Free exhibitions: the can't-miss art picks this autumn 2026 in Paris

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!

Free exhibitions to check out this autumn:

A Wider Gaze - FOTODOK x Atelier Néerlandais: Free exhibition of contemporary artists
Sponsored - At the invitation of the Embassy of the Netherlands in France, FOTODOK will present the group exhibition A Wider Gaze at the Atelier Néerlandais during Paris Photo week. Through their work, the artists explore the question: What does it mean to be European today? Admission to the exhibition is free. [Read more]

Around the World: The 1867 World’s Fair Comes to Life in 3D at the National Archives
The National Archives are presenting Crossing the World, a free exhibition on the 1867 World’s Fair and photography. At the Hôtel de Soubise, original documents and 3D viewers bring this vanished Parisian event back to life. [Read more]

Warhol, Basquiat and Haring: a free exhibition at Opera Gallery Paris
Opera Gallery brings together Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring in An Artistic Friendship. Works by the three artists offer a chance to rediscover their worlds and their ties to 1980s New York. [Read more]

DIE & RETRY: a free-to-play exhibition at the Magasins Généraux in Pantin
At the Magasins Généraux, DIE & RETRY turns the visit into a role-playing game with performers. Observe a fictional family, interact with them, or change the scenario: Angels Front explores our reactions to images and digital manipulation. [Read more]

Harry Gruyaert: a free photography exhibition at the Leica Gallery in Paris
The Leica Gallery Paris presents Theater of Color, an exhibition dedicated to Harry Gruyaert. From street scenes to landscapes, his photographs explore the interplay of light and the contrasts woven through everyday life. [Read more]

Pierre et Gilles: a free exhibition in Paris to mark 50 years of the duo
Pierre et Gilles celebrate fifty years of creative work at Galerie Templon Beaubourg with Rose for You, Rose for Me. Around twenty recent portraits blend photography and painting, including Camille Cottin as Lady Macbeth. [Read more]

Coming Together: a free photography exhibition at the Fondation Francès in Clichy
The Fondation Francès presents Faire Corps in Clichy, a photographic exhibition devoted to the body. Diane Arbus, Nan Goldin and Dorothea Lange feature in this exploration of portraits and human stories. [Read more]

Brisure: Gérard Garouste exhibits paintings and sculptures at Galerie Templon.
Templon Gallery presents Brisure, a collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures created by Gérard Garouste over the past four years. The exhibition is on view at the gallery’s space on rue du Grenier-Saint-Lazare, in the Marais district. [Read more]

Maya Hayuk: a free, colorful exhibition at Carré de Baudouin
Envergure(s) – Wingspan(s) will bring studio painting into dialogue with mural works at the Carré de Baudouin. An exhibition by Maya Hayuk exploring color, textile patterns and space. [Read more]

Lee Krasner: A free exhibition of her paintings at Gagosian in Paris
Gagosian brings together paintings and works on paper by Lee Krasner in Works from the 1960s. An exhibition devoted to a decade of work by this leading figure in American abstraction. [Read more]

Dan Flavin at Le Bourget: Nine Light Works Brought Together at Gagosian
The Gagosian gallery in Le Bourget brings together the nine works in European Couples, a series by Dan Flavin that transforms space through light and color. Fluorescent tubes, open squares and an installation to experience as a whole. [Read more]

José Castillo: the free exhibition Improbable Archipelago at the Maison de l’Amérique latine
La Maison de l’Amérique latine is devoting an exhibition to José Castillo, a Dominican artist based in Paris. In Archipel improbable, paintings, collages, objects and photographs reveal the images and cultures that run through his work. [Read more]

Who Lives Here? A Free Photo Exhibition on the Pont Saint-Ange in Paris
On the railings of Saint-Ange Bridge, Who Lives Here? offers an open-air photographic trail. The Contemporary Art Fund – Paris Collections brings together 51 reproductions here, inviting visitors to see the city and its residents in a different light. [Read more]

Cassini Map: The Free Exhibition at the National Archives in the Marais District
At the National Archives, the exhibition Cassini’s Map of France looks back at how this map of the country was made in the 18th century. Original documents, instruments and precious editions reveal this scientific adventure at the Hôtel de Soubise. [Read more]

