This week's top picks for August 17–23, 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France

What to do in Paris this week from August 17 to 23, 2026? Outdoor cinema, Paris Plages, open gardens, swimming, festivals and family outings: here are the must-do tips you won’t want to miss.

From August 17 to 23, 2026, Paris and Île-de-France continue their summer program with a fresh week of great deals—from outdoor cinema and swimming to festivals, exhibitions, strolls, and family activities. As the summer break moves into its final stretch, there are still plenty of free or low-cost outings to choose from.

This week is notably highlighted by the kick-off of outdoor cinema festivals Cin é-Jardins and Été de la Toile Filante, while Paris Plages, the swimming sites and the Jardins ouverts activities continue across Île-de-France. Nature lovers can also enjoy the Fête de la Brouette at the Ferme de Viltain.

The last days of Hôtel Mahfouf, the exhibition Chacun cherche son chat at Fluctuart, as well as several beaches and summer activities, round out the program, not to mention the abundance of open-air cinema screenings offered across the region. Here is our pick of the best things to do in Paris and Île-de-France from August 17 to 23, 2026.

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This week's best deals for August 17–23, 2026

This week's top

Paris Plages 2026: Six free places to swim in Paris
From July 4, 2026 until the end of summer, Paris Plages is making a big comeback, in a edition that spotlights the United States. We’ll take the chance to dip into the six swimming spots that are free to use for the occasion! [Read more]

What to do in Paris and Île-de-France with kids during the 2026 summer holidays?
Summer 2026 kicks off, and we’re heading out for family-friendly outings in Paris and Île-de-France. From July 4 to September 1, 2026, expect kid-friendly festivals, urban beaches, and free activities. [Read more]

Where to swim in the Marne this summer 2026, the best spots
The Marne is making a splash again for summer 2026, with five supervised sites scattered across Val-de-Marne and Seine-Saint-Denis. From Joinville-le-Pont to Neuilly-sur-Marne, here are the must-visit spots to check out starting June 20. [Read more]

Flea markets and rummage sales in Yvelines on August 22–23, 2026
August remains a quiet month for flea markets and garage sales in Yvelines (78), but a well-known monthly gathering for Mantois regulars still takes center stage this weekend, August 22–23, 2026. [Read more]

The Nighttime Screenings 2026: free open-air cinema to enjoy this summer at Blandy Castle
Outdoor cinema comes to the Château de Blandy-Les-Tours for three magical evenings on 12, 19 and 26 August 2026. On the program: family-friendly, widely accessible films screened on the battlements of this medieval castle, offering a unique and free experience. Here’s what to expect this summer. [Read more]

Outdoor cinema at the Château d'Écouen: films to catch under the stars this summer at the National Museum of the Renaissance
Chaque été, le Château d'Ecouen - musée national de la Renaissance nous propose des soirées conviviales et familiales autour du 7e art, avec son cinéma en plein air. Discover the free films screened this Friday, 21 August 2026 and Saturday, 22 August 2026. Attention, la réservation est obligatoire. Note: The instruction says keep HTML tags as is, but there were none. If you want a pure translation only, here is a version in natural English with the same structure: Each summer, the Château d'Écouen - National Museum of the Renaissance hosts friendly, family-oriented evenings centered on the 7th art, featuring its outdoor cinema. Discover the free films shown this Friday, August 21, 2026, and Saturday, August 22, 2026. Please note that reservations are required. [Read more]

Open Gardens 2026 in Île-de-France: this summer’s program
Open Gardens 2026 in Île-de-France returns, running June 27 to August 30, 2026, in more than 200 gardens across the Île-de-France region. On the program: concerts, performances, guided tours, workshops and art installations. [Read more]

Swimming at Canal Saint-Martin opens for the summer.
Swimming opens free to the Récollets basin in Paris’ 10th arrondissement, starting this Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The city will permit supervised swims in the Canal Saint-Martin during every heatwave this summer. [Read more]

This Week Only

Brocantes et vide-greniers en Seine-et-Marne les 22 et 23 août 2026 - Flea markets and garage sales in Seine-et-Marne on August 22–23, 2026
Four flea markets and garage sales liven up Seine-et-Marne (77) this weekend, August 22–23, 2026, from Fontaine-le-Port to Barbizon, via Jutigny and La Genevraye. [Read more]

Stargazing Nights 2026: observing the night sky at the Uranoscope of Île-de-France (77)
On the occasion of Star Night, astronomy enthusiasts are gathering at the Uranoscope of Île-de-France in Seine-et-Marne on August 22, 2026! The perfect opportunity to observe the stars with pro-grade gear. [Read more]

Swim Your Canal 2026: open-water swimming, aquathlons and buoy races on the Ourcq Canal
Fancy a dip in the Ourcq Canal this Saturday, August 22, 2026? Then head to Pantin for the new edition of "Nage ton Canal," the renowned open-water race in Seine-Saint-Denis! [Read more]

Wheelbarrow Festival: free activities and tomato-picking at a farm in Yvelines
In Jouy-en-Josas, in Yvelines, the Wheelbarrow Festival will enliven the harvest at Ferme de Viltain! From August 18 to 21, 2026, enjoy free activities, family-friendly games, and pick tomatoes. [Read more]

Ducobu President!: Saint-Potache’s class clown lands on TF1
Ducobu President!, a comedy by Élie Semoun starring Gabin Tomasino, is set to air on TF1 on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 9:10 p.m. [Read more]

Les Invisibles: Season 3 of the crime series returns to France 2
Season 3 of The Invisibles, a police series featuring Guillaume Cramoisan, will be rebroadcast on France 2 starting Wednesday, 19 August 2026 at 9:10 p.m. [Read more]

What’s new this week

Ciné-Jardins 2026, the free outdoor film festival held in the gardens of Paris
The Ciné-Jardins outdoor film festival is back in the gardens of Paris and its inner-ring suburbs, from August 20 to September 5, 2026. And it’s still free! [Read more]

Été de la Toile Filante 2026: a free outdoor cinema festival in Seine-et-Marne
Enjoy a free outdoor cinema festival from August 20 to 29, 2026, in several municipalities in Seine-et-Marne, featuring film screenings and activities for all ages. [Read more]

Last days to make the most of it

Léna Situations' Hôtel Mahfouf makes a final return to the heart of the Bois de Vincennes
Comme l'an passé, Léna Situations est une fois de plus à l'honneur avec Hôtel Mahfouf, installé au cœur du Bois de Vincennes, du 2 au 23 août 2026. A chill, estival hotspot that blends August vlogs, shopping, veggie treats and downtime, with a dash of nostalgia. [Read more]

Saint-Ouen’s Summer 2026: free activities, open-air cinema and a Brazilian guinguette in Saint-Ouen
From Saturday, July 4 to Sunday, August 23, 2026, the city of Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine is staging Été Audonien, a major summer festival featuring free activities and special evenings, designed to make you feel like you’re on vacation without leaving the city. [Read more]

Roland-Garros Tennis Club: Enjoy free admission to the French Tennis Championships this summer.
With the second edition of the "Roland-Garros Tennis Club," running from June 14 to August 23, 2026, the iconic stadium will open its doors free of charge to let tennis fans watch the finals of the French National Championships in singles. [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]

Plantes pour Tous: the greenery deal in Paris and Île-de-France, upcoming August sales
Plant enthusiasts can count on Plantes pour Tous to stock your space with greenery of every size and style, from as little as 90 cents, this August and all year round. [Read more]

Meaux Beach 2026: the summer seaside with swimming and activities at Meaux-les-Bains (77)
Meaux Plage transforms the banks of the Marne into a true seaside resort each summer, with supervised swimming and activities at Meaux-les-Bains in Seine-et-Marne. Mark your calendars for July 5 to August 23, 2026, for a moment with your feet in the sand. Free for residents of the metropolitan area, it’s the smart way to feel on vacation without traveling far this summer. We’ve got all the details. [Read more]

100% free

The Olympic cauldron at the Tuileries Garden this summer 2026: what you need to know
It's become a tradition: this summer, until September 14, 2026, come and admire the Paris 2026 basin for free in the Tuileries Garden. [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]

Swimming in Paris’s Canal Saint-Martin: what you need to know before you go
Swimming in the Saint-Martin Canal is permitted in Paris within a designated zone of the Récollets basin. Hours, access, free entry, safety rules: here are the practical details you need to know before you head there. [Read more]

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Culture

Exhibitions to See This Week

Linh Son, the Buddhist pagoda in Joinville-le-Pont (94)
With its unconventional architecture, Linh Son Pagoda defines the landscape of Joinville-le-Pont: since its opening in 1984, it has welcomed both worshippers and the curious into its Buddhist temple. [Read more]

The Château d’Ormesson and its vast estate will open to the public for the first time this summer, 2026.
One of Val-de-Marne’s best-kept secrets reveals its treasures to the public this summer for the first time, from July 27 to September 4, 2026. The Château d'Ormesson, a 16th-century estate that has remained in the same family for generations, invites walkers to explore its historic grounds and its sumptuous interior. [Read more]

This medieval tower and its historic ruins in Seine-et-Marne open to the public for free this summer.
Just a stone’s throw from Provins, the Tour de Saint-Loup and its ruins welcome visitors this summer for a free dive into medieval history. A fortified 13th-century priory saved from the ravages of war, this historic monument hides a fascinating past. [Read more]

We are (still) here : street art takes over the Petit Palais in a free exhibition this summer
After a first edition in 2024, the We are here exhibition is back at the Petit Palais: enjoy a rich urban-art journey right in the heart of the Fine Arts Museum. The exhibition is free to visit from June 20 to September 20, 2026. [Read more]

ZEUS, the iconic metal horse from the Olympics, on display for free at the Museum of Arts and Crafts in Paris
Zeus, the mechanical horse from the Olympic Games that captured everyone's hearts, has now arrived at the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris. The towering steel colossus is open to the public free of charge from December 17, 2025, to January 10, 2027. [Read more]

Night-time Paris of the 20th century unfolds in a free photo exhibition at the Roger-Viollet Gallery.
Paris shines as much by day as by night: discover the capital’s rich nocturnal life, with the exhibition "Paris, Open at Night," on view for free from June 11 to October 3, 2026 at the Roger-Viollet Gallery. [Read more]

C.A.P.S 2026: The lineup for Clichy’s XXL urban art festival
The town of Clichy becomes a giant museum for the new edition of C.A.P.S, the urban art festival. Mark your calendars from June 27 to December 12, 2026 for an even more incredible sixth edition! [Read more]

Fashion Week: A dress worn by Lady Gaga on display for free at a luxury Paris hotel — photos
Feathers, crystals and spectacular silhouettes are taking over a Paris luxury hotel. For Haute Couture Fashion Week, the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg is showcasing several fashion pieces worn by international stars, free of charge, until October 6, 2026. [Read more]

This week's walks to try

Square Léon Serpollet, the hidden green oasis in the heart of Paris's 18th arrondissement
Situated in the Clignancourt district, Square Léon Serpollet is one of those hidden gems locals know well. A green oasis tucked inside a very urban area, to be discovered on a particularly pleasant stroll. [Read more]

Places not to be missed for a bucolic stroll in Auvers-sur-Oise, in the footsteps of Van Gogh
Vincent Van Gogh spent the last days of his life in Auvers-sur-Oise, a few kilometers from Paris. This beautiful town is the perfect place for a stroll in the footsteps of one of the world's most famous painters. Van Gogh, like the city of Auvers, have not finished revealing all their secrets... [Read more]

Jardin21, season 2026: a week of celebration, nature and cultural discoveries at the heart of Parc de la Villette
Sponsored - In August, Jardin21—the festive, greenery-filled community hub perched along the Ourcq Canal in Paris’s 19th arrondissement—extends the season with a rich and varied lineup. Use this time to fully enjoy these sunny days: bold initiatives, gardening workshops, youth activities, lively evenings, a yoga session... Everything is in place for a quick escape without leaving Paris. Free admission. [Read more]

And what if you extend the joys of summer in the Fontainebleau area?
Sponsored - In September, there’s no letting go of the pleasures of the sunny season in the Fontainebleau region! A riverside guinguette, a gourmet meal, a cultural discovery, an offbeat experience… Welcome to those who haven’t left yet, and to those who simply want to stretch summer’s pleasures a little longer! [Read more]

Espace Rambouillet: a forested and wildlife park to reconnect with nature
Sponsored - Nestled within 250 hectares of forest, discover a unique Île-de-France site dedicated to European wildlife, featuring species still present in France today or once found here: red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, wolves… Also explore its aviary and raptor centre, home to over 200 birds with demonstrations of free-flight birds of prey. Not to be missed are the 1,500 m2 of giant tree-suspended trampolines or the Mission Forest playground. A offering sure to delight families, nature lovers, and anyone eager to reconnect with what truly matters: life in the living world. [Read more]

Unique Paris Tour by Open-Top Bus with Big Bus – SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE
Sponsored - Panoramic views of Paris, flexibility, multilingual audio guides—discover an unusual tour of Paris on a double-decker bus with Big Bus, with a 15% discount on certain dates. [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]

Paris Under the Stars: Free stargazing in the city’s parks this summer, 2026
Paris Under the Stars is back from June 27 to September 5, 2026. The French Astronomical Association organizes in the capital a series of stargazing evenings across various Parisian parks and gardens. [Read more]

Free rooftop, the Philharmonie Belvedere once again accessible with its exceptional view
Fancy a free rooftop? Head for the roof of the Philharmonie de Paris, overlooking the Parc de la Villette, which is once again open to us, from April to October, Wednesday to Sunday. This is your chance to enjoy a 360° view without paying a penny. [Read more]

Paris Plages 2026: the free program all summer long at the Bassin de la Villette
For Paris Plages, the Bassin de la Villette is back in service: from July 4 to August 30, 2026, it will host free activities for young and old, but above all, a charming swimming spot. [Read more]

Belleville Park, a green bubble on a hillside in the 20th arrondissement
In the Ménilmontant district, right in the heart of Belleville's Chinatown, you could almost miss the eponymous park, so hidden is it that it's almost a secret. So we're taking you to discover it with us! [Read more]

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Cuisine & Beverages

Restaurants

Mégie, the new botanical canteen, shop and floral workshop along Paris’s riverfront.
A botanical cantine, a floral boutique and a floral-art workshop share space at Mégie, the new address opened in 2026 on the Quai de la Mégisserie, in Paris’s 1st arrondissement. We were there, here’s what it’s like. [Read more]

Chez Mimi, the Not-Parisian bistro reinventing itself in Colombes
Chez Mimi, the bistro run by the Les Bistrots Pas Parisiens group and tucked in the heart of Colombes in the Hauts-de-Seine, opens a new chapter in 2026 with a revised menu and a young, dynamic team at the helm. We tried it and here’s the full verdict. [Read more]

Mallory Gabsi: we tested 140°, his Belgian fry shop in Paris that opens with a smart deal
Mallory Gabsi’s fry shop 140° opens its doors this Saturday, June 27, 2026, in the Montorgueil district (Paris 2nd arrondissement). Note that the first 100 visitors at opening will receive a free cone of fries. We checked it out in advance and here’s the full scoop. [Read more]

Cramat': we tried the pop-up restaurant by Alexy from Top Chef on the outskirts of Paris
The pop-up restaurant Cramat has set up its braziers at Quai Ouest in Saint-Cloud, where Alexy Algar-Denos, a Top Chef 2026 finalist, serves Catalan cuisine cooked over fire. We tried this table perched above the Seine, a must-try all summer in 2026, and here’s what we thought. [Read more]

21G Dumpling: a communal-dining spot offering homemade Dim Sum near Bastille
Sponsored - Just a stone's throw from the Aligre Market, 21G Dumpling invites you to discover the must-tries of Sino-Taiwanese cuisine: hand-crafted dim sum made daily, including the famed 21-gram Xiao Long Bao, generous Gua Bao, and iconic shareable dishes, all in an atmosphere inspired by Taiwanese night markets. [Read more]

Ter: Paris’s first egg-mayo bar, with a gourmet weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
Sponsored - Here’s a more idiomatic, journalistically adapted version in English: --- Ter offers dinner service from Tuesday to Saturday, with brunch options available on both Saturday and Sunday. Visit the first Mayo Egg Bar in Paris, located in the 11th arrondissement. [Read more]

Les Bavards, Ménilmontant’s convivial gathering place
In Ménilmontant, Les Bavards leans into conviviality. A neighborhood brasserie where locals linger gladly on the large terrace for the aperitif, more than for its bistrot fare, which remains very traditional. [Read more]

Le Chien Fou, the Tours-based bistro, opens its first restaurant in Paris.
Already present in Tours, Orléans and Poitiers, Le Chien Fou unveils its first Paris address. By mid-September 2026, this bistro, famed for its house-made cooking, sharing plates and its wine cellar, will open its doors on Rue Feydeau in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris. [Read more]

