When we think of museums in Paris, we think of the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, the Petit Palais and the free museums on the first Sunday of the month, where you have to be patient. But it's easy to forget the others: the museums that are free every day without conditions, and all those that are free for under-26s who are nationals of one of the 28 European countries, as well as active primary and secondary school teachers.
Victor Hugo's house in Paris, an artistic plunge into the world of the famous author
The Maison de Victor Hugo is tucked away on the Place des Vosges in the heart of Paris. This museum dedicated to France's most famous author lets us discover the apartment where the artist and his family lived. [Read more]
The Collège des Bernardins: one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris to visit free of charge
Let's discover the Collège des Bernardins - one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris. Be sure to visit this 13th-century gem, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter and open to the public free of charge. Open all year round, this cultural space offers a variety of exhibitions and events, and even a café-restaurant. [Read more]
The Hôtel de Soubise, a remarkable setting for the French National Archives
In the heart of the Marais district, discover a private mansion and its hidden garden, home to the Archives nationales and a free museum open to all. A chance to admire the sublime architecture of the Hôtel de Soubise! [Read more]
All you need to know about Notre-Dame de Paris: opening hours, tours, reservations, events
With its thirteen million visitors a year, Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is one of the capital's must-sees. A place of worship as well as a monument, it has witnessed the history of Paris since its construction. Since December 8, 2024, the monument is once again accessible. With reservations, year-round concerts and suggested tours, discover all the information you need to prepare your visit to this emblem of Paris, ready to welcome the world. [Read more]
The Musée Cognacq-Jay in Paris, a collector's museum in the heart of the Marais district
The Musée Cognacq-Jay, located in the Marais district of Paris, boasts a fine collection of 18th-century works evocative of the Age of Enlightenment, acquired between 1900 and 1927 by Ernest Cognacq. It's a free historical plunge! [Read more]
Eglise de la Sainte-Trinité: the 9th arrondissement's imposing edifice, recognizable by its bell tower
With its imposing allure and 65-meter steeple, the Church of the Holy Trinity has dominated the Chaussée-d'Antin district for over 150 years. Behind its façade lies a history of Haussmannian modernity. [Read more]
Musée Picasso Paris: a free 2,300 m2 garden dedicated to the artist's sculptures in 2030
In 2030, Paris will inaugurate a free Pablo Picasso sculpture garden at the foot of the Musée National Picasso in the Marais district. In 2,300 m2 of greenery, a dozen emblematic works will be exhibited in the open air. What we know. [Read more]
Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris (MAM): An artistic journey from the 20th to the 21st century
The Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris, open since 1961 and located in the heart of the City of Light, a stone's throw from the Eiffel Tower, invites visitors to discover over 15,000 works reflecting the wealth of artistic creation of the 20th and 21st centuries. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, this museum transports us into the world of contemporary art. It's free to visit! [Read more]
The Petit Palais in Paris and its hidden treasures, the free museum, opening hours and exhibitions
The Petit Palais, home to the Musées des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris, is a true architectural masterpiece. Designed by Charles Girault for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, this museum is a treasure trove. And since admission is free, you'd be wrong not to take advantage of it. [Read more]
The Maison de Balzac, home of the famous writer, and its secret garden overlooking the Eiffel Tower
The Maison de Balzac, one of the famous writer's homes, is one of the capital's literary gems, located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. This house-museum also boasts an incredible garden overlooking the Eiffel Tower, as well as a café. [Read more]
The Musée Bourdelle, a free museum-workshop dedicated to the sculptor in Paris
The Musée Bourdelle, dedicated to the famous sculptor, awaits you in the 15th arrondissement, with an itinerary designed for adults and children alike. As an added bonus, there's a café-restaurant perfect for prolonging the visit. [Read more]
The Musée Zadkine: the sculptor's studio-museum near the Jardin du Luxembourg
On the edge of the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Musée Zadkine in Paris opens its doors to its permanent collection, free of charge, all year round, in the heart of a green setting populated by sculptures. Nestled at 100 bis rue d'Assas, the museum is the former home of iconic sculptor Ossip Zadkine, who lived there from 1928 to 1967. [Read more]
The ruins of "Pâté-Pâris" (or Petit Château de Bercy), the remains of a folly in the heart of Paris
Around the bend of an alley in the Parc de Bercy, lie the discreet remains of a former aristocratic pavilion from the XVIIIᵉ century. A heritage curiosity perfect for urban explorers, photographers and walkers in search of hidden histories. Now's the time to discover the little Château de Bercy. [Read more]
Did you know? The Bois de Vincennes is home to Ile-de-France's only Tibetan temple, Kagyu-Dzong.
