It's often said that living in Paris is expensive. So when it comes to enjoying the sights and sounds of Paris, some people fear they're running out of money. We're here to prove you wrong. And with good reason: Paris is brimming with great deals and free outings that we share with you on a regular basis. It's no longer a question of depriving yourself, it's more a question of going out smart!
So what can you do in Paris without spending a cent? In this guide, we reveal a selection of the free things to do in Paris. Whether it's cultural nuggets, ideas for outings or other good deals, you'll soon discover that it's possible to go out in Paris without breaking the bank.
The bonus? This guide is updated as new discoveries and announcements are made. So don't hesitate to treasure this page and consult it regularly to find out what free events are waiting for you in Paris every day. And did you know? We've also got a guide to the week's best deals, as well as a roundup of free or affordable weekend outings. So, are you ready to crack the code?
The latest free outings in Paris and the Ile-de-France region:
Essonne: 18 free open-air shows in 14 towns, the program!
The Day // Night Festival returns to Essonne for its 15th edition, presenting 18 free open-air performances, blending street theatre, dance and circus across 14 towns from May 22–25 and May 29–31, 2026. [Read more]
K-PLUS Festival 2026: three days to discover authentic Korea in the heart of Paris
Sponsored - From May 22 to 24, 2026, the K-PLUS Festival returns to the Université Ouverte de Paris Cité for a fourth edition focused on discovery, sharing, and Korean gastronomy. Free and open to all, the festival has today established itself as one of Paris’s premier events dedicated to both contemporary and traditional Korean culture. [Read more]
Brittany Festival 2026: Breton dances, crêpes, fest-noz and cinema in the 14th arrondissement
La Fête de la Bretagne returns to Paris's 14th arrondissement from May 14 to 24, 2026. Thanks to the Breton Mission, enjoy a lineup of activities—music, dance, cinema, storytelling and gastronomy—that lets you dive into the heart of Brittany. [Read more]
Join us to celebrate 30 years of the Rue de Bretagne flea market, over three days.
Sponsored - From May 22 to 24, Rue de Bretagne becomes a true open-air hub of life! For nearly thirty years, the famous Rue de Bretagne flea market isn’t just something people talk about… it’s something you live and pass on, woven through the stories of everyday people. [Read more]
Bois-le-Roi leisure center (77): free swimming and year-round sports activities.
Just a stone’s throw from the Fontainebleau forest, the Bois-le-Roi leisure complex is best known for its free swimming spot. Throughout the year, it’s also the go-to place to practice a wide range of outdoor sports. [Read more]
This free Haute Couture fashion exhibition has taken up residence in an Art Deco auction house in Paris.
The auction house Tajan is staging a free exhibition in Paris dedicated to haute couture in the 8th arrondissement, on Friday, May 22, and then from Monday, May 25 to Wednesday, May 27, 2026. An exclusive collection brings together fashion pieces and accessories from the greatest houses, from Dior to Chanel, Alaïa to Alexander McQueen, with Hermès not forgotten. [Read more]
Yvelines: have you heard of this temple of love, a romantic kiosk-bridge set in a lush green haven?
In the Yvelines, at the heart of the Bonnelles pond nature reserve, a charming bridge-kiosk nicknamed the “Temple of Love” still bears witness to an 18th-century parc à fabriques—an elaborate garden of follies. Open to the public for discovery in 2026. [Read more]
Cannes Film Festival 2026: Free screenings at Cinéma de la Plage
Once again this year, the Cannes Film Festival's Cinema on the Beach 2026 pays tribute to the great classics of French and international cinema. The lineup, free to watch on the Croisette beach, has just been announced! [Read more]
The Bridgertons arrive in The Sims 4: discover the new event to win rewards
A limited-time event is landing in The Sims 4 to help you score free new content. Step onto the dance floor and enjoy Lady Bridgerton’s masquerade ball, kicking off May 12, 2026. [Read more]
Sunset Tea Rave: a free tea tasting at the Buttes-Chaumont as the sun sets
Buttes-Chaumont Park transforms into a giant tea salon on May 21, 2026. This collective tasting invites Parisians to savor a good cup of tea as they watch one of the capital’s most beautiful sunsets. [Read more]
The riverside guinguette at La Pointe Sauvage on the banks of the Marne in Seine-et-Marne has opened its doors.
