Family plan

This medieval town, designated a Village of Character in Île-de-France, hides a wealth of treasures.

We head to Seine-et-Marne (77), less than an hour from Paris, to discover Nemours, a medieval town awarded the Village of Character label, tucked into the meanders of the Loing and rich with a heritage to explore year-round. The castle, museums and a sublime church make up a remarkable ensemble to discover.

Seine-et-Marne: this Royal Garden, listed as a Remarkable Garden, unfolds its sublime rhododendrons with free admission

In Seine-et-Marne, the gardens of the Château de Fontainebleau are in full bloom this spring 2026, showcasing their rhododendron beds. A 130-hectare royal park, listed as a Remarkable Garden, free to enter—you can run, you can dash around (and you can picnic).

10 parks and gardens in Paris and Île-de-France you simply have to visit in May 2026

In May, the parks and gardens of Paris and the Ile-de-France region are decked out in their most beautiful colors. The abundant blooms of this period offer the opportunity for beautiful discoveries, ideal for springtime strolls. So, to help you find your way around, here are 10 parks and gardens to discover at this time of year.

Sant Jordi: a book-and-rose market with free activities, Catalonia’s festival.

On April 25, 2026, the spirit of Catalonia takes over the 14th arrondissement for a celebration centered on literature and roses to mark Sant Jordi. A wide range of free activities, from human-tower displays to Catalan language workshops, awaits at Place de Catalogne.

Unusual sight: horses settle on Place de la Concorde for a day dedicated to equine therapy

On May 1, 2026, Place de la Concorde trades the city’s bustle for the soothing rhythm of horses’ hooves. As part of the installation “Living Together,” the HOPE association invites Parisians to discover equine therapy at a free event.

Yvelines flea markets and garage sales this weekend, April 25–26, 2026, in the 78.

Discover the flea markets and garage sales program in the Yvelines on April 25 and 26, 2026. From Crespières to Le Pecq, via La Queue-les-Yvelines and Rambouillet, we’re off to explore the events in the 78.

A Taste of America in Paris: Doane University Concert Band in concert at the American Church

The Doane University Concert Band will perform at the American Church in Paris—the famed American Church on the Quai d'Orsay—on May 22, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. for an exceptional concert. Directed by Andrew Feyes, the ensemble will present a varied program blending American works, grand operatic selections, and contemporary creations, in a unique setting in the heart of Paris. Admission is free and open to everyone.

Montereau Fair 2026 is free, the Saint-Parfait Fair celebrates Canada in Seine-et-Marne

The Saint-Parfait Fair kicks off again at the Parc des Noues in Montereau-Fault-Yonne, Seine-et-Marne, for its 185th edition. With over 200 exhibitors, a host of activities, and Canadian cuisine on the menu, the event runs from April 17 to 20, 2026.

An American chamber choir in a special concert at La Madeleine

The Westminster University Chamber Singers, an outstanding American choir conducted by Jane Fjeldsted, will perform on May 14, 2026 at Église de la Madeleine in Paris, presenting a program that blends Mozart, Fauré, and contemporary composers. This one-of-a-kind concert promises a rich, emotionally charged musical experience, carried by the ensemble’s refined vocalism and the venue’s remarkable acoustics. Admission is free and open to all.

Songkran Festival 2026 at Wat Pho Paris in Essonne: the free Thai New Year program

Heading to Breux-Jouy, in Essonne, to celebrate Songkran, the Thai New Year, at the Wat Pho Paris temple. A free, festive, immersive day to enjoy this Sunday, April 19, 2026 — let’s go!

An outstanding American choir in concert in Paris: a vibrant evening at La Madeleine

The Bowling Green State University Men’s Chorus, an American choir of excellence made up of about fifty male voices, will give a special concert on May 12, 2026 at 4:00 PM at the Madeleine Church in Paris. Conducted by Richard Schnipke and Emily Pence, the ensemble will present a program blending classical works, contemporary pieces, and traditional songs, offering an intense and accessible musical experience for all (free admission).

Colors Festival returns to Paris with the street-art exhibition Colors Ligth, spanning 700 m², featuring the photos

The Colors Festival returns to Paris after a three-year hiatus and sets up in the 15th arrondissement with Colors Light, a new immersive exhibition exploring blacklight and urban art, opening from April 16 to July 26, 2026.

Jardin21, season 2026: a week of celebration, nature and cultural discoveries at the heart of Parc de la Villette

In April, Jardin21, the lively, greenery-filled community hub perched along the Canal de l’Ourcq in the 19th arrondissement, reopens its doors with a rich and varied lineup. Take the opportunity to kick off spring: community-led initiatives, gardening workshops, youth activities, festive evenings, a yoga session… Everything you need to escape without leaving Paris! Free admission.

10 top free outings in Paris to make the most of the Spring and Easter holidays 2026

Spring break, more commonly known as the Easter holidays, is here! Are you looking for the best outings without spending much, or even for free? Here are 10 smart tips for going out in Paris and the surrounding areas.

Hanami at Parc de Sceaux 2026, the program and free-access activities - photos and video

Hanami, the famed cherry blossom festival, returns this season to the Domaine de Sceaux in the Hauts-de-Seine, from April 4 to 19, 2026. This year, note that you must reserve to access the lawns. That won’t stop you from admiring the blossoms along the avenues and from the viewing platform that overlooks the trees. We unveil the program available throughout the estate.

Becoming a Festival: performances, debates and workshops at the City of Economics

From 9 to 12 April 2026, the Devenir Festival takes over the Cité de l’Économie in Paris’s 17th arrondissement, with performances, workshops, debates and tours. Admission is free.

Vélo in Paris 2026 at Parc Floral: The event for every Parisian looking to breathe some fresh air.

The Bike Festival in Paris is back from April 24 to 26, 2026 at Parc Floral: bike tests, activities, talks, films, the Draisienne Cup, and encounters for all audiences, all completely free in a festive atmosphere.

Winnie the Pooh turns 100: free activities for children at a shopping mall

Winnie the Pooh lands at a Paris shopping mall from May 7 to 9, 2026. What’s on the agenda? Free activities around the famous yellow bear.

10 free outings to enjoy the Easter weekend in Paris and Île-de-France

Chasses aux œufs, musées gratuits, Hanami à Sceaux... The Easter weekend from April 4 to 6, 2026 is packed with free options in Paris and Île-de-France. We round up the possibilities to enjoy a long weekend without blowing the budget.