Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, birthdays... There's no doubt about it: thewinter season is costly! But there's no reason why we shouldn't go out for three months. And you don't have to: there are plenty of free exhibitions to see from December 21, 2025 to March 20, 2026! In Paris and the Ile-de-France region, museums, art galleries, foundations and other cultural spaces are offering us a lovely program to discover without moderation.
All the same, what a pleasure it is to live in and around the capital. Even in the darkest months of the year, our daily lives are brightened by these free or inexpensive outings. Paintings, sculptures, photographs, art installations or performances: art lives in Paris all year round.
It's decided: armed with our beanie and scarf, we'll brave the winter chill to enjoy these free exhibitions. But before you go, take your pick from this selection of things to do now and in the weeks to come. We've got plenty of good ideas for a great season in Paris and the Ile-de-France region!
Chiorama Exhibition: The immersive experience at Renault®'s parade continues along the Champs-Élysées
Sponsored - Until February 28, 2026, the Renault® showroom offers an immersive and emotional experience centered around the legendary Renault Clio. Featuring an exhibit of iconic models, artistic programming, and engaging activities, Cliorama promises a vibrant celebration of love, culture, and design. This makes for a unique opportunity for auto enthusiasts, photography lovers, and culture aficionados alike—here's what’s happening this February. [Read more]
Louvre Museum: Enjoy the Free Night Opening on Friday, March 6, 2026 — the First Friday of the Month
This is the great deal everyone looks forward to at the start of each month: the Louvre Museum opens its doors for free to all visitors on the first Friday of every month, after 6 p.m. Mark your calendars for the next free evening: March 6, 2026. [Read more]
The Beat Goes On! : Free Exhibition Celebrating Clubbing Culture at Quai de la Photo
The vibrant world of clubbing culture — both festive and politically charged — takes center stage in a free photographic exhibition running from January 9 to April 24, 2026. Come explore The Beat Goes On! at Quai de la Photo. [Read more]
Various and assorted objects: the free and immersive exhibition by Song Dong at Le Bon Marché — our photos
For its 11th edition, the January art showcase at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche pays tribute to Song Dong, the renowned Chinese artist renowned for transforming everyday objects into living memory. From January 10 to February 22, 2026, his free exhibition, "Various and Diverse Objects – 百货 (baihuò)", takes over the store's showcases, features two large-scale installations beneath the glass roof, and immerses visitors in an interactive experience on the second floor. [Read more]
Kathia St. Hilaire: A Powerful Exhibition at the Perrotin Gallery
The Haitian-American artist Kathia St. Hilaire is showcasing a series of engravings and collages in Paris that delve into themes of spiraling, migration, and exile stories. On view at the Perrotin Gallery from January 10 to March 7, 2026, the exhibition offers a contemplative exploration of diasporic journeys, blending artistic expression with political insight. [Read more]
Elysée House: FreeMeetings and Activities Featuring the Hidden Worlds of the Presidential Palace
In January 2026, the Élysée House will open its doors to offer exclusive behind-the-scenes encounters featuring the iconic roles that keep the Élysée running. Every Wednesday, step inside the Palace and explore the distinctive expertise that makes it special. Check out the full schedule. [Read more]
Grand Palais: Free Exhibition Celebrates 200 Years of Le Figaro – Our Photos
Beneath the nave of the Grand Palais, a spectacular three-day celebration marks "1826-2026: 200 Years of Freedom." This free, ticketed exhibition offers a deep dive into two centuries of images, archives, and debates. An immersive experience to revisit 200 years of vibrant and inspiring history, taking place from January 14 to 16, 2026. [Read more]
Life flows through its veins: a group exhibition featuring 72 urban artists at Fluctuart — our photos