La guinguette of La Pointe Sauvage lands on the banks of the Marne in Vaires-sur-Marne, Seine-et-Marne, for a summer season that looks set to be convivial. Concerts, grilled fare, crepes and good spirits are on the menu from May 6 to September 2026 (and maybe beyond if the vibes—and the weather—cooperate). [Read more]
ORLAN at the Louvre: three free encounters with a leading figure in contemporary art
The Louvre hands the floor to ORLAN for three free "Artist Lessons" on 22 May, 12 June and 25 September 2026. Through images, the body, censorship and the artists' responsibility, this leading figure in contemporary art invites a rereading of the museum's masterpieces in light of today's questions. [Read more]
Jogging Festival 2026: a program that blends the arts with sports for this unconventional event at the Carreau du Temple
From May 21 to 24, 2026, the Jogging Festival returns behind the walls of the Halle du Carreau du Temple. The event sheds a fresh, playful spotlight on exhibitions, performances, workshops, practices, or projects at the crossroads of art and sport. Discover what’s in store for this edition. [Read more]
International Kite Festival: a free, magical weekend in the skies over Val d'Oise
Get ready for an immersion between earth and sky in the heart of the Val-d'Oise. From May 20 to 24, 2026, the town of Marines will host the 23rd edition of the International Kite Festival, combining exhibitions, spectacular demonstrations, and workshops to make your own kite! [Read more]
Coastal Bodies: Camille Guichard's exhibition at the Rachel Hardouin Gallery
The Rachel Hardouin Gallery highlights Camille Guichard with Corps littoral, her first solo exhibition in Paris, running May 21 to June 21, 2026. Blending contemporary photography, poetic texts, bodies and the coastline, the artist examines our relationship with the living world. [Read more]
A free permanent exhibition dedicated to the art of perfumery takes over a former Parisian theatre.
Set in a former theatre in the heart of Paris, just steps from the Opéra Garnier, Fragonard’s perfume house has reopened the doors to its Théâtre du Parfum, a historic museum dedicated to the art of perfumery. Here’s what to expect. [Read more]
Forest Tales: Lélia Demoisy's exhibition at Domaine de Chamarande
Lélia Demoisy presents Tales from the Forests, a contemporary art exhibition at the Domaine départemental de Chamarande in the Essonne department, running from May 10 to August 30, 2026. The exhibition journey traverses the forest, living beings, and the memory of materials through sculptures and installations. [Read more]
Vhils: the street artist presents his exhibition “L'interstice” at the Danysz Gallery in Paris
Fans of Vhils' work have a date this spring in Paris’ 11th arrondissement. The Danysz Gallery presents "L'interstice," the Portuguese street artist's latest solo exhibition. Free to visit from May 22 to June 20, 2026, this new installation unveils a series of works crafted from materials sourced in the capital. [Read more]
This free exhibition celebrates the Monogram’s 130th anniversary with a selection of exceptional trunks in Paris.
In Paris, some exhibitions are worth a detour. To mark the 130th anniversary of Louis Vuitton's Monogram canvas, Gros & Delettrez unveils a rare selection of trunks and travel goods from May 19 to 21, 2026. Three days to discover them for free, before they go up for auction. [Read more]
Jonk & Friends: the exhibition that blends street art and photography at the Nature Forte Gallery
This spring, photographer Jonk invited 13 of his fellow artists to contribute to his photographs. The exhibition, simply titled "Jonk & Friends," is on view for free at Galerie Nature Forte from May 7 to June 6, 2026. [Read more]
The Carmelite convent in Avon, Seine-et-Marne, unveils a free museum available on request.
In Avon, in Seine-et-Marne, the Carmes Convent hides a memorial open to the public, dedicated to Father Jacques, a Resistance figure made famous by Louis Malle. A place steeped in history that we unveil to you. [Read more]
Did you know? You can take free courses at the Collège de France, opposite the Sorbonne.
If you suddenly feel like sitting in on a course at the Collège de France, it’s possible! Since 1530, teaching there has been free and open to everyone, making knowledge more accessible. So, ready to explore the mysteries of the atom or the Mesopotamian civilization? [Read more]
“Trading in the Unknown” : the exhibition marking the new edition of the Reiffers Initiatives Prize
Sponsored - Discover the fifth edition of the Reiffers Initiatives Prize with the exhibition "Trafficking the Unknown," which spotlights the French emerging scene. A must-see in contemporary art, the exhibition brings together each year, since 2021, a curated selection of artists chosen by the Reiffers Initiatives artistic committee. Admission is free and open to everyone. [Read more]
Prehistory, between utopia and reality: a free, family-friendly exhibition at the Collège de France
From April 29, 2026, the Collège de France takes visitors back to the Paleolithic era with a free exhibition open to the entire family. Spanning—from early Paleolithic masterpieces to pop culture icons—this unprecedented journey shows how humanity has continually reinvented its roots to better understand its present. [Read more]
In May, get outside and breathe easy in the departmental parks of Seine-Saint-Denis!
Sponsored - Looking for a scenic outdoor stroll near Paris, a free outdoor activity, or a peaceful spot to exercise away from the city's hustle and bustle... There's definitely a park in Seine-Saint-Denis that's perfect for you! [Read more]
La maison de Victor Hugo à Paris, une immersion artistique dans l'univers du célèbre écrivain français
La Maison de Victor Hugo is hidden in Place des Vosges, in the heart of Paris. This museum dedicated to the most famous of French authors lets visitors step into the apartment where the artist and his family lived, as well as into his artistic universe. [Read more]
La ferme du Bel Air, for a family outing in the countryside near Villiers-le-Bacle (91)
At Villiers-le-Bâcle, in the Essonne département, the Bel Air farm invites you to meet its furry and feathered residents for a family outing in the fresh air. [Read more]
The President of the Republic's Honorary Titles: a free exhibition at the Élysée Palace in Paris
At the Élysée, power wears its insignia rather than its rhetoric. With the free exhibition “The Honorary Titles of the President of the Republic,” on display from April 28 to June 27, 2026, it is the decorations of power that take center stage. [Read more]
The educational farm at Mantes-la-Jolie (78), a free, rural outing in the Yvelines region
In Mantes-la-Jolie, in the Yvelines département, there's an educational farm hidden away on Ile l'Aumône. Free and open to all, it's a great opportunity to take a stroll and discover the animals! [Read more]
La Ferme Caillard: festive venue, vegetable garden and educational farm in Bondy (93)
In Bondy, in Seine-Saint-Denis, Caillard Farm welcomes you year-round to its semi-urban setting, between the city and nature. [Read more]
La Ferme de Grignon (78), a free cow and sheep farm visit
In the heart of the Versailles plain, the town of Grignon boasts a huge farm with over 200 dairy cows, 600 ewes, 400 hectares of crops and a dairy. The good news is that the site is open to the public: put on your good shoes and let's go and discover this farm in the Yvelines! [Read more]
Paris Elysées Club: a powerhouse of gaming just a stone's throw from the Champs-Elysées
Sponsored - Right in the heart of Paris's Golden Triangle, just a stone's throw from the Champs-Élysées, the Paris Élysées Club stands out as a distinctive spot for an original night out. More than just a gaming venue, it's a place to gather for an experience that blends relaxation, dining, and gaming in a refined setting. [Read more]
These free outings waiting for you in Paris in May 2026!
