Erin Hagen

Your Guide to the Grévin Wax Museum Paris

Did you know that Madame Tussaud's isn't the only wax museum in Paris? Let's talk about the Grévin Wax Museum, or Musée Grevin as the locals call it, which has been entertaining and sometimes scaring visitors since 1882. In this article, we'll explore this fascinating and one-of-a-kind attraction in Paris, but if you are ready to just book your tickets to the Wax Museum in Paris, save by booking through the Paris Pass!

History of the Grévin Wax Museum

In the age before photography, newspapers relied heavily on illustrators and caricaturists to convey images of the newsworthy, famous, and infamous to the general public. Arthur Meyer, the director of the widely circulated newspaper 'Le Gaulois', had a keen sense of not only what the public wanted, but also how to make a fortune. He joined forces with caricaturist Alfred Grévin (for whom the museum is named after), and the museum opened its doors in 1882. Meyer's gamble was correct, the public was entranced! They showed up in droves to see wax likenesses of both 'modern' and historical figures!

Classic Attractions

Originally, along with famous figures from France's history, they also included magic show performances and seances. As the poster (pictured above) illustrates, the Grévin Wax Museum brought to life gory scenes from the French Revolution, as well as infamous murders. The renowned 'Hall of Mirrors' which was built for the Universal Exposition in 1900, also had a kaleidoscope effect. It is still part of the museum's decor today!

Since it's opening, there have been over 2,000 wax statues produced.

photo by Erwmat

Modern Wax Museum in Paris

The Musée Grevin underwent renovations early 2019 to celebrate its 137th anniversary! Several exhibits were updated, and more than 60 new statues were added. Updated features include interactive attractions, video and lights shows, as well as a change in decor.

Looking for a place to relax after hobnobbing with the 'stars'? Café Grévin opened its doors in 2011, and is conveniently located right next to the wax museum in Paris. It is also a wonderful place to people watch!

A fun, yet also sad fact: If a star's popularity fades, their statue is taken out of the main showrooms and sent to the purgatory of Grévin's storage space. A cruel fate? Perhaps. But that's showbiz!

Grévin Wax Museum FAQs

Q. Can I take photographs inside Grévin Wax Museum?
A. Yes, photography is allowed inside the museum, so feel free to capture memorable moments with your favorite wax figures.

Q. Are there any interactive exhibits at Grévin Wax Museum?
A. Absolutely! Grévin Wax Museum offers interactive exhibits where you can engage with certain wax figures, making your visit even more immersive and entertaining.

Q. Can I touch the wax figures at Grévin Wax Museum?
A. While we encourage you to get close and admire the lifelike wax figures, touching them is not allowed to ensure their preservation and maintain their quality for all visitors to enjoy.

Q. How long does it typically take to explore Grévin Wax Museum?
A. On average, visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum, but you are welcome to take your time and enjoy the exhibits at your own pace.

Q. Are there any guided tours available at Grévin Wax Museum?
A. Yes, guided tours are available at Grévin Wax Museum, providing you with fascinating insights and stories about the wax figures and the history behind them. It's a great way to enhance your experience.

Q. Can I bring my children to Grévin Wax Museum?
A. Absolutely! Grévin Wax Museum is a family-friendly attraction, and children of all ages will delight in the lifelike wax figures and interactive exhibits, creating lasting memories for the whole family.

Your Visit to the Grévin Wax Museum

A trip to the Grévin Wax Museum might just leave you star-struck! This is your chance to hob-knob with the stars, or at least their wax likenesses. A strange and delightful experience, complete with all of the glamour and gore that is French history!

Address: 10 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009, PARIS

Hours of Operation:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday- 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday- 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Ticket Prices: starting at 24,50€

*The museum has been wheelchair accessible since 2001.

Free Entry with the Paris Pass!

Love this article? Why not share it:

Buy with confidence

Free cancellation

Plans can change, we get it. All non-activated passes are eligible for a refund within 90 days of your purchase date.

Find out more

Got a question?

Check out our FAQs or live chat with our customer service agents now

See our FAQs

The Paris Pass® is highly rated, but don't just take our word for it!

Have a 5% discount, on us!

More savings? You're welcome. Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, vacation inspiration and much more.

  • Thick check Icon