3 Top Photographic Galleries to Visit in Paris

Paris is an enduringly attractive destination for creative people, and one can't help but be inspired by the art and culture so clearly on display in the city – not only in its galleries and museums, but also throughout the city streets and suburban communities. For those coming to the French capital with creativity in mind, any of the excellent hostels in Paris will provide you with a prime base from which to explore. If your particular area of interest is photography, the following three sites may be of interest.

Maison Europeene de la Photographie

While the Maison Europeene de la Photographie is relatively small in stature, it makes up for it with its thoughtfully curated collections and regularly changing events throughout the year. Located at rue de Fourcy, in the Hotel de Ville area of the city, the gallery plays host to the works of some of the most important photographers in European history. Only open Wednesdays to Sundays, the gallery is easy to find on foot, and is within easy walking distance of the central hostels in Paris. Photographers past and present who have exhibited works here include Denis Darsacq, Luis Mauro, Lydia Flem and Yoki Onodera.

Fondation Henri Cartier Bresson

When you're in Paris, one can hardly mention the word photography without also mentioning the name Henri Cartier Bresson. Situated in an atelier in the less conspicuous 14th arrondissment of the city, the Fondation Henri Cartier Bresson is an inspiring place for budding photographers to visit. Filled with original works by the master himself, the collection includes rare and previously unseen prints as well as a library and an archive of videos and DVDs. While you may have to catch the Metro from near your choice of the hostels in Paris to reach the Fondation, it's well worth the relatively easy journey.

Jeu de Paume

Situated on Rue de Rivoli, at the Place de la Concorde end of the Jardin Tulieries, the Jeu de Paume is one of the city's most exciting cultural centres. With an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, the gallery focuses on "all forms of mechanical and electronic imagery". Blending a combination of contemporary, emerging artists and established historic works, the gallery covers the gamut of photography, cinema and installation art. While on the outside, the Jeu de Paume cuts quite an imposing figure, inside, its modern crisp interiors are the perfect backdrop for the graphic and often striking nature of the exhibitions. With its central location, if you're staying in one of the hostels in Paris you may be lucky enough to be able to visit on multiple occasions.

Looking for a dream travel experience? Jason H. Cunningham works for Hostelling International, a company with more than 4,000 hostels worldwide. For the best hostels in Paris or anywhere else, join our global community and say hi to the world. From quality, affordable accommodation and backpacker tips, to meaningful volunteer opportunities and enriching our eco footprint, we are the world’s local hostelling hub.