May in Paris is marked by sunny days in the capital—and that's not all: great deals are blooming right now! From outdoor exhibitions to festive events, we unveil the lineup of free outings to enjoy in Paris in May 2026. [Read more]
Disney Village in May 2026: concerts and activities for a night out near Disneyland Paris
Disney Village is buzzing with live concerts and free happenings near Disneyland Paris, offering music nights and festive events to discover throughout May 2026. Check out the lineup! [Read more]
Open-air exhibition of Theodoulos Gregoriou's sculptures in the Faubourg Saint-Honoré district
Faubourg Saint-Honoré is rewritten as an open-air gallery with a free, outdoor exhibition in Paris, where time is carved in layered strata. From April 28 to July 27, 2026, the sculptures by Cypriot artist Theodoulos Gregoriou for "Cyprus on Faubourg Saint-Honoré" invite memory and contemporary creation to converse in the heart of the 1st arrondissement, between reinvented ruins and today’s sculptural language. [Read more]
So, Let's Dance: the family-friendly dance festival featuring performances and initiation sessions in Fontainebleau (77)
From May 19 to 24, 2026, the Théâtre Municipal de Fontainebleau transforms into a sprawling open-air dance floor for the fourth edition of "Alors, on danse ?". The festival invites kids and grown-ups alike to explore movement and dive into dance, blending performances with relaxed, beginner-friendly workshops. [Read more]
Hot tip: Free exhibitions not to be missed in May 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France
What free exhibitions await us in May 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France? We’re revealing the cultural highlights that are powering this spring in the capital. Discover your free artistic outings for the month. [Read more]
Yvelines: a park designated as a natural site and its historic island cloaked in wisteria
In the Yvelines, just a short stroll from the RER A, the Parc des Ibis du Vésinet reveals, in late April to early May 2026, its Chinese wisterias in full bloom around a large lake designated a natural site since 1934. We went to explore it, and it’s a true feast for the eyes and a perfect place to recharge. [Read more]
Château Soubiran's free educational farm, a bucolic interlude near Melun (77)
Just a few kilometers from Melun, in the Seine-et-Marne town of Dammarie-les-Lys, you'll find Château Soubiran and its large park, home to a small educational farm. [Read more]
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. [Read more]
Zipcy in Paris: our photos from the exhibition The Sweet Fortress at the Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery
The Korean artist Zipcy makes her solo debut in France with La Forteresse Douce, on view at the Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery in Paris from April 24 to June 4, 2026. The exhibition centers on hanji paper, natural pigments, and the intimate, presented through the sensitive universe of this South Korean artist. [Read more]
Cocorico, the free educational farm in Herblay-sur-Seine (95)
In Herblay-sur-Seine, don't miss Cocorico, the town's educational farm: free and open to all, it's a great opportunity for a family outing to the farm. [Read more]
Soulages–Hartung Exhibition in Paris: Elective Affinities at Perrotin Gallery
In Paris, the Perrotin gallery is dedicating an exhibition to Pierre Soulages and Hans Hartung, titled Soulages-Hartung: Elective Affinities, from April 25 to May 30, 2026. This artistic gathering brings together works, archives, an unpublished interview and studio tools to illuminate the connections, differences and shared inquiries of the two major postwar abstraction painters. [Read more]
Lee Mingwei at Perrotin Gallery in Paris: an exhibition exploring connection, gesture, and ritual
Perrotin Gallery in Paris presents a show by artist Lee Mingwei, titled "When Beauty Appears," running from April 25 to May 30, 2026. A contemporary art exhibition rooted in ritual, exchange, and the visitor's experience. [Read more]
Susumu Kamijo exhibits at the Perrotin Gallery in Paris: a gentle interlude between flowers and animals.
Perrotin Paris gallery presents a new exhibition devoted to Susumu Kamijo, featuring When I Think of You in Spring, running from April 25 to May 30, 2026. A deep dive into contemporary painting built from flowers, animals, and pared-back forms. [Read more]
11 medieval villages near Paris you simply must visit in Île-de-France
Discover the medieval villages of the Île-de-France region, real heritage gems less than 1h30 from Paris. From Provins to Moret-sur-Loing, these historic towns transport you back to the Middle Ages all year round. [Read more]
26 charming villages and strolls to discover near Paris, the treasures of Île-de-France
Get away from Paris with these 26 must-see getaways within 100 km of the capital. [Read more]
The most beautiful villages in Seine-et-Marne, 12 gems you simply must discover
Are you familiar with Seine-et-Marne? This large department hides real gems to discover, with picturesque villages boasting charm and heritage that are well worth a visit. Looking for a stroll near Paris? Seine-et-Marne offers an ideal escape for those seeking authenticity and history. [Read more]
Seth unveils a new XXL street-art mural to check out in Paris's 13th arrondissement - photos and video
The street artist Seth, also known as Julien Malland, has reclaimed a wall on Rue Émile-Deslandres in Paris’s 13th arrondissement to paint a new XXL mural, replacing a previous artwork that had been erased. [Read more]
These remains of a Gallo-Roman sanctuary concealed a nymphaeum in the Yvelines.
