October in Paris and Île-de-France has a certain mysterious quality that invites you to step off the beaten path. Days are shortening, autumn colors brighten the streets and parks, and Halloween’s approach adds a deliciously eerie touch to the season. It’s the perfect moment to swap the usual outings for something more surprising.
Are you after an unusual outing in Paris in October 2026, a quirky activity to share with your partner, family, or friends, or simply a good reason to explore Île-de-France from a different angle? This autumn month typically brings its fair share of unexpected experiences, fleeting engagements, and chances to see places in a new light.
Between Halloween vibes, the All Saints’ Day holidays, and the first autumn chills, October is a prime window for offbeat getaways. Whether the weather nudges you outdoors or into a cozy indoors, Paris and its Île-de-France region have more than enough to break the routine.
To help you land the idea that will hit home, we’ve pulled together in this guide our pick of unusual outings to try in October 2026 in Paris and the Île-de-France region. From astonishing experiences to offbeat discoveries and events that break with the ordinary: now all that’s left is to choose.
Korean street dance makes a comeback at Théâtre du Châtelet with shows and battles
On Sunday, October 11, 2026, Korean urban dance takes center stage at the Urban Châtelet festival. The Théâtre du Châtelet will host a major show that highlights two essential urban scenes: Korea and France, conversing through movement — between choreography, improvisation, and the battleground spirit of breakdancing. A must-attend event, with impressive performances on the lineup! [Read more]
Oral-B's Dental Health Mission: the free tour stops in Paris and Île-de-France.
Sponsored - From September 29 to October 17, 2026, Oral-B’s Dental Health Mission will offer a free program across Île-de-France focused on oral hygiene. [Read more]
Meurtre à la bibliothèque et au musée : deux murder parties à la City of Architecture
Sponsored - Two murder parties are coming to the Cité de l’architecture in Paris on October 3 and 31, 2026, with team-based investigations suitable for ages 13 and up. [Read more]
Tarot, midnight performances and poems behind closed doors: Le Bordel de la Poésie 2026 returns to Paris
Le Bordel de la Poésie makes its return to La Bellevilloise, offering intimate readings, tarot, portraits and performances in a red-and-black setting this Saturday, October 25, 2026. [Read more]
The Hunger Games costumes on display at the Rodin Museum for just one day.
Hunger Games costumes head to Paris. On October 7, 2026, the Rodin Museum unveils Elegance Is Authority, an installation exploring Panem’s style and featuring several pieces tied to the upcoming film Dawn on the Harvest. [Read more]
Halloween 2026: the Rodin Museum invites you to Hell with a special séance night.
A mysterious shadow takes over the Rodin Museum for this Halloween evening in Paris. Join us this Saturday, October 31, 2026, to experience this unprecedented after-hours event, featuring a host of activities around the iconic The Gates of Hell. [Read more]
Fashion Week: glowing dresses, a coat that changes color… final day of this free fashion exhibition
An arm that colors a coat, dresses that spin and change their look, clothes that are screens: JUST AN REAL AGE goes all in on experimental fashion. On October 5, 2026, it’s the final day to visit this exhibition for free in the Marais. [Read more]
The Animal March in Paris: meet at the free grand promenade this afternoon.
Paws reclaim the power. This Sunday afternoon, October 4, 2026, the Animal March takes over Avenue Foch before heading toward the Bois de Boulogne, for a large free stroll open to dogs, cats and other companions. [Read more]
Festival of the Air 2026 in Montesson (78): hot air balloons, kite flying and free activities this Saturday
In the Yvelines, Montesson’s skies come alive again this Saturday, October 3, 2026, for the 6th edition of the Festival de l’Air. A free day of hot air balloons, kites, giant soap bubbles and music, at the Stade des Petits Chênes. [Read more]
Orionids 2026: The meteor shower kicks off tonight, October 2
The Orionid meteor shower returns this Friday, October 2, lighting up the night sky and visible in Paris and the Île-de-France region through November 7, 2026. The dust from Halley’s Comet peaks on the night of October 21-22. Here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]
Bande de Créateurs is back on October 10 and 11 with a cool, purpose‑driven pop-up in Paris.
