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!
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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 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]
Did you know? The Félix Potin on rue Réaumur hid more than 200 skeletons in its basements.
As you pass the corner of rue Réaumur and Sébastopol, you marvel at the historic facade once built by Félix Potin, a store to which you return, tell the story, but where you also stay, a priori... The former headquarters of the brand that was once Paris' first department store, now a Monoprix, hides a macabre history. [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]
Discover the magnificent cathedral building on rue Réaumur and its astrological clock
For a little architectural stroll, choose Paris's 2nd arrondissement, and rue Réaumur in particular. It's packed with exceptional facades, including a cathedral building with a clock and astrological wheel. [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]
Did you know? The Passage du Caire is the oldest passageway in Paris. Discover its history.
The little-known Passage du Caire, located in the popular rue Saint-Denis district, offers a journey back in time. Built in 1798, this historic Paris landmark has retained a certain austerity, but is well worth a visit for its incredible history. We tell you all about it! [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]
Did you know? What's the story behind the Au Planteur façade in Paris?
Discover the Au Planteur facade in Paris' Montorgueil district, listed as a historic monument since 1984. Located at 10-12 rue des Petits-Carreaux in the 2nd arrondissement, this colonial facade and fresco is still the subject of much debate, and we'd like to tell you all about it. [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]
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]
Hygiene in the Middle Ages: the historical exhibition extended at the Tour Jean Sans Peur
The Tour Jean Sans Peur debunks preconceived notions with its exhibition "Hygiene in the Middle Ages," on display from March 12 to January 25, 2026. [Read more]
