From May 25 to 31, 2026, Paris and Île-de-France roll out a string of wallet-friendly options: free outings, leisurely spring strolls, family-friendly events, popular festivals, art exhibitions, and offbeat experiences. With Pentecost weekend behind them, the week offers plenty of ways to enjoy the region without overspending.
Among the highlights to spot, you’ll find the Nature Festival, the Pentecost flea markets and garage sales, the most beautiful rose gardens already in bloom, the reopening of the Maison Guimet - Hôtel d'Heidelbach, but also the exceptional sale of Paris Opera stage costumes. Côté sorties gratuites, the festival Day // Night offers open-air performances in Essonne, while several exhibitions remain accessible without breaking the bank.
The weekend in Paris and Île-de-France is shaping up to be lively with the children’s party in Saint-Denis, the Asian Pop Culture Festival in Montreuil, Onze Bouge in the 11th arrondissement, the Mai des Artistes in Argenteuil, or gatherings to watch the PSG in the Champions League final. Here is our pick of the best plans to enjoy in Paris and Île-de-France from May 25 to 31, 2026.



Flea markets and brocantes from Saturday, May 23 to Monday, May 25, 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France — the program
What to do during the Pentecost long weekend? Set your sights on the flea markets and rummage sales in Paris and Île-de-France, held Saturday 23, Sunday 24 and Monday 25 May 2026, to hunt for bargains, stroll, and snag a few good deals. [Read more]



Nature Festival in Paris and Île-de-France 2026: the free highlights for its 20th anniversary
The Festival of Nature turns 20 in 2026! From May 20 to 25, Paris and the Île-de-France region will host hundreds of free activities to explore and celebrate local wildlife, plants, and biodiversity. [Read more]



Pentecost Monday: free outings in Paris to enjoy this May 25 public holiday
Looking for something to do this Pentecost Monday in Paris? Since we love a good deal, we’ve put together a standout lineup of free outings for this public holiday, which falls on Monday, May 25, 2026. From free strolls to street performances and exhibitions that are free of charge, there’s plenty to enjoy. [Read more]



Maison Guimet - Hôtel d'Heidelbach : this hidden gem of Asian treasures reopens its doors
The Guimet House, the new jewel in the former Hôtel d'Heidelbach, will reopen to the public on 23 May 2026, on Avenue d'Iéna in Paris’s 16th arrondissement. Imperial Chinese furniture, a Japanese garden, a tea pavilion, guided tours and tea tastings are on the agenda. We went to discover the place and tell you about its unsuspected treasures. [Read more]



The Paris Opera is putting more than 5,000 stage costumes up for sale by the end of May, with reservations opening today.
This is a rare sale likely to attract theatre buffs and fans of fine fabrics. From May 29 to 31, 2026, the Opéra national de Paris will offer more than 5,000 costumes and accessories from its lyric and choreographic productions in an exceptional sale staged at the Opéra Bastille, with registration opening this Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. [Read more]



Smart tip: the children's festival, free activities for everyone in Saint-Denis
On Saturday, May 30, Saint-Denis hosts a celebration for kids—a big, 100% free day inviting families to drop in and enjoy. [Read more]



Yvelines: Flea markets and garage sales this Pentecost weekend, May 23–25, 2026, in the 78
Want to hunt for bargains this Pentecost weekend? The Yvelines (78) are hosting flea markets and garage sales from Friday, May 23 to Monday, May 25, 2026, with events in around twenty municipalities across the department. [Read more]



Essonne: 18 free open-air shows in 14 towns, the program!
The Day // Night Festival returns to Essonne for its 15th edition, presenting 18 free open-air performances, blending street theatre, dance and circus across 14 towns from May 22–25 and May 29–31, 2026. [Read more]



Asian Pop Culture Festival 2026 in Montreuil: food, K-pop, cosplay and Asian cultures
Sponsored - The Asian Pop Culture Festival, the first pan-Asian festival, is set to take over Paris Montreuil Expo on May 30–31, 2026. This event dedicated to Asian cultures brings together K-pop, cosplay, karaoke, food, martial arts, exhibitors, a parade, and family-friendly activities, just a stone’s throw from Paris. And as a bonus: PSG’s final will be shown on a giant 6.7-meter diagonal screen! [Read more]