Sponsored - Venez discover over 80 designers in an incredible venue! Bande de Créateurs returns to the Bastille Design Center in Paris on Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, 2026. This free pop-up brings together designers and artisans spanning fashion, jewelry, ceramics, illustration, wellness, kids, food, and much more. Entry is free. [Read more]
Offbeat: Chomo's Préludien Art Village in the Fontainebleau Forest
An unusual art village hides in the Fontainebleau forest, in Achères-la-Forêt (77). A bottle church, a shelter topped with car hoods: curious, we set off to explore this place, open on select weekends from April to October. [Read more]
Halloween 2026 in Paris: a ghost hunt through the ceremonial state rooms of the Hôtel de la Marine
Halloween is back, and the Hôtel de la Marine transforms into a mysterious lair welcoming kids and adults alike for a one-of-a-kind ghost hunt! On October 31, 2026, get ready to unmask the mischievous spirits lurking in the museum’s grand salons, and enjoy a spellbinding experience in the heart of the City of Light. [Read more]
Jean Paul Gaultier: a free sensory perfume experience in the Marais — reviews & photos
A kiosk, red neon, a club and a few Parisian clichés: Jean Paul Gaultier stages his new fragrance at Lafayette Anticipations from October 1 to 3, 2026. A free, offbeat experience, and just a tad irreverent. We tested it: here’s our take and our photos. [Read more]
150th Anniversary Expo and StreetArt Denfert: the massive free street-art exhibition unfolds.
The 150th Expo and StreetArt Denfert reveal themselves in the former Zara store at Denfert-Rochereau, Paris 14th arrondissement. We caught a sneak preview of this enormous, free street-art exhibition, on offer from October 3 to 25, 2026. Note that access requires free registration—book your tickets now! [Read more]
All Saints’ Day holidays 2026: the Pumpkin Festival returns to the Saint-Denis Farm
La Ferme de Gally in Saint-Denis is staging a fresh edition of its Pumpkin Festival for the All Saints' Day holidays and Halloween 2026. What's on the program? [Read more]
What to do in Paris in October 2026: Explore Paris' guided tours
Sponsored - What to do in Paris and Greater Paris as September returns? Guided tours, urban walks led by specialists or locals passionate about their neighborhoods, and cruises on the Marne are on offer. A lot is on the agenda, and some activities are free. [Read more]
Photo course in Paris with PhotoProf: Get the most out of your smartphone, mirrorless or DSLR
Sponsored - How many times have you watched a landscape or a magical moment and thought, “if only my photo could capture exactly that”? Ditch the automatic mode and take back control of your images! PhotoProf offers hands-on 4-hour photography workshops led by professional photographers to finally master your gear and nail your compositions so your photos reflect what you had in mind. [Read more]
All Saints’ Day holidays 2026: the activity program at the Air and Space Museum
From October 17 to November 1, 2026, the Air and Space Museum welcomes families with a host of activities and workshops. The guiding theme? A playful, educational journey into the air and space, for the whole family. [Read more]
10 offbeat outings to brighten up October 2026 in Paris
Offbeat outings are plentiful in Paris and Île-de-France, and October 2026 is lining up some real surprises: a sound-and-light show inside a church, a giant karaoke session, a stroll with dogs and cats, or a street-art exhibition. Here are our most original ideas for the month. [Read more]
October in the parks of Seine-Saint-Denis: autumn makes its way to the great outdoors!
Sponsored - Looking for a scenic outdoor stroll near Paris, a free outdoor activity, or a peaceful spot to exercise away from the city's hustle and bustle... There's definitely a park in Seine-Saint-Denis that's perfect for you! [Read more]
Paris Sausage Walk 2026: Kick-off for the grand dachshund parade on the Champs-Élysées
The Paris Sausage Walk 2026 is officially underway!
This Sunday, October 4, the dachshunds will take to the Champs-Élysées, with a start time of 11:00 and a 1.4-kilometer stroll right in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
Three extraordinary days to discover the new gym at UCPA Sport Station in Paris
Sponsored - Save the dates from October 1 to 3, 2026: for three exceptional days, the inauguration of the brand-new UCPA Sport Station gym in Paris will take place! Whether you’re already a member or just curious to check out the gym, an amazing program awaits: a tour of the new facilities, trial sessions, and group classes (Hyrox, yoga, Pilates, RPM, and many other disciplines) for just €1. [Read more]
Halloween 2026: where to pick pumpkins to carve them in Paris and the Île-de-France region?