Yeni Paris, the handsome Turkish restaurant serving generous Anatolian specialties in the Madeleine district
A stone’s throw from the Madeleine Church, Yeni is now a welcoming Turkish spot that has been courting fans of sun-kissed, flavorful cuisine since late 2025. A convivial dining room, perfect for an evening aperitif around mezze, where the hospitality is as warm as the dishes. [Read more]

Spanish culinary excellence takes center stage in Paris thanks to these 19 addresses.
Sponsored - ICEX Spain Trade & Investment, through its Foods & Wines from Spain platform, showcases the excellence and authenticity of Spanish gastronomy on the international stage by labeling establishments (restaurants and fine foods shops / wine merchants) that meet strict quality criteria. An essential reference for discovering Spanish culinary heritage, thanks to rigorously selected addresses. Discover these 19 venues dedicated to highlighting Spanish gastronomy. [Read more]

Brunch & Tea Time

This all-you-can-eat brunch is a real Green Break in the Yvelines, with its large terrace.
The all-you-can-eat brunch at La Parenthèse Verte, tucked away in a verdant park in Louveciennes, Yvelines, is evolving with an expanded terrace, redesigned décor, and an enlarged menu. We headed back to rediscover this transportive spot just a few kilometers from Paris. [Read more]

Nour Kandler's new summer pastries, from La Garenne-Colombes to Paris, and her workshops
Autodidact pastry chef based in La Garenne-Colombes (Hauts-de-Seine), Nour Kandler creates incredible entremets, tarts, and custards, all homemade and available to order bespoke. We tested her new fruit-filled summer collection for summer 2026, and here’s a look at her work. [Read more]

World brunch in Montreuil: we tried Baiman’s Cake (93)
Just launched, Baiman's Cake's World Brunches whisk you away on a culinary trip for a meal in Montreuil, Seine-Saint-Denis. Istanbul, Rome, Paris, New York or London: five new, homemade gourmand options to discover right away, every weekend. [Read more]

Bars

Polpo Plage 2026: a beachfront terrace and boats on the Seine in Levallois
Polpo Plage is coming to Levallois-Perret for summer 2026, inviting you to put your feet in the sand along the Seine, with a Fever-Tree–designed bar, bonfire nights, and rides on permit-free electric boats. [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]

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Leisure Activities

What to see on stage this week

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]

Classique au Vert 2026 at Parc Floral: the lineup for the free outdoor concert festival
The Classique au Vert Festival is back in action from June 24 to September 6, 2026, in the heart of the Parc Floral de Paris. This year again, Classique au Vert invites music lovers and newcomers alike to keep a lively tempo and soak up the sun with a lineup of acclaimed artists and rising talents. [Read more]

Paris Jazz Festival 2026: Free concerts return this summer at Parc Floral — the lineup
The Paris Jazz Festival is back this summer at Parc Floral, bringing plenty of musical talent to see and hear in a bucolic setting. Here is the lineup of free concerts to discover from June 24 to September 6, 2026! [Read more]

Jazz Café Montparnasse: the new landmark for jazz lovers!
Opened a few months ago, Jazz Café Montparnasse illuminates the rue du Commandant Mouchotte with its vermilion neon lights. Inside, jazz and good food await you.... [Read more]

Did you know? In Paris, some libraries also lend out musical instruments.
What if your next guitar wasn’t waiting for you in a shop, but at the neighborhood library? In Paris, some libraries lend out musical instruments for free, so you can discover, restart, or simply dare to give it a go. [Read more]

Theater: which venues offer €10 tickets for under-26s and under-28s?
The theater may be a popular outing for Parisians, but good seats are often expensive. But many theaters offer ultra-reduced rates for young people, or last-minute tickets. [Read more]

Tip: Comédie-Française offers free Monday tickets to under-28s
Every Monday evening in Paris, the Comédie-Française offers a unique opportunity to young people under the age of 28: 95 free tickets are distributed for its performances in the prestigious Salle Richelieu. Tickets can be collected from the Petit Bureau, one hour before the start of the play. [Read more]

