If you are an art enthusiast or a history buff, museums are probably your jam. And what better way to enjoy art that is constantly reinventing itself! From outsider art to spontaneous structure, there are very few countries in the world that truly can satiate your enthusiasm like France. 

France is the hub to some culturally-rich museums and some unusual ones that are hard to come by in any travel guide. Let us help you discover 10 such ‘museums’ that are not just any run-of-the-mill places, but boasts unreal artworks, and atmospheres that help you absorb and understand art. Let’s get started!

Le Musée des Miniatures et Décors de Cinéma 

You are in for a ride when you visit this museum if you are a cinephile or an admirer of miniature paintings. This unconventional museum in Lyon displays minuscule, but realistic scenes and is a must-visit. 

Although most words displayed in this prestigious museum are from one artist Dan Ohlmann, the museum has now opened up to accept artworks from global artists too. Even the likes of Wes Anderson have put the sets of his film ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ for display here in 2016.

Le Musée International des Arts Modestes 

If you wish to broaden the horizon of understanding art, then this is the place to visit. This ‘museum’ in Sète displays artifacts of ‘Modest Art’. This category of art has a special place as it comes from an intriguing amalgamation inspiration: self-made toys, posters, and party decorations.

It might put you to wonder, is it even worth it? Well, these artifacts might not seem inspiring in the beginning, but the collection helps you decipher the freedom that art offers.

La Maison Picassiette 

Well, who would’ve thought that collecting debris of mosaic pieces can turn into a ‘museum’ on its own? It all started with Raymond Isidore, who collected debris of plates, mosaic pieces, and rocks every single day with the plan to adorn his house. 

And after a century, his worldly abode -‘Picassiette’ stands as an ode to art and architecture. This unique museum in France is a testament to what creativity can create!  

L’Atelier des Lumières

This unconventional museum right at the heart of Paris will grant your wish to dive straight into the favorite masterpieces! How? Digitally! The very first of its kind, this digital art center is a must-visit. 

After a successful exhibition that was dedicated to the unparalleled works of Van Gogh, they are now showcasing the works of Chagall, Monet, and Renoir that will help you explore the famous art movements of the 20th century which has shaped today’s art massively. 

La Fabuloserie

This playful museum, with its quirkiness in place at every little corner, was opened by architect Alain Bourbonnais.  He aimed to showcase his extraordinary artistic vision and features an astounding acquisition of artworks from various self-taught artists and some of his creations. His passion for Outsider Art led him to exhibits ‘Maison-musée’ – a unique place that will only enhance your understanding of art! 

Le Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval 

This place in Hauterives translates to ‘The Postman’s Ideal Palace’ is a concept of its own. It was designed by Ferdinand Cheval who was an ordinary postman intrigued by a news item that led him to create an architectural marvel like this! 

He spent almost 33 years of his life establishing his ‘ideal palace’ that features wonderful figures and unique designs. A place that is a segment of the Naive art movement was sure shot to be categorized as a historical monument!

Le Musée du Fumeur

Another surprise comes in through this ‘museum’ that showcases the French love for Tobacco. Tucked away in Paris, this little museum helps you learn more about the ancient practice of smoking. It is an amusing place that has a plethora of masterpieces and images of smokers, and advertisements hosted by Alphonse Mucha. 

Les Bassins de Lumières in Bordeaux

Les Bassins de Lumières in Bordeaux is another unusual place to visit that is meant to elevate your understanding of art and create an immersive experience. Most importantly, it is a built-in underwater submarine base which makes it easier for the visitors to move between the wonderful works of art as well as four huge pools of water. 

Le Musée de l’Insolite in Cabreret

‘Le Musée de l’Insolite’ or ‘Museum of the Unusual’ in English is a place that features some eccentric items, put together by its creator. It is unlike any other museum as it combines art with nature and is located almost outdoors, right in the heart of the Célé Valley, a location that is reminiscent of the fairytales! 

La Maison de Pierre Loti in Rochefort

This is the abode of the acclaimed writer Pierre Loti, who loved to collect souvenirs from each of his travel destinations. Plus, he has also successfully recreated the distinguishing air of every place to remember his travel trips. So, when you step into it, you’ll come across rooms dedicated to Japan, Turkey, and much more. He had also turned one of his rooms into a Mosque!

The Bottom Line

We hope that you’ve managed to get some inspiration on how to navigate through these extraordinary places that adds a whole new dimension to our understanding of art. And if you wish to bring some art to home, what better way than getting it from https://www.1st-art-gallery.com, a place dedicated to re-creating artworks meant to help you fall in love with art all over again!