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!
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]
Did you know? The shapes of the Salle Labrouste, INHA's library, are inspired by dresses.
The Salle Labrouste, home to the Bibliothèque de l'Institut Nationale de l'Histoire de l'Art, is undoubtedly one of the prettiest libraries in Paris, if not the most beautiful. With its unusual architecture, we tell you all about its history and inspiration. [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]
Did you know? The Galerie Vivienne, Paris's most charming covered passageway, is built on a former cemetery.
Discover the Galerie Vivienne, a historic gem in the heart of Paris, open since 1826 and listed as a historic monument. It's a must-see in Paris, especially when it rains. [Read more]
Did you know? The smallest street in Paris is 5 metres long.
They say small is beautiful. The smallest street in Paris is no exception, discreetly wedged between the shopping streets of Beauregard and Cléry, in the center of the capital. [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]
Pulse: our photos of the immersive sound and light exhibition at Gaité Lyrique
From December 12, 2024 to July 13, 2025, La Gaité Lyrique in Paris presents Pulse, a new sound and light installation by 1024 Architecture. Immerse yourself in a universe where light becomes living matter, and interact with multisensory works for a unique experience combining art, sound and technology. [Read more]
Free exhibition of jewelry from the Maison de Haute-Joaillerie Vever on rue de la Paix, Paris
The Maison Joaillère Vever reveals its secrets through the free exhibition "Histoires d'imagination", from November 6, 2024 to January 8, 2025 in Paris. Discover the creative world of Henri Vever, a pioneer of Art Nouveau, through some fifty pieces of jewelry and objets d'art, on loan from friends and family of the Maison. [Read more]
Trans*galactique: our photos of the exhibition celebrating trans identities at Gaité Lyrique
The TRANS*GALACTIQUE exhibition awaits you at La Gaîté Lyrique from October 18, 2024 to February 9, 2025. A visual exploration celebrating trans and queer identities and questioning notions of gender, identity and resistance in a rapidly changing world. [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]