Want to carve your own pumpkin for Halloween? Several farms and pick-your-own places in Île-de-France let you select pumpkins and squashes right from the fields. Here are the addresses to check out as October 31, 2026 approaches. [Read more]
Pink October 2026: the BriisCars, a charitable and quirky soapbox derby in Essonne
Craving something quirky and fun while showing solidarity? For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Briis-sous-Forges in Essonne is hosting a soapbox derby. Save the date for Sunday, October 18, 2026, for the 5th edition of the BriisCars. [Read more]
Montmartre Harvest Festival 2026: the must-see activities for families with kids
In Montmartre, the new wine vintage is celebrated at the 2026 Fête des Vendanges, from October 7 to 11. With family, it’s the perfect time to stock up on great deals and activities. [Read more]
Particular Days 2026: Inside Guerlain's archives at the Reserve of the Sublimes
At Guerlain, the 2026 Journées Particulières unfold as a journey through the archives. The Reserve des Sublimes opens its doors to the public for the first time and showcases its heritage pieces free of charge for three days. [Read more]
The Impertinent Illustration Market makes a comeback at Hasard Ludique with its cheeky drawings.
The Impertinent Illustration Market returns to Hasard Ludique on October 3–4, 2026. Over two days, artists, illustrators, and creators will take over the venue with a free-entry market, live performances, a roundtable, a photography workshop, and a lineup of events exploring the body, desire, intimacy, and sexuality. [Read more]
Access MBA & Masters in Paris: meet the leading business schools and give your career a new boost
Sponsored - Pendant one day, professionals will have the chance to meet directly with the admissions chiefs of major French and international business schools, including HEC Paris, INSEAD, ESSEC, ESCP, EDHEC, École Polytechnique, IMD, UCL, emlyon, IESE, and many others. Admission to these fairs is free, with registration. [Read more]
Underline, the living space with a free exhibition spanning 2,000 m2 beneath the Petite Ceinture, is being unveiled.
Underline opens its eleven railway vaults to the public on Friday, September 18, 2026, in the 15th arrondissement of Paris. This 2,000-square-metre creative workshop puts materiality and crafts in the spotlight, with a free exhibition featuring 40 artists, a shop, workshops, and a cafe-bar. [Read more]
Paris Boat Club: Private Seine cruises to discover Paris from its river, the Seine
Sponsored - Paris Boat Club offers private Seine cruises to discover Paris, its iconic monuments and historic bridges from the river. [Read more]
Le Paris Élysées Club: Paris’s stronghold for casino gaming.
Sponsored - Craving the casino buzz right in central Paris? Head to the Paris Élysées Club. The city’s premier gaming club, tucked away on Rue Marbeuf in the Golden Triangle. Fans of Ultimate Poker, Punto Banco, and Blackjack flock to this venue with its intimate, hushed atmosphere. Don’t miss the big Moon Festival night on October 3. [Read more]
Attend the filming of Quotidien in Paris for free!
Sponsored - Want to get a behind-the-scenes look at a TV show? Come attend the free taping of Quotidien and experience the program from the audience! [Read more]
Brie Happy 2026: free activities and cheese tastings in Meaux (77)
Love cheese, especially Brie de Meaux? In Seine-et-Marne, treat yourself to a gourmet weekend filled with activities and free tastings in the episcopal city of Meaux, on October 10–11, 2026. [Read more]
SEMPER Wellness: Pilates Reformer, HYROX and sauna near the Champs-Élysées — back-to-school offer
Sponsored - As the new season kicks off, getting back into sport can be a chance to reestablish a routine that suits your pace. In Paris’s 8th arrondissement, near the Champs-Élysées, SEMPER Wellness brings together weight training, cardio, HYROX, boxing, yoga and Pilates Reformer in a club spanning more than 1,000 square meters. With over 70 classes a week, you can mix up workouts from strength training to gentler disciplines. A sauna and steam room complete the experience, making recovery part of your fitness routine. [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]
The Haunted Park 2026: Halloween experience returns to André-Citroën Park
The Parc de l'Etrange is back for Halloween 2026: from October 16 to 31, the immersive experience returns for its third edition at André Citroën Park in Paris. [Read more]
This town in Yvelines is staging a grand medieval festival, complete with a costume parade and a livestock market.
