You’re looking for what to do this Thursday, May 14, 2026 in Paris and the Île-de-France region to enjoy the Ascension Day holiday? Here’s a great opportunity to slow down and craft a tailor-made day, between cultural outings, great deals, green strolls, open restaurants and terrace breaks. Whether you stay in the capital or take advantage of the long Ascension weekend to explore the region, we’ve got plenty to fill your schedule without rushing around.
This public holiday lands in the heart of May, the moment when Paris feels like a springtime interlude. Museums reopen their doors to the curious, gardens invite a stroll, rooftops rise back up, and families often look for a simple idea to keep the kids busy. Before you go, do check the hours: a holiday can bring a few surprises, even at places that are normally open.
Why is Ascension Day a public holiday in France? Origins and history
Ascension Day is one of the major religious celebrations for Christians. But do you know why this day, which falls on May 14 this year, is a public holiday in France? Here's the story and the origins of Ascension. [Read more]
To understand the origin of this public holiday, you can also read our article on the history of the Ascension. And if the weather throws a wrench in the plans, we’ll be keeping an eye on the Thursday, May 14, 2026 forecast for Paris and Île-de-France, to tailor the agenda between exhibitions, a stroll, or a gourmet break.
Thursday, May 14, 2026, Ascension Day, looks set to be cool and wet in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Temperatures will range from 7°C to 14°C, with showers expected throughout the day and a steady wind. [Read more]
For a day that's easy to put together, you pick whatever you’re in the mood for at the moment.
Ascension Day insider tips: what to do on this public holiday (May 14) — free outings in Paris and Île-de-France
This Thursday, May 14, 2026, is a public holiday in France for Ascension Day. Looking for great free outings to mark the day? Here are the best free ideas waiting for you in Paris and Île-de-France. [Read more]
Ascension Day 2026: Museums and monuments open this public holiday Thursday in Paris and Île-de-France
A new public holiday in France, another chance to enjoy the beautiful museums and monuments near you: this Thursday, May 14, 2026, is Ascension Day. But which art and culture venues stay open on this public holiday? Here’s the rundown. [Read more]
Ascension Weekend 2026: 10 must-see exhibitions to check out in Paris over this long weekend
What’s on for the Ascension weekend in Paris—the Thursday 14th, Friday 15th, Saturday 16th, and Sunday 17th of May, 2026? And what if we take the chance to treat our eyes to the mind-blowing exhibitions currently open in Paris? With such a vast choice, you’re after the standout shows, the ones worth a detour. Here are the best ideas to help you not miss a thing. [Read more]
Restaurants open for Ascension Day in Paris, our top picks for the public holiday on May 14, 2026.
Looking for a good restaurant to celebrate Ascension Day? Here are the top spots open on May 14, 2026 in Paris! [Read more]
Open-air terraces and rooftops for Ascension Day, our top picks for the May 14, 2026 public holiday.
Ascension Day is best enjoyed outdoors! On May 14, 2026, Paris unveils its prettiest terraces for a drink or a sun-kissed bite. Whether you're grabbing a lunch break, extending your apéro, or simply craving a breath of fresh air, here are the top spots to make the most of the holiday! [Read more]
Where to brunch on Ascension Day in Paris? Our top picks for brunch on May 14, 2026, a public holiday.
And what if we take advantage of Ascension Day, May 14, 2026, to have a great brunch in Paris? Here are the best spots to brunch! [Read more]
Recreational hubs: where to get active or unwind in Île-de-France in 2026
How about a leisure park around Paris? These sports and leisure parks, which also include artificial beaches, are the ideal solution for sunbathing, picnicking and swimming just like at the seaside, with fun activities to boot. Parisians, here's a pleasant and inexpensive way to take a vacation close to the capital! [Read more]
Films in theaters on May 6, 2026: Mortal Kombat II, The Criminals, and For the Pleasure
What to see in cinemas from Wednesday, May 6, 2026? This week’s lineup includes Mortal Kombat II, The Criminals, Pour le plaisir, C’est quoi l’amour?, and Mi Amor, spanning action, thriller, French comedy, and auteur cinema. [Read more]
May 2026 movie releases: must-see films in theaters
What films are hitting theaters in May 2026? Discover the month’s cinema releases, week by week, with the titles to see in theaters, their release dates, and the big-screen debuts to look forward to. [Read more]
Accrobranche in Île-de-France: the best tree courses to discover around Paris
It's that time of year again: accrobranches (tree climbing) courses are reopening their doors to the general public in Paris and the Île-de-France region, with adventures in the trees for all ages. [Read more]
A guide to zoos, aquariums and menageries in and around Paris
Want to get away from it all and meet animals in their natural environment? We visit the various zoos and menageries in and around Paris, and if you don't know where to go, don't panic! We've put together a great guide to help you make your choice. Vincennes, Thoiry, Jardin des Plantes... So many opportunities to discover more about nature. [Read more]
Amusement Parks and Funfairs in Paris and Surrounding Areas: 2026 Schedule and Information
Looking to enjoy some rides and indulge in new experiences and sensations? Whether with family or friends, amusement parks and fairs are classic outings that everyone loves, and there are several to explore in Paris and nearby. Check out their lineups for the 2026 season, packed with exciting new attractions that promise plenty of fun. [Read more]
Walking through Paris and Île-de-France: explore the most stunning parks, gardens, and squares
Paris is bursting with stunning parks and gardens, lush green retreats perfect for relaxing away from the city's hustle and bustle. Quickly uncover the most beautiful green spots in the capital and Île-de-France for a refreshing nature escape right in the heart of the Paris region! [Read more]
Unusual parks and gardens in Paris & Île-de-France: Unique walking routes to explore
Paris, often praised for its architectural heritage and vibrant cultural life, is also home to gardens, squares and parks of surprising beauty and originality. Here we reveal the unusual nuggets to be discovered in Paris and the Paris region. Let's discover the most original parks and gardens in the Paris region. [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]
Aventure Land: reopening and new features for 2026 at the Magny-en-Vexin adventure park (Val-d'Oise, 95)
Adventure Land Park, in Magny-en-Vexin, is a park that blends treetop courses, outdoor activities, inflatable games... From April 11 to October 4, 2026, head out to enjoy a new season at this park where families of all ages can come together! [Read more]
Sherwood Parc: France's largest adventure park marks its 20th anniversary.