Nestled in the heart of the Bois de Vincennes, the Tibetan temple of Kaguy-Dzong, the only one of its kind in the region, is a colorful jewel that reveals the full richness of Tibetan sacred art. With its colorful architecture and soothing atmosphere, it invites you on a true spiritual journey without leaving Paris. [Read more]
Unusual: In the 5th arrondissement, these fake Roman remains arouse the curiosity of passers-by
This is one of the sights to see when in Paris's 5th arrondissement. Hidden between the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Panthéon and the Val de Grâce, an unusual building entrance takes on the appearance of ancient ruins. We tell you more about these false Pompeian remains and where to find them. [Read more]
L'École des Arts Joailliers: the art of jewelry at the heart of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
Discover the fascinating world of jewelry at the École des Arts Joailliers, housed in a sumptuous 18th-century townhouse in the heart of Paris. All year round, free exhibitions and workshops await you to learn more about the art of jewelry. [Read more]
Musée Cernuschi: the free museum, the jewel of Asian arts in Paris
The Musée Cernuschi is the museum of Asian arts in Paris, tracing the history of Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese peoples since Neolithic times. The collection includes works acquired by the city, including 5,000 bequeathed by Henri Cernuschi in the 19th century. The museum's centerpiece is a large bronze Buddha, which dominates the immense, high-ceilinged hall housing the permanent collections. [Read more]
The Château de la Reine Blanche, a curiosity to discover for free in the 13th arrondissement - photos
A castle in the heart of Paris? In the 13th arrondissement of Paris, hidden from view, a royal manor house has been in hiding since the end of the 13th century. And you can discover it for free with guided tours until September! [Read more]
Le Couvent de l'Annonciation, discover this church and its secret cloister in the heart of Paris's 8th arrondissement.
In the 8th arrondissement of Paris, a church with Byzantine charm and an Art Deco cloister are hidden away at the Couvent de l'Annonciation. Founded by the Dominicans in 1613, this discreet and inspiring site is open to visitors free of charge all year round. [Read more]
Discover the free Legion of Honor Museum: a journey through the history of honors
Immerse yourself in the history of honors at the Musée de la Légion d'honneur et des ordres de chevalerie, housed in the magnificent Hôtel de Salm in Paris. [Read more]
The Pharmacy Museum: Paris’s Most Hidden and Unexpected Free Exhibit Space
Nestled within a historic townhouse just steps from Parc Monceau, one of Paris's most discreet museums awaits— the Museum of Pharmacy. Visitors can explore the fascinating history of the site for free, now home to the National Order of Pharmacists and an eclectic collection of curiosities. [Read more]
Center Wallonie Bruxelles: programme, exhibitions... all you need to know about the cultural center in Paris
Attention contemporary art lovers! The Centre Wallonie-Bruxelles, located in the 4ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, opposite the Centre Pompidou, awaits you to fill up on knowledge. This cultural institution, inaugurated in 1979, highlights the artistic scene of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation through a varied program: visual arts, live performances, cinema and literature. Want to plan a visit? We'll tell you all about it! [Read more]
Did you know? Why does the Centaur statue have a miniature Statue of Liberty?
César's Centaure, the impressive 5-metre-high sculpture on the Place Michel Debré in Paris's 6ᵉ arrondissement, raises both astonishment and questions. Created between 1983 and 1985 by sculptor César Baldaccini, this half-man, half-horse work pays homage to Pablo Picasso while questioning our relationship with modernity. But what most fascinates the curious is the secret it hides in its breastplate: a miniature reproduction of the Statue of Liberty, an unexpected wink in this sculpture full of symbols. [Read more]
Saint-Pierre-de-Chaillot church, a curious monument between Byzantine art and concrete in the 16th arrondissement
Nestled in the 16th arrondissement, the Saint-Pierre-de-Chaillot church impresses with its Romanesque-Byzantine architecture in rough concrete, and its exceptional frescoes and tympanum. This monumental edifice, at once austere and fascinating, is home to a unique spiritual and artistic heritage, part of Parisian history. [Read more]
Saint-Jean-Bosco church, an Art Deco masterpiece in Paris's 20th arrondissement
In the heart of Paris's 20th arrondissement stands the Saint-Jean-Bosco church, an art deco masterpiece dating from the 1930s. Discover this secret and unusual treasure of Parisian heritage. [Read more]
Did you know? Why is it called the Fountain of the Innocents?
