The French Playing Card Museum

Description

Located in the charming suburb of Issy-les-Moulineaux, just outside Paris, The French Playing Card Museum stands as the only museum in France dedicated entirely to the fascinating world of playing cards. Y’know, I was absolutely blown away when I discovered this unique cultural gem – it’s way more captivating than you might expect! The museum houses an incredible collection of [over 11,000 exhibits](https://www.franceforall.org/travel-journal-1/card-museum) that showcase the rich history of card games through the centuries.

Key Features

• The museum’s permanent collection features [nearly 6,500 playing cards](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mus%C3%A9e_Fran%C3%A7ais_de_la_Carte_%C3%A0_Jouer), ranging from ancient to modern designs
• Interactive exhibits that demonstrate card-making techniques and historical gaming practices
• A dedicated section showcasing artistic etchings, drawings, and vintage posters related to card games
• Wheelchair-accessible facilities throughout the building
• Regular live demonstrations and special exhibitions
• A charming gift shop offering unique card-related souvenirs
• Clean, modern restroom facilities
• Educational programs and workshops for children and adults

Best Time to Visit

I’ve found that weekday mornings tend to be the quietest time to explore the museum, especially if you’re keen on taking your time with the exhibits. The museum really comes alive during their special events and temporary exhibitions, which typically happen during spring and fall. Summers can get a bit busy with tourist groups, but the air-conditioned galleries make it a perfect escape from the Paris heat. And hey, rainy days are actually perfect for visiting – nothing better than getting lost in the history of playing cards while staying dry!

How to Get There

Getting to the museum is pretty straightforward using Paris public transportation. Take Metro Line 12 to Mairie d’Issy station, and it’s just a short walk from there. If you’re coming from central Paris, the journey typically takes about 20-25 minutes. I personally prefer taking the bus – several lines stop nearby, and you get to see more of the city along the way. For those driving, there’s wheelchair-accessible parking available, though spaces can be limited during peak hours.

Tips for Visiting

Listen up, because these insider tips will make your visit so much better! First off, grab one of their audio guides – trust me, they’re worth it. The stories behind some of these cards are absolutely fascinating. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here if you want to really take everything in. Their temporary exhibitions are often incredible, so check their schedule before visiting.

And here’s something most people don’t realize – the lighting in the museum is specifically designed to protect the delicate cards, which means some areas might be a bit dim. If you’re into photography (like me!), bring a camera that handles low light well. Oh, and definitely don’t skip the gift shop – they have some really unique items that you won’t find anywhere else.

Kids actually love this place, especially when there are demonstrations going on. But I’d recommend visiting with children during morning hours when they’re fresh and more receptive to learning. The museum is surprisingly engaging for little ones, with plenty of interactive elements to keep them entertained.

During busy periods, like weekends or holidays, try to arrive right when they open. The galleries can get a bit crowded by midday, and you’ll want enough space to really appreciate the intricate details of the displays. And one last thing – they sometimes have special guided tours in English, but you’ll need to book those in advance. Totally worth it if you can snag a spot!

Location

Places to Stay Near The French Playing Card Museum

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides