World > Europe > France > Ile-de-France and Paris

Musée du Quai Branly

The incredibly rich art collections from Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the Americas inside one of Paris's newest museums are well worth the trip, whether you think the multimillion-dollar Jean Nouvel structure is a marooned steamer or a work of urban genius. A 46-foot totem pole from British Columbia dominates the glass atrium, but you'll also find a feather-covered Hawaiian chief's helmet, masks from Vanuatu, and a korombo (lintel) decorated with human heads from Papua New Guinea. In fine weather, its terraced restaurant, Les Ombres (33-01-47-53-68-00; www.lesombres-restaurant.com), offers the finest view of the Eiffel Tower in the city, bar none. Although pricey, its innovative cuisine makes it a hot ticket, so reserve well in advance.

AS FEATURED IN...

From Travel + Leisure , JUN 2006

An exterior wall is covered in 150 exotic plant species, but the real eclecticism is inside, where ancient Olmec statuettes, Tuareg leatherwork, and aboriginal bark paintings are on display....MORE>>

– Leslie Camhi T+L Reports: Nouvel Riche in Paris

Last updated June 2006