Paris’ first digital arts museum, the Atelier des Lumières is housed in a former steel foundry—within the vast venue today, 140 projectors create larger-than-life art and light shows that visitors can immerse themselves in. The museum has hosted a range of exhibitions since its 2018 debut, dedicated to topics ranging from Ancient Egypt to the Impressionists and Van Gogh.
Paris may be home to a wealth of blockbuster art museums, but there are no other cultural venues in the French capital quite like the Atelier des Lumières. Celebrating the potential and innovation of digital art, this immersive museum uses hundreds of projectors and a spatial sound system to insert viewers directly into the artworks, offering an experience that departs from traditional museum-going and delights kids and adults alike.
The Atelier des Lumières hosts several shows annually, so you’ll want to make repeat visits to catch its latest offerings. Plan to set aside several hours to really make the most of the spectacle. By booking tickets in advance, you can visit at a time that suits you best and explore the exhibitions at your own pace.
The Atelier des Lumières is accessible to wheelchair users, though strollers are not permitted on-site.
The shows at the Atelier des Lumières may not be appropriate for visitors with epilepsy or very young children.
Book online for the most affordable rates; seniors, students, children, and visitors with disabilities all receive discounted admission.
The Atelier des Lumières houses a gift shop and a small café serving hot and cold beverages and light snacks.
To learn more about the exhibitions, download the Atelier des Lumières’ free smartphone app.
Pets and large suitcases are forbidden in the venue; a bag check is provided for smaller personal items.
The Atelier des Lumières is located at 38 Rue Saint Maur, 75011 Paris, in the east of the city. To get there via public transportation, take Métro line 9 to Voltaire or Saint-Ambroise, line 3 to Rue Saint-Maur, or line 2 to Père Lachaise. The area is also served by the 46, 56, 61, and 69 buses, as well as taxis and rideshare services.
The Atelier des Lumières is open daily, including on many public holidays; last entry is 1 hour and 15 minutes before closing time. Visiting hours vary depending on the time of day and season, but it’s generally open from morning until early or late evening. Plan for weekends, summer, and holidays to be especially popular.
Once you’ve experienced digital innovation at the Atelier des Lumières, complement your visit with a trip to one of Paris’ more traditional (and world-renowned) art museums. Discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, see Impressionist highlights at the Musée d’Orsay, and discover innovative modern and contemporary art at the Centre Pompidou.