At the heart of the Vaucouleurs valley, the village of Septeuil conceals a rare relic from Roman Gaul: a monumental nymphaeum. Erected to honor a sacred spring, this ancient sanctuary offers an exceptional testimony to water-related devotional rites in Île-de-France. [Read more]
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). [Read more]
Free museums in Paris and free monuments in Île-de-France: the top cultural deals
Are you looking for a free museum in Paris or a free monument in Île-de-France? Free-access venues, free tours on the first Sunday of each month, museums free for under-26s and for teachers: discover the cultural deals you won’t want to miss. [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 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]
The City of Paris' Museum of Modern Art (MAM): An artistic journey from the 20th to the 21st century
The Paris Museum of Modern Art, opened in 1961 and tucked in the heart of the City of Light, just steps from the Eiffel Tower, invites visitors to discover more than 15,000 works that reflect the richness of 20th- and 21st-century artistic creation. Open Tuesday to Sunday, this museum whisks us into the world of contemporary art. Go check it out—admission is free! [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]
Discover Paris' most beautiful churches, treasures to visit
Do you know the most beautiful churches in Paris? The hidden, unusual or exceptional churches? In addition to their many works of art and treasures, some have incredible architecture and unique histories. We take you on a journey through history, architecture and spirituality. [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]
Around the Pitch: the site to find amateur matches to watch near you
Sponsored - Finding an amateur football, basketball, or handball match to watch near you has never been easier. Launched a few weeks ago, Autour du Terrain lets you spot nearby games in just a few clicks, thanks to a real-time search engine fed by official data from the sport federations. In France, and especially in Île-de-France where the match offering is dense, Autour du Terrain is poised to become a reflex whenever you’re looking for a game. [Read more]
A Taste of America in Paris: Doane University Concert Band in concert at the American Church
Sponsored - 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. [Read more]
Good deals for ages 13-25: Studio 13/16 opens its doors at La Gaîté Lyrique.
Iconic of the Centre Pompidou, Studio 13/16, the teens' HQ, opens a second venue to gather and create, at La Gaîté Lyrique. [Read more]
A free biodiversity museum featuring large aquariums in Puteaux (92)
On Île de Puteaux in the Hauts-de-Seine, inside Lebaudy Park, you’ll find the Naturoscope — a venue devoted to the environment that aims to raise awareness for both children and adults through exhibitions and educational activities. [Read more]
Free gardening workshops at Jardin 21: everything you need to know about germination and sowing…
To mark its reopening with the arrival of sunny days, Jardin 21 is offering gardening workshops for everyone. [Read more]
High viewpoints in Paris, our best free (or near-free) spots for the most breathtaking views
Want to take in the city from above without stepping into a bar or restaurant? Paris is full of elevated viewpoints—free or budget-friendly—that offer a superb panorama of the capital. [Read more]
Les Jardins d’Éole, a tree-lined square with a children's playground, in the 18th arrondissement.
Quartier Marx Dormoy, the Jardins d’Éole is a pretty tree-lined square with a children's playground, where you can take a break in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
Exhibition "Biegas et l’Ukraine": an artistic immersion at the Polish Library in Paris
Sponsored - The Polish Library of Paris invites you to its exhibition “Biegas and Ukraine,” a free cultural event not to be missed in the heart of Île Saint-Louis. [Read more]
Seine-et-Marne: have you heard of this Templar chapel stuck in limbo, a genuine medieval treasure?
Nestled in the Fontainebleau forest in Vaudoué, the Fourches Templar Chapel—the oldest Templar chapel in France, dating back to 1150—continues its restoration in 2026 thanks to devoted volunteers. [Read more]
Yvelines: The Templar Commandery and its historic chapel reinvented as the Digital City
In Élancourt, in the Yvelines, the Commandery of the Templars of La Villedieu has weathered the centuries, reinventing itself as a true digital hub, set between a listed medieval chapel, free exhibitions, and innovative tools for everyone. [Read more]
Vedettes de Paris: a family-friendly activity during school holidays and the May long weekends.