For its latest urban art exhibition, the Fluctuart floating gallery in Paris is showcasing a private collection for the first time — that of Jérôme Dauchez. From January 15 to April 22, 2026, visitors can explore a stunning lineup of works by 72 artists, highlighting the dynamic interplay between street art and the Paris metro. Best of all, admission is free. [Read more]
100% Paper IV: Free Collective Street Art Exhibition at Bastille Design Center — Our Photos
« 100% Paper IV »: the name of the upcoming fourth edition of the free, collaborative exhibition curated by Hopare in partnership with Urban Signature. For the first time, this street art installation will be showcased in the stunning setting of the Bastille Design Center, located in the 11th arrondissement of Paris. Nearly 120 artists have come together around the theme of paper, presenting approximately 300 original works displayed across three levels. Visitors will have just a few days—January 15 to 18, 2026—to experience this unique showcase. [Read more]
Captivating Time: Van Cleef & Arpels' Free Watchmaking Exhibition at the Heritage Gallery
Time is on full display with all its seconds and minutes. At the Galerie du Patrimoine, Van Cleef & Arpels presents a horological showcase titled "Enchanting Time," a free jewelry exhibition running from January 16 to June 1, 2026, in Place Vendôme, Paris. [Read more]
Saint Laurent Rive Droite: a Free Exhibition Celebrates Man Ray in the Iconic Boutique
Saint Laurent Rive Droite pays tribute to Man Ray with Objects of My Affection, opening on January 16, 2026. This free exhibition transforms everyday life into surrealism—and makes it iconic! [Read more]
Vibrations: José Yaque's immersive and colorful exhibition at Galleria Continua — our photos
Galleria Continua showcases the work of Cuban artist José Yaque at its Parisian Marais gallery. Running until March 10, 2026, visitors are invited to experience his immersive solo exhibition, "Vibraciones," crafted to engage multiple senses. [Read more]
Daily Letters: Malak and Mona Varichon’s Exhibition in Brétigny-sur-Orge (Essonne)
Sponsored - Discover the exhibition Lettres du quotidien – Extraits, débuts, jeux, traces in Brétigny-sur-Orge, which delves into the creative process inspired by the everyday life of Malak and Mona Varichon. Running from January 17 to March 14, 2026, at the Espace de la Croix-Louis, this show explores how personal experiences can fuel artistic expression. [Read more]
Erwin Wurm. Tomorrow Yes: Free Exhibition at Thaddaeus Ropac Gallery in Pantin (93) — Photos
Art takes wild shapes in Pantin! From January 17 to April 11, 2026, Erwin Wurm's "Tomorrow: Yes" transforms the Thaddaeus Ropac gallery into a space where new works and intriguing installations challenge visitors’ perceptions. Playing with form, space, and the human body, the exhibition offers a captivating journey into the artist's imaginative universe. [Read more]
I Love Sushi: The Free Exhibition That Will Tantalize Your Taste Buds at the Japan House of Culture - Our Photos
Sushi takes center stage at the Japan House in Paris! From January 20 to April 11, 2026, this cultural hub hosts a special, free exhibition dedicated to one of Japan’s most iconic culinary treasures. Through an array of sushi reproductions and traditional prints, visitors are invited to explore the fascinating history and evolution of this beloved Japanese delicacy! [Read more]
Edo Tokyo Kirari: Where French Design Meets Japanese Craftsmanship in a Stunning Exhibition
The Ateliers de Paris Gallery showcases "Edo Tokyo Kirari," a free exhibition blending French design with Japanese craftsmanship. Open to visitors from January 21 to February 4, 2026. [Read more]
Expanded Drops: The free exhibition where fragrance transforms into visual art at Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris
Forget the bottle; here, perfume is a visual experience. With Expanded Drops, Maison Francis Kurkdjian presents a free exhibition running from January 21 to March 29, 2026, curated by photographer Christelle Boulé. She captures the essence of fragrances and transforms them into captivating images. This immersive sensory and artistic journey shifts the olfactory world into the realm of sight, right in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
Doris Brynner: the iconic fashion exhibition at Sotheby's Paris