In Yvelines, head to Rambouillet to celebrate the Fête de la Saint-Lubin this Saturday, October 3, 2026. On the agenda: free activities and a grand medieval festival open to all. [Read more]
The Hôtel de la Marine balls: a calendar of upcoming dance events
Take a step back in time and attend an 18th- or 19th-century ball, with magical evenings held once a month at the Hôtel de la Marine. Here are the upcoming dance dates not to be missed in 2026 and 2027. [Read more]
AURA INVALIDES, the must-see sound and light show in Paris
Looking for a unique nocturnal experience in Paris? Ready to be amazed and embark on a timeless journey to a legendary heritage site? Come and discover AURA INVALIDES, a sound and light show at the iconic Dôme des Invalides as night falls. A magical moment in the heart of the Dome, sure to delight young and old alike. [Read more]
Transfert aéroport à Paris : service de chauffeur privé depuis CDG et Orly
Airport transfers in Paris: private chauffeur service from CDG and Orly
Sponsored - Getting to Paris should be simple and comfortable. Chauffeur Service Paris offers private airport transfers from Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly, and Le Bourget to Paris, with professional drivers, flight tracking, and a personalized meet-and-greet service. [Read more]
Bubbles & Marbles in Paris: the place that thrills kids and parents in the heart of the 9th arrondissement!
Sponsored - Bulles & Billes is a 400 m² play space designed for children aged 0 to 11 and their parents, with seven immersive play zones that meet every child's needs, a cafe featuring locally sourced products, and a Saturday night aperitif. [Read more]
Le CiNey, a neighborhood cinema with a cooperative grocery and a restaurant in Paris’s 18th arrondissement.
A cinema, but also a restaurant, a solidarity grocery, and a space dedicated to youth integration: CiNey has opened its doors in Paris’s 18th arrondissement. Based on Boulevard Ney, this 1,500-square-meter hybrid venue blends culture, food, and neighborhood life. [Read more]
A Saturday at Drouot: go behind the scenes of auction house sales with immersive experiences
Hôtel Drouot opens its doors to the general public every Saturday starting September 19, 2026, offering a behind-the-scenes look at auction sales and the art market through free immersive experiences. [Read more]
The Lawyer in the City: where to find free legal consultations in Paris in October 2026?
The “Lawyer in the City” initiative is back in the capital from October 12 to 18, 2026. For one week, Paris Bar lawyers will meet Parisians, offering free legal consultations across the city. [Read more]
Law Night 2026: date of free activities to explore the inner workings of institutions
La Nuit du Droit returns on October 5, 2026. To celebrate the anniversary of the Fifth Republic, discover the institutions and legal professions, meet parliamentarians, and enjoy a host of free activities. [Read more]
Unusual: sleep nose-to-nose with Arctic wolves in the Thoiry Safari lodges
A night face-to-face with wolves—care to take the plunge? The Thoiry Safari Park invites you to sleep as close as possible to these fascinating animals, right in the heart of one of its quirky accommodations, the Loudge! [Read more]
Azimut: the immersive restaurant where you can dine face-to-face with Arctic wolves at Thoiry Safari Park
Thoiry Safari Park unveils Azimut, its wild and gourmet restaurant, to the public every evening for dinner. As the park shuts its gates, guests settle in to savour refined, seasonal cuisine, with a panoramic, privileged view of the Arctic wolf pack. [Read more]
BACK TO MR CUTE : the season’s opening exhibition that will have all pop culture and street art lovers swooning.