Sponsored - Vous’re looking for a kid-friendly activity in Paris during school holidays or the May long weekends? The Vedettes de Paris’ family cruise is an ideal option: a fun, educational, and comfortable way to discover the capital from a new perspective, stress-free and suitable for all ages. [Read more]
Pokémon Pokopia: a free chill-out space to immerse yourself in the game at the Ateliers Gaîté
Attention Pokémon fans! Atelier Gaîté, just steps from Montparnasse, The Pokémon Company invites you to a free chill-out space centered on Pokémon Pokopia, from April 2 to October 2, 2026. On the agenda: arcade sessions on a machine (until Sunday, April 5) and a relaxation zone set amid the flowers and the Pokémon. [Read more]
Great Cinémathèque deal: free admission to the Monroe retrospective, for all Marilyns
From April 8 to July 26, 2026, the Cinémathèque is hosting a Marilyn Monroe retrospective, and for all women who share the actress’s first name, admission is free! [Read more]
Hauts-de-Seine: the keep that dominates Île-de-France was meant to be the Sacré-Cœur’s little sister
High above Suresnes in the Hauts-de-Seine, a strange 25-meter neo-medieval fortress has watched over Paris since the early 20th century. Behind its machicolations and murder holes lies a delicious tale of unapologetic anticlericalism. [Read more]
This discreet cemetery is reserved exclusively for the residents and artists who helped shape Montmartre.
Reserved for historic figures and local residents, this little-known Montmartre cemetery hosts an enduring reunion of Michou, Marcel Aymé, and Théophile Steinlen. An intimate, leafy pause, tucked into the hillside, where the spirit of the village on the Butte still beats under the gaze of the Sacré-Cœur. [Read more]
Lafayette Anticipations in Paris: our photos from the Diego Marcon and Ladji Diaby exhibitions.
In Paris, Lafayette Anticipations presents from April 1 to July 19, 2026 two contemporary art exhibitions dedicated to Diego Marcon and Ladji Diaby. The foundation brings together two distinct artistic approaches, spanning a cinematic universe, emerging creation, image-making, visual narration, and the expression of emotions. [Read more]
The Midis d’Europe Experience in Paris: free lectures on Europe at the heart of the city.
Sponsored - The Midis d’Europa Expérience offer free talks on current European affairs, one Tuesday each month starting April 14, 2026. [Read more]
Lafayette, bridging France and America: free exhibit on the Marquis at the National Archives
From April 1 to July 14, 2026, the National Archives will host a free exhibition dedicated to Marquis de Lafayette. Featuring rare documents, caricatures, and related artifacts, this exhibition traces the life of the "hero of two worlds" — a figure equally celebrated in the United States and debated within France, against the backdrop of revolutionary upheavals. [Read more]
Everyone’s looking for their cat: a street-art exhibition centered on felines at Fluctuart
"Everyone's Looking for Their Cat," is the name of the new free urban art exhibition to see at Fluctuart. Join us from May 7 to August 23, 2026 to admire the works by about ten street artists created around the famous feline. [Read more]
Yvelines: 50 free nature walks to discover the Sensitive Natural Areas in 2026
In the Yvelines department (78), the local authority is offering 50 free nature outings in its Espaces Naturels Sensibles from 4 April to 29 November 2026. Guided walks, family workshops, wildlife and flora discoveries... registration is mandatory, so keep that in mind! [Read more]
These archaeological remains of a Gallo-Roman villa can be visited on a campus in Essonne.
[Read more]
Fragilities & Resilience: The outdoor exhibition on the gates of the Luxembourg Garden – our photos
From March 21 to July 19, 2026, the stunning photographs of Thibault Gerbaldi will be showcased on the fences of the Luxembourg Gardens in an open-air, free exhibition titled "Fragilities & Resilience." It's a chance to travel virtually to Mongolia, Iceland, Ethiopia, or the Peruvian Andes—all without leaving the heart of the capital! [Read more]
This charming Parisian suburb villa hosts a free art center set within a garden.