Sherwood Parc is adventure on a grand scale as it marks its 20th anniversary! More than just a treetop adventure park, Sherwood Parc is a multi-activity themed park. Discover treetop courses for all ages, a giant inflatable play area, Archery Tag, electric scooter rides, archery, and the Explor Game! [Read more]
Opening of Parc Astérix: What's new for 2026, including the new Egypt zone
The Parc Astérix in Oise is set to reopen on April 4, 2026, boasting some exciting new features. This season's highlights include transforming the Egypt area, introducing new rides, and offering a packed program full of fun for visitors of all ages. [Read more]
Le Paradox Museum Paris unveils five new immersive experiences alongside a Hans & Gretel Café
Paradox Museum offers nearly a hundred immersive experiences—from trompe-l'œil illusions and optical tricks to sensory overhauls—that await visitors in Paris. Get ready to be tricked and to snap surreal photos. Five new interactive installations have just been added to the journey, making it the perfect time to challenge your senses! And as a bonus, a brand-new, ultra-delicious café, Hans & Gretel, is ready to tempt you. [Read more]
The Edge: the virtual reality revolution in the heart of Paris' 3rd arrondissement
Virtual reality fans, THE EDGE opens a monumental space in the heart of Paris! Dive into an immersive VR experience inspired by "Ready Player One", where realistic sensations and space adventures await you. [Read more]
The Musée des Plans Reliefs, a unique collection in Paris
The Musée des Plans Relief, located in the Hôtel des Invalides in Paris, houses some 100 relief plans of fortified towns. Once used for military purposes, they are now preserved in their original state at the Invalides, where you can discover these immense models of French towns. [Read more]
8 beautiful waterfalls to discover in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
In Paris, and particularly in the Paris region, well-known but also hidden waterfalls offer havens of freshness and escape. From the Grande Cascade in the Bois de Boulogne to the verdant waterfalls of the Vaux de Cernay, these sometimes unsuspected spots seduce with their charm and bucolic setting. Accessible all year round, except during construction work, they become popular refuges when temperatures rise. [Read more]
The Hangar Y's contemporary open-air exhibition is back! An artistic stroll in the green
The Hangar Y, which conceals a 10-hectare natural area planted with trees, offers a year-round open-air art walk, free on weekdays and €3 with access to the Hangar on weekends. Since April 28, 2025, new works have been added to the circuit. From Erwin Wurm and Lionel Sabatte to Pauline Tralongo and Odile Decq, it's time for an unusual, unplugged stroll through the heart of the Hauts-de-Seine. [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]
The panoramic view of the Paris Pantheon is back, free for under-26s.
Visiting the Pantheon is one thing, but did you know you could also visit its colonnades and discover a sublime panorama of Paris? From April to October, the Pantheon exceptionally opens its rooftop to visitors to admire the rooftops of Paname and the Eiffel Tower. [Read more]
Le Ballon de Paris Generali at Parc André Citroën
Flying over Paris in a balloon has been possible since 1999 on the lawn of the Parc André Citroën with the Ballon de Paris, now also known as the Ballon Generali. To take in the view, breathe in the air and amaze the kids, try out an original ride in the world's largest balloon. [Read more]
Miami Boulevard: a festive restaurant-club with an all-you-can-eat brunch on weekends and public holidays.
