Heritage Days 2026 at Saint-Germain-en-Laye Town Hall (78)

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.

Heritage Days 2026: Île-de-France's gems within reach of a Navigo pass
Looking to get out and uncover the treasures of Île-de-France during Heritage Days without driving? Here’s a handpicked list of spots to explore, all within easy reach with a Navigo pass, this Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 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 top picks for Paris and the Île-de-France region, August 31–September 6, 2026

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:

Discover the treasures of this royal city, easily reachable with a Navigo pass for Heritage Days 2026.
The Heritage Days return on 19 and 20 September 2026, in Paris and Île-de-France, offering fresh cultural discoveries! In Yvelines, Saint-Germain-en-Laye stays true to its tradition and has crafted a 'royal' program to explore over this exceptional weekend. Set these dates in your calendar! [Read more]