Sotheby's Paris is dedicating an exhibition to Doris Brynner, a figure of 20th-century cosmopolitan elegance, from January 23 to 26, 2026. The exhibition is being held during Haute Couture Fashion Week. [Read more]
Paris / Rome: Free Photo Exhibition Now Open on the City Hall Fences
On the gates of City Hall, discover a curated selection of photographs that reflect the twin beauty of Rome and Paris. Free to view from January 26 to February 26, 2026. [Read more]
Fashion Week: An exhibition of 126 haute couture Dior pieces in a Parisian palace
The Bristol Paris opens its doors to haute couture with the exhibition Dior Masterpieces: The Mouna Ayoub Haute Couture Collection, on January 27 and 28, 2026. Showcasing 126 pieces spanning the entire Christian Dior saga, from Bohan to Chiuri, the exhibit unveils four decades of style and craftsmanship. An unmissable opportunity to explore the world of a legendary private collection curated by Mouna Ayoub. [Read more]
Barbara: The legendary French singer-songwriter honored in a new exhibition at the BnF François-Mitterrand
Attention, Barbara fans! Nearly 30 years after her passing, the François-Mitterrand Library (BnF) is celebrating the legendary singer-songwriter with a brand-new exhibition titled "Dis quand reviendras-tu? Barbara et son public". This unique cultural event is free to the public and runs from January 27 to April 5, 2026, in the Donors' Gallery. [Read more]
Mathilde Favier’s World in Paris: A Free Exhibition Showcasing Fashion, Art, and Design at Christie’s
The vibrant world of Mathilde Favier, a Parisian at heart and head of PR for a top fashion house, will be on display at Christie’s from January 28 to February 4, 2026. The exhibition, titled Mathilde & Friends in Paris, is free to attend. Featuring iconic outfits, poetic objects, and designer creations, it offers a chic, playful, and distinctly Parisian journey through style. [Read more]
And God… created Bardot: a free photo exhibition paying tribute at the Galerie de l'Instant
The Galerie de l'Instant is presenting a retrospective dedicated to Brigitte Bardot, featuring vintage prints and candid snapshots captured on the fly. From January 29 to March 29, 2026, visit this free exhibition to see the legendary "BB" of the 1950s to 70s—an icon who revolutionized societal norms. [Read more]
The Fire This Time: Titus Kaphar’s Exhibition Unveils Society’s Forgotten Figures at Gagosian
Titus Kaphar debuts his first solo exhibition in Paris at the Gagosian Gallery with The Fire This Time, running from January 29 to March 7, 2026. Through a striking mix of paintings and wooden sculptures, the American artist explores forgotten shadows of history, bringing to light memories that have long been sidelined or overlooked. [Read more]
Beyond Our Horizons: From Tokyo to Paris, the New Free Exhibition at the 19M Gallery
Beyond Our Horizons lands in Paris: from January 29 to April 26, 2026, the Galerie du 19M showcases French artisans alongside Japanese creators, weaving their stories together. After captivating 75,000 visitors in Tokyo, this exhibition offers a journey where tradition and innovation intersect in every detail. Embroideries, molds, feathers, and metals become bridges connecting different cultures and craftsmanship. [Read more]
Beaubourg Competition of 1971: A Free Exhibition Showcasing the Architectural Proposals for the Pompidou Center
The Centre Pompidou building was created following an international architectural competition. Explore other notable entries from the contest — alternative versions of the Centre Pompidou that might have existed in Paris. These intriguing designs are showcased in a free exhibition by the Academy of Architecture, open from January 30 to February 22, 2026. [Read more]
Kid Cudi unveils "Echoes of the Past," his debut art exhibition in Paris
Fans of Kid Cudi are headed to the 3rd arrondissement of Paris to experience "Echoes of the Past," the rapper’s very first solo exhibition. The event takes place at Galerie Ruttkowski;68 from January 30 to March 1, 2026, where visitors can explore the artist’s paintings, complemented by a unique original sound piece created specifically for the occasion. [Read more]
The Perrotin gallery hosts an exhibition dedicated to art inspired by the game of chess.