OPI Loves Color: an immersive beauty pop-up in the heart of Paris
Sponsored - OPI marks 45 years with an immersive pop-up in Paris, blending manicures, hand spa sessions, beauty activities and colorful surprises.
Join us on May 29–30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 1 Rue Française in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. [Read more]



Paris Saint-Germain Handball faces Nantes on May 27 at the Accor Arena.
Sponsored - Le Paris Saint-Germain Handball takes over the Accor Arena for a decisive showdown against HBC Nantes on May 27 at 8:30 PM. A blockbuster clash between two title contenders, in an atmosphere set to be electric. [Read more]



Champions League: where to watch PSG's final on the big screens across Île-de-France
Paris Saint-Germain is back in the UEFA Champions League final! To watch the match with friends and cheer on the club, join us this Saturday, May 30, 2026, and find out where large screens have been set up. [Read more]



Pentecost 2026: shops & malls open on Monday, May 25, in Paris and Île-de-France
Pentecost Monday, a day of solidarity for some, remains a holiday for others. Between a solidarity gesture on the payslip and a shopping break, here are the malls and department stores open in Paris and the Île-de-France region on Monday, May 25, 2026. [Read more]



Where to hunt for bargains on Pentecost Monday in Paris & Île-de-France? Flea markets & rummage sales on May 25, 2026
Chine becomes a national sport on Pentecost Monday, May 25, 2026! In Paris and Île-de-France, neighborhood flea markets, well-stocked garage sales, and open-air flea markets transform the region into a playground for vintage enthusiasts and treasure hunters. A new public holiday, tailor-made for snagging that rare gem. [Read more]



Paris Queer Festival 2026: drag, music and LGBTQIA+ market at Kilowatt
The Paris Queer Festival is taking over Kilowatt in Vitry-sur-Seine, delivering drag shows, concerts, a queer market, workshops and panel discussions on May 30–31, 2026. Formerly known as the Drag & Queer Market, the event brings together artists, LGBTQIA+ collectives, and DJs for a cultural, festive weekend just outside Paris. [Read more]



Pentecost 2026: Paris' parks and gardens to stroll in the sun
Monday in the sun... It looks like this is what's on the agenda for Whit Monday 2025: with the fine weather forecast, we're off to enjoy the parks and gardens of Paris! [Read more]



Onze Bouge 2026, the free street arts festival taking over the 11th arrondissement of Paris
The Onze Bouge Festival is back for another vibrant edition in the streets of Paris's 11th arrondissement, running from May 28 to 31, 2026. Expect a lineup packed with dance, theater, music, and comedy performances... This free festival highlights the best of street arts! Reservations are now open. [Read more]



The pools open in Paris and their hours this Pentecost Monday public holiday in 2026
Want to dive in this Pentecost Monday 2026? This public holiday, May 25, several Paris swimming pools open their doors with updated hours to welcome swimmers and families all day long. [Read more]



Tayc to perform a free showcase and hold an autograph session at a famous shopping mall in Paris.
It starts like a shopping spree… and ends on a high note. On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, Beaugrenelle Paris shifts into afro-love mode and cranks up the volume in the heart of the 15th arrondissement. From 6 p.m., Tayc takes over the Atrium for a free showcase that’s bound to make more than just the racks shake. [Read more]



PAGE(S): The Bibliophilia and Artist Books Fair at the Bastille Design Center
Discover the book in all its forms at the PAGE(S) fair, which gathers around a hundred exhibitors dedicated to literature and bibliophilia, on May 30–31, 2026, at the Bastille Design Center. [Read more]



Heading for the playoffs! Paris Basketball aims to defend its French championship title at the Adidas Arena + Grand Jeu
Sponsored - The regular season is in the books—let the thrill begin! After finishing first in the standings, Paris Basketball, the reigning French champions, begin their title defense. From May 26, the adidas Arena switches to Playoff mode for the season’s most intense moment. Get ready for an American-style, jaw-dropping show, and enter the special contest to win a pass to all the games! [Read more]



Seine-et-Marne: Pentecost flea markets, May 23–25, 2026 in the 77
This Pentecost weekend, Seine-et-Marne (77) throws open its village squares to bargain hunters. Flea markets and garage sales are on the program from Saturday, May 23 to Monday, May 25, 2026, in around forty municipalities across the department. [Read more]



