View of the surroundings of Florence with a house of Victor Hugo

Maison De Victor Hugo

Maison de Victor Hugo Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the historic Place des Vosges in Paris’s vibrant Marais district, the Maison de Victor Hugo is a remarkable literary museum honoring one of France’s most influential writers and political figures. Victor Hugo’s former residence, preserved within the 17th-century Hôtel de Rohan-Guéménée, offers an immersive journey into his creative world and 19th-century Parisian culture. Whether you’re a literature aficionado, a history enthusiast, or a cultural traveler, Maison de Victor Hugo promises a unique glimpse into the genius and legacy of the author of “Les Misérables” and “Ruy Blas” (Maison de Victor Hugo - Official Paris Musées page, Paris Tourism, Visit Places France).

Illustration of a gladiator fight in an ancient arena by Louis Hector Leroux

Louis Hector Leroux drawing La Vestale c1883 photogravure from Victor Hugo book

History and Cultural Significance
Location and Accessibility
Museum Layout and Collections
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Visitor Experience and Tips
Special Exhibitions and Events
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Recommendations
References

History and Cultural Significance

Origins and Architectural Evolution

Maison de Victor Hugo is housed in the Hôtel de Rohan-Guéménée, constructed in 1605 and enhanced by the de Rohans family. The townhouse’s classic stone façade and period décor reflect Parisian bourgeois style and Romantic sensibilities (Wikipedia, Paris Tourism).

Victor Hugo’s Residency (1832–1848)

Victor Hugo lived here from 1832 to 1848. In this 280-square-meter apartment, he hosted literary salons, wrote landmark works, and engaged in political activism. The residence was a center for intellectual life, watched the tides of revolution, and saw the birth of masterpieces such as “Ruy Blas” and portions of “Les Misérables” (Wikipedia, Paris Tourism).

Transformation into a Museum

After Hugo’s exile in 1848, the apartment changed hands until Paul Meurice enabled the City of Paris to acquire it. Maison de Victor Hugo opened as a museum in 1903 and has been managed by Paris Musées since 2013 (Wikipedia).

Location and Accessibility

Maison de Victor Hugo stands at 6 Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris, in the southeast corner of one of Paris’s most beautiful squares (parisadele.com). The area is easily accessible by metro (Saint-Paul, Line 1; Bastille) and several bus lines (holidify.com). The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and support for visitors with disabilities (Sortir à Paris, holidify.com).

Museum Layout and Collections

Floor Plan Overview

The museum comprises three main levels:

Ground Floor: Entrance, cloakroom, bookshop, and Café Mulot.
First Floor: Temporary exhibition galleries.
Second Floor: Permanent collection—Victor Hugo’s restored apartment and themed rooms (Maison Victor Hugo official site).

Permanent Collection Highlights

The permanent exhibition recreates the ambiance of Hugo’s residence, with rooms furnished to reflect three major phases: before, during, and after his exile to Guernsey (holidify.com). Highlights include:

Antechamber: Portraits and memorabilia introducing Hugo’s family.
Salon: Hugo’s literary gatherings, featuring period furnishings and artworks (Paris Insiders Guide).
Dining Room: Symbolic interior design and personal gifts.
Chinese Salon: Designed by Hugo, displaying Asian-inspired décor, porcelain, and furniture (parisadele.com).
Bedroom: Hugo’s writing desk, manuscripts, and family photos; the four-poster bed where Hugo died in 1885 was donated by his grandchildren.
Study: Original manuscripts of “Les Misérables,” writing tools, and books from Hugo’s library.

The museum’s collection encompasses over 10,000 items, including manuscripts, drafts, correspondence, personal effects, portraits, decorative arts, and illustrations by artists like François Chifflart (FAB Paris).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays and certain holidays (Maison Victor Hugo practical info).
Last Admission: 5:40 PM.
Permanent Collection Admission: Free for all visitors (ourlittlefamily.fr).
Temporary Exhibitions: Tickets required, typically €8–€10, with discounts for students and seniors.
Special Events/Workshops: Advance booking recommended; tickets are non-refundable (Paris Musées).

Visitor Experience and Tips

Guided Tours: Available in French; English tours are sometimes offered—check the website for schedules.
Audio Guides and “Chez Victor Hugo” App: Audio guides (€5) are available in several languages. The app offers interactive commentary and geo-located sound walks (app info).
Cloakroom: Free; space is limited, so travel light.
Photography: Permitted without flash; some restrictions may apply.
Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings and late afternoons are less crowded.

Special Exhibitions and Events

Temporary exhibitions are regularly hosted on the first floor, focusing on artists, illustrators, and themes related to Hugo’s legacy. Notable examples include the François Chifflart exhibition and thematic educational workshops for children and families (Exposition Paris, Paris Musées).

Nearby Attractions

Place des Vosges: Paris’s oldest planned square, ideal for a stroll or picnic.
Carnavalet Museum: Dedicated to Parisian history.
Picasso Museum: Home to one of the world’s largest Picasso collections.
Marais District: Explore boutiques, cafés, and historic sites within walking distance (parisadele.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Maison de Victor Hugo’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; last admission 5:40 PM; closed Mondays and some holidays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, the permanent collection is free. Temporary exhibitions and special events may require a ticket.

Q: Can tickets be purchased online?
A: Yes, tickets for exhibitions and events can be purchased via the Paris Musées ticketing platform.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible facilities.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: English tours are sometimes offered; check the current schedule.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography without flash is permitted; restrictions may apply in temporary exhibitions.

Summary and Recommendations

Maison de Victor Hugo is an essential stop for anyone interested in literature, art, and Parisian history. Its location in Place des Vosges, free admission to permanent collections, rich programming, and accessible facilities make it an inviting destination. Enhance your visit using the “Chez Victor Hugo” app and consider exploring nearby museums in the Marais. For real-time updates, guided tours, and cultural insights, download the Audiala app and follow the museum on social media.