The Fontaine des Innocents, the jewel in the crown of Paris's Les Halles district, is back in full view and freshly restored, just ahead of the Olympic Games. Do you know the history of this emblematic monument, witness to Parisian history since the 16th century, and why it bears its name? We tell you. [Read more]
Les Arènes de Lutèce, a Gallo-Roman amphitheatre in the heart of Paris
Did you know about the Arènes de Lutèce? This well-preserved Gallo-Roman amphitheatre, located in the heart of the Arènes de Lutèce square in Paris, is a true symbol of Parisian art de vivre! [Read more]
The Maif Social Club, an inspiring cultural venue on rue de Turenne
On the rue de Turenne in Paris, a hybrid venue awaits cultural visitors and the curious: the Maif Social Club. It's an exhibition space, a library and a place for meetings and conferences. Here, new ideas for a better future are fished out, and children are welcome. [Read more]
Art42: the free street-art museum that puts urban art in the spotlight in Paris
If you're a street-art fan, come and visit Art42, the street-art museum in Paris. This unusual place is open free of charge once a month, with guided tours. [Read more]
The Curie Museum: In the footsteps of Marie Curie and her family
At the heart of the Curie campus, in the 5th arrondissement of Paris near the Panthéon, lies the Musée Curie. Open from Wednesday to Saturday, this free place of memory and knowledge offers an insight into the history of radioactivity and its medical applications. [Read more]
Lafayette Anticipations: opening hours, prices... everything you need to know about the contemporary art foundation
For art lovers, the Lafayette Anticipations Foundation awaits you every day of the week to show you its exhibitions and space. Opening times, prices, practical information... we've got it all! [Read more]
La Gaîté Lyrique: a pioneering cultural space in Paris
Looking for a little culture and the latest artistic trends? Head to La Gaîté Lyrique, in Paris's 2nd arrondissement, for a tour of the establishment's fine programming. [Read more]
Musée Carnavalet, Paris's oldest museum dedicated to the capital's history
The Musée Carnavalet invites you to discover the history of the capital. Discover what awaits you in Paris' oldest museum, which has the advantage of being free... [Read more]
The Musée de la Vie Romantique in Paris: a lush, artistic haven brimming with charm
In Paris, the Musée de la vie romantique is a hidden gem, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the chance to explore this charming museum and its enchanting garden, tucked away in the 9th arrondissement. [Read more]
The Musée de la Préfecture de Police, immerse yourself in history and police investigations
The Musée de la Préfecture de Police, nestled in the heart of the 5th arrondissement, invites visitors on a fascinating exploration of the history of the Paris police force from the 17th century to the present day. Available all year round, this historic treasure trove on rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève unveils over 2,000 authentic and captivating works of art. [Read more]
The Shoah Memorial: a place of remembrance in Paris
The Shoah Memorial in Paris opens its doors to us free of charge, inviting us to remember and understand the history of the Jews of France, especially during the Second World War. [Read more]
The Pont de Bir-Hakeim, the most cinematic bridge in Paris
There's no getting around it: at least half of all foreign films shot in Paris feature beautiful shots of the Bir-Hakeim Bridge! Can you guess which bridge we're talking about? [Read more]
History of the Iena Bridge
Did you know that the Iena Bridge was almost destroyed by a vengeful Prussian general? [Read more]
History of the Concorde Bridge
Did you know that the Pont de la Concorde was built using ashlar from the ruins of the Bastille Prison? To find out more about this famous Parisian bridge, click here! [Read more]
Near Paris, this free museum is housed within a historic former Nordic pavilion.
