Police Prefecture Museum

A fascinating museum uncovering Paris’s law enforcement history, famous crimes, and the evolution of policing.

Smart Tips Before You Go

Prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience

Photography Rules

allowed without flash

Bag Policy

Bags may be checked at the entrance

Entry

always free

Don't Miss

Look for the antique guillotine blade and the pistol used in the 1932 assassination of President Paul Doumer

Language Note

Older display cases are labeled in French only, but the renovated wing and English-language guided tours fill the gap

Visit Duration

A quick self-guided visit takes about 30 minutes, and groups of 5 to 15 people must book ahead

Smart Tips Before You Go

Prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience

Photography Rules

allowed without flash

Bag Policy

Bags may be checked at the entrance

Entry

always free

Don't Miss

Look for the antique guillotine blade and the pistol used in the 1932 assassination of President Paul Doumer

Language Note

Older display cases are labeled in French only, but the renovated wing and English-language guided tours fill the gap

Visit Duration

A quick self-guided visit takes about 30 minutes, and groups of 5 to 15 people must book ahead

Work Schedule

Open: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed: Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays

Quick Tips

Admission is always free.
Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for your visit.
For History Lovers: Exhibits on major Parisian events like the French Revolution, World War II, and the Liberation of Paris.
Don’t Miss: The archives of famous criminal cases, police uniforms, and weapons.

On-site Amenities

Limited wheelchair access

Available on-site

Price

Full price

free

Reduced price

N/A

Audio guide:

N/A

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History

Discover how this historic landmark evolved over centuries

The Musée de la Préfecture de Police was founded in 1909 by Police Prefect Louis Lépine, who wanted to create a public archive of the Paris police’s history. The museum traces the evolution of law enforcement, criminal investigations, and famous cases in Paris, from the Middle Ages to modern times. It showcases artifacts such as ancient weapons, police uniforms, forensic tools, and documents from legendary cases like the Affair of Landru and the French Resistance during WWII. Today, the museum is a unique window into the history of crime, order, and justice in the French capital.

Read Full history

History

Discover how this historic landmark evolved over centuries

The Musée de la Préfecture de Police was founded in 1909 by Police Prefect Louis Lépine, who wanted to create a public archive of the Paris police’s history. The museum traces the evolution of law enforcement, criminal investigations, and famous cases in Paris, from the Middle Ages to modern times. It showcases artifacts such as ancient weapons, police uniforms, forensic tools, and documents from legendary cases like the Affair of Landru and the French Resistance during WWII. Today, the museum is a unique window into the history of crime, order, and justice in the French capital.

Read Full history