This free Haute Couture fashion exhibition has taken up residence in an Art Deco auction house in Paris.
The auction house Tajan is staging a free exhibition in Paris dedicated to haute couture in the 8th arrondissement, on Friday, May 22, and then from Monday, May 25 to Wednesday, May 27, 2026. An exclusive collection brings together fashion pieces and accessories from the greatest houses, from Dior to Chanel, Alaïa to Alexander McQueen, with Hermès not forgotten. [Read more]



Champions League: where to watch PSG's final on the big screens across Île-de-France
Paris Saint-Germain is back in the UEFA Champions League final! To watch the match with friends and cheer on the club, join us this Saturday, May 30, 2026, and find out where large screens have been set up. [Read more]



26 charming villages and strolls to discover near Paris, the treasures of Île-de-France
Get away from Paris with these 26 must-see getaways within 100 km of the capital. [Read more]



Pokémon store in Paris, discover the first permanent store dedicated to Pokémon in pictures
A new immersive Pokémon corner opens in Paris? We're off to discover the new 80 m² permanent space, dedicated to the world of the famous creatures, in the Le Coin des Barons store, located on rue de Rivoli in the 1st arrondissement. As of March 28, 2025, this unique corner awaits collectors and enthusiasts alike. [Read more]



Roland-Garros 2026: live matches on the Galeries Lafayette rooftop, with a breathtaking view of Paris
Want to experience Roland-Garros in a different way? From May 24 to June 7, 2026, head to the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann rooftop terrace to watch the French Open matches, comfortably lounging in sun loungers with a view of the capital! [Read more]



Yvelines: Flea markets and garage sales this Pentecost weekend, May 23–25, 2026, in the 78
Want to hunt for bargains this Pentecost weekend? The Yvelines (78) are hosting flea markets and garage sales from Friday, May 23 to Monday, May 25, 2026, with events in around twenty municipalities across the department. [Read more]



Major Design at Sotheby’s Paris: the exhibition that brings together Lalanne, Mucha and Giacometti
In Paris, Sotheby’s unveils Important Design, an exhibition‑sale imagined by Ellie Peugeot, featuring about 189 landmark design pieces—from antique furniture to contemporary creations—from May 22 to 27, 2026. A rare journey to discover Lalanne, Mucha, Chareau, Giacometti, and Charlotte Perriand before the live sale on May 28. [Read more]



The free photo exhibition focused on Sebastião Salgado extended at Paris City Hall
The Hôtel de Ville in Paris pays tribute to photographer Sebastião Salgado with a major exhibition, free to the public from February 21 to June 6, 2026. [Read more]



Art Deco Spring 2026: An Architectural Immersion in Hauts-de-France
Sponsored - The Art Deco Spring returns to Hauts-de-France through May 31, 2026, with guided tours, exhibitions, workshops and festive events celebrating heritage. [Read more]



Everyone's chasing their cat: the exhibition exploring the many facets of the feline at Fluctuart — our photos
"Everybody’s Searching for Their Cat," that’s the name of the new free exhibition at Fluctuart. Mark your calendars from May 7 to August 23, 2026, to admire works by about ten artists rooted in urban art. For the occasion, Madame, Kraken, Ardif, and Wenna explore the many facets of the feline that fascinates us. [Read more]



Lélia Demoisy at Domaine de Chamarande: an exhibition exploring forest narratives — our photos
At the Domaine départemental de Chamarande in Essonne, Lélia Demoisy presents a contemporary art exhibition devoted to the forest, to living beings, and to the traces left by matter, running from May 10 to August 30, 2026. With Récits de forêts, the artist unfolds sculptures and installations within a sensitive journey around the memory of woods and landscapes. [Read more]



Wam Park 77: swimming, giant slides and water games in Fontainebleau
For a family splash or an adrenaline-pumping session with friends, head to Wam Park 77, the leisure and water-activities hub based in Fontainebleau. [Read more]



Bike festival in Saint-Germain-en-Laye: a free inaugural edition to get back in the saddle
Sunday, May 31, 2026, Saint-Germain-en-Laye kicks off the first edition of Vélos en fête, a free event devoted to cycling, soft mobility and today’s mobility habits, at Place Michel Péricard. [Read more]