Sports: this week's events and top picks

Paris Sport Sundays 2026: Free fitness classes this summer in Paris parks
Want to enjoy free sports classes? Paris Sport Dimanches welcomes you every Sunday through September 13, 2026 for free, no-registration-required sessions. [Read more]

The Léo Lagrange free outdoor pool for Summer 2026 in Paris's 12th arrondissement
A free pool for everyone this summer 2026 in Paris? Throughout the summer period, many public swimming spots will be open to the public, notably at the heart of the Léo Lagrange sports center in the 12th arrondissement, from July 4 to August 30, 2026. [Read more]

Outdoor pool and free sports activities in the 20th arrondissement for Summer 2026
The free swimming pool in the 20th arrondissement of Paris is back this summer, from July 4 to August 30, 2026, offering a wide range of sports activities. A refreshing outdoor option at the Louis Lumière Sports Center, on the Bagnolet side. [Read more]

Where to swim in the Seine in Paris in 2026? The Bras Marie swimming area in the 4th arrondissement
Swimming for all in the Seine is now a reality! Among the spots that let you swim in central Paris, the Bras Marie swimming site stands out, now located at the foot of the Pont Louis-Philippe. Free to access, the site lets you swim in the Parisian river while admiring the historic heart of the capital. [Read more]

Where to swim in the Seine in Paris in 2026? The Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement.
From July 4 to August 30, 2026, swimming reopens its doors to all budding swimmers at the Villette pools. Expect entertainment, sports activities, a nautical base and a splash pool: the lineup promises to be busy. [Read more]

Where to swim in the Seine in Paris in 2026? The Bercy site, in the 12th arrondissement.
This summer, once again, the public will be able to swim in the Seine in Paris! Among the bathing sites, the Bercy site in the 12th arrondissement of the capital will open on July 4, 2026. [Read more]

Where to swim in the Seine in Paris in 2026? The Bras de Grenelle, in the 15th arrondissement
Summer 2026 marks the much-anticipated return of swimming in the Seine, with Paris once again shifting into sun-soaked, swim-ready mode from July 4, 2026 through the end of summer. Notably, the Bras de Grenelle swimming area stands out as the refreshing hotspot in the 15th arrondissement. [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]

Gaming & immersive experiences this week

PlayStation Plus: August 2026's free games — Sony's gifts you won't want to miss
If you own a PS4 or PS5, you know that Sony offers free games every month with the PlayStation Plus subscription. So, which titles are free in August 2026? Here’s this month’s lineup. [Read more]

Game of Thrones Dragonfire: the House of the Dragon mobile game now available on iOS and Android
Game of Thrones: Dragonfire, a free-to-play mobile strategy game developed by Warner Bros. Games Boston and published by Warner Bros. Games, has been available on iOS and Android since June 2, 2026. Drawing on House of the Dragon, the title invites players to command dragons, build their House, and take part in the Targaryen civil war to try to dominate Westeros. [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]

ESpot, the concept store dedicated to gaming just a stone's throw from the Louvre
Gamers and other video game enthusiasts meet up at ESpot, a new space dedicated to gaming and eSports located in the heart of Paris, rue de Rivoli, to take advantage of the many PCs and consoles on offer. [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]

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]

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]

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Families

Summer vacations at the Musée d'Orsay in 2026: free activities for the whole family
Until August 30, 2026, the Orsay Museum is offering "Vacances à Orsay," a program of playful and creative activities for children and families. Installed in the museum's reception hall, this initiative is free with an admission ticket to the museum. [Read more]

Open-air cinema in Noisy-le-Sec (93): free screenings under the stars all summer.
This summer, from July 4 to August 28, 2026, head to Noisy-le-Sec to enjoy outdoor cinema screenings. Animated films and family feature films, the screenings are free and open to everyone. [Read more]

The Ecancourt educational farm in Jouy-le-Moutier, for a walk to discover the animals.
Near Jouy-le-Moutier, the Ecancourt farm welcomes families all week long to discover its residents and the world of farming at the same time. [Read more]

At Kids' Paradise on the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines leisure island: the €1 carousel!
Sponsored - In Île-de-France, at the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines Leisure Island, there is a magical place where children can laugh, play, and enjoy rides suited to their ages: Au Paradis des Enfants. It’s the cheapest park in Île-de-France, with an exceptional rate of €1 per ride. [Read more]

