On the occasion of the Journées du Patrimoine 2026, the Château de Maisons-Laffitte promises a string of exciting discoveries on September 19 and 20! This cultural weekend invites you to follow in the footsteps of our history and of our Île-de-France castles, and also to visit places that are usually inaccessible.
This wealthy residence on the edge of the forest of Saint-Germain en Laye was designed by Jean René de Longueil in a strategic location, precisely on the path leading the king from the Château du Louvre to the Château de Saint-Germain en Laye. The idea was ingenious: to meet the king by offering him a short break during his journey.
The nobleman then called on Mansart to build the edifice, which was inaugurated in April 1651 at a celebration for the young Louis XIV. With this strategy, Jean René de Longueil was confident of winning the king's good graces. He even went so far as to reserve a wing of the building for him, with theKing's Apartment, including a ballroom designed for the Sun King, as well as a bedroom with an interlocking domed ceiling. Discover almost 300 years of history with activities for young and old!
Heritage Days 2026: Exploring the region’s most beautiful castles in Paris and Île-de-France
Heritage Days 2026 also offers the chance to visit the castles of Île-de-France, often for free! Kings and queens, princes, emperors, nobles of every kind... Step in the footsteps of these towering figures in French history and discover their magnificent residences, on 19 and 20 September 2026. [Read more]
There’s plenty to do for Heritage Days 2026 in Yvelines! On Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, head to the numerous castles and museums in the 78 that will open their doors for guided tours, workshops, and memorable moments to share. [Read more]
Self-guided tour of the Château de Maisons
On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, the Château de Maisons opens its doors to visitors free of charge. Come enjoy a self-guided tour to discover this masterpiece of classical architecture, its fascinating history, and the wealth of its heritage.
Participation conditions: Free | No reservations required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00–12:30, 14:00–17:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:00–12:30, 14:00–17:00
Classic Car Exhibition
The Château de Maisons, in partnership with the Association of Vintage Car Enthusiasts of Maisons-Laffite and Mesnil-le-Roi, is hosting a day dedicated to cars.
Starting at 11:30 a.m., the public can come and admire the cars displayed on the terrace and in the gardens. A showcase of classic automobiles will follow from 3:30 p.m. for about an hour.
Practical information: free and open to all; the château will be open for self-guided visits throughout the day
Participation requirements: Free | No reservation required
Hours: Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Happy Heritage Days in Yvelines!
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Le Château de Maisons
2 Avenue Carnot
78600 Maisons Laffitte
Route planner
Access
RER: line A, Maisons-Laffitte station
SNCF: train from Saint-Lazare
Prices
Free
Official website
www.chateau-maisons.fr
Heritage Days 2026: Exploring the region’s most beautiful castles in Paris and Île-de-France
Heritage Days 2026: a fantastic program to discover in Yvelines (78)
