Happy New Year! January is here, a new year has begun, and we're off again for 12 months of art and culture, visits and discoveries in the capital's museums and galleries. A new year also means new exhibitions, and we can't wait to discover what this month has in store for us.
But be warned: this guide doesn't list just any exhibitions. Here you'll find our selection of the most unexpected, interesting and entertaining free exhibitions in Paris and theParis region. These are the cultural highlights for all those who, like us, have made good resolutions this January 1st.
More outings, more culture, less spending: it's possible! So check out this selection of free exhibitions, and take advantage of these great events without any qualms. Which exhibition will you choose first?
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]
Vibrations: José Yaque's immersive and colorful exhibition at Galleria Continua — our photos
Galleria Continua showcases the work of Cuban artist José Yaque at its Parisian Marais gallery. Running until March 10, 2026, visitors are invited to experience his immersive solo exhibition, "Vibraciones," crafted to engage multiple senses. [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]
Kathia St. Hilaire: A Powerful Exhibition at the Perrotin Gallery
The Haitian-American artist Kathia St. Hilaire is showcasing a series of engravings and collages in Paris that delve into themes of spiraling, migration, and exile stories. On view at the Perrotin Gallery from January 10 to March 7, 2026, the exhibition offers a contemplative exploration of diasporic journeys, blending artistic expression with political insight. [Read more]
The Perrotin gallery hosts an exhibition dedicated to art inspired by the game of chess.
The Perrotin Gallery in Paris is hosting a group exhibition titled A Century of Chess, exploring the impact of the game on modern and contemporary art. Running from January 31 to February 28, 2026, and curated by R. Jonathan Lambert, the show features works by Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, Martin Parr, and William Wegman. Through paintings, sculptures, and photographs, it delves into the diverse artistic interpretations inspired by this deeply strategic game. [Read more]
Paris / Rome: Free Photo Exhibition Now Open on the City Hall Fences
On the gates of City Hall, discover a curated selection of photographs that reflect the twin beauty of Rome and Paris. Free to view from January 26 to February 26, 2026. [Read more]
Beaubourg Competition of 1971: A Free Exhibition Showcasing the Architectural Proposals for the Pompidou Center
The Centre Pompidou building was created following an international architectural competition. Explore other notable entries from the contest — alternative versions of the Centre Pompidou that might have existed in Paris. These intriguing designs are showcased in a free exhibition by the Academy of Architecture, open from January 30 to February 22, 2026. [Read more]
Mathilde Favier’s World in Paris: A Free Exhibition Showcasing Fashion, Art, and Design at Christie’s
The vibrant world of Mathilde Favier, a Parisian at heart and head of PR for a top fashion house, will be on display at Christie’s from January 28 to February 4, 2026. The exhibition, titled Mathilde & Friends in Paris, is free to attend. Featuring iconic outfits, poetic objects, and designer creations, it offers a chic, playful, and distinctly Parisian journey through style. [Read more]
Barbara: The legendary French singer-songwriter honored in a new exhibition at the BnF François-Mitterrand
Attention, Barbara fans! Nearly 30 years after her passing, the François-Mitterrand Library (BnF) is celebrating the legendary singer-songwriter with a brand-new exhibition titled "Dis quand reviendras-tu? Barbara et son public". This unique cultural event is free to the public and runs from January 27 to April 5, 2026, in the Donors' Gallery. [Read more]
And God… created Bardot: a free photo exhibition paying tribute at the Galerie de l'Instant
The Galerie de l'Instant is presenting a retrospective dedicated to Brigitte Bardot, featuring vintage prints and candid snapshots captured on the fly. From January 29 to March 29, 2026, visit this free exhibition to see the legendary "BB" of the 1950s to 70s—an icon who revolutionized societal norms. [Read more]
Captivating Time: Van Cleef & Arpels' Free Watchmaking Exhibition at the Heritage Gallery
Time is on full display with all its seconds and minutes. At the Galerie du Patrimoine, Van Cleef & Arpels presents a horological showcase titled "Enchanting Time," a free jewelry exhibition running from January 16 to June 1, 2026, in Place Vendôme, Paris. [Read more]