26 charming villages and strolls to discover near Paris, the treasures of Île-de-France
Get away from Paris with these 26 must-see getaways within 100 km of the capital. [Read more]



A stroll tracing Victor Hugo's footsteps in Paris: discover the places linked to the famous writer!
He wrote Les Misérables, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, and The Last Day of a Condemned Man: today it’s his story we pause to explore. Take a stroll through Paris tracing the footsteps of the great French writer Victor Hugo, and discover the many places that shaped his life. [Read more]



Tulips and poppies, extraordinary blooms for the 400th anniversary of the Jardin des Plantes
To mark its 400th anniversary in 2026, the Jardin des Plantes is unveiling two waves of extraordinary blooms along its Grand Perspective, pairing tulips, anemones, and poppies from spring into summer. Already in bloom, the parterres are stunning right now and deserve a quick visit. [Read more]



Carousel, trampoline, playground... 3 things to do with children in the Tuileries Gardens
Planning a trip to the Tuileries Gardens? With the whole family, even young children, it's the ideal place for a stroll or, better still, some really fun activities. [Read more]



What to do in Barbizon, the famous village between art and nature?
How about a trip to Barbizon? This charming village, 50 km from Paris, immerses us in art and nature on the edge of the Fontainebleau forest. Discover our tips for the perfect day out or weekend break. [Read more]



The Impressionists' Train: the special train bound for Auvers-sur-Oise is back on weekends.
Impressionism fans, head to Auvers-sur-Oise, a small Île-de-France village cherished by Cézanne and Van Gogh, made easily reachable on weekends by a special SNCF train, less than an hour from the capital! [Read more]



Berchoux Restaurant: flexitarian cuisine in the heart of Montmartre Hill
Sponsored - Berchoux is a restaurant dedicated to flexitarian cuisine and committed to the "zero waste" philosophy. Its menu delights diners every day with fresh, seasonal dishes, starting at just €15 for lunch. You can reserve a table or even book the entire space for a private event by calling 01 89 43 01 86, or by visiting their website at berchoux.net. [Read more]



La Table d'Alice, a convivial restaurant with a summer terrace in Versailles, Yvelines
La Table d'Alice, the welcoming bistro imagined by chef Cyril Fabien, opens its terrace for the sunny days on the pretty square opposite Saint-Symphorien Church in Versailles (78). We headed there to test it, and here’s what we found. [Read more]



Chiv's Koy, the new temple of fried chicken in Paris's 13th arrondissement
Vous love roast chicken or homemade fried chicken? Head to Chiv's Koy on Rue Véronèse, in Paris' 13th arrondissement. The spot has just opened a new street-food outpost in a bigger space that’s perfect for family meals, hangs with friends, or a quick take-away if you’re in a hurry. We tried it and here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]



La Petite Marguerite, the bouillon that's winning over Seine-Saint-Denis
Nestled on Rue du Plaisir in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, La Petite Marguerite is a neighborhood bistro that pleases Seine-Saint-Denis with a generous, brasserie-style menu and prices as friendly as you’d expect, with dishes that are all homemade. [Read more]



La Halle de la Varenne opens its gourmet hall in Val-de-Marne, kicking off with a bustling weekend.
La Halle de la Varenne opens its doors in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, Val-de-Marne, with a festive inaugural weekend on May 9–10, 2026, after months of work. A renovated gourmet market to discover in preview starting this Thursday, April 30, 2026, with special introductory prices. [Read more]



La table des Bernardins, the unusual café-restaurant nestled in the nave of the Collège des Bernardins
La Table des Bernardins, located in the emblematic Collège des Bernardins in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, is the ideal spot for a meal or a break in an atypical, historic setting. Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 6pm, this restaurant-café offers a varied cuisine, ideal for a relaxing lunch or a passing snack. [Read more]



Mama Shelter Paris East – The must-visit spot in Eastern Paris
Sponsored - Just a stone’s throw from Père-Lachaise, Mama Shelter Paris East shines a spotlight on eastern Paris with its design-forward restaurant and warm, sociable vibe. Here, guests come to share a hearty meal, toast with friends, and soak up a festive atmosphere. And don’t miss the indispensable Mama Brunch (an XXL buffet) every Saturday and Sunday! [Read more]



