Things to doThe French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
The French Playing Card Museum
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Additional Info
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The French Playing Card Museum

Explore the fascinating world of playing cards at the French Playing Card Museum and uncover the rich history and artistry behind this timeless pastime.
6
Per person
Reserve tickets

Good to know

11 AM - 5 PM
Free cancellation available
Mobile Voucher
No Parking available
No Confirmation Needed
Website

Overview

A Rich History

The French Playing Card Museum, located in Issy-les-Moulineaux, began its impressive collection in 1930 thanks to a generous donation. Today, the museum boasts over 11,000 items, showcasing a diverse array of playing cards from various parts of the world.

Collections from Around the Globe

  • France: The collection includes regional portraits from the Old Regime, transformations during the French Revolution, and the evolution of the current official portrait.
  • Europe: The museum features card patterns from Germany, Italy, and Spain.
  • Asia: Unique playing cards from India, China, and Japan, with distinctive shapes and designs, are also on display.

The museum provides a fascinating journey through the world of playing cards, featuring whimsical and artistic decks, as well as documents on the manufacturing process and regulations. Additionally, you can find art pieces depicting scenes of card games and players.

A Unique Experience

This museum is the only one in France entirely dedicated to playing cards, with collections spanning from the 15th to the 20th century. The thoughtfully designed exhibits, protected by soft lighting, highlight the intersection of art and playing cards, various production methods, the world of players, performing arts, and artistic creation.

Rare and Valuable Exhibits

Among the museum’s treasures are rare cards, including a series from the well-known Happy Families game and a unique collection from the Reign of Terror (1793–1794). During the French Revolution, not only were royal symbols removed from playing cards, but Phrygian caps replaced crowns as a symbol of the Revolution. The museum houses over 11,000 packs of cards, offering a comprehensive insight into the world of playing cards.

Additional Attractions

Adjacent to the modern museum building is the town’s Gallery of History, located in the gatehouse of the former Château des Princes de Conti, providing further historical context and exploration opportunities.

Facilities and Services

  • Facilities: Exhibition space, lift, toilets, entertainment room
  • Services: Educational visits, shop, guided tours, leisure center, available for private hire
  • Activities: Temporary exhibitions, children’s entertainment

Visiting Hours

  • Wednesday to Friday: 11 AM – 5 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday: 2 PM – 6 PM
  • July: 1 PM – 6 PM (Wednesday to Sunday)
  • Closed: Bank holidays and the entire month of August
  • Groups: By reservation from Tuesday to Sunday

Admission Fees

  • Adults: €6
  • Reduced Price: €4.50
  • Under 26: Free

Tours

  • Language: French
  • Tour Options: Self-guided tours are available year-round

Best Things to Do and See

Discover the Extensive Collection: The French Playing Card Museum boasts an impressive collection of over 11,000 items, including nearly 6,500 playing cards from various periods and regions. Visitors can explore beautifully crafted cards from Europe, Asia, and America, each telling its own unique story. The museum also features etchings, drawings, posters, and other card-related objects, providing a comprehensive look at the history and art of playing cards (source). Engage with Interactive Exhibits: One of the highlights of the French Playing Card Museum is its interactive exhibits. These displays allow visitors to engage with the history of playing cards in a hands-on manner. You can learn about the different techniques used in card production, the evolution of card games over the centuries, and even try your hand at some traditional card games. This interactive approach makes the museum a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages (source). Experience the Escape Game: The museum also offers an exciting escape game that blends the intrigue of escape rooms with the rich history of playing cards. In this immersive experience, participants must solve puzzles and uncover clues related to the museum's exhibits to "escape" within a set time. This game is perfect for groups and families, providing a unique way to explore the museum's collection while engaging in a fun and challenging activity. Be sure to book your spot in advance to enjoy this popular attraction (source).

Additional Info

Opening hours

11 AM - 5 PM

Audioguide & App

No audioguide.

Wifi

No Wifi.

Wheelchair

Wheelchair accessible.

Pets

Pets are not allowed inside the museum.

Location

16 rue Auguste Gervais, 92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux

How to get there

To get to the French Playing Card Museum, take Metro line 12 to the Mairie d’Issy stop, which is 200 meters from the museum. You can also reach the museum by bus on lines 123, 126, 169, 189, 190, 289, 290, 323, and Tuvim. If traveling by RER, use line C and get off at Issy or Val-de-Seine. For tram access, take line T2 to the Val-de-Seine stop.