Sponsored - What if your fondest childhood memories came to life in the heart of Paris? With BACK TO MR CUTE, discover the very first pop-up gallery dedicated to the world of artist Mr Cute. This immersive exhibit blends pop art and street art to playfully reimagine the iconic figures of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. Goldorak, Candy, Marilyn, Amicalement Votre, Daft Punk, and many more await for a journey that’s as nostalgic as it is surprising… on view for only a few weeks. [Read more]
The Eiffel Tower in virtual reality: relive its construction and the 1889 World's Fair
Discover the immersive virtual reality guided tour of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, brought to you by Viality Tour. Step into the heart of the Champ de Mars and relive the construction and the 1889 inauguration of the Iron Lady. A brand-new version, truer to history than ever, launched on March 31, 2026. To mark the occasion, we have a promo code for you! [Read more]
Le Paradox Museum Paris: more than 90 immersive experiences and 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]
Les Cabanes de l'Orvanne: we tried a night perched in the trees near Moret-sur-Loing
Only an hour from Paris and just a short drive from Fontainebleau, Les Cabanes de l'Orvanne offers a unplugged escape in the heart of a preserved 95-hectare natural estate. A chance to spend a premium night in a perched cabin, with a private Nordic bath and 100% locally sourced gourmet baskets. [Read more]
The Carnavalet Museum marks its 160th anniversary with a weekend of free events.
The Carnavalet Museum marks its 160th anniversary with a fully free, festive weekend in the heart of the Marais, on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October 2026, featuring quirky tours, a nocturnal opening, and surprises for the whole family. [Read more]
This château in Seine-et-Marne doubles as the Élysée on screen.
A château in the Île-de-France region cultivates a resemblance so striking to the Élysée Palace that it has become cinema and television’s favorite double. We take you to meet it in Seine-et-Marne and reveal why—and its history. [Read more]
Witness the deer’s rut in the morning or evening at Parc de l’Espace Rambouillet.
In the very heart of the Rambouillet Forest, witness an extraordinary wildlife spectacle from September 5, 2026: the deer's mating parade. At dawn or dusk, before a gourmet meal or even during a bivouac, observe them quietly and discreetly. [Read more]
This enigmatic artist’s house tucked away in Paris opens to visitors twice a week.
Villa Seurat hides an address in Paris that is open to visitors: the Lurçat House-Studio. This modernist home in the 14th arrondissement, built for painter Jean Lurçat, reveals itself on guided tours through its rooms, original furnishings, and collections. [Read more]
A walk in the footsteps of the Freemasons in Paris: symbols, mysteries and heritage
Since the 18th century, Freemasonry has been discreetly shaping the contours of Parisian life. Between hidden lodges, committed personalities and symbols engraved on facades, Paris is a Masonic capital. Follow in the footsteps of the Freemasons, to read between the stones and discover this initiatory Paris. [Read more]
Vallée de Chevreuse: an offbeat festival invites you to ride from Paris to Nogent-le-Roi by bike.
From Friday, October 2 to Sunday, October 4, 2026, a race rolls into the Chevreuse Valley: the plan? to party, meet fellow athletes, and have a blast while pedaling along the Chevreuse Valley, starting from Paris. [Read more]
CNRS presents the 2026 Science Festival program across its network of sites
Step into a laboratory, chat with researchers, and gain a clearer understanding of their work: that’s what CNRS is offering during Science Festival 2026. From October 2 to 12, several of its sites will welcome the public in Paris and the Île-de-France region. [Read more]
Can you visit the towers of Notre-Dame de Paris? 424 steps to Paris's most stunning panorama.
The towers of Notre-Dame in Paris once again offer one of the capital’s best vantage points. Between gargoyles, chimeras, monumental bells and Gothic architecture, uncover the secrets of this iconic monument that has loomed over Paris for more than eight centuries. [Read more]
The forbidden catacombs: what is really hidden in Paris's largest underground labyrinth?
Forbidden catacombs fascinate as much as they worry. Between urban legends, clandestine explorations, and a genuine ossuary open to the public, it's sometimes hard to separate fact from fiction. So, which catacombs can one actually visit in Paris? And what does the vast underground network off-limits to the public conceal? [Read more]
Venice Carnival at Breteuil Castle: a family-friendly, costumed day to enjoy this autumn
Breteuil Castle is in festive mood! This Sunday, October 11, 2026, the Venice Carnival lands in the estate gardens: come and discover all these visitors in their splendid costumes. [Read more]
National Dog Week 2026: the schedule of canine events in Paris and Île-de-France
National Dog Week is coming to Paris and Île-de-France from September 26 to October 4, 2026, with a host of activities and events for dogs and their owners. [Read more]
La Maison du Pain de Commeny (95), an unusual museum offering tours and workshops for families
At the heart of the French Vexin, in Commeny in the Val-d'Oise (95), the Maison du Pain traces the history of this essential staple of the French diet through an educational trail set in the former grain loft of a bakery that remains in operation. [Read more]
One Piece makes its debut at the Grévin Museum with 10 life-size statues in an immersive cabaret!