I Love Sushi: The Free Exhibition That Will Tantalize Your Taste Buds at the Japan House of Culture - Our Photos
Sushi takes center stage at the Japan House in Paris! From January 20 to April 11, 2026, this cultural hub hosts a special, free exhibition dedicated to one of Japan’s most iconic culinary treasures. Through an array of sushi reproductions and traditional prints, visitors are invited to explore the fascinating history and evolution of this beloved Japanese delicacy! [Read more]
Erwin Wurm. Tomorrow Yes: Free Exhibition at Thaddaeus Ropac Gallery in Pantin (93) — Photos
Art takes wild shapes in Pantin! From January 17 to April 11, 2026, Erwin Wurm's "Tomorrow: Yes" transforms the Thaddaeus Ropac gallery into a space where new works and intriguing installations challenge visitors’ perceptions. Playing with form, space, and the human body, the exhibition offers a captivating journey into the artist's imaginative universe. [Read more]
Edo Tokyo Kirari: Where French Design Meets Japanese Craftsmanship in a Stunning Exhibition
The Ateliers de Paris Gallery showcases "Edo Tokyo Kirari," a free exhibition blending French design with Japanese craftsmanship. Open to visitors from January 21 to February 4, 2026. [Read more]
Fashion Week: An exhibition of 126 haute couture Dior pieces in a Parisian palace
The Bristol Paris opens its doors to haute couture with the exhibition Dior Masterpieces: The Mouna Ayoub Haute Couture Collection, on January 27 and 28, 2026. Showcasing 126 pieces spanning the entire Christian Dior saga, from Bohan to Chiuri, the exhibit unveils four decades of style and craftsmanship. An unmissable opportunity to explore the world of a legendary private collection curated by Mouna Ayoub. [Read more]
Saint Laurent Rive Droite: a Free Exhibition Celebrates Man Ray in the Iconic Boutique
Saint Laurent Rive Droite pays tribute to Man Ray with Objects of My Affection, opening on January 16, 2026. This free exhibition transforms everyday life into surrealism—and makes it iconic! [Read more]
Life flows through its veins: a group exhibition featuring 72 urban artists at Fluctuart — our photos
For its latest urban art exhibition, the Fluctuart floating gallery in Paris is showcasing a private collection for the first time — that of Jérôme Dauchez. From January 15 to April 22, 2026, visitors can explore a stunning lineup of works by 72 artists, highlighting the dynamic interplay between street art and the Paris metro. Best of all, admission is free. [Read more]
100% Paper IV: Free Collective Street Art Exhibition at Bastille Design Center — Our Photos
« 100% Paper IV »: the name of the upcoming fourth edition of the free, collaborative exhibition curated by Hopare in partnership with Urban Signature. For the first time, this street art installation will be showcased in the stunning setting of the Bastille Design Center, located in the 11th arrondissement of Paris. Nearly 120 artists have come together around the theme of paper, presenting approximately 300 original works displayed across three levels. Visitors will have just a few days—January 15 to 18, 2026—to experience this unique showcase. [Read more]
Grand Palais: Free Exhibition Celebrates 200 Years of Le Figaro – Our Photos
Beneath the nave of the Grand Palais, a spectacular three-day celebration marks "1826-2026: 200 Years of Freedom." This free, ticketed exhibition offers a deep dive into two centuries of images, archives, and debates. An immersive experience to revisit 200 years of vibrant and inspiring history, taking place from January 14 to 16, 2026. [Read more]
The Fire This Time: Titus Kaphar’s Exhibition Unveils Society’s Forgotten Figures at Gagosian
Titus Kaphar debuts his first solo exhibition in Paris at the Gagosian Gallery with The Fire This Time, running from January 29 to March 7, 2026. Through a striking mix of paintings and wooden sculptures, the American artist explores forgotten shadows of history, bringing to light memories that have long been sidelined or overlooked. [Read more]
Various and assorted objects: the free and immersive exhibition by Song Dong at Le Bon Marché — our photos
For its 11th edition, the January art showcase at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche pays tribute to Song Dong, the renowned Chinese artist renowned for transforming everyday objects into living memory. From January 10 to February 22, 2026, his free exhibition, "Various and Diverse Objects – 百货 (baihuò)", takes over the store's showcases, features two large-scale installations beneath the glass roof, and immerses visitors in an interactive experience on the second floor. [Read more]