The Perrotin Gallery in Paris is hosting a group exhibition titled A Century of Chess, exploring the impact of the game on modern and contemporary art. Running from January 31 to February 28, 2026, and curated by R. Jonathan Lambert, the show features works by Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, Martin Parr, and William Wegman. Through paintings, sculptures, and photographs, it delves into the diverse artistic interpretations inspired by this deeply strategic game. [Read more]
Castles, museums, and monuments in Yvelines to visit for free on Sunday, February 1, 2026 — the first Sunday of the month
On the first Sunday of every month, many landmarks, castles, museums, and historic sites across the Yvelines open their doors to the public for free. However, this isn’t the case for all sites year-round. To help you plan your visit, here’s a list of cultural attractions in the 78 that you can explore this Sunday, February 1, 2026. [Read more]
Free castles and museums in Seine-et-Marne this Sunday, February 1, 2026 — the first Sunday of the month
On the first Sunday of every month, numerous castles, museums, and historic sites across Île-de-France open their doors to visitors for free. But what about Seine-et-Marne? Some attractions offer free admission every first Sunday of the month year-round, while others host special free days on specific dates. Here's what's happening this Sunday, February 1, 2026. [Read more]
The Dorothée Years: a free exhibition curated by Gédébé at Paris's 17th Arrondissement City Hall
From February 3 to March 5, 2026, the Paris City Hall of the 17th arrondissement will host the "Dorothée Years" exhibition. For a month, rediscover the visual world of a television era that left a lasting impression on an entire generation, featuring original artwork by Gédébé. [Read more]
BLEU FUTUR Exhibition by RASSIM® at the Bulgarian Cultural Center
Sponsored - The Bulgarian Cultural Institute presents in Paris the debut of RASSIM®’s daring and experimental artistic universe. [Read more]
Eva Jospin and Claire Tabouret Exhibitions at the Grand Palais: Free Nighttime Access for 16-25 Year Olds
Are you between 16 and 25 years old and passionate about art? Great news: the Grand Palais is hosting a lively, free evening dedicated to the exhibitions of Eva Jospin and Claire Tabouret. Mark your calendar for Thursday, February 5, 2026, and don’t forget to register for free in advance! [Read more]
The Paris Hot Air Balloon: a free photo exhibition immersing visitors in roadside eateries
Paris hits the road… and pauses at La Montgolfière! Until March 26, 2026, the 10th arrondissement’s club is hosting a free photo exhibition by Guillaume Blot, showcasing the heart and soul of French roadside diners. Portraits, candid shots, and everyday details come together to offer an inviting, human, and warm visual journey. [Read more]
Simone Veil. My Sisters and I: An Intimate, Free Exhibition at the Memorial to the Holocaust — Our Photos
The Shoah Memorial highlights the special bond between Simone Veil and her sisters with an emotionally compelling exhibition running from February 10 to October 15, 2026. [Read more]
A free evening at the Curie Museum exploring women in science
On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, the Curie Museum invites you to a special evening dedicated to the history of science. For one free and public night, step into the world of Marie Curie by visiting her laboratory and office in a unique nighttime setting. [Read more]
Saint-Cloud in the clouds: Free exhibition and flight simulator at the Avelines Museum
From February 12 to July 5, 2026, the Avelines Museum will take us soaring into the skies with a free exhibition exploring Saint-Cloud's pivotal role in aviation history — featuring historic archives alongside a flight simulator! [Read more]
Iconic Moments: Michka Kovalsky's Photography Exhibition at Galerie La Lison in Paris
The La Lison Gallery is showcasing Icon Emotion, an exhibition by Michka Kovalsky, where photography, wood, gold leaf, and chiaroscuro come together in a dialogue centered on the human body and the essence of the image. The exhibit runs from February 12 to March 28, 2026. [Read more]
Contrast and indifference: the exhibition that explores the world at the Canadian Cultural Centre
From February 12 to May 16, 2026, the Canadian Cultural Centre in Paris will showcase the work of four artists driven by a critical consciousness. Titled “Contrast and Indifference,” this exhibition explores the tensions of contemporary society through photographs, videos, and sculptures. [Read more]