Chouchou Paris: The temple of flame-grilled fare, kebabs and XXL crêpes lands in Strasbourg-Saint-Denis
Sponsored - Chouchou Paris : Le Fait Maison au Feu de Bois.
A tasty, honest stop right across from the theaters, where industrial street food has no place. Here, everything is 100% homemade, crafted with a family’s exacting standards and generous portions. [Read more]



Le Paname Les Halles: a generous French brasserie with a spacious terrace and a welcoming, convivial kitchen in the heart of Paris
Sponsored - Situated on rue Pierre Lescot, just steps from Châtelet–Les Halles, Le Paname is a friendly French brasserie that wins you over with its hearty dishes, approachable brasserie fare, and a large terrace right in the heart of Paris.
Ideal for lunch, dinner, or a relaxed gathering with friends, the venue offers a varied menu, generous plates and a lively atmosphere. A practical, welcoming spot, with the bonus of an extended happy hour and a private room available for groups. [Read more]
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SEP LAÏ, a Laotian restaurant with a terrace in Paris’s 9th arrondissement.
Sponsored - In the 9th arrondissement, SEP LAÏ showcases Lao cuisine that’s still underrepresented in the city. From traditional specialties and shareable dishes to a spacious terrace on a pedestrian street, this spot offers an appealing option for those looking to discover other Southeast Asian flavors in Paris. [Read more]



Le Pont Traversé, the cozy coffee shop with its historic façade, is reinventing itself.
Le Pont Traversé, that’s the name of this delicious coffee shop with a historic façade that treats us in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, just steps from the Luxembourg Gardens. After a change in ownership and chef, we headed back to rediscover this spot, which continues to delight gluten-free diners—and more. [Read more]



Sweet and savory cookies: homemade, generously sized cookies in Fontainebleau (77)
On Rue des Sablons in Fontainebleau, in the Seine-et-Marne department, Véronique recently opened a cosy spot to indulge in tasty, big, homemade cookies. [Read more]



LaCrèma gelato, the new plant-based artisanal ice cream shop near the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Panthéon
We pushed open the door of LaCrèma, the new artisanal ice-cream shop on Rue Soufflot in Paris’s 5th arrondissement, open since April 2026. Behind the counter, Roberta and her house-made plant-based gelatos are shaking things up. Here’s everything you need to know! [Read more]



Rosa Maison pâtissière, the patisserie - a 9th arrondissement coffee shop with exceptional flans and Paris-Brest
Rosa Maison Pâtissière opened its doors in early 2026 on Rue Lafayette, in Paris’s 9th arrondissement. A pastry shop and specialty café run by two former high-school classmates invites you into this cozy tea room with a terrace. The address already has Parisians flocking for its signature flans, to name just one highlight. [Read more]



Kumquat Café, the go-to coffee shop with Asian-inspired vibes in the 11th arrondissement.
On Rue Saint-Maur in the 11th arrondissement, chef Yin-Line Chea has opened her first establishment: a cozy coffee shop that blends specialty coffees, indulgent breakfasts, and signature drinks with Asian influences. [Read more]



Coupi bar, a must-visit café - banh mi in Paris's 13th arrondissement
A solid coffee, an excellent banh mi—what more could you ask for? Head to Coupi bar, the spot perfectly placed right at the Porte d’Ivry metro exit, delighting discerning fans of Vietnamese sandwiches. All that, washed down with a good latte, and we’re sold. [Read more]



Nanna : the cosy literary barge with a library and a bar at the foot of Notre-Dame Cathedral
A literary barge, Nanna, has moored at the foot of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. An ideal spot on the banks of the Seine to read a few books, attend events, and enjoy a drink! [Read more]



The riverside guinguette at La Pointe Sauvage on the banks of the Marne in Seine-et-Marne has opened its doors.
La guinguette of La Pointe Sauvage lands on the banks of the Marne in Vaires-sur-Marne, Seine-et-Marne, for a summer season that looks set to be convivial. Concerts, grilled fare, crepes and good spirits are on the menu from May 6 to September 2026 (and maybe beyond if the vibes—and the weather—cooperate). [Read more]



