Heritage Days 2026 at the Town Hall of Saint-Germain-en-Laye (78): the program

Need a big breath of fresh air off screen and out of time? The European Heritage Days return on September 19–20, 2026 to let you feel the pulse of history, art, and architecture. During this cultural weekend, hundreds of exceptional sites—museums, monuments, gardens, hidden or iconic places—open their doors for free across France. A golden opportunity to break out of the routine, uncover treasures that are sometimes tucked away, and experience a full-blown immersion in European heritage.

Journées du Patrimoine 2026 : the best outings in Île-de-France within reach of a Navigo pass
Want to get out and discover the treasures of Île-de-France during Heritage Days without driving? Here’s a curated list of places you can reach with a Navigo pass this weekend of September 19–20, 2026! [Read more]

Among the events not to miss in the Yvelines, set your sights on Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a royal-tinged town perched above the Seine. As you wander its lanes, push open the doors of its Hôtel de Ville, a historic building to (re)discover during the European Heritage Days. Probably built in the second half of the 16th century, this remarkable edifice has hosted some of history’s great names.

From 1604 to 1763, it belonged to the La Rochefoucauld family. In 1673, Madame de Sévigné stayed there with François de La Rochefoucauld, the author of the famous Maxims. In 1777, Charles-Antoine Jombert, a bookseller and printer, bought the house, which was then entirely rebuilt in two separate sections. Acquired by the City in 1842, the former aristocratic residence officially became the town hall. Between 1883 and 1897, renovations transformed the site under the direction of municipal architect Henri Choret, and then the decorator Louis Hista, who signed the elegant stucco in the wedding hall.

• To be read
• This week's best bets for September 7–13, 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France

Heritage Days 2026 schedule at the Town Hall of Saint-Germain-en-Laye:

• Guided tour of City Hall

  Step behind the scenes at the Town Hall of Saint-Germain-en-Laye on an exclusive guided tour. Led by a heritage guide, discover the building’s story and access areas normally closed to the public: the mayor’s office, the wedding hall, the reception room, and the council chamber. A unique immersive experience at the heart of municipal life and local heritage.

  For ages 8 and up.

  Booking opens Tuesday, September 1.

  Participation terms: Free | Booking required - info@seine-saintgermain.fr, http://reservation.seine-saintgermain.fr

  Schedule: Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:30–11:30, 11:45–12:45

Take the opportunity to rediscover the city's other attractions:

Heritage Days 2026 in Saint-Germain-en-Laye (78): the royal city’s program.
Heritage Days are back on 19 and 20 September 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France, bringing you fresh cultural discoveries. In Yvelines, Saint-Germain-en-Laye stays true to tradition and presents a 'royal' program to explore during this exceptional weekend. On your calendars: mark these dates! [Read more]