Music enthusiasts of all kinds will love a trip to the Cité de la Musique. Housing concerts, exhibitions, a library, and an excellent museum tracing the history of musical instruments, the Cité is the cultural center for musical life in Paris. Most impressive are the historic musical instruments, from 17th-century harpsichords to baroque lutes and guitars. But they're not just on display: maestros actually play some of the instruments for museum visitors and are open to questions and discussion about these artifacts.

Although it will be closed for the summer, because of some renovations already in progress, the museum is free at the moment. An audio guide offered in different languages is complimentary.

Cité de la musique
221, avenue Jean Jaurès 75019
Metro: Porte de Pantin
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