Montrouge Art Fair 2026: The Contemporary Art Exhibition Showcasing the Next Generation of Talent
The Montrouge Art Fair returns for its 69th edition, running from February 13 to March 1, 2026. This eagerly anticipated event in the contemporary art calendar showcases the work of dozens of emerging artists, all featured within the 1,500-square-meter space of the Beffroi. [Read more]
All Parts Of Us: Susanna Inglada Exhibits at Drawing Lab in Paris
The Drawing Lab in Paris is hosting the exhibition All Parts Of Us by Susanna Inglada, the recipient of the 2025 Drawing Now Award, from February 13 to May 10, 2026. Through a compelling blend of drawings, installations, and videos, the artist delves into the tensions shaping our modern world, examining the collective gaze and power dynamics at play. [Read more]
Valentine's Day 2026: Free Admission for the Reopening of the Musée de la Vie Romantique in Paris
The Museum of Romantic Life marks its reopening and Valentine's Day with a free open day packed with special activities. Join us this Saturday, February 14, 2026, to celebrate art and love. [Read more]
Masterpiece and Love: A Group Exhibition Exploring the Theme of Love at the Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery in Paris
The Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery in Paris is showcasing a group exhibition titled "Masterpiece and Love," celebrating Valentine's Day 2026. Running from February 14 to April 14, 2026, this contemporary art display features works by FinDAC, Uri Martinez, Belin, and Sandra Chevrier. [Read more]
Le rêve cette autre part: the dreamlike exhibition at the Pernod Ricard Foundation
At the Fondation Pernod Ricard, the exhibition "Le rêve, cette autre part" explores dreams as a space for creation, thought and relationships, with artists Amie Barouh, Chloé Quenum and philosopher Mohamed Amer Meziane. On view from February 17 to April 18, 2026. [Read more]
I Love the Beatles: Free design exhibition at the Ateliers de Paris gallery
Artist Michel Bouvet brings the Beatles' songs to life through striking visuals in a free exhibition running from February 18 to 22, 2026, at the Ateliers de Paris gallery. [Read more]
Exhibition "Shards of Life" by Clément Herrmann at Le Cabinet d'Amateur Gallery
The Le Cabinet d’Amateur gallery, located in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, is hosting the free exhibition Eclats de vie by Clément Herrmann. Running from February 19 through March 1, 2026, the show merges contemporary art with assemblage of found objects and anamorphic painting. [Read more]
Open Shapes: Free Exhibition Showcasing Geometric Abstract Art at the Swedish Institute
Geometric abstract art takes center stage at the Swedish Institute from February 20 to July 19, 2026. Over five months, visitors are invited to explore free of charge "Formes ouvertes", an installation that bridges the works of Olle Bærtling—an essential figure in abstract art—with those of seven talented international artists. [Read more]
Unusual sight: watch live as a LEGO model of the Grand Palais is assembled
Here’s quite a show! From February 21 to March 1, 2026, come watch the construction of a miniature replica of the Grand Palais—made entirely out of LEGO! This family-friendly event is free and offers a fun, interactive experience at the Grand Palais. [Read more]
Sebastião Salgado Honored in a Free Photography Exhibition at the Paris City Hall
The City Hall of Paris pays tribute to photographer Sebastião Salgado with a major exhibition, open to the public free of charge from February 21 to May 30, 2026. [Read more]
The world brought to life in vibrant color: a photo exhibition that takes us on a journey at the Roger-Viollet Gallery
The Roger-Viollet Gallery presents a curated selection of 19th-century photographs, hand-colored to enhance their vividness, in a free exhibition running from February 26 to June 6, 2026. [Read more]
A free exhibition showcasing colorful "couture" hats and live demonstrations of craftsmanship in Meudon
On February 28 and March 1, 2026, Meudon will celebrate the art of French hat-making with a free exhibition that invites visitors to explore 48 vibrant and exclusive hats. From city styles to haute couture pieces, the event will feature live demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship, offering a unique glimpse into this centuries-old art. [Read more]
