Nestled beneath the Pont de l’Alma, the Paris Sewer Museum offers a singular experience: journey through the underground galleries of the city’s sewer system while uncovering its fascinating history. Established in 1975, the museum spans a 500 m route within a former siphon, complemented by permanent exhibitions and period machinery—valve-wagon, pumps, scale models—documenting the sewer’s evolution from 14th‑century Hugues Aubriot to 19th‑century engineer Belgrand.

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (last access at 4 pm), closed on Mondays, early January, May 1st, and Christmas Day. Tickets are €9 full price, €7 reduced (seniors, large families…). Entry is free for eligible groups (under 18, under 26 EU, unemployed, disabled visitors…). Attendance is capped at 200 visitors to ensure a smooth experience.

The route features a modern museum layout and immersive subterranean galleries. The bright welcome pavilion contrasts with the vaulted, intimate underground tunnels. Audio-guides in French, English, and Spanish enhance the visit. Special thematic tours are offered: family visits on Sunday mornings, guided storytelling tours, night-time visits, and special events like VR experiences for the 50th anniversary.

The atmosphere ranges from educational and sensory to mysterious, evoking images of rats, underground water, and legendary sewer workers. School groups, history enthusiasts, and curious explorers gather here. Notable anecdotes include the 1867 era guided tours in boats and valve-wagons, the electric tours of 1906, and the official museum conversion in 1975.

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, with an elevator to access depths up to 3 m. Free entry is granted to disabled visitors and one companion. Visually impaired guests can receive free guided assistance via Souffleurs d’Images with advance booking (15 days ahead).

The museum can be privatized for events, offering a unique setting for professional gatherings or exclusive tours. Don’t miss the museum shop on exit and consider joining a VR immersive experience or attend one of the 50th anniversary events, with a collector’s passport and surprise rewards.