December reshapes Paris and Île-de-France into a backdrop particularly ripe for discoveries. With seasonal lights, a festive atmosphere and the urge to share memorable moments, the month offers a wealth of chances to sample unusual outings in Paris in December 2026, to experience original experiences in Île-de-France, and to enjoy the capital in a new light as the holidays approach.
At this time of year, the city changes tempo. Streets light up, neighborhoods don seasonal decor, and people gladly slow down to reconnect, wander, and savor the small pleasures.
This is also a perfect month to mix up your cravings. Some days you want to soak up the winter atmosphere, while others are more suited to warm, immersive experiences or ones that feel truly transportive.
Want to make the most of this festive season? Here’s our pick of offbeat outings to try in December 2026 in Paris and the Île-de-France region, to finish the year with discovery, pleasure and wonder.
Pop Art Car 2.0: a free exhibition blending pop art, design and digital culture on the Champs-Élysées
Sponsored - From September 24, 2026 to January 31, 2027, pop art car 2.0 takes over Renault’s showcase on the Champs-Élysées, at 53 Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris. With a mix of historical works, never-before-seen digital pieces and automobiles, this free exhibition brings together artists Sébastien Preschoux, Popay, Victor Vasarely and Julio Le Parc. Not to mention the all-new show car, the Renault 8 Gordini Concept, unveiled in a world premiere. [Read more]
iFLY Paris: Indoor Skydiving for an Unconventional Flying Experience
Sponsored - iFLY Paris welcomes the general public, companies, and seasoned athletes for indoor skydiving in a giant glass tube. iFLY lets you fly, risk-free and with no prior experience, from ages 5 to 105! Soar! [Read more]
Unique Paris Tour by Open-Top Bus with Big Bus – SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE
Sponsored - Panoramic views of Paris, flexibility, multilingual audio guides—discover an unusual tour of Paris on a double-decker bus with Big Bus, with a 15% discount on certain dates. [Read more]
Grand Christmas 2026 at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: immerse yourself in a festive journey around the world
The Grand Christmas at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is set to enchant the holiday season, running from Saturday, November 14, 2026, to Sunday, January 3, 2027. For the occasion, the château and its gardens will be transformed with sumptuous decorations designed to spark dreams in both children and adults. [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]
Festival of Wonder 2026: the magical event marks its 30th anniversary at the Museum of Fairground Arts
From December 26, 2026 to January 3, 2027, the Festival of Wonder returns to the Museum of Fairground Arts. A magical immersion inside vintage rides, with festive performances and an enchanted garden. [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]
The Luminous Odyssey 2026 at Parc Floral: a 1,200-lantern trail with illuminated fountains
The Luminous Odyssey returns to Paris’s Parc Floral for a fourth edition, featuring 1,200 new monumental lanterns, illuminated fountains, and northern lights, from November 14, 2026, to January 27, 2027. [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]
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]
Provins 2026 Christmas Medieval Market and its immersive animations to travel back in time.
Provins’ Medieval Christmas Market marks its 15th edition on December 12 and 13, 2026, with free admission. In this UNESCO-listed town in Seine-et-Marne, artisans, troubadours and encampments bring the Middle Ages back to life for one weekend. [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]
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]
Geminids: when will the peak of this meteor shower occur in December 2026?
A stunning meteor shower will light up the French night sky before Christmas, spanning December 4–20, 2026, with a peak around December 13. Get ready to marvel at the beauty of this starry sky, the last one of the year! [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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
The Musée d'Orsay marks its 40th anniversary with a free weekend and a Boum put on by Thomas Jolly.
The Musée d’Orsay is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026 and unveiling a spectacular anniversary program in Paris’s 7th arrondissement, featuring a free weekend and, as the centerpiece, a Boum 1986 imagined by Thomas Jolly in December. [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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
Le Jardin Yili, the unusual Chinese garden hidden away in the Yvelines
Jardin Yili is the only privately-owned traditional Chinese garden in France. Head for Saint-Rémy-l'Honoré in the Yvelines, about 33 km from Paris, for a change of scenery. Discover this 10,000 m² green space, imbued with spirituality and tranquility, where you can discover the art of Chinese gardens and immerse yourself in a feng shui setting inspired by age-old traditions. [Read more]
Discover the Ferme de Clamart and its animals with your family, Wednesdays and weekends
In Clamart, in the Hauts-de-Seine department, the city farm welcomes young and old to the Maison Blanche park on Saturdays and Wednesdays for family workshops and to discover its animals! [Read more]
The Saint-Hilliers educational farm, for a family outing near Provins
Less than ten kilometers from the medieval town of Provins, in the Seine-et-Marne region, in the hamlet of Savigny, in Saint-Hilliers, there's an educational farm where many furry and feathered residents live. It's the perfect opportunity to discover them on a day out with the kids! [Read more]
Château Soubiran's free educational farm, a bucolic interlude near Melun (77)
Just a few kilometers from Melun, in the Seine-et-Marne town of Dammarie-les-Lys, you'll find Château Soubiran and its large park, home to a small educational farm. [Read more]
Seth unveils a new XXL street-art mural to check out in Paris's 13th arrondissement - photos and video
The street artist Seth, also known as Julien Malland, has reclaimed a wall on Rue Émile-Deslandres in Paris’s 13th arrondissement to paint a new XXL mural, replacing a previous artwork that had been erased. [Read more]
Phono Museum, the astonishing museum of recorded sound in Paris
For music and sound enthusiasts, head to the Phono Museum in Pigalle, where you can embark on a journey spanning more than 150 years through the history of recorded sound. [Read more]
This secret royal chapel is a true hidden gem tucked away in a château in Seine-et-Marne.