Wax statues of the One Piece crew are heading to the Grévin Museum in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, opening on June 26, 2026. A first for a Japanese animation universe in the temple of the Grands Boulevards. We went to check out the crew’s immersive Sun Cabaret, and here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]
This medieval troglodyte castle in Val-d'Oise hides a giant dragon.
A giant dragon in a troglodyte medieval castle? That's what you'll be able to see during La Vie de Château, the château's contemporary art exhibition at Château de la Roche-Guyon in the Val d'Oise, running from June 20 to November 1, 2026. [Read more]
Free workshops and tastings on honey and apitherapy at this Marais hotspot
The world of honey invites itself into the heart of the Marais with this temple of apitherapy, offering urbanites a chance to reconnect with the medicinal virtues of the hive through a program of workshops and free diagnostics. [Read more]
Paris flower markets, three plant-filled spots for pretty bouquets
The three Paris flower markets are waiting for you on Place des Ternes, at La Madeleine, and on Île de la Cité. Three green havens to explore all year round—whether you’re picking up a stunning bouquet, planting something on your balcony, or simply wandering among the wonderful floral fragrances. [Read more]
The Porte de Montreuil flea market, Paris’s haven for bargain-priced finds.
Le marché aux puces de la Porte de Montreuil is one of the capital's largest second-hand markets. Located between the 20th arrondissement of Paris and Montreuil, it welcomes treasure hunters, collectors, and bargain hunters every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday year-round. [Read more]
The Edgar Quinet Creation Market, a free, open-air art gallery.
The Edgar-Quinet Creation Market invites you every Sunday in Paris’s 14th arrondissement. Paintings, sculpture, photography, engraving, and ceramics are on display there from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., year-round. [Read more]
The Paris stamp market, the meeting place for philatelists, collectors and the curious.
The Paris stamp market, set on Avenue Marigny near the Champs-Élysées, draws weekly crowds of collectors, postal-history enthusiasts, and the simply curious. This outdoor Parisian gathering runs on Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays year-round, in the heart of the 8th arrondissement. [Read more]
The market for antique and second-hand books, a stroll among the booksellers in Georges Brassens Park
The market for antique and second-hand books awaits you every weekend under the arches of Georges-Brassens Park in Paris’s 15th arrondissement. This booksellers’ gathering takes place Saturdays and Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., year-round. [Read more]
Noah's World: An immersive experience of the animal world
Sponsored - Embark on an incredible adventure in the heart of Paris: an immersive experience in the world of animals. [Read more]
Zoo Art Show: the immense temporary street-art museum in Paris La Défense — new extensions announced
4000 square meters of street art to discover across four floors of a building set on the forecourt of Paris La Défense. Here’s what awaits you at the Zoo Art Show, billed as the immersive museum of urban arts. For the occasion, works by more than 500 artists are on view on site. Here’s what you need to know about the Zoo Art Show at Paris La Défense, open to the general public since June 7, 2025. In response to strong demand, the Zoo Art Show is extending its run through December 2026. [Read more]
Parc Boussard: we visited this Art Deco garden, a designated Jardin Remarquable and free to visit in Essonne.
The Boussard Park, in Lardy (Essonne), is one of the few Art Deco gardens in Île-de-France. Registered as a historic monument and named a Remarkable Garden, this free-entry municipal park is open year-round. Tucked away in a discreet, hidden corner, it’s a real gem we were pleased to discover and are thrilled to share with you. [Read more]
Grand Hôtel des Rêves: the immersive venue in Paris that lets you travel with Jules Verne
Sponsored - Le Grand Hôtel des Rêves, an immersive venue located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, hosts Jules Verne, Le Voyage Extraordinaire, a family-friendly theatrical journey through 360-degree scenery. A destination designed to welcome several immersive shows, including a Christmas-themed creation. [Read more]
Prohibition-era murder-mystery team-building event at a microbrewery in Hauts-de-Seine (92)
What if your company’s next team-building event took place at an organic craft brewery? In Nanterre (92), Nemeto Brewery offers immersive experiences that blend tastings, role-playing games, and a deep dive into brewing craftsmanship. A fresh, offbeat way to boost team cohesion in a distinctive venue on the doorstep of Paris. [Read more]
La Nuit des Fées : an immersive, magical evening stroll through the grounds of a château in Val d'Oise
From June 20 to November 1, 2026, the Château de Guiry-en-Vexin reopens its doors after dark for the 6th edition of La Nuit des Fées. Every Saturday, this immersive journey invites children and adults alike to a magical stroll, guided by an elficologist through a park in Val-d'Oise. [Read more]
Did you know? You can visit the Rungis Market (Val-de-Marne, 94), the world's largest market.