Paname on the Seine: the new riverside guinguette with concerts, DJ sets and brunches along the Bercy quays
The guinguette season is back in full swing, and a new venue is set to make waves in Bercy: Paname sur Seine, an open-air hotspot offering DJ sets, live performances, cultural activities, cold beers, and festive Sunday brunches, to debut on May 13, 2026. [Read more]



The real Guinness draft system lands in France at Molly's.
Sponsored - Molly's promises you the ultimate Dublin experience. Indeed, this Parisian bar has just installed France's very first Guinness system. So head to Molly's to enjoy a Guinness the way it is in Ireland. [Read more]



This château in the Yvelines region will host a drone show, lanterns, and a grand fireworks display at the end of May.
Rosny-sur-Seine, in the Yvelines department, invites you on Friday, May 29, 2026, for the 7th edition of "Mille et un Feux." Set in the Château Park, the evening begins with a lantern procession before giving way to a drone-sculpted sky by 250 drones, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. A free, open-access event where the château’s heritage serves as the backdrop for an open-air show. [Read more]



Festival des Places 2026: free dance and concerts at Place du Châtelet and various venues across Paris
Every weekend from April through October 2026, the Festival des Places takes over Place du Châtelet and several other Paris squares, offering free dance workshops, concerts and performances presented by the Théâtre de la Ville. [Read more]



The Sebastopol Comedy Club: stand-up comedy in a Paris hotel
The Sebastopol Comedy Club is the unusual comedy stage that awaits you in the heart of the 123 Sebastopol hotel in Paris. Every weekend, in the heart of a hotel, you'll find a stand-up stage hosted by established artists. [Read more]



Random Comedy Club: stand-up comedy show Sunday evenings at the Chouchou hotel in Paris
Every Sunday evening, the Chouchou hotel invites you to its table for its traditional rendez-vous: the Random Comedy Club comedy show. In the guinguette, among the aperitif boards and cocktails, the new seeds of comedy and stars of laughter take turns on stage for a lively stand-up show, 100% made in France! [Read more]



Roissy Open: watch for free the European golf elite as they compete in a tournament in Val d'Oise
From May 28 to 30, 2026, the Roissy Golf International is set to vibrate to the rhythm of the Alps Tour, an official stop on the European professional circuit. For this first tournament of such magnitude in its history, the Val-d'Oise site will open its doors to the public free of charge. [Read more]



Roland-Garros 2026: live matches on the Galeries Lafayette rooftop, with a breathtaking view of Paris
Want to experience Roland-Garros in a different way? From May 24 to June 7, 2026, head to the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann rooftop terrace to watch the French Open matches, comfortably lounging in sun loungers with a view of the capital! [Read more]



Family-friendly deal: Wing in Paris, a nautical festival at a fraction of the price
Saturday, May 30, 2026, a leisure center in the Yvelines department will host a major festival centered on water sports: at a bargain price, it’s a chance for families to learn sailing together! [Read more]



Hiking: our favorite routes and circuits in the Fontainebleau massif and forest (77)
In Seine-et-Marne, the Fontainebleau massif is a must for hikers, so we've selected our favorite itineraries in this natural corner of the Île-de-France region. [Read more]



Climbing District Saint-Lazare, a climbing gym and coworking space hidden in a chapel
How about a climb in an atypical location? Climbing District is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Saint-Lazare train station. Housed in a hidden former chapel, this climbing gym, which looks like an old library, is sure to surprise. Tip: coworking spaces with free wifi and coffee shop. [Read more]



The Bridgertons arrive in The Sims 4: discover the new event to win rewards
A limited-time event is landing in The Sims 4 to help you score free new content. Step onto the dance floor and enjoy Lady Bridgerton’s masquerade ball, kicking off May 12, 2026. [Read more]



PlayStation Plus: May 2026’s free games you won’t want to miss from Sony
If you own a PS4 or PS5, you know Sony serves up free games each month with PlayStation Plus. So, which titles are offered in May 2026? Check out this month’s lineup. [Read more]



Video games: the gaming releases to look out for in May 2026
In May 2026, there’s no shortage of video game releases to fill your evenings, whether you’re playing on PC, PS5, Xbox Series or Nintendo Switch. The editorial team brings you its pick of the month’s gaming releases, from highly anticipated titles to pleasant surprises and games worth keeping on your radar. [Read more]