At the Château de Fontainebleau, in Seine-et-Marne, a royal chapel remains hidden from most visitors. The Lower Chapel of Saint-Saturnin, built under Francis I, only reveals itself on rare occasions — we tell you everything. [Read more]
The Collège des Bernardins: one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris to visit free of charge
Let's discover the Collège des Bernardins - one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris. Be sure to visit this 13th-century gem, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter and open to the public free of charge. Open all year round, this cultural space offers a variety of exhibitions and events, and even a café-restaurant. [Read more]
La table des Bernardins, the unusual café-restaurant nestled in the nave of the Collège des Bernardins
La Table des Bernardins, located in the emblematic Collège des Bernardins in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, is the ideal spot for a meal or a break in an atypical, historic setting. Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 6pm, this restaurant-café offers a varied cuisine, ideal for a relaxing lunch or a passing snack. [Read more]
Marie-Antoinette at Fontainebleau: a weekend of re-enactments in pictures and a preview of what's to come
The weekend of historical reenactments of Marie-Antoinette and Louis XVI’s stays at Fontainebleau unfolded in the sun at the Château de Fontainebleau (77). An equestrian show, a military camp, and short scenes: relive the atmosphere and discover the full 2026 schedule. [Read more]
A journey to discover wildlife from around the world, at Bois d'Attilly Zoo (77)
In the Seine-et-Marne department, in Férolles-Attilly, a vast wildlife reserve welcomes visitors on sunny days to discover fauna from all corners of the world. Tigers, giraffes, savannah creatures, and other wild species roam within a protected space. [Read more]
The Tour Jean-sans-Peur, a medieval treasure in Paris
Immerse yourself in medieval history at the Tour Jean-sans-Peur in Paris. The last vestige of the Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne Valois, the Tour Jean sans Peur was built in 1409 and offers a glimpse of life in the Middle Ages in a reconstructed residence. It currently houses an exhibition on Health in the Middle Ages, which runs until September 10, 2023 (excluding the month of August). [Read more]
In Paris, this discreet hub is redefining how actors and image-makers work.
Sponsored - In Paris, this discreet hub brings together actors, postproduction, live streaming, and image creation. [Read more]
Seine-et-Marne: have you heard of this Templar chapel stuck in limbo, a genuine medieval treasure?
Nestled in the Fontainebleau forest in Vaudoué, the Fourches Templar Chapel—the oldest Templar chapel in France, dating back to 1150—continues its restoration in 2026 thanks to devoted volunteers. [Read more]
Yvelines: The Templar Commandery and its historic chapel reinvented as the Digital City
In Élancourt, in the Yvelines, the Commandery of the Templars of La Villedieu has weathered the centuries, reinventing itself as a true digital hub, set between a listed medieval chapel, free exhibitions, and innovative tools for everyone. [Read more]
This keep in Essonne is a miniature replica of Philippe Auguste's medieval Louvre.
Did you know? The keep of the Château de Dourdan, in Essonne, was built on the same model as Philippe Auguste’s medieval Louvre. Just 44 km from Paris, this listed monument is open to visitors year-round. [Read more]
Seine-et-Marne: you can sleep in this 12th-century royal keep!
In Moret-sur-Loing, Seine-et-Marne, the Donjon de Moret offers an extraordinary stay inside a 12th‑century historic monument, a former royal residence. Whether you’re after a night in a guest room in a place steeped in history or a family-friendly rental that’s a refreshing change, this is an experience to behold. [Read more]
Cone, the Saint-Michel counter serving coffee- and chocolate-flavored ice cream cones
Cone, that’s the name of this tiny coffee counter in Paris’s 6th arrondissement, just outside the Saint-Germain-des-Prés metro exit, where you can sip a cappuccino or hot chocolate from an artisanal cone. We tried it, and here’s the full story. [Read more]
Gashapon: a pop-up featuring 300 Japanese capsule machines (figurines and gadgets) opens in Paris
Attention, a new phenomenon is on the way. 300 gachapon machines are taking over a 150 m² pop-up on Rue de Rivoli, ready to dispense their surprise capsules. Nearly 3,000 items—manga figurines, mini gadgets, and pop culture trésors—await collectors. See you starting Saturday, April 4, 2026! [Read more]
Seine-et-Marne: this medieval keep that visitors can tour was once a prison.
Across Seine-et-Marne, the César Tower has dominated Provins’ medieval citadel since the 12th century. This listed keep, once used as a prison, is open to visitors year-round and offers a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. [Read more]
Unusual: we tried a stained-glass intro during a workshop at the foot of Montmartre Hill.
At the foot of Montmartre Hill, Justine Dablanc’s workshop opens its doors to the curious for a quick immersion in the art of stained glass. Here you learn to tame glass and lead to bring a luminous creation to life in just three hours. A fascinating dive into an ancient craft where precise technique meets the magic of color. [Read more]
Montfermeil Arboretum: An Unconventional Natural Retreat in Seine-Saint-Denis
In Seine-Saint-Denis, the Montfermeil municipal arboretum stretches over 11 hectares of greenery, featuring a unique botanical trail, open to visitors free of charge year-round. It's a perfect nature getaway to the east of Paris, especially during this sunny season. [Read more]
Exhibition Through the Ages: Bulgarian Traditional Costumes
Sponsored - Paris hosts a collection of authentic pieces, testifying to another era and to traditional craftsmanship. Head to the Bulgarian Cultural Institute through November 20, 2026. [Read more]
Jumpman: The Paris Fitness Studio for Jumping Fitness, an Intense Workout Blending Trampoline Fun and Club Vibes
Just a stone's throw from the Arc de Triomphe, a one-of-a-kind studio welcomes Parisians to experience Jumping Fitness—a dynamic trampoline workout that's tough on calories but gentle on your joints. It's a fun, high-energy workout that combines muscle strengthening with choreographed moves, offering a playful and bouncing fitness experience. [Read more]
Spend the night at Château de Breteuil (78), the inspiration for Charles Perrault's fairy tales.
The Château de Breteuil in Choisel, in the Yvelines region of France, is one of the places where you can experience the life of a château. You can spend a night, a weekend or a week here, for an enchanting stay. [Read more]
Concorde Atlantique: dance classes and rock parties on the terrace of the Parisian boat
Join the Rock That Boat party in Paris! Rock dance lessons, a wild party and a festive atmosphere await you on the Concorde Atlantique barge, every Monday from 7pm to 12:30am. Come and experience the passion of rock'n'roll in a unique waterfront setting! [Read more]
The story of the Zouave of the Alma Bridge: the statue that gauges the Seine’s floods in Paris
Are you familiar with the Zouave, the iconic statue on the Pont de l'Alma that serves as a gauge for the Seine's water levels during major floods in Paris? Here’s the story behind it. [Read more]
Mr. Wine Museum in Paris: Blend your own wine and enjoy a tasting session to craft your personalized cuvée
At the M.Musée du Vin, dare to become the creator of your own wine blend. With Mon Petit Vin, discover different grape varieties, craft your personalized flavors, and leave with a one-of-a-kind bottle. It's a fun and sensory experience perfect for friends, a unique gift, or simply a memorable outing in the heart of Paris’s 16th arrondissement. [Read more]
An unconventional cultural landmark hidden inside an old car-restaurant, nestled in the Île-de-France region
In Saint-Denis, Le Wagon stands out as an unusual cultural venue housed in a former dining car, a building recognized as a site of regional heritage. Here, we share the story behind this unique landmark, whose space is now managed by the organization Les Dionysiaques. [Read more]
Le Chatelier: a cozy cat cafe with a welcoming feline-friendly hotel in the 5th arrondissement
Just a stone’s throw from the Luxembourg Gardens, a spot is making the 5th arrondissement purr with delight. Welcome to Chatelier, a unique venue where Nadège has created a cozy cat bar alongside a luxury boarding cattery. [Read more]
Did you know? You can actually sleep close to the Sacré-Cœur in Paris for just 15 euros… but there’s a catch.
Since 1885, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre has been offering hostel-style overnight stays starting at just 15 euros in Paris’s 18th arrondissement. This unconventional experience is available year-round—except on Good Friday—and comes with a surprising twist: guests take part in an hour of nocturnal prayer. [Read more]
Davide Pascarella: A Realist Tattoo Artist in Paris
Sponsored - Davide Pascarella welcomes you by appointment only at his exclusive studio in Paris. A tattoo artist renowned for his realism, delicate line work, and elegant designs, he offers a unique experience and high-quality tattoos for those seeking something truly distinctive. [Read more]
Leandro Muniz: Custom Micro-Realism and Blackwork Tattoos in Paris
Sponsored - In Paris, those seeking a fully personalized tattoo in micro-realism or blackwork are encouraged to explore Leandro Muniz’s artistry. His work is rooted in a nuanced understanding of the human body, with a dedicated focus on ensuring each piece maintains both coherence and meaningful significance. [Read more]
Tufting Studio: Creative Weaving Workshops and a Unique Art Gallery in Paris
New to the 16th arrondissement, Tufting Studio offers creative workshops to learn the art of tufting, along with an underground art gallery and one-of-a-kind pieces for sale. Visitors can craft their own tapestries, cushions, seating, and accessories, or take home a bespoke creation. [Read more]
Chess and Cakes, tea time and chess tournament at the Monsieur George hotel, one Sunday a month
To combine food and thought, head to the Monsieur George hotel, which organizes a chess tournament one Sunday a month, accompanied by a tea-time. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
From December 1, 2026 to December 31, 2029