ZEUS, the iconic metal horse from the Olympics, on display for free at the Museum of Arts and Crafts in Paris
Zeus, the mechanical horse from the Olympic Games that captured everyone's hearts, has now arrived at the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris. The towering steel colossus is open to the public free of charge from December 17, 2025, to January 10, 2027. [Read more]
Kid Cudi unveils "Echoes of the Past," his debut art exhibition in Paris
Fans of Kid Cudi are headed to the 3rd arrondissement of Paris to experience "Echoes of the Past," the rapper’s very first solo exhibition. The event takes place at Galerie Ruttkowski;68 from January 30 to March 1, 2026, where visitors can explore the artist’s paintings, complemented by a unique original sound piece created specifically for the occasion. [Read more]
The Beat Goes On! : Free Exhibition Celebrating Clubbing Culture at Quai de la Photo
The vibrant world of clubbing culture — both festive and politically charged — takes center stage in a free photographic exhibition running from January 9 to April 24, 2026. Come explore The Beat Goes On! at Quai de la Photo. [Read more]
Paris: Wes Anderson recreates Joseph Cornell’s studio at the Gagosian Gallery
This winter, American filmmaker Wes Anderson is transforming the Gagosian Gallery on rue de Castiglione into a meticulously recreated homage to Joseph Cornell’s New York studio. The legendary artist, a visionary and pioneer of assemblage art, is brought vividly to life through Anderson's detailed reimagining. [Read more]
Mini Me: Our snapshots from the JonOne "100% Groovy Baby" exhibition at the Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery
The Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery hosts Mini Me, the vibrant solo exhibition by JonOne, offering a psychedelic journey where graffiti, small-scale works, and seventies groovery collide in a striking visual explosion. The exhibition runs from December 11, 2025, to January 11, 2026 — a must-visit chance to dive into the colorful universe of the artist. [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]
Beyond Our Horizons: From Tokyo to Paris, the New Free Exhibition at the 19M Gallery
Beyond Our Horizons lands in Paris: from January 29 to April 26, 2026, the Galerie du 19M showcases French artisans alongside Japanese creators, weaving their stories together. After captivating 75,000 visitors in Tokyo, this exhibition offers a journey where tradition and innovation intersect in every detail. Embroideries, molds, feathers, and metals become bridges connecting different cultures and craftsmanship. [Read more]
Exceptional and free Arman exhibition at the 17th arrondissement town hall in Paris
The 17th arrondissement town hall is celebrating Arman, a leading figure of the New Realists, with a free exhibition from December 12, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Bronze sculptures, rare paintings, and a new creation of a French flag pay tribute to this visionary artist, 20 years after his death. [Read more]
Hommage: a collective street art exhibition in Paris featuring Jef Aérosol, Hera, and others - our photos
Street art lovers should head to Paris's 13th arrondissement to discover "Hommage," the new group exhibition at Galerie Mathgoth. From November 27, 2025, to January 10, 2026, visitors can admire around thirty works by a dozen urban artists, including Jef Aérosol, Jace, Bordalo II, Hera, and Kogaone. [Read more]
Urban stroll: Japan sketched by Florent Chavouet at the Maison de la Culture du Japon
The Maison de la Culture du Japon in Paris is hosting a small, free exhibition dedicated to the sketches of French illustrator Florent Chavouet. Visit between December 2, 2025, and January 10, 2026, to discover this beautiful illustrated urban stroll. [Read more]
Doris Brynner: the iconic fashion exhibition at Sotheby's Paris
Sotheby's Paris is dedicating an exhibition to Doris Brynner, a figure of 20th-century cosmopolitan elegance, from January 23 to 26, 2026. The exhibition is being held during Haute Couture Fashion Week. [Read more]
Monstrology: a monstrous exhibition of drawings at the Daniel Maghen Gallery
Artist Stan Manoukian and his monsters are in the spotlight at the Daniel Maghen Gallery: come and admire this free exhibition from December 4, 2025, to January 10, 2026. [Read more]
Micronirisme: a free miniature art exhibition at the Pablo Neruda media library in Malakoff
The city of Malakoff transformed into a miniature model... Discover Kristoff Bonnet and his "microscopic" art in a free exhibition at the Pablo Neruda media library, from December 4, 2025, to January 3, 2026. [Read more]
What time owes them: the Advent calendar exhibition, which unveils a new work every day.