When most Francilians are still asleep, another world awakens at the gates of Paris. In Rungis, the world’s largest fresh-food market, its pavilions come alive in a fascinating buzz. And thanks to monthly guided tours, the curious can discover the behind-the-scenes of this giant of French gastronomy! [Read more]
This rooftop garden perched above the Opéra Bastille offers one of the most stunning views of Paris.
On the rooftops of the Opéra Bastille, a hidden urban farm grows vegetables, edible flowers and hops, all set against a sweeping panorama of Place de la Bastille. The best part? You can visit it on quirky, guided tours. [Read more]
La Ferme du Bonheur, a bohemian and festive farm at the foot of La Défense.
At once an urban farm, an alternative arts venue and an ecological oasis at the foot of La Défense’s towers, La Ferme du Bonheur in Nanterre is a living laboratory where nature, performances, farming and collective experiments mingle. A timeless place where people come as much to attend a concert as to garden, meet animals or participate in the famous agro-poetry workshops. [Read more]
Maison Guimet - Hôtel d'Heidelbach : this hidden gem of Asian treasures reopens its doors
The Guimet House, the new jewel in the former Hôtel d'Heidelbach, will reopen to the public on 23 May 2026, on Avenue d'Iéna in Paris’s 16th arrondissement. Imperial Chinese furniture, a Japanese garden, a tea pavilion, guided tours and tea tastings are on the agenda. We went to discover the place and tell you about its unsuspected treasures. [Read more]
Did you know? A Japanese garden with a unique tea pavilion hides in the heart of Paris.
Did you know? A Japanese garden, with its authentic teahouse, hides in the heart of Paris’s 16th arrondissement, inside the Maison Guimet (the former Hôtel Heidelbach). This discreet venue reopens on May 23, 2026, with tea ceremonies and guided tours. [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]
A narrated, bucolic cruise along the Marne, paired with chocolate tasting? It does exist!
In Seine-et-Marine, the Choco Cruise on the Marne offers a delightfully original escape that combines a river stroll, chocolate tastings, and a tour of the Marne’s bucolic landscapes. A quirky, gourmet experience perfect for family outings, gatherings with friends, or a romantic getaway. [Read more]
Unconventional workshops for children and adults where you can learn to cook as it was in the Middle Ages in Provins.
What if you could turn back time... in the kitchen? In the heart of Provins's medieval city center, Les Tabliers Gourmands offers culinary workshops as quirky as they are delicious. These gourmand experiences invite children and adults alike to cook medieval recipes, in a setting steeped in history. [Read more]
Why is the Pont-Neuf called that, even though it’s Paris’ oldest bridge?
In light of its name, how can the Pont-Neuf be Paris’s oldest bridge? We explain its history and the reason for this sobriquet. [Read more]
Tropical autumn, palms, treasures and secrets: the Nature Exhibition returns to the Jardin des Plantes
The National Museum of Natural History invites you to an immersive nature experience, set amid the Grandes Serres at the Jardin des Plantes, from October 15 to November 23, 2026. This exhibition, titled "Autumn Tropical: Palms, Treasures and Secrets," invites you to discover Paris this fall. [Read more]
Where to live in Paris to suit your lifestyle? Tips from L’Agence Les Enfants Rouges
Sponsored - Buying, selling, appraisal, and rental: The Les Enfants Rouges Agency guides you through all your real estate projects in Paris. [Read more]
Just outside Paris, a free exhibition takes up residence in France’s largest cemetery.