Napoleon I’s Testament: A Unique and Free Exhibition at the National Archives
It is one of the most iconic documents in French history. Safely stored under tight security at the National Archives, Napoleon I's testament will be temporarily displayed to the public from March 4 to June 29, 2026. [Read more]
Jean-Marie Rossi Exhibition at Sotheby’s Paris: A Collection Bridging Old and Modern Art
Sotheby’s Paris will be showcasing a curated selection of works from the collection of renowned Parisian antique dealer Jean-Marie Rossi, from March 5 to March 11, 2026. Spanning 18th-century furniture, modern art, and contemporary pieces, the exhibition offers a remarkable journey into the world of a collector with a keen eye for exquisite pieces. Don’t miss this unique preview ahead of the live auction taking place on March 10 and 11. [Read more]
Expo4Art: Dates Set for the 2026 Editions of the Free Art Fair at Halle des Blancs Manteaux
The Expo4Art fair is making its comeback with four editions scheduled for 2026 at the Halle des Blancs Manteaux. A perfect opportunity to explore the emerging talents shaping the art scene. Mark your calendar for the upcoming dates this year — and remember, entry is free! [Read more]
Free evening event at the Bourse de Commerce on the first Saturday of the month: when is the next edition scheduled?
Keen to explore the Bourse de Commerce's collections? Take advantage of the free evening opening on the first Saturday of each month to experience this must-see Parisian art venue. [Read more]
FOREVER: The Free Exhibition Curated by Maurizio Cattelan at Galeries Lafayette
FOR ETERNITY, outside the walls of the exhibition Sunday Without End, brings contemporary art from the Centre Pompidou-Metz into the heart of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. Conceived by Maurizio Cattelan and Chiara Parisi, this innovative route features sculptures, photographs, and sound installations spread across the dome, the staircases, and the terrace, turning the flagship department store into a vibrant, living gallery. From March 10 to April 27, 2026, visitors are invited to explore freely a collection of significant works by Gloria Friedmann, Birgit Jürgenssen, Christodoulos Panayiotou, and Lawrence Weiner. [Read more]
Jef Aérosol unveils "Interstices," a free exhibit now open in the 13th arrondissement of Paris
From March 12 to April 18, 2026, Galerie Mathgoth will showcase the work of renowned French stencil artist Jef Aérosol. Head to the gallery's temporary space in the 13th arrondissement of Paris to experience "Interstices," a free and unique exhibition that blends street art with music. [Read more]
Me and Others: An Exhibition Exploring Our Digital Lives at the EDF Foundation
Contemporary artists are delving into our digital lives and identities through the exhibition Me and Others, showcased free of charge at the EDF Foundation from March 13 to September 27, 2026. [Read more]
Beyond the wall of his - techno parties: free photography exhibition at the Maison Doisneau
The Doisneau House immerses visitors in the world of techno nights with a documentary photography exhibition, open to the public free of charge from March 13 to May 31, 2026. [Read more]
You've already seen all these exhibitions? Come back and check out this guide later: it's regularly updated with new programming from Parisian art venues. And in the meantime, you can take a tour of the capital's free museums. And don't forget to check out the other exhibitions taking place this winter.
Free museums and monuments in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: cultural tips
Looking for a free museum in Paris? The Musée des Beaux-Arts, the Musée d'Art Moderne, the Musée de l'Aviation, the Musée des Arts Asiatiques - over 20 museums are free all year round, and we've got some great ideas for getting out and learning something new. [Read more]
The days are short, and the cold is setting in... Quickly, let's head to the nearest museum to warm up. Winter in Paris is actually the perfect time to enjoy a great exhibition! [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From December 21, 2025 to March 20, 2026
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Free museums and monuments in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: cultural tips
Going Out This Winter: Must-See Exhibitions in Paris and Île-de-France