Photo Days 2026: the contemporary photography festival takes over Paris this fall
Photo Days is the artsy event not to miss in Paris this fall. Join us from November 2 to 30, 2026, to discover the various exhibitions and events taking place at Parisian institutions and galleries. [Read more]

An alternative night out at the Naval Museum: a free late-night event exploring the depths
The National Maritime Museum is opening its collections and the exhibition The Call of the Deep free of charge on November 5, 2026. The program for this Contre-soirée includes slam poetry, linocut printing, a DJ set, and interpretation sessions around the artworks. [Read more]

Sax’s free street art exhibition is unveiled at the Fondation Eugène Napoléon
The free exhibition “Empreintes” by street artist SAX takes over the Fondation Eugène Napoléon, a little-known landmark in Paris’s 12th arrondissement, from October 29 to November 1, 2026. We got a sneak preview: take a look inside. [Read more]

The Bombasphères exhibition returns to Paris with more than 60 street artists
A new and second edition of the Bombasphères art fair! For its return to Paris, the event is doubling up and taking place in two stages, with the first part scheduled at a bar in the city center on December 5, 6 and 13, 2026. Here’s more about this second edition of the Bombasphères art fair, which is expected to welcome more than 60 street artists. [Read more]

Jeanne Marcel: Landscapes, Flowers and Beach Scenes at the Galerie du Vert Galant — Last Few Days
Artist Jeanne Marcel brings together 25 paintings and a selection of 70 watercolors at the Galerie du Vert Galant, in Paris’s 1st arrondissement, from October 23 to 30, 2026. Titled “Les Tableaux de Jeanne,” the exhibition features landscapes, flowers and beach scenes. [Read more]

Licea: a free solo exhibition by the street artist at a gallery in Paris’s 10th arrondissement
A painter, illustrator and muralist, French artist Licea is taking over the Nature Forte gallery this fall. Visit from November 6 to 21, 2026, to discover her new solo exhibition, “On the Edge of Our Memories: When Fragments of Urban Life Take Root in Wild Memory,” free of charge. [Read more]

Free castles and museums in the 78 this Sunday, November 1, 2026, the first Sunday of the month
Museums and monuments in the Yvelines are opening their doors to us for free on the first Sunday of the month. This Sunday, November 1, 2026, several cultural sites in the 78 are free to visit. Here’s a rundown of the deals to snap up. [Read more]

The 2026 Great Made in France Exhibition: free entry to the Élysée this weekend – dates
Would you like to visit the Élysée Palace for free? On November 21 and 22, 2026, the Grande Exposition du Fabriqué en France returns, with 104 products to discover in the presidential reception rooms. A rare opportunity to add to your calendar! [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]

At 19M, this free fashion exhibition unveils the secrets behind Maison Michel’s hats.
Behind a beret, a boater, or a capeline lie hours of work and skills handed down through generations. From September 23 to December 13, 2026, the 19M will host a free exhibition dedicated to Maison Michel, inviting the public to discover the behind-the-scenes of hatmaking. [Read more]

Théo Mercier and Thomas Houseago: the two artists on show at Reiffers Art Initiatives – our photos
Reiffers Art Initiatives shines a spotlight on a new duo of contemporary artists. Head to Paris’s 17th arrondissement to discover the singular artistic worlds of British sculptor Thomas Houseago and French artist Théo Mercier in a free joint exhibition not to be missed, running from October 23 to December 12, 2026. [Read more]

Bowie – Inspiration, Fascination, Génération: a free exhibition at the Halle des Blancs Manteaux
David Bowie would have turned 80 in 2027. To mark the occasion, a host of events have been announced in the United States and Europe. In the capital, tributes to the visionary artist are getting under way a little early with a free, one-of-a-kind group exhibition at the Blancs Manteaux. Titled “Bowie – Inspiration, Fascination, Generation,” the installation invites contemporary artists to engage freely with the legacy David Bowie left behind. Here’s more. [Read more]