A gallery on Rue Audran in Montmartre is hosting "Ce que le temps leur doit" (What Time Owes Them), a collective exhibition where 24 emerging female artists unveil one work each day in an artistic and socially conscious Advent calendar, from December 1, 2025, to January 6, 2026. [Read more]
Rêveries de pierres: the free retrospective exhibition at the Ecole des Arts Joailliers - our photos
The Ecole des Arts Joailliers pays tribute to Roger Caillois, the great writer and collector, with a free exhibition. From November 6, 2025 to March 29, 2026, come and admire "Rêveries de pierres". [Read more]
Flavors of Timeless Tokyo: exhibition on the Japanese capital and cooking workshops in Paris
From November 10, 2025, to January 10, 2026, HIS Paris is transforming its concept store into a vibrant tribute to Tokyo. With a free exhibition by artist Mateusz Urbanowicz, culinary workshops, and objects from Japan, the event immerses the capital in the spirit of Tokyo. [Read more]
Colors of Korea: free contemporary art exhibition at the Korean Cultural Center in Paris, photos
The Korean Cultural Center unveils the exhibition "Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l'art contemporain coréen", on the occasion of the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Korea, from October 24, 2025 to August 29, 2026. This free exhibition presents a unique immersion in Korean art, illustrating the work of 34 artists who blend tradition and innovation through the power of color. [Read more]
Clear skies / troubled waters: our photos of Steffani Jemison's exhibition at Lafayette Anticipations
American artist Steffani Jemison presents "Clear Skies / Troubled Waters" at Lafayette Anticipations in Paris, from October 22, 2025, to February 8, 2026. This immersive exhibition combines sculpture, video, and sensory experimentation to explore movement, gravity, and the perception of the body in space. [Read more]
Sole Crushing by Meriem Bennani: our photos of the immersive installation at Lafayette Anticipations
Meriem Bennani's exhibition "Sole Crushing" will be on display at Lafayette Anticipations in Paris from October 22, 2025, to February 8, 2026. This monumental installation combines contemporary art, performance, and music through an immersive sound work animated by percussive flip-flops. [Read more]
Tarik Kiswanson presents "The Relief", a free exhibition at the Swedish Institute - our photos
This autumn and winter, the Swedish Institute in Paris invites Tarik Kiswanson, winner of the Prix Marcel Duchamp in 2023. On view free of charge from October 23, 2025 to January 11, 2026, this exhibition, entitled "The Relief", unveils a small selection of works by the multi-disciplinary visual artist, "presented for the first time in France". [Read more]
Dans(e) la lumière, season 2: the full program for this artistic edition at the EDF Foundation
The EDF Foundation is organizing a second and new edition of its Dans(e) la lumière event, which combines exhibitions and dance performances. Season 2 runs from November 4, 2025 to January 31, 2026. Find out more about the program. [Read more]
Forgeries and counterfeiters, from the Middle Ages to the present day: the free exhibition at the National Archives
Can you tell the real from the fake? From October 15, 2025 to February 2, 2026, the National Archives and the Banque de France will be testing your critical thinking skills in their new exhibition on famous forgeries from history. [Read more]
Les Ateliers d'art des grands magasins: a free exhibition at the Bibliothèque Forney, Paris