In Châtillon, just outside Paris, the Maison des Arts is tucked away in a stylish historic villa surrounded by a tranquil garden. This free contemporary art center in Île-de-France offers exhibitions, artist talks, and scenic artistic walks in a charming setting. [Read more]
Montfermeil Arboretum: An Unconventional Natural Retreat in Seine-Saint-Denis
In Seine-Saint-Denis, the Montfermeil municipal arboretum stretches over 11 hectares of greenery, featuring a unique botanical trail, open to visitors free of charge year-round. It's a perfect nature getaway to the east of Paris, especially during this sunny season. [Read more]
Launay Botanical Garden and Paris-Saclay Arboretum: A Global Journey Through Plants in Essonne
We head to Essonne to explore the botanical garden of the University of Paris-Saclay, sprawling across 90 hectares of plant collections on the Orsay campus. Home to nearly 3,000 species from around the globe, it offers free guided tours and features a conservation arboretum, making for a perfect green getaway just a short train ride away from Orsay station. [Read more]
Arboretum of Vallée-aux-Loups, the stunning free park in Hauts-de-Seine renowned for its remarkable trees
In Châtenay-Malabry, in the Hauts-de-Seine department, the Vallée-aux-Loups Arboretum offers 12.5 hectares of picturesque natural scenery just a short 15-kilometer drive from Paris. Best of all, entry is completely free, making it a perfect year-round escape into nature. [Read more]
The Belle Époque under Prefect Lépine? : Free Exhibition at the Police Prefecture Museum
Until July 6, 2026, the Police Headquarters Museum is shedding light on Louis Lépine, an essential figure in Paris at the turn of the 20th century. Featuring an exclusive collection of 150 vintage postcards, this free exhibition delves into the media portrayal of the ever-present prefect—ranging from heroic scenes to satirical caricatures. [Read more]
Exhibition: ROSSEN MARKOVSKI - The Fish Story at the Bulgarian Cultural Center
Sponsored - Through 25 paintings, the contemporary Bulgarian artist offers an intimate and heartfelt perspective on art. The exhibition runs from March 26 to May 22 at the Bulgarian Cultural Institute. [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]
ABC Dictionary: Exploring the Arctic Through Inuit Art — The Contemporary Exhibition at Art Inuit Gallery
Inuit artists share their lives and culture from the Arctic through an artistic alphabet, available for free at the Art Inuit Gallery from March 26 to August 31, 2026. [Read more]
Unusual art gallery exhibitions in Paris at the moment
Did you know that Paris has the highest concentration of art galleries in the world? Every month, they offer us the chance to discover sometimes unusual works of art, at captivating exhibitions in the heart of the capital. [Read more]
Great opportunity: Free outdoor adventures across Île-de-France to explore the region
Looking to breathe in some fresh air? All you need to do is find one of the hundreds of free nature outings organized by the region, and explore stunning estates, lush forests, and other beautiful natural spots right in your neighborhood! [Read more]
Where to enjoy a picnic in Paris and Île-de-France? Our top spots for outdoor dining
The good weather has arrived, and the irresistible urge to enjoy a picnic is growing stronger. Here are some parks, gardens, and leisure centers in Paris and Île-de-France perfect for outdoor dining. [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]
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]
Did you know? This over 3-hectare hanging garden is hidden at the top of a Parisian train station.
And what if, atop Montparnasse Station, Paris concealed a lush green oasis suspended above the hustle and bustle of trains and traffic? A tranquil spot where the noise stays below and nature reclaims its space, providing city dwellers with an unexpected refuge. Welcome to the hidden green haven of the 15th arrondissement: the Jardin Atlantique. [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]
Salomon de Rothschild Garden in Paris: a historic green oasis hidden in the heart of the 8th arrondissement
In the heart of the 8th arrondissement, away from the bustling Champs-Élysées, lies the Salomon de Rothschild Garden. This historic green oasis, lined with benches and winding paths, offers a peaceful retreat to pause and take a breath of fresh air. [Read more]
The Parc du Chemin de l'Île: a lush 18-hectare green oasis with playgrounds in the 92 area
Craving a breath of fresh air in the heart of Nanterre (92)? With strolls along the Seine, sprawling playgrounds, and endless green spaces, everyone—from kids to adults—enjoys a day at Parc du Chemin de l’Île. This urban oasis, proudly awarded the Eve® label, is the perfect blend of relaxation, sport, and nature. [Read more]
In Essonne, this crypt, now serving as a cultural center, stands as the last remaining remnant of a former monastery.
In the heart of Essonne, a modest exhibition space conceals a history far older than one might suspect. This crypt, now transformed into a cultural venue, stands as one of the few remaining traces of a vast medieval monastery that once covered a large part of the city. [Read more]
Courage to Honor: Free Exhibition on Military Decorations at the Legion of Honour Museum
The Musée de la Légion d’honneur opens a free exhibition devoted to the symbolism of military distinctions and the trajectories of France’s most notable figures. From April 22 to July 26, 2026, “From Courage to Honor” explores how bravery and recognition are expressed through insignia, works, and archives, many of which are being shown to the public for the first time. [Read more]