Free castles and museums in Seine-et-Marne (77) this Sunday, November 1, 2026, the first Sunday of the month
This first Sunday of the month, which is a public holiday, several châteaux, museums and monuments in Seine-et-Marne are opening their doors for free. Here’s our pick of free things to do in the department this Sunday, November 1, 2026. [Read more]

ImageNation Paris 2026: 6 photography exhibitions and 300 photographers in the Marais
Sponsored - In the heart of the Marais, amid the excitement of Paris Photo, ImageNation Paris 2026 celebrates 200 years of photography with an international exhibition bringing together more than 300 artists and perspectives from around the world, from November 13 to 15, 2026. [Read more]

Art Basel 2026: the audiovisual installation by Gener8ion to see through Friday evening
As part of the latest edition of Art Basel Paris, the duo Gener8ion is taking over the Grand Palais with a brand-new audiovisual installation, free to see in the Rotonde d’Antin. Please note that, due to a new protest planned in the capital this Saturday, the Paris landmark will ultimately be closed this weekend, and Art Basel has been canceled for October 24 and 25. Gener8ion’s experience can therefore be seen until Friday evening. [Read more]

Sow Our Resistances: A freely accessible, advocacy-focused exhibition to explore at the Maif Social Club
Contemporary artists envision fairer, more sustainable futures through the exhibition Semons nos résistances. Free to visit at the Maif Social Club from October 17, 2026 to July 24, 2027. [Read more]

Art Basel Paris 2026: Alice Diop and Miu Miu Take Over the Palais d’Iéna — Performance Schedule
On the occasion of Art Basel Paris 2026, Miu Miu takes over the Palais d’Iéna with Geste de Consolation, Alice Diop’s first solo exhibition, running from October 21 to 25. A free event at the crossroads of disciplines, where genres mingle. Discover the program of readings and performances. [Read more]

Art Basel 2026: a quirky menagerie settles in at the Petit Palais, the free exhibition unfolds
The Petit Palais hosts a free, offbeat contemporary art exhibition from October 20 to 25, 2026, as part of Art Basel Paris’s off-site programming. Dash over to discover these adorable works! [Read more]

Art Basel Paris 2026: Contemporary artworks line Winston Churchill Avenue
Winston Churchill Avenue—the artery that separates the Petit and Grand Palais—will become an open-air museum from October 20 to 25, 2026, as part of Art Basel Paris’ artistic program. Discover this year’s selected works on an unconventional stroll. [Read more]

Art Basel 2026: an installation exploring memory at the Chapelle des Petits-Augustins in Paris
La Chapelle des Petits-Augustins des Beaux-Arts de Paris participates in the 2026 edition of Art Basel Paris, presenting a free, off-site installation that the public can explore at will from October 20 to 25, 2026. [Read more]

Art Basel 2026: a free installation that blends art and nature at Square Jean Perrin in Paris
In front of the Grand Palais and the Palais de la Découverte, Jean Perrin Square welcomes contemporary art enthusiasts from October 20 to 25, 2026. An installation from the Art Basel fair by Lionel Sabatté awaits visitors. [Read more]

Art Basel 2026: Monumental statues on the Parvis des Droits de l'Homme in Paris
The forecourt of the Rights of Man, at Trocadéro Square, hosts works by artist Tracey Emin as part of Art Basel's off-site exhibition program in Paris. Free to view from October 14 to November 1, 2026. [Read more]

Art Basel 2026: Robert Indiana unveils his Love Wall on Place Clémenceau in Paris
On Place Clémenceau in Paris, between the Champs-Élysées and Avenue Winston Churchill, a work by artist Robert Indiana is on view for the public to discover freely from October 20 to 25, 2026, as part of Art Basel's program. [Read more]

Art Basel 2026: a temporary installation free to visit at the Jardin de la Nouvelle-France
The Jardin de la Nouvelle-France hosts an artistic installation as part of Art Basel Paris's off-site program. Discover the work of Boz Deseo Garden from October 20 to 25, 2026. [Read more]

