Journées du Patrimoine 2026: tour the National Institute of Public Service (formerly ENA), one of Paris's premier grandes écoles

TheInstitut National du Service Public is one of France's leading schools for training future senior civil servants. Formerly known as ENA (école nationale d'administration), the institute is located on avenue de l'Observatoire in Paris, a stone's throw from the Luxembourg Gardens.

During Heritage Days, this school opens its doors to the curious and offers tours on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026. This neo-Moorish building, its garden and its library are unveiled to the public. An architectural curiosity and a school of national significance: this visit is well worth the detour!

• To be read
• This week's best bets in Paris and Île-de-France (Sept. 7–13, 2026)

Like so many other sites in Paris and the Île-de-France region, the Institut national du service public is taking part in the Journées du Patrimoine. This annual event is a great celebration of history and culture: over the course of a weekend, thousands of sites open their doors to the general public. It's a not-to-be-missed opportunity to visit important sites, and learn more about every town and region in France.

The Heritage Days program at the National Institute of Public Service in Paris:

• Guided tour of the INSP (formerly ENA) in Paris

  Join us to uncover the rich history of our Parisian offices!

  On the agenda: guided tours of the premises.

  Participation requirements: Free | No reservation required

  Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

In the vicinity of this great Parisian school are many other places to discover during this cultural weekend. Here are our suggestions.

Paris Heritage Days 2026: the lineup to experience in the 6th arrondissement
Heritage Days take over the 6th arrondissement of Paris. Discover the free tours and the exciting monuments and places open in this Parisian district on September 19 and 20, 2026. [Read more]