In Courbevoie, just outside Paris, hidden behind the striking architecture of the old Sweden and Norway Pavilion, you'll find a free museum dedicated to 19th-century art. This cultural gem is located right within a historic remnant of the 1878 Universal Exhibition! [Read more]
Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace at Le Bourget, a unique place that puts stars in your eyes
The Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace at Le Bourget is a nugget for those who dream of traveling, while the world's eyes are riveted on Mars, the Moon and the ISS. Here, you can rediscover the planes of the conquest of air and space for free, and even climb aboard a number of mythical aircraft! [Read more]
The Maison Jean Monnet: behind the scenes of the creation of Europe at Bazoches-sur-Guyonne (78)
Nestled in the greenery of the Yvelines region, the Maison Jean Monnet offers an intimate, free immersion in European history. It was here, in this peaceful residence in Bazoches-sur-Guyonne, that Europe was born. [Read more]
Maison Van Doesburg: free tours of the Dutch painter's studio in Meudon (92)
In Meudon, Hauts-de-Seine (92), the house-workshop of Dutch painter Theo van Doesburg, pioneer of the De Stijl movement, reveals art in architecture. Built in 1929, it blends geometric shapes, primary colors and natural light. Discover it every first Saturday of the month by appointment or during the Heritage Days. [Read more]
Did you know? There is another Rodin Museum ... and it's hidden away in Meudon, in the heart of the 92 region!
Just a stone's throw from Paris, there's another Rodin museum just around the corner... and it's no Plan B! Nestled in Meudon, in a verdant setting in the Hauts-de-Seine department (92), this confidential site plunges you into the world of the sculptor with striking authenticity. House, workshop, park... everything you need to rediscover Rodin in a different way - free of charge, without reservation and in the heart of nature, every weekend until the end of September. [Read more]
The Maison Zola, the Dreyfus Museum in Médan, Yvelines
In the heart of the Yvelines region, the Musée Dreyfus, in the grounds of the Maison d'Émile Zola, stands as a place steeped in literary and judicial history. Located in Médan, just an hour's drive from Paris, this historic house and museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the life and work of Émile Zola, as well as the Dreyfus Affair, two major elements of late 19th-century French culture. [Read more]
The Galerie des Carrosses, the free museum at the Grandes Ecuries of the Château de Versailles
The Galerie des Carrosses, nestled in the Grande Écurie at the Château de Versailles, opens its doors free of charge every weekend. When visiting Versailles, it's a discovery you'd be wrong not to make. We'll take you on a tour... [Read more]
Musée Aéronautique et Spatial Safran: a plunge into the history of aviation
The Musée Aéronautique et Spatial Safran in Réau, near Melun, invites enthusiasts to rediscover the evolution of aeronautical propulsion since 1905. Why not visit this free museum, which is well worth the detour? [Read more]
Maison-atelier Foujita in Essonne: an intimate glimpse of the famous Franco-Japanese painter
Come and discover the incredible life of Léonard Tsuguharu Foujita, talented Franco-Japanese painter and true jack-of-all-trades, by pushing open the doors of the Maison-atelier Foujita nestled in the small village of Villiers-le-Bâcle, Essonne. Would you like a tour? [Read more]
Free museums and monuments this Sunday: top tips for April 5th in Paris and Île-de-France
Which free museum should you visit in Paris or Île-de-France on the first Sunday of the month, this Sunday, April 5, 2026? We're delighted to stick to our little monthly tradition: exploring a museum or monument without spending a single euro! Don't miss out on the best tips for this Sunday... [Read more]
9 Free Castles to Visit Around Paris This Sunday, March 1, 2026 – The First Sunday of the Month
Castles across Île-de-France open their doors for free every first Sunday of the month. It's a perfect chance to explore our regional heritage without spending a penny this coming Sunday, March 1, 2026. [Read more]
Free museums and monuments for young people under 26 in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
In Paris, young people under the age of 26, as well as students and teachers, have the chance to enter many museums and monuments for free! Free on presentation of an identity card or student card, museums allow all young people to open up to the world, to art and to enjoy our exceptional heritage, without discrimination, discover what you are entitled to. [Read more]
Louvre Museum: Experience free evening hours on Friday, April 3, 2026, the first Friday of the month
Here's the deal everyone looks forward to each month: the Louvre Museum opens its doors to the public for free every first Friday after 6 p.m. Mark your calendars for the next opportunity: April 3, 2026. [Read more]
