Free evening tours at the Inha Library for the 2026 Night of Museums

Take advantage of the latest edition of the Night of Museums in Paris to explore the stunning library of the National Institute of Art History. Here's what’s planned for you on May 23, 2026.

For over 20 years now, every May, a major cultural event gives art enthusiasts and the curious a chance to explore French artistic heritage during a truly special evening. The Nuit des Musées opens the doors to museums, monuments, foundations, and cultural centers across the country.

This annual night event is taking place this year on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Throughout the evening, hundreds of venues will open their doors to offer a wide range of activities and tours for night owls, across Paris and the Île-de-France region. Whether it's games, concerts, performances, themed visits, or workshops, this Night of Museums gives us another chance to rediscover our favorite cultural and historical sites.

There’s no way I’ll miss this May event. And I definitely won’t skip a visit to the 2nd arrondissement of Paris during the evening.

The Library of the National Institute of Art History opens its doors free of charge for the Night of Museums. This architecturally striking space offers free evening tours on May 23rd. It’s a must-see event that will delight architecture enthusiasts and curious visitors eager for something new!

Get a detailed look at what awaits you at the Inha Library during this artistic night event, and start planning your evening: some locations require advance reservations, while others are quickly crowded with eager visitors from the start.

The Night of Museums Program at the INHA Library:

Self-guided tour of the Labrouste Room at INHA
On May 23, 2026, the INHA will take part in the European Night of Museums for the very first time. Marking its 22nd edition, the library—designed by architect Henri Labrouste—will open its doors for a special nighttime tour, available to the public either freely or guided by students specializing in archaeology, art history, and heritage. The route encourages visitors to focus on the artistic details of the reading room: painted murals, medallions decorated with gold leaf, monumental caryatids, artist busts, and the contemporary artwork Substrat by Dove Allouche.
Participation terms: Free | No booking required
Schedule: Saturday, May 23, 2026 – 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM

For additional surprises and unexpected activities during this Night of Museums in Paris, check out our special schedule.

Night of Museums 2026 in Secret Paris: free after-hours openings at little-known venues
And what if we took advantage of the Night of Museums to uncover secret spots in the capital? We'll take you on a tour of little-known places that are worth the detour! Meet us this Saturday, May 23, 2026 for this special and memorable after-hours event. [Read more]