You live in the Yvelines or fancy a quick escape from the capital without going too far? Our editors tip you off to the best outings ideas that could brighten your weekend in the 78, the most densely populated department in the outer ring, if you hadn’t noticed. So, time to warm up the Navigo pass, or simply venture out nearby. This weekend, from May 8 to 10 2026, there’s plenty to enjoy!
It’s no surprise that Yvelines, with its 262 communes and covering approximately 2,284 km², is a standout department in Île-de-France. Whether you're strolling through forests and trails, exploring historic castles, or attending the numerous events on offer, there's never a dull moment. To help you navigate this wealth of options, we've picked out 10 great outings specifically for this weekend.
Yvelines: Flea markets and garage sales this weekend, May 8–10, 2026, in the 78.
Discover the flea markets and garage sale schedule in Yvelines from May 8 to 10, 2026. From Vieille-Église-en-Yvelines to Vélizy-Villacoublay, via Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse and Les Mureaux, we’re off to scope out the events across the 78. [Read more]
Everyone to the Opera 2026: Free opening of the Royal Opera at the Palace of Versailles, the program
As part of the annual "Tous à l'Opéra" event, the Royal Opera House opens its doors to you for free this Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9, 2026. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to admire this heritage treasure, tucked inside the sublime Palace of Versailles. Here's the program! [Read more]
Plant Festival at Château de Dampierre: the 78's new event is unveiled
In the Yvelines, the Domaine de Dampierre-en-Yvelines is launching its very first Plant Festival on May 9–10, 2026, featuring about forty exhibitors, hands-on workshops and talks in an exceptionally verdant setting. We went to discover this new green rendezvous, tucked into a jewel-box of nature and heritage. [Read more]
Yvelines: discover the Bonnelles Ponds Nature Reserve and its beautiful treasures
In the Yvelines, the Bonnelles Ponds Regional Nature Reserve offers a free, year-round nature and heritage stroll around two ponds, featuring diverse wildlife and charming 18th-century factories. [Read more]
Jardins des Lumières: an exhibition on the art of garden design at the Grand Trianon, Palace of Versailles
At the Grand Trianon of the Palace of Versailles, in Yvelines, the exhibition Jardins des Lumières (1750-1800) delves into the art of the landscape garden through nearly 160 works, including paintings, models, drawings, and furniture. Go see it from May 5 to September 27, 2026, and take the opportunity to explore the Trianon gardens and the Queen's Hamlet. [Read more]
L'Auberge du Vieux Marly, a terrace-friendly restaurant in the Yvelines, is making a comeback (78)
L'Auberge du Vieux Marly, an institution in the old village of Marly-le-Roi in the Yvelines (78), is coming back to life in 2026 under the leadership of Myriam Guenfoud. A chalkboard menu, a shaded terrace, and homemade cooking await you at this charming village-style restaurant. [Read more]
MELODAYS : the new festival that celebrates musical diversity, May 8–10!
Sponsored - Get ready for an exceptional musical experience with MELODAYS, the new festival that celebrates musical diversity. From refined jazz to blistering electro, and legendary rock, each day is a discovery, each concert an emotion. The festival runs May 8–9–10 at La Ferme du Manet in Montigny-le-Bretonneux, with very accessible pricing (one-day ticket €10). [Read more]
The European Market 2026 in Saint-Germain-en-Laye (78): gastronomy, music, workshops & strolls
The European Market 2026 is back, setting up its stalls in Saint-Germain-en-Laye on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Nestled in the heart of the Yvelines, it brings together booths, flavors and know-how from all across Europe for a festive 20th edition that’s open to everyone. Between activities, encounters and strolls, the town center becomes a true open-air European waypoint. [Read more]
Rambouillet Lily-of-the-Valley Festival 2026: games, parade and fireworks on the agenda
The Rambouillet Lily Festival will take place on May 9 and 10, 2026 in the Yvelines, centered around board games and video games: a floral procession, the crowning of the queen, a pyrosymphonic show, and a lineup of activities. [Read more]
Neauphle-le-Château in the Yvelines (78) hosts a local plant and craft fair
On Sunday, May 10, 2026, Neauphle-le-Château welcomes spring with its Plant and Local Products Fair. This free event in the heart of the Yvelines region brings together nurserymen, artisans, and local associations for a day filled with exchanges and discoveries—featuring everything from a classic seed swap to a bustling local market. [Read more]
This town in Yvelines represents Île-de-France at the "Favorite Village of the French 2026" contest!
Nestled in the Chevreuse Valley, just about 40 kilometers from Paris, Dampierre-en-Yvelines is representing Île-de-France in the 2026 edition of France’s Favorite Village competition. Voting remains open until March 6, 2026. [Read more]
Where to spot stunning rhododendrons and azaleas in Paris and the Île-de-France region this spring 2026?
Calling all flower fans: after the cherry trees and wisteria, the lush season of azaleas and rhododendrons has arrived, bursting into a riot of blooms. Want to see them in every hue? Here are the spots in Paris and Île-de-France that delight both enthusiasts and photographers in search of a splash of color. [Read more]
Yvelines: Which cities top the list for the best places to live in 2026?
The 2026 rankings of the best cities and towns to live in have just been announced. Versailles, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Sartrouville — which municipalities in the Yvelines stand out in this national chart, based on 197 quality of life criteria? Here’s what you need to know. [Read more]
Where to stay in Yvelines? Hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campsites in the 78 department.
The Yvelines, with its lush green landscapes and rich heritage, offers the ideal break just a few kilometers from Paris. Whether you're looking for a bucolic setting, a warm atmosphere or immersion in the heart of nature, there are several options available to visitors in search of escape. [Read more]
Where to have a good brunch in the Yvelines? Our top picks in the 78
Whether you live in the Yvelines or are just passing through, discover our top brunch spots in the 78. [Read more]
Where to have a good brunch in Versailles in the Yvelines? Our top picks in the 78
Looking for a good brunch in Versailles? Discover our top picks in the royal city of Yvelines, including artisan coffee shops, all-you-can-eat options, and family-friendly spots! [Read more]
Where to dine in Yvelines? Top restaurant picks in the 78, tried and trusted
There's no shortage of good places to eat in the Yvelines. If you'd like to discover the best restaurants in the 78 department, here we go! [Read more]
What to do in Yvelines (78)? Heritage, good addresses and activities, ideas for outings
Want to get to know Paris Region better? This time, we're taking you to the Yvelines to discover its heritage, places to visit, must-do activities and the best deals of the moment. From castles to walks and good addresses, here's what's in store for you in the 78 département. [Read more]
Glorious Escape Game in Vélizy, the go-to spot for fun with friends or family in the Yvelines
Glorious Escape Game, located in Vélizy-Villacoublay (Yvelines), offers nine escape rooms: The Emperor's Heritage, Django, Asylum, Lost, The Anubis Stone, The Haunted House, The Walking Dead, The Relics of Death, and Pirate: The Amulet of Eternal Life. [Read more]
The most beautiful villages in the Yvelines, 7 must-see nuggets
Looking for a change of scenery less than an hour from Paris? The Yvelines (78) region is brimming with charming villages full of character. From Rochefort-en-Yvelines to Montfort l'Amaury, discover 7 Yvelines nuggets combining historic heritage and bucolic surroundings, all year round. [Read more]
Ten offbeat parks and gardens in Yvelines, treasures to discover
What if we set off on a stroll to discover the loveliest original parks and gardens in Yvelines? From hidden, unique, historic spots to outright quirky or simply one-of-a-kind places, the 78 has no shortage of unusual gems for anyone looking to stray off the beaten path. We’re unveiling 10 parks, gardens, and green spaces to explore in the department. [Read more]
Enjoy your weekend in the Yvelines!
Dates and Opening Time
From May 8, 2026 to May 10, 2026
Recommended age
For all