Palais de Tokyo offers free admission on October 21 and 22, 2026: new exhibitions to discover
Palais de Tokyo opens its new exhibitions for free on Wednesday, October 21, from noon to 10 p.m., and on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m. No advance booking required—discover the season “Tous les feux, les fleurs” ahead of a public vernissage on Thursday evening starting at 9 p.m. [Read more]

Free street-art festival at La Poste du Louvre 2026: the program
The street art and contemporary art festival at La Poste du Louvre is returning for its fourth edition, free of charge, from November 14 to 22, 2026 in the 1st arrondissement. It features a 350-square-meter exhibition, live painting in the courtyard, and opportunities to meet the artists. Here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]

Martin Parr at Saint Laurent: the free photo exhibition where self-deprecating humor takes center stage
British photographer Martin Parr flips the script and aims the lens at himself at Saint Laurent Montaigne in Paris. From October 15, 2026 to January 13, 2027, the Autoportrait exhibition gathers his most offbeat souvenir images, from costumes to kitschy sets and neatly framed self-deprecation. [Read more]

Photo exhibition: “The Poetics of Photography” by Mark Heier at Studio Harcourt
Sponsored - On the occasion of Photography Week, from November 2 to 14, 2026 in Paris, and in dialogue with Paris Photo, the prestigious Studio Harcourt will host a solo exhibition and the launch of the art book "Paris1: The Poetics of Photography" by photographer Mark Heier. Free admission! [Read more]

Mungo Thomson — Monument : Bronze-wrapped packaging and a candle film at Lafayette Anticipations
Monument, Mungo Thomson’s new exhibition at Lafayette Anticipations in Paris (October 21–November 29, 2026), transforms everyday objects and images into sculptures and films. In the courtyard, bronze-wrapped packaging competes with a stop-motion film made from thousands of candles taken from books. A quirky, offbeat take on what we choose to keep that invites you to go and see it. [Read more]

Hélène Fauquet: Vivresse — bubbles, shells and photography at Lafayette Anticipations — our photos
Hélène Fauquet presents Vivresse, a photography and sculpture exhibition on the top floor of Lafayette Anticipations in Paris, running from October 21, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Straddling the line between image and object, her work questions perception, materiality, and the transformation of forms — a visit that invites viewers to see the surroundings and their motifs in a new light. [Read more]

Yu Nishimura: the Towards the Sea exhibition at Lafayette Anticipations
Japanese artist Yu Nishimura presents the exhibition Towards the Sea at Lafayette Anticipations in Paris, from October 21, 2026 to January 3, 2027. This first institutional solo exhibition in France brings together around fifty works focused on landscape, memory, and the sea. [Read more]

Prune Nourry’s Exhibition at the Petit Palais: Visionaries, 18 Overlooked Women Sculptors Reveal Themselves
The free exhibition Visionaries by Prune Nourry lands at the Petit Palais in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, running from October 20, 2026 to January 24, 2027: eighteen monumental busts restore the faces of the forgotten women sculptors in art history. [Read more]

Open studios from Antwerp to Abbesses: meet the Montmartre artists
Dust off your calendars—you're invited to meet the artists from the Anvers Association at Abbesses, from November 20 to 23, 2026. These free open-door days are a perfect chance to discover contemporary artists in the Montmartre district. [Read more]

The creator of Mimi Cracra takes center stage in an exhibition at the BnF François-Mitterrand
Mimi Cracra, The Wacky Alphabet: Meet author-illustrator Agnès Rosenstiehl, the artist who has captivated generations with her stories. The BnF François-Mitterrand is hosting a free retrospective exhibition from November 3, 2026 to January 25, 2027. [Read more]

Outsider Paris 2026: the outsider art fair takes over the Bastille Design Center in Paris
Outsider' Paris, the Brut Art Fair, returns with a brand-new edition at the Bastille Design Center, from October 20 to 25, 2026. A free event for art lovers and the curious about Paris. [Read more]

At the Edge of Imagination: a free exhibition blending art and ecology at the Pavillon Vendôme
The Clichy-la-Garenne Art Centre unveils "Aux frontières de l'imaginaire," a contemporary art exhibition free to visit from 14 October 2026 to 9 January 2027 at Pavillon Vendôme. [Read more]