Foamstars: Square Enix's Splatoon-like free-to-play - our review
Released on PS4 and PS5 on February 6, 2024, Foamstars offers a unique combat experience using foam as a strategic tool, rather like a certain... Splatoon (with paint, of course). The game is now free-to-play. We've tested it, and we'll tell you all about it! [Read more]



The Metamorphoses of Guernica: our review of the VR experience at the Picasso Museum
The National Picasso Museum invites you to an unprecedented immersion into the story behind one of Pablo Picasso's most iconic works, Guernica, in an exhibition titled The Metamorphoses of Guernica, running from April 8 to September 6, 2026. A virtual reality experience takes visitors on a time-travel journey, from the painting’s birth to the ruins of the Basque city. We tested it—here’s what we learned! [Read more]



Tour Eiffel Effect, the breathtaking immersive experience on the Eiffel Tower: free gift voucher
Alert friends, a new, never-before-seen immersive experience opens its doors this July 10, 2024 on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. Tour Eiffel Effect is the name of this VR team game that will take you on a fantastic adventure to rebuild the Eiffel Tower and fly all around it in the final, apotheosis-like moment. Good news: for the opening, it's free from July 10 to 22 for anyone with a ticket to go up. [Read more]



Pokémon Pokopia: a free chill-out space to immerse yourself in the game at the Ateliers Gaîté
Attention Pokémon fans! Atelier Gaîté, just steps from Montparnasse, The Pokémon Company invites you to a free chill-out space centered on Pokémon Pokopia, from April 2 to October 2, 2026. On the agenda: arcade sessions on a machine (until Sunday, April 5) and a relaxation zone set amid the flowers and the Pokémon. [Read more]



Cocorico, the free educational farm in Herblay-sur-Seine (95)
In Herblay-sur-Seine, don't miss Cocorico, the town's educational farm: free and open to all, it's a great opportunity for a family outing to the farm. [Read more]



Good deals for ages 13-25: Studio 13/16 opens its doors at La Gaîté Lyrique.
Iconic of the Centre Pompidou, Studio 13/16, the teens' HQ, opens a second venue to gather and create, at La Gaîté Lyrique. [Read more]



The Jardin d'Acclimatation's paddling pool and beach, the perfect place to cool off!
In summer, from May to September (weather permitting), the Jardin d'Acclimatation transforms itself into a fun-filled seaside resort. Come and enjoy the joys of water and relaxation in the heart of Paris. Children and adults alike will find plenty of deckchairs to relax on. [Read more]



Tip: our top 5 family activities at the Jardin du Luxembourg
A must-see garden in the capital, the Jardin du Luxembourg is an essential green space in Paris. A paradise for runners and strollers, who like to spend long afternoons there, it's also a favorite spot for families: to let off steam or take advantage of the kid-friendly activities on offer in the garden. [Read more]



Le Jardin du Dragon: the must-see children's playground at Parc de la Villette
The Parc de la Villette is one of the capital's largest parks: combining sport, large lawns and ruby-red infrastructures, the park is the playground of families and children, who have a blast in the outdoor play areas. [Read more]



The Rodin Workshop, a creative space for children, is back for a new season at the Rodin Museum.
Learn the art of sculpture firsthand in the world of one of France’s most renowned artists! From April 11 to September 6, 2026, the Rodin Museum opens its Atelier Rodin, offering young art enthusiasts the chance to explore sculpture. Discover the exciting new features of the 2026 season. [Read more]



What to do with children at the Musée de l'Armée, des Plans-Reliefs et de l'Ordre de la Libération?
Located in the Hôtel des Invalides, the Musée de l'Armée, the Musée des Plans-Reliefs and the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération offer a complete visit to a historic monument in Paris. For the whole family, the program includes events, guided tours and workshops. [Read more]



What to do with children at the Louvre? Activities and visits for the whole family
It's the most visited museum in the world, and we're lucky enough to be able to count it among Paris's cultural highlights: the Musée du Louvre. For families, the program is particularly diverse: we take stock before your visit. [Read more]



