This Thursday, May 29, 2025 is marked byAscension Day. On this French public holiday, Parisians are once again enjoying an extended weekend. Yes, May is the month of bridges! But a public holiday also means that places are closed. But don't panic, even on non-working days, there's plenty to do in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. What's more, if you want to have the time of your life without putting a dent in your wallet, you can take advantage of the many free outings that await you in the Paris region, including on public holidays!
Why is Ascension Day a public holiday in France? History and origins
Ascension Day is one of the most important religious holidays for Christians. But do you know why this day is a public holiday in France? We tell you all about the origins and history of Ascension Day. [Read more]
So, what's on in Paris and the Ile-de-France region this Thursday, May 29, 2025? We've put together a list of the best things to do, so you can put together a great program without breaking the bank. You'll love this holiday all the more! From cultural outings to open-air strolls and hot activities, we've got plenty of great free ideas to show you how much fun you can have without spending a penny. No need to deprive yourself!
By the way, stay tuned as this page is updated with new announcements and discoveries, so be sure to check back regularly for more free holiday deals!
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
Good plan: health trails for free exercise in Paris
Does exercising require a substantial monthly budget? Not if you take advantage of the free facilities, such as the fitness trails in Paris, that are just waiting for you! [Read more]
The Jardin du Luxembourg, an exotic setting in the heart of Paris
The Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris is a popular park with Parisians, who call it "le luco", and tourists alike. A bucolic and lively garden, it's a delight for those who choose to stroll here, especially with the arrival of fine weather! [Read more]
Discover the treasures of the Jardin des Plantes in Paris
Paris's Jardin des Plantes is home to a number of historical and unusual sights that are well worth a visit. We reveal 8 treasures to discover in this 24-hectare haven of peace, one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. [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 Tuileries Gardens, the ideal place in Paris to go green
The Tuileries Gardens are a must-see in Paris! This 23-hectare green space runs alongside the Rue de Rivoli and the Seine, linking the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde. Classified as a historic monument in 1914, it has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. It features magnificent historical statues, accompanied by works of art. [Read more]
The gardens of the Palais-Royal in Paris, a favorite of Parisians
The gardens of the Palais-Royal are one of the most popular spots for Parisians when the sun shines on the capital. We explain why. [Read more]
Why is Ascension Day a public holiday in France? History and origins
