At the start of the school year, the 43rd edition of the Journées du Patrimoine returns on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026 to pace this period that marks a revival for Parisians! This European-wide event invites you to discover nearby cultural venues for free. Whether they are open to the public or not, it’s a chance to go behind the scenes of the finest places near you.
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris (75): the program of tours by arrondissement
For Heritage Days 2026 in Paris, the capital’s monuments and historic landmarks are opening their doors—often free of charge—to reveal their secrets. Don’t miss this must-see event, taking place over the weekend of September 19 and 20, 2026, with the themes “Heritage at Risk” and “Photography Heritage.” [Read more]
During the 2026 Heritage Days, numerous museums and art foundations open their doors for free in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Mark your calendars for Saturday, 19 September and Sunday, 20 September 2026 to enjoy a program rich with exciting discoveries. [Read more]
This year, Beaux-Arts enthusiasts can visit the Petit Palais. Designed for the 1900 Universal Exhibition in Paris, the ensemble of the Grand Palais, Petit Palais and Pont Alexandre III is arguably the finest symbol of the Beaux-Arts style that prevailed at the end of the Belle Époque century. As early as 1902, it was agreed that the Petit Palais would house the Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris was built up primarily from commissions or purchases made by the City of Paris directly from artists, and bequests from major Beaux-Arts collectors.
All year round, the Petit Palais offers exhibitions, conferences and workshops for children... But also special events to mark the Journées du Patrimoine. Find out what's on this weekend.
Scavenger hunt for kids and grown-ups
On the occasion of the 43rd European Heritage Days, visitors are invited to view the treasures shaping French regions—and the women and men who work daily to safeguard them—through a fresh, insightful lens.
The European Heritage Days at the Petit Palais align with the Culture Ministry’s theme “Heritage at Risk,” inviting you to discover how the museum protects its artworks and its building.
With the trail booklet (for ages 6 and up) available at the museum reception, you’ll step into the role of the curator to check the condition of the pieces and intervene if needed. Lighting, room temperatures, the preservation and restoration of materials—from the artworks to the building itself—and presentation methods—all the nuts and bolts of preventive conservation will unfold before you.
Three guides stationed throughout the galleries will explain how the materials that make up the artworks have evolved and describe the daily restoration and preservation techniques used.
To conclude, you’ll head to the workshop in the south gallery. Guided by the Petit Palais’ visual artists, you’ll redraw a missing fragment of the Peristyle fresco and restore its vibrant colors.
Practical information: The Petit Palais teams welcome you throughout the day, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (last entry at 5:15 p.m.). The trail booklet is available at the main reception. Activities are free and open to everyone from age 3. Temporary exhibitions require admission.
Participation requirements: Free | No reservation required
Schedule: Saturday, September 19, 2026 – 10:00–17:30 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 – 10:00–17:30
Le programme est mis à jour en fonction des annonces officielles.
Shall we take a quick tour?
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Petit Palais
Avenue Winston Churchill
75008 Paris 8
Route planner
Accessibility info
Prices
Free
Official website
www.petitpalais.paris.fr
More information
Activities free of charge and without reservation from 10am to 5:30pm.
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris (75): the program of tours by arrondissement
Heritage Days 2026: Paris museums and art foundations across Île-de-France