Metro and RER updates: closures, work, and demonstrations in Paris this Sunday May 24, 2026
In a flash, get all the latest updates on traffic and transportation in Paris, refreshed in real time. Whether it's the Metro, RER, or Transilien services operated by RATP, construction work, ongoing circulation, major events, or demonstrations — we provide all the essential information you need before heading out in Paris this Sunday May 24, 2026. [Read more]



Pentecost Monday: What will the weather be like for this public holiday on May 25, 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France?
For this Pentecost Monday in Paris and Île-de-France, the weather forecast for May 25, 2026, looks set to be sunny with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 27°C. A public holiday for some, it’s the perfect day to enjoy the terraces and parks across the region. [Read more]



Weather this week in Paris and Île-de-France, May 18–25, 2026.
The week of May 18–25, 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France, including the Pentecost weekend, is shaping up to be broadly pleasant with a noticeable improvement. Temperatures will rise gradually from 16°C to 27°C, with drier, sunnier skies expected from Thursday. [Read more]



La Caverne du Pont-Neuf : JR's giant installation is under way in Paris — our photos
The Pont Neuf is continuing its metamorphosis. Led by JR, the oldest bridge in Paris is preparing to host La Caverne du Pont Neuf, a monumental installation conceived as an open-air immersive cave. Optical illusions, inflatable structures, and plays of light will transform the monument into a temporary mineral fault. A spectacular experience to be discovered from June 6 to 28, 2026, in the very heart of the capital. [Read more]



Major Initiative: Free dance workshops every summer Saturday in the Grand Palais nave
What if the nave of the Grand Palais transformed into your most spectacular dance floor? From June 13 to July 18, 2026, the Grand Palais d’Été invites Parisians to an unforgettable experience beneath its iconic glass roof. Every Saturday morning, renowned choreographers and dance companies will host completely free workshops, inviting everyone to move and groove in this extraordinary setting. [Read more]



FIFA World Cup: a large, festive fan zone along the banks of the Seine this summer, 2026
This summer, the Football World Cup lands on the banks of the Seine! From June 12 to July 19, 2026, the Quai de la Photo opens its doors to welcome fans in an atmosphere that promises to be exceptional, blending live matches with a music program. [Read more]



A free kids’ party: don’t miss the Super Kids Party at Lafayette Anticipations
The Lafayette Anticipations Foundation, located in Paris’s Marais district (4th arrondissement), opens its doors to curious little ones on Saturday, June 6, 2026, with a Super Kids Party and artistic activities for children and adults alike. [Read more]



DJ sets and short films: Nuit Blanche 2026 lineup at Europa Experience in Paris
Europa Expérience takes part in the 25th edition of Nuit Blanche, offering an original, music-filled program open to everyone. Come discover it this Saturday, June 6, 2026, for a special after-hours night. [Read more]



Paris Plages 2026: six free swimming spots to take a dip in Paris
In the thick of the summer holidays, from July 4 to August 30, 2026, Paris Plages makes its grand return, unveiling an edition that puts the United States in the spotlight. We’ll take the opportunity to cool off with a dip at the many swimming spots open for the occasion, all summer long. [Read more]



Bonjour Vietnam 2026: A free Vietnamese cultural weekend in Paris
The Bonjour Vietnam festival is back for its third free edition at the Centre Culturel du Vietnam in Paris’s 13th arrondissement. Music, gastronomy, crafts and photography are on the program on 13 and 14 June 2026. [Read more]



July 14, 2026: The Paris Concert returns to the Champ-de-Mars.
To cap off the National Day in style, the Orchestre National de France, the Maîtrise, and the Chœur de Radio France will present a grand symphonic concert on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. As last year, this free concert will take place at the Champ-de-Mars, facing the Eiffel Tower. Stay tuned to discover the musical program of the now-legendary "Concert de Paris," edition 2026. [Read more]



Par has'Art! 2026: the free street arts festival in Seine-et-Marne is back
The Par has'Art! festival returns from June 26 to July 4, 2026 for its 8th edition across 12 towns in Seine-et-Marne. Fifteen free performances—circus, dance, street theatre and music—will bring public spaces to life. [Read more]
For even more suggestions, check out our guide What's on this week or visit the Deals & Tips section.
Dates and Opening Time
From May 25, 2026 to May 31, 2026