Created in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture, the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) have become a not-to-be-missed event for lovers of history and heritage. Every year, the event gives the general public the chance to discover monuments, historic sites and institutions that are usually closed or subject to admission fees, free of charge. In Paris and throughout France, these days are an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country's history through guided tours,exhibitions andevents. They take place every year on the third weekend in September, offering a great opportunity to (re)discover France's cultural treasures.
For the 2026 edition, scheduled for September 19 and 20, a host of iconic sites in Paris and the Île-de-France region will throw open their doors. Among the must-sees are the Panthéon, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the Opéra Garnier in Paris. In Île-de-France, visitors can explore the Palace of Versailles, the Basilica of Saint-Denis, or the Rambouillet Estate. The program also features thematic tours, children’s workshops, and lectures, ensuring there’s something to suit every interest.
Among the gems to discover during the Heritage Days 2026, the Château de Rambouillet is a must-see. Perched on the edge of the Rambouillet forest, the castle has long served as a residence for numerous French sovereigns and presidents. While the gardens recall the formality of France, the estate was laid out as an English-style park, sprinkled with ponds, and home to standout features such as the Queen's Dairy or the Shell Cottage.
The Château de Rambouillet and its Bergerie nationale, an exceptional estate in the Paris region (78)
A princely, royal, imperial and then presidential residence, the Château de Rambouillet and its grounds are steeped in history and boast some remarkable nooks and crannies, including the Queen's Dairy, the Chaumière aux coquillages and the Bergerie nationale, not to be missed. [Read more]
A century of diplomacy in Rambouillet
New Tour
Step behind the scenes of French diplomacy with restored sets, audio testimonies, vintage photographs, everyday objects, and new mediation tools.
For the very first time, walk through the doors of the presidential apartment as Valéry Giscard d’Estaing experienced them!
At the end of the visit, discover the Ambassadors’ Stop, where volunteers from the Rambouillet Castle offer activities and workshops.
Participation conditions: Limited number of spots per time slot. - Free | Reservations required - https://tickets.monuments-nationaux.fr/fr-FR/familles?site=2003857154940400048
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00–13:00, 14:00–17:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:00–13:00, 14:00–17:00
Yvelines Firefighters' Heritage Exhibition
Come and discover four classic fire engines from the Yvelines firefighters!
Two prestige vehicles, unique in France, will be showcased as rare highlights!
Whether you're into classic vehicles, firefighting, or simply curious, this event is for you!
Join us in large numbers to discover these exceptional machines and dive into the history of the Yvelines emergency services!
A unique opportunity to chat with fellow enthusiasts and firefighters, discover these historic vehicles, and share a friendly family moment.
Participation conditions: Free entry | Booking required - https://tickets.monuments-nationaux.fr/fr-FR/familles?site=2003857154940400048
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Preserving a historic garden in the 21st century
Accompanied by the chief gardener of Rambouillet Castle, wander the parterres and groves to understand how the teams at the National Monuments Center keep this living heritage thriving in a climate that’s anything but straightforward. From 17th-century parterres to the Presidents’ Garden of the Republic, and the arrangements by landscape architect Jacques Sgard, discover how the park’s rich history confronts today’s pressing challenges.
Participation requirements: Limited seats available for each time slot. Free of charge | Booking required - https://tickets.monuments-nationaux.fr/fr-FR/familles?site=2003857154940400048
Schedule: Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Château de Rambouillet
château de rambouillet
78120 Rambouillet
Route planner
Accessibility info
Prices
Free
The Château de Rambouillet and its Bergerie nationale, an exceptional estate in the Paris region (78)