"The Emerald Routes, a historical exhibition at the School of Jewelry Arts"
The School of Jewelry Arts guides us along emerald routes, presenting an exhibition dedicated to the green gemstone. Free to visit by reservation, from December 4, 2026 to June 13, 2027. [Read more]

Mondriaan Fund x Atelier Néerlandais: The Space Between Breaths, new exhibition by contemporary artists
Sponsored - During Art Basel Week Paris, the Mondriaan Fund and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Paris present “The Space between Breaths” at the Atelier Néerlandais, a showcase of contemporary Dutch artists under the artistic direction of Julia Geerlings. Admission is free. [Read more]

KHADI : a CANVAS, the free exhibition on Indian art and craftsmanship
Sponsored - KHADI : a CANVAS is an exhibition that probes the ongoing dialogue between khadi, art, and India's cultural heritage, weaving in the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Raja Ravi Varma. Don’t miss it—it's right in the heart of Paris, in the 7th arrondissement. Best of all, admission is free. [Read more]

Art Basel Paris 2026: a free exhibition of art and design by Charles Zana in an 18th‑century venue
On the occasion of Art Basel Paris 2026, architect and designer Charles Zana opens the doors to his new Paris venue with Something Else, an exhibition that blends art, furniture, and installations, to be showcased from October 21 to 25, 2026. [Read more]

Live painting by Clément Herrmann at the Goldshteyn Saatort Gallery
L'artiste Clément Herrmann invites you to a Live Painting session using used spray cans at the Goldshteyn Saatort gallery, in Paris's 7th arrondissement, on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. From 2:00 PM to 6:45 PM, the artist will transform his studio waste into canvases for creation. [Read more]

Spark of Life: a light-painting photography exhibition in Fontenay-aux-Roses
Photographer Rudy Pilarski turns the night into a workshop for creation with Spark of Life at Espace Rosa Bonheur in Fontenay-aux-Roses, running November 12 to December 6, 2026. A light-painting exhibition where glowing circles and bursts of sparks meet landscapes and architecture. [Read more]

We, the Grotesques: Guillermo Forchino's free exhibition at Galerie Joseph
The Joseph Gallery, in the Marais district of Paris, is hosting "Noi, i Grotteschi," a free exhibition bringing together 124 sculptures by Guillermo Forchino, from November 6 to 29, 2026. A retrospective that spans four decades of work, blending human comedy, biting humor, and a look at the fragilities of our society. [Read more]

The Centre Pompidou Francilien is hosting three free weekends ahead of its grand opening.
Before we can enjoy the Centre Pompidou Francilien in Massy, opening in spring 2027, the art venue invites us to enjoy three weekends of free programming in October. [Read more]

Jean Marquis, chronicler of everyday life: the free exhibition unfolds at the Roger Viollet Gallery
French photographer Jean Marquis is featured at the Roger-Viollet Gallery, from October 8, 2026 to January 23, 2027: come discover the poetic and moving body of work of a true lover of everyday life. [Read more]

Cabaret(s): a free photo exhibition at Temple Square
Until December 18, 2026, the railings of Temple Square in Paris host Cabaret(s) – The History of a Living Transmission. A free photo exhibition exploring the history and forms of the French cabaret. [Read more]

Cofee: the street artist presents "Anima", a free, solo exhibition in Paris – our photos
This fall, street artist Cofee takes over a small gallery in Paris's 4th arrondissement to present his new solo exhibition. Entitled "Anima," this free installation features around twenty original works to be admired for four days only, from Thursday, October 8 to Sunday, October 11, 2026. [Read more]

Nature Forte: the collective exhibition that brings together paintings, drawings, photographs and sculptures in Paris
Nature Forte Gallery, located in Paris’s 10th arrondissement, opens its doors to a collective, multidisciplinary exhibition. Free to visit from October 8 to 31, 2026, the installation will showcase, for the occasion, the works of around ten artists around the gallery’s featured theme. [Read more]