Science Experiences, the concept between museum and theme park at Bercy Village
Science Expériences is a unique concept combining museum and amusement park to bring science to life for children. With scientific experiments, virtual reality and video mapping, it uses the latest technologies to bring science to life for children... [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]

Escape Game Aventure, the escape company for kids, in Puteaux (92)
Would you like to introduce your children to escape games? Head for Escape Game Aventure in Puteaux, in the Hauts-de-Seine department, to discover rooms designed entirely for children. Ready for adventure? [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 in Boulogne-Billancourt, Meudon, Sèvres and Saint-Cloud (92)?
In the inner suburbs of western Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, Meudon, Sèvres and Saint-Cloud are ideal for cultural, sporting or nature outings with the kids. Make a pie [Read more]

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Latest News

Metro and RER updates: closures, work, and demonstrations in Paris this Monday August 17, 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 Monday August 17, 2026. [Read more]

What to watch this week

Weather in Paris and Île-de-France: the forecast for August 17–23, are storms on the way?
The weather in Paris and the Île-de-France region is entering a real turning point this week, August 17–23, 2026, as a heatwave breaks and a cooler spell takes hold gradually. After a hot Monday near 29°C, the mercury eases to about 23°C by the weekend, with thundery showers expected. [Read more]

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Coming Up

Street food, manga and high-tech beauty: Japan makes its mark in a Paris department store this fall.
What does a konbini look like when it lands inside a grand Paris department store? Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche answers with "Super Japon," its new fall exhibition running from August 29 to October 18, 2026, pairing gourmet discoveries, cult objects, Japanese design, and sensory experiences. [Read more]

Canoe-Kayak World Cup: events, free activities and fireworks in Vaires-sur-Marne
From September 3 to 6, 2026, the Olympic basin at Vaires-sur-Marne will host the Slalom World Cup, a premier sporting event that brings together the world’s top athletes for four days of intense competition. Beyond the on-water action, the public can look forward to free activities, nautical taster sessions, concerts, a dazzling fireworks display, and an unprecedented closing show. [Read more]

Free late-night opening at the Bourse de Commerce: reserve your top pick for Saturday, September 5, 2026
Want to visit the Bourse de Commerce’s collections? Take advantage of the free after-hours opening, held on the first Saturday of every month, to discover this must-see art venue in Paris. The next date to note in your calendar: Saturday, September 5, 2026. [Read more]

A parade of floats in India’s colors will sweep through Paris in September 2026.
Fourteen floats, hundreds of volunteer artists, and the colors of India on the streets of the capital: a grand Hindu cultural parade is set to take place in Paris in September 2026. [Read more]

A floating, kaleidoscopic parade will thread its way along the Seine in September 2026.
The Seine is set to don the colors of India from the start of September 2026. Eleven boats will glide through Paris as part of an astonishing cultural flotilla bringing together thousands of participants, for the inauguration of France’s first traditional Hindu temple. [Read more]

Paris Sausage Walk 2026: the dachshund parade takes to the Champs-Élysées for the first time!
The little sausage dogs on legs are changing neighborhoods! For its 7th edition, the Paris Sausage Walk is leaving the banks of the Seine, where it has taken place since its inception, to take over the Champs-Élysées on Sunday, October 4, 2026. A first for this charitable stroll, which each year brings hundreds of dachshunds and their humans out into the streets of Paris. [Read more]

Montmartre Harvest Festival 2026 in Paris: here’s the program
The unmissable Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival returns to the heights of the hill with a lineup as enticing as ever, from the Taste Trail to the grand parade, the closing ball, and tours of the famous vines. Discover the festivities awaiting you from Wednesday, October 7 to Sunday, October 11, 2026. [Read more]

Carnaval de Pigalle 2026: Pigalle launches its first major free costume parade this September.
A new carnival is rolling into the streets of Paris! In Pigalle, artists, musicians, circus performers, and costumed characters will take part in a large, free procession on 26 September 2026. [Read more]

Back to Hogwarts: more details on the free event at the Château de Versailles and its registration date
Celebrate “Back to Hogwarts”—the marquee annual gathering that brings Harry Potter fans together. For this highly anticipated edition, set for August 29, 2026, an iconic château lends itself to the occasion: by day, in the Orangery of the Palace of Versailles, Potterheads will converge for a free event that requires registration. [Read more]