier, Fragonard Perfume Museum can be reached by numerous forms of transit. The Opéra transit hub is served by Métro lines 3, 7, and 8, and includes connections to lines 9, 12, 13, 14, and the RER A and E. Alternatively, use bus routes 20, 21, 22, 27, 29, 31, 39, 42, 52, 53, 66, 68, 81, and 95. The site can also be reached on foot, by car, taxi, or rental bike.

When to Get There

The Fragonard Perfume Museum is open Monday to Saturday. It is closed on Sunday and on Dec. 25, Jan. 1, and May 1. The venue also hosts a perfume apprentice’s workshop every Saturday. Olfactory talks are held on one Thursday each month. You can research your options, and book workshop tickets in advance, online.

Other Attractions for Perfume Lovers

In addition to Fragonard, Paris is home to a number of other vaunted and traditional perfume houses. If you wish to continue your perfume tour of the City of Lights, Goutal, Frédéric Malle, Guérlain, and Diptyque all have outlets nearby.

Ways to explore

Located on the site of the former Éden-Théâtre, a popular 19th-century theater, the Perfume Museum opened to the public in 2015. The one-of-a-kind collection focuses on the traditions and history of perfume-making, showcasing everything from ancient Mesopotamian artifacts and historical perfume labels to copper stills. The museum also offers a number of interactive attractions, including an olfaction room where visitors can sniff different ingredients and a perfume laboratory. Visiting the museum is free, although a fee applies for the perfume-making workshops. There is a store on the first floor where you can purchase perfumes.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access to the second floor can be accommodated with 72-hour notice. Guests with scent sensitivity might find the museum overwhelming.

Age limits

All ages are welcome, although younger children may not find the museum as engaging.

What to pack

Consider bringing a facemask if you are sensitive to scents.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes and clothing are helpful when walking around Paris, as are layers for unpredictable weather conditions.

Not allowed

Luggage, backpacks

Amenities

Restrooms, gift shop

Address

The Fragonard Perfume Museum is located in Paris’ 9th arrondissement, just steps from the Opéra Garnier. It’s easily accessible via metro.

Driving

While driving to the Fragonard Perfume Museum at 9 Rue Scribe is possible, navigating through Paris’ bustling streets and finding parking can be challenging. It’s advisable to use public transportation or a taxi to avoid traffic and parking difficulties.

Public transportation

You can take Métro lines 3, 7, or 8 to Opéra station; lines 12 or 14 to Madeleine station; or line 9 to Havre-Caumartin station. The RER also serves the area, with line A stopping at Auber station and line E at Haussmann–Saint-Lazare. Additionally, numerous bus routes have stops within walking distance.

Best times to visit

The museum is open from 9am to 6pm, with the last guests admitted at 5pm. Visit early for the least crowded experience.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, making for a more enjoyable visit.

Best months to visit

The summer is high season in Paris; visiting during other months will make it easier to visit the Fragonard Perfume Museum.