The reddening leaves, the cooling air, the pumpkins sprouting in the vegetable gardens: there's no doubt that autumn is upon us. Nature is changing, and the show is as beautiful as ever. But when the rain comes, we don't feel like staying outside to watch the leaves fall from the trees.
So we're off to the museums, galleries and art foundations of Paris and the Île-de-France region to enjoy the treasures they have to offer. Paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos, installations: the options are almost endless! Yes, even on a tight budget...
If you feel like getting out to enjoy the capital's artistic scene without breaking the bank, you're in the right place: we've rounded up some lovely free exhibitions to see this fall 2026. There's no excuse to stay home on the couch: lace up your shoes and go check out these current exhibitions!
Street Art Madeleine II, the free exhibition featuring more than 100 artists at the Madeleine Church
The free Street Art Madeleine II exhibition takes over the crypt of the Church of La Madeleine in Paris, from October 1 to 11, 2026. More than 100 street artists and nearly 200 original works come together underground to celebrate the release of Codex Urbanus’s Petit Atlas du Street Art. [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]
Women sculptors honored in Prune Nourry's Visionaries exhibition at the Petit Palais
Artist Prune Nourry is set to spotlight forgotten women sculptors in the history of art with an exhibition at the Petit Palais, running from October 20, 2026 to January 24, 2027. [Read more]
Art Shopping 2026: the autumn edition of the contemporary art fair at the Carrousel du Louvre
The Art Shopping fair is held at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, from October 23 to 25, 2026, for its autumn edition. Find out what's on. [Read more]
A free, immersive exhibit explores the 1867 Universal Exhibition and the evolution of photography in Paris
Dive into the heart of the 1867 World's Fair through the lens of photography, from November 25, 2026, to February 22, 2027. Experience this engaging and free exhibit at the National Archives, offering an immersive journey into this historic event. [Read more]
And if you’ve got a bit of cash to spare this autumn, take a look at the season’s program of exhibitions to discover in Paris and in the Île-de-France region. And of course, find all our great outing tips for autumn 2026!
Autumn 2026 exhibitions to visit in Paris and Île-de-France
Are you in Paris this autumn? Then take a moment to explore the standout exhibitions taking place in Paris from September 22 to December 20, 2026. Expect spectacular lineups—take a look at the program! [Read more]
Going out in Paris without breaking the bank? It’s possible! And to prove it, we’re unveiling the free events waiting for you this autumn 2026 in the Île-de-France region. To make the most of these tips, follow the guide! [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From September 22, 2026 to December 20, 2026
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Autumn 2026 exhibitions to visit in Paris and Île-de-France
Autumn 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France: free outings and activities to enjoy this season