Sponsored - Miami Boulevard, located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, is expanding its unlimited brunch offering with a new menu featuring fresh recipes and a wider selection of grilled dishes and barbecue, while keeping its all-you-can-eat, all-inclusive package at €29 per adult, available Saturdays and Sundays. [Read more]
Hwaro Grill, the authentic Korean barbecue in the 15th arrondissement, awakens our taste buds
Like a craving for grilled meats with good Korean flavors? We take you to discover Hwaro Grill, this new Korean restaurant which has just opened its doors in the 15ᵉ arrondissement of Paris. An authentic Korean barbecue, run by Koreans and warmly decorated, we run. [Read more]
Fu, the coffee shop and brunch pastry shop in the 13th arrondissement, takes you on a journey to Asia
Are you tempted by a new pastry and coffee shop with Asian flavors? Matcha, sesame and pandan, as well as durian and kimchi, enliven the cakes and dishes in this new spot opening in Paris's 13th arrondissement. From breakfast to lunch and afternoon tea, of course, it's all about unusual treats and brunch every day. We take you on a discovery tour. [Read more]
Bêp Viêt, the delicious vegetarian Vietnamese restaurant in Paris 13th arrondissement
Bêp Viêt is the name of a new Vietnamese restaurant that has opened near Avenue d'Italie in Paris's 13th arrondissement. The menu features a short selection of Vietnamese cuisine's flagship flavors and specialties, but without the meat. We've tested it and we'll take you on a tour... [Read more]
Q Bar, the excellent Thai restaurant and cocktail bar in the 11th arrondissement.
We'd like to take you on a tour of Q Bar, a Thai restaurant featuring homemade dishes made with fresh ingredients, and historically the first Thai bistro to open in Paris. Exotic cocktails, astonishing pad thai and superb, flavorful plates await you in a pretty, unique decor. [Read more]
French Kiss, the rooftop restaurant, bar and all-you-can-eat brunch
A new Eiffel Tower-view rooftop bar, restaurant, terrace and all-you-can-eat weekend brunch? We'll take you on a tour of French Kiss, the new spot on the outskirts of the Parc des Expositions at Porte de Versailles, where you're sure to want to relax. [Read more]
Seven Heaven, Paris' first dog-friendly coffee shop
Seven Heaven is the name of the friendly, welcoming new coffee shop that has opened its doors in the 11ᵉ arrondissement of Paris. A gourmet spot open to families, where telecommuters as well as dogs, are welcome. [Read more]
Caillebotte, the affordable, gourmet bistro in Paris's 9th arrondissement
Caillebotte is the Bistrot Gourmand in Paris's 9th arrondissement, combining good food and conviviality with inventive, affordable cuisine. It's the kind of address that gets whispered about under the mantle, ideal for its excellent value for money, with a menu at €23 lunchtime and €43 evening. The quality of its dishes makes it a Parisian word-of-mouth favorite. [Read more]
Didi Saïgon, the Vietnamese and Thai restaurant that awakens the taste buds in Val-de-Marne
Looking for a delicious Vietnamese and Thai restaurant in Val-de-Marne (94)? We've set out to discover Didi Saïgon, this new temple to Southeast Asian gastronomy which has opened its doors in Villiers-sur-Marne. With its spacious dining room and generous, authentic dishes, Didi Saïgon is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. [Read more]
Le Tout-Paris at Cheval Blanc Paris
Le Tout-Paris, the sublime restaurant that rules the capital, wins its first Michelin star. Located on the 7ᵉ floor of the Cheval Blanc Paris, with a terrace boasting breathtaking views of the Seine and the capital's iconic monuments, you'll discover William Bequin's beautiful contemporary French cuisine, generous and well mastered. [Read more]
Ladurée Champs-Elysées reinvents itself, rediscover the tea room
The famous Ladurée boutique-teahouse on the Champs-Élysées has reopened its doors, totally transformed, after months of renovation. This iconic venue has been totally redesigned and is open every day from 8am to 10pm. Coffee shop, winter garden, dessert bar and even masterclass are on the program. Who's up for crazy tea times, macaroons and other delicacies? [Read more]
Blondie: the cool coffee shop and roaster in the 9th arrondissement
Blondie is the new coffee shop and roaster in the 9th arrondissement. Open since May 2023, it's the perfect place to share a lunch, a sweet break or an afternoon coffee. Drop in for a visit ... [Read more]
Bing Sutt, the Coffee Shop in Paris with Hong Kong flavors - video
Bing Sutt is the name of the new Coffee Shop on the Place de la Républiqe which offers you typical Hong Kong specialties. Are you a fan of Pinneapple bun, Egg Tarts and Hong Kong Milk Tea? They are waiting for you! [Read more]
L'Escarpolette, the coffee shop with crazy cheap tea times
L'Escarpolette is the name of a new restaurant-coffee shop-tea room that has opened in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. A welcoming gourmet spot, offering a crazy brunch and a tea time that's as affordable as it is delicious! [Read more]
Briefly, this Thursday, May 14, 2026, a public holiday in Paris has all the makings of a day laid out like a local travel notebook: a museum in the morning, a terrace for lunch, a stroll in the afternoon, and perhaps a show in the evening. A smart pick for a cultural outing or a tasty getaway—now all that's left is to choose.
Attention: always confirm the current opening hours of the venues before you travel, as schedules can change.
Dates and Opening Time
On May 14, 2026
Recommended age
For all
Why is Ascension Day a public holiday in France? Origins and history
Thursday, May 14, 2026, a public holiday: weather in Paris and Île-de-France for Ascension Day