Artworks will take over France’s largest cemetery from May 30 to November 15, 2026, as part of the Demeure exhibition. To discover it, head to the gates of Paris, at the Parisian Pantin Cemetery, conveniently accessible by metro. [Read more]
This active watermill, still in operation, welcomes visitors in Île-de-France and offers workshops for children.
What if you discovered the secrets of flour making? Head to the Russon mill in Bussy-Saint-Georges to join playful workshops with the kids. It’s one of the few working mills that opens its doors to the public in Seine-et-Marne (77)! [Read more]
Yvelines: have you heard of this temple of love, a romantic kiosk-bridge set in a lush green haven?
In the Yvelines, at the heart of the Bonnelles pond nature reserve, a charming bridge-kiosk nicknamed the “Temple of Love” still bears witness to an 18th-century parc à fabriques—an elaborate garden of follies. Open to the public for discovery in 2026. [Read more]
Quirky: a creative doormat customization workshop for a one-of-a-kind rug in Châtelet
Just a stone’s throw from Châtelet, the Paillasson Workshop invites you to grab the brushes and reinvent your hallway decor. Create your own one-of-a-kind piece, far from the dreary default “Bienvenue,” in a two-hour, creative, sociable group workshop. [Read more]
Poetic Paris: design your own dried-flower candle holder in this hidden workshop in the 11th arrondissement
Forget fleeting bouquets and step into a hidden green haven in the heart of the 11th arrondissement. At Poétique Paris, craft your own dried-flower candle holder—a luminous, one-of-a-kind piece in the capital—during a cottage-core inspired DIY workshop. [Read more]
Visit a fire station for free: 2026 open house dates
Paris and Île-de-France fire stations open their doors for free to aspiring firefighters on sunny days. Plan a visit on select Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year (depending on the station) for an immersive glimpse into the life of firefighters. [Read more]
The Carmelite convent in Avon, Seine-et-Marne, unveils a free museum available on request.
In Avon, in Seine-et-Marne, the Carmes Convent hides a memorial open to the public, dedicated to Father Jacques, a Resistance figure made famous by Louis Malle. A place steeped in history that we unveil to you. [Read more]
Montmartre Museum's vegetable garden workshops: learn how to grow your own garden in the city
The Renoir gardens at the Musée Montmartre, just a stone's throw from the Sacré-Coeur in the 18th arrondissement, are one of summer's must-see spots. Now you can learn how to grow your own vegetable garden in these exceptional gardens. [Read more]
Discover Les Bergeries d'Issy, the educational farm in Issy-les-Moulineaux (92)
Just south-west of Paris, in the inner suburbs, the town of Issy-les-Moulineaux boasts a lovely educational farm where the whole family can come and discover the animals, take part in a parent-child workshop or celebrate a birthday... It's a great way to take the kids out to the countryside! [Read more]
La ferme pédagogique de Maisons-Alfort (94), a family-friendly farm where you can see animals
In Maisons-Alfort, in the Val-de-Marne département of France, some amusing boarders welcome you and your family all year round, on Wednesdays and weekends: so head to the town's educational farm for a little country escapade to discover its animals! [Read more]
La Ferme de Gally de Saint-Cyr l'Ecole (78), for a family outing in the countryside
The Ferme pédagogique de Gally is one of the most beautiful educational farms in the Yvelines: with its 4 hectares, it offers children and their parents a privileged encounter with sheep, dwarf goats, rabbits, donkeys, horses... [Read more]
La Ferme de Grignon (78), a free cow and sheep farm visit
In the heart of the Versailles plain, the town of Grignon boasts a huge farm with over 200 dairy cows, 600 ewes, 400 hectares of crops and a dairy. The good news is that the site is open to the public: put on your good shoes and let's go and discover this farm in the Yvelines! [Read more]
Saint-Denis Open Farm: a nature escape for families near Paris
The open farm in Saint-Denis is like an oasis in the middle of the city: just a few minutes' walk from metro line 13, it's a place where nature seems to have reclaimed its rights, with fields full of vegetables, large greenhouses and, above all, animals. [Read more]
Avon'Ânes, stroll and stroke donkeys just steps from Fontainebleau-Avon station.
In the beautiful Domaine de Bel Ebat, the Avon'Ânes association cares for rescued donkeys and invites you to go for a ride with them. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
From October 1, 2026 to October 31, 2029
