Explore the new Cartier Foundation for free, nestled in the heart of the Palais Royal, during the 2026 Night of Museums.

It's a must-see for lovers of contemporary art, and for architecture enthusiasts as well. The Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art, located on Place du Palais-Royal in the old "Louvre of the antiquarians," has plenty to captivate almost anyone!

This unconventional venue, with its highly varied collections, draws a steady stream of visitors from France and abroad year-round. But how many of them have had the chance to discover this museum in nocturne and gratuitement? A very special evening awaits at the Fondation Cartier on 23 mai 2026: mark your calendars and get ready—you won’t want to miss this!

In May, the Nuit des Musées makes its grand return to Paris. This exceptional event lets the public enjoy museums, monuments, and art spaces in the evening, for a lively and festive after-hours atmosphere. Each year, the Nuit des Musées invites us to discover and rediscover the artistic gems hidden near us, thanks to a program designed especially for the occasion, often free!

• To be read
• The top picks of the week from April 27 to May 3, 2026 in Paris: make the most of the May 1st long weekend!
• Museum Night 2026: the full program for the next edition in Paris and Île-de-France

The Fondation Cartier is taking part in this Night of Museums, promising a memorable evening at the heart of art. The event is free and by reservation only. Book your tickets quickly—they’re expected to sell out fast!

Here's what's on the agenda for the 2026 Night of Museums at the Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art:

• Museum Night
  Free with online registration
  Last entry at 10:30 PM. Galleries gradually close from 11:30 PM.
  On the occasion of European Museum Night, the Fondation Cartier for Contemporary Art opens its doors free of charge and invites the public to discover its new Paris venue at the heart of the Palais-Royal. For one evening, the Fondation Cartier offers an accessible visit experience faithful to the spirit of the event.
  Visitors can discover or revisit General Exhibition, which frames over forty years of contemporary creation through works from the Collection and artists who have shaped the Fondation Cartier’s history. It’s also an opportunity to freely explore the new building designed by Jean Nouvel, whose architecture provides multiple ways to engage with the works.
  
  
• 7pm - 11pm: Express Tours
  Throughout the visit, the exhibition’s cultural mediators offer Express Tours every 30 minutes on each floor and accompany visitors to answer questions and foster exchange.
  
  
• 7pm - 11pm: Open Workshop
  The public is also invited to discover La Manufacture, the Fondation Cartier’s brand-new space dedicated to visual practice and gesture-based mediation. Drop-in workshops and introductory sessions are offered throughout the evening, giving everyone a practical way to connect with the works through hands-on engagement.

This neighborhood in the heart of Paris will be buzzing with activities on the evening of May 23. Discover all the events waiting for you there during this Night of Museums.

Night of Museums 2026 in Paris: The Schedule of Activities by Borough
The Night of Museums is coming to Paris on Saturday, May 23, 2026. It’s a great opportunity to explore museums that are sometimes pricey, sometimes tucked away and lesser-known, all offering unique experiences. In Paris, over 80 museums are taking part in this special night. Here’s a lineup of must-see events for this unforgettable late-night event. [Read more]