Free evening at the Bourse de Commerce: reserve your tickets for Saturday, April 4, 2026
Eager to explore the collections at the Bourse de Commerce? Take advantage of the free evening opening, held on the first Saturday of each month, and experience this must-visit art space in Paris. Mark your calendar for the next date: Saturday, April 4, 2026. [Read more]
"Rêveries de pierres" at the École des Arts Joailliers: an exhibition of a precious collection of stones
Sponsored - Are you in search of a truly original, poetic, and deeply mesmerizing exhibition? From November 6, 2025, to March 29, 2026, the École des Arts Joailliers, in partnership with the Muséum national d’histoire naturelle, invites you to explore "Dreams of Stones: Poetry and Minerals of Roger Caillois," right in the heart of Paris’s 9th arrondissement. This event offers a rare opportunity to marvel at 200 extraordinary minerals, accompanied by never-before-seen texts from one of the most distinctive thinkers of the 20th century. Additionally, entry is free with prior reservation (link below). [Read more]
BLEU FUTUR Exhibition by RASSIM® at the Bulgarian Cultural Center
Sponsored - The Bulgarian Cultural Institute presents in Paris the debut of RASSIM®’s daring and experimental artistic universe. [Read more]
Louis Vuitton Art Deco: LV Dream’s Free & Immersive Exhibition in Paris Extended — Our Photos
Louis Vuitton marks the 100th anniversary of the 1925 International Exposition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts with a new free exhibition, Louis Vuitton Art Deco, open until March 21, 2026, at LV Dream in the 1st arrondissement. This immersive journey intertwines leather, canvas, and geometric lines across eight themed rooms, showcasing over 300 heritage pieces and never-before-seen archives! [Read more]
Sebastião Salgado takes center stage in a free photography exhibition at Paris City Hall
Paris City Hall pays tribute to photographer Sebastião Salgado with a major exhibition, which will be open to the public free of charge from February 21 to May 30, 2026. [Read more]
Open Forms: An Abstract Art Exhibition at the Swedish Institute in Paris
Sponsored - In the heart of the Marais district, the Swedish Institute hosts Open Forms, an exhibition dedicated to geometric abstract art and the works of Olle Bærtling. Running from February 20 to July 19, 2026, in Paris. [Read more]
A model of the Grand Palais made from building blocks on display for free
After being assembled live in front of an audience during the winter holidays of 2026, come and admire the LEGO replica of the Grand Palais — completely built with LEGO bricks — free of charge! [Read more]
Napoleon I’s Last Will: A Special Free Exhibition at the National Archives
This is one of the most legendary documents in French history. Safeguarded under tight security at the National Archives, Napoleon I’s will is being temporarily displayed to the public from March 4th to June 29th, 2026, in Paris. [Read more]
This Paris exhibit turns coffins into art pieces at the Nothing Serious gallery
The Nothing Serious gallery is inviting you to explore a truly unique exhibition featuring unusual coffins and funerary urns, titled From Paa Joe to Paaris, running from February 27 to May 24, 2026. [Read more]
Expanded Drops: The free exhibition where fragrance transforms into visual art at Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris
Forget the bottle; here, perfume is a visual experience. With Expanded Drops, Maison Francis Kurkdjian presents a free exhibition running from January 21 to March 29, 2026, curated by photographer Christelle Boulé. She captures the essence of fragrances and transforms them into captivating images. This immersive sensory and artistic journey shifts the olfactory world into the realm of sight, right in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
The Living Room: an encounter with the emerging contemporary scene at Reiffers Initiatives
Sponsored - Reiffers Initiatives unveils its latest exhibition celebrating the vibrant young contemporary scene. Located at 30 Rue des Acacias in the 17th arrondissement of Paris, just a short walk from Avenue de la Grande-Armée and Porte Maillot, the Reiffers Art Initiatives center presents a dedicated space for contemporary creation with “The Living Room.” [Read more]
Plaza Athénée: Michel Bassompierre's menagerie brings the artist’s work to the hotel — check out our photos from the exhibition
The Plaza Athénée unveils Michel Bassompierre's wildlife series with a free-to-visit sculpture exhibition. From gorillas and bears to horses, this captivating menagerie invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of wildlife right at the heart of the iconic avenue Montaigne palace, ongoing until April 16, 2026. [Read more]
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