Printemps' Primavera, Bon Marché's Pomone, Galeries Lafayette's La Maîtrise and Grands Magasins du Louvre's Studium Louvre showcase the best of Art Deco to mark the centenary of the 1925 Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes. Furniture, textiles, ceramics, catalogs, posters and photographs can all be discovered at the Bibliothèque Forney in a free exhibition running from November 4, 2025 to February 28, 2026. [Read more]
Gaston Paris - L'équilibre du carré: the free photo exhibition at Roger-Viollet Gallery
The Roger-Viollet Gallery is hosting an exhibition dedicated to the renowned photographer Gaston Paris, open for free from October 2, 2025, to February 21, 2026. [Read more]
Voir la mer: a free contemporary exhibition at the Maif Social Club - photos
Contemporary artists draw inspiration from the oceans to create original works, sometimes amusing, sometimes disturbing... Come and discover the Voir la mer exhibition, presented at the Maif Social Club from October 11, 2025 to July 25, 2026. [Read more]
FoRTE#7 exhibition: discover young talent at FRAC Île-de-France in Romainville
The FoRTE exhibition returns for a 7th edition at the Frac Île-de-France reserves: the region presents works by the winners of the Fonds régional des talents émergents, from November 19, 2025 to January 11, 2026. [Read more]
Vanessa Paradis, "Paradissime": the tribute exhibition at Galerie de l'Instant
As Vanessa Paradis prepares to return to the stage in 2026, the Galerie de l'Instant in Paris is devoting an exhibition to her. Come and discover the artist's photographs by Paolo Roversi, Ellen von Unwerth and Kate Barry at the "Paradissime" exhibition, on view free of charge from October 15, 2025 to January 14, 2026. [Read more]
Léa's Odyssey: an underwater exhibition at the Pavillon Vendôme in Clichy (92)
From October 15, 2025, Junior artist Fritz Jacquet's exhibition is back, but this time in Clichy, to plunge into the heart of an ocean of paper while discovering this ecosystem from an artistic point of view. [Read more]
The hijacked museum: a fun, free exhibition on the walls of Bercy Village
Painter Pierre-Adrien Sollier takes on art's masterpieces in a "Playmobil ®" version, with the exhibition Le musée détourné, to be discovered free of charge from September 25, 2025 to January 18, 2026 at Bercy Village. [Read more]
Acne Paper Palais Royal: the permanent (art) gallery for the Acne Studios brand opens in Paris
Paris mixes fashion and culture in style! On June 26, 2025, Acne Studios opened its first independent art gallery, Acne Paper Palais Royal, under the arcades of the Palais Royal. An arty new spot in the heart of the 1st arrondissement. [Read more]
Le Serpent des Vœux: take part in an interactive work on calligraphy at the Trà Art gallery
At the Trà Art gallery in Paris's 10th arrondissement, the "Le Serpent des Vœux" exhibition transforms Vietnamese calligraphy into a lively, participatory experience. From June 6, 2025 to February 15, 2026, each visitor is invited to place his or her wish on a work in progress! [Read more]
L'Esquisse, Barbizon's new cultural hotel, both café and free museum
L'Esquisse is a fusion of hotel, café and free museum. We're off to Barbizon, the famous artists' village, to take advantage of this new spot that combines large, charming rooms, a great café by the fireplace and a free museum honoring the artists who have influenced Barbizon around the world. [Read more]
The list of free exhibitions in Paris is updated on an ongoing basis, so you'll always have an exhibition to get your teeth into. Don't hesitate to come back to this page! And happy new year, full of art and good deals.
Dates and Opening Time
From January 1, 2026 to January 31, 2026
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
