History and art around every corner - that's the promise of every Parisian stroll. The capital has lived up to its reputation as a cultural city, with the many museums and monuments that make up its rich heritage. And since each arrondissement of Paris has its own unique atmosphere, exploring the different districts of the capital allows you to immerse yourself in different atmospheres while quenching your thirst for discovery and culture.
In the heart of Paris, the capital's 2nd arrondissement is sure to delight the curious and the passionate alike, with its many little-known treasures, art galleries and exhibitions. If you'd like to explore this central district of the capital in all its glory, we've come up with a selection of ideas for cultural outings right now. And the good news is that this guide is updated as we post new listings and make new discoveries, so check back regularly for more ideas on what to do in Paris's 2nd arrondissement!
And for more ideas on what to do in the area, click here!
Night of Museums 2026: the BnF Richelieu Museum and its oval hall reveal themselves at night.
The Night of Museums is back on Saturday, May 23, 2026. It’s your chance to explore after hours the famed Oval Room and the Bibliothèque nationale de France’s museum, which holds a treasure trove of wonders. Head here to browse the program. [Read more]
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. [Read more]
The Perfume Theatre Reopens Its Doors: Discover the Fragonard Museum, near the Paris Opera
Set in a former theater in the heart of Paris, just steps from the Opéra Garnier, the Fragonard perfumery reopens the doors to its Théâtre du Parfum, a historic museum dedicated to the art of perfumery. The venue opens to the public from May 4, 2026. [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]
BnF Richelieu, the historic home of the Bibliothèque nationale de France and its museum
The Richelieu site, located in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris, is the historic birthplace of the Bibliothèque nationale de France, which has housed collections of royal documents since 1721. A historic site, recently modernized, accessible to all! [Read more]
The Richelieu Library, historic birthplace of the BNF
The Bibliothèque Richelieu is one of the most beautiful libraries in Paris. Discover it for yourself! [Read more]
Medieval Fashion: an exhibition exploring medieval dress at the John the Fearless Tower
At the Tour Jean Sans Peur, medieval life unfolds in the exhibition "La mode au Moyen Âge," on view until March 7, 2027. As the last remaining relic of the Palais parisien des Ducs de Bourgogne, the venue provides a striking setting to explore medieval dress, from silhouettes and accessories to social codes, all enhanced by a rich program of activities and events tied to the exhibition. [Read more]
Rex Studios, (re)discover behind-the-scenes at the Grand Rex
Discover the magic of cinema with this behind-the-scenes tour of Europe's largest cinema, Rex Studios! Film set, director's office, projection booth, editing room, special effects... A fun and educational visit to the heart of the Grand Rex. [Read more]
Au Bonheur du Jour, art gallery and erotic cabinet of curiosities in Paris
A veritable temple to erotic art in Paris, Au bonheur du Jour is a unique art gallery in the capital. Here, we discover works that highlight the beauty of the male and female body through the visions of 19th and 20th century artists, as well as a few more contemporary nuggets. [Read more]