Viktoriia Oreshko's free exhibition opens at Sisley in Paris — review and photos
In Paris, the Sisley headquarters will exceptionally open its doors to the public for a free exhibition from October 13 to November 13, 2026. Awarded the 7th Sisley x Beaux-Arts de Paris Prize for Young Creation, Viktoriia Oreshko presents Le Monde des Choses, an unveiling of previously unseen paintings shaped by her memories of Kyiv, everyday objects, and the memory of places. [Read more]

Miyagi Atelier Selection Exhibition: The Excellence of Japanese Craftsmanship
Sponsored - On Monday, October 26, in Paris, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the exhibition "Miyagi Atelier Selection" will be held, showcasing a variety of artisans from Miyagi, a region in northern Japan. Admission is free. [Read more]

Teenage Dream: Le Quai de la Photo explores adolescence in a free photography exhibition
Friends, romances, sports, music, school... Adolescence comes into focus in a free photo exhibition at Quai de la Photo, running from October 16 to December 21, 2026. [Read more]

Architecture Days 2026: video mapping, tours and exhibitions at the Cité de l'Architecture
For the National Architecture Days in Paris, the unmissable Cité de l’Architecture presents a program of video mapping, workshops, exhibitions and guided tours from October 15 to 18, 2026. [Read more]

150th Anniversary Expo and StreetArt Denfert: the massive free street-art exhibition unfolds.
The 150th Expo and StreetArt Denfert reveal themselves in the former Zara store at Denfert-Rochereau, Paris 14th arrondissement. We caught a sneak preview of this enormous, free street-art exhibition, on offer from October 3 to 25, 2026. Note that access requires free registration—book your tickets now! [Read more]

Jean Faucheur: the urban artist showcases 200 of his drawings in Paris's 13th arrondissement
Considered one of the pioneers of urban art in France, Jean Faucheur is being honored this autumn by the Mathgoth gallery. The exhibition runs until October 24, 2026, offering a chance to discover Jean Faucheur's latest show. Titled "à suivre", the installation features 200 drawings created since 2022, highlighting the breadth of his styles and practices. [Read more]

Pop Art Car 2.0: a free exhibition blending pop art, design and digital culture on the Champs-Élysées
Sponsored - From September 24, 2026 to January 31, 2027, pop art car 2.0 takes over Renault’s showcase on the Champs-Élysées, at 53 Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris. With a mix of historical works, never-before-seen digital pieces and automobiles, this free exhibition brings together artists Sébastien Preschoux, Popay, Victor Vasarely and Julio Le Parc. Not to mention the all-new show car, the Renault 8 Gordini Concept, unveiled in a world premiere. [Read more]

Exploring Magic: our photos from the free exhibition with mystical overtones at the Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery
Myths and folklore from the five continents converge in a free collective exhibition at the Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery in Paris, running from September 25 to November 25, 2026. Titled Exploring Magic, the show brings together artists from around the world, including Ito Chieko, Asuka Irie, and Fin DAC. [Read more]

Street Art Madeleine II relocates and expands, becoming Street Art Denfert on 800 m2.
Free street-art exhibition Street Art Madeleine II leaves the crypt beneath La Madeleine church and becomes StreetArt Denfert to team up with the Expo des 150! On its floor, around a hundred Île-de-France artists will be showcased in the former Zara store at Denfert-Rochereau, Paris’s 14th arrondissement, from October 3 to 25, 2026. We’ve got all the details, and above all, remember to snag your free tickets! [Read more]

U2: An Irish Story, the exhibition marking the 50th anniversary of Bono's band at the Irish Cultural Centre
This fall, U2 turns 50. To mark the occasion, the Irish Cultural Centre in Paris presents a free exhibition centered on the legendary band fronted by Bono and its unbreakable bond with Dublin and its homeland. Save the date: September 23 to December 18, 2026, to discover this exclusive event. [Read more]

Ritz Paris: a free exhibition by 18 young photographers for Paris Photo 2026
On the occasion of Paris Photo 2026, the Ritz Paris will host, from November 13 to 16, a free exhibition imagined in collaboration with Gobelins Paris. Eighteen students in Photo-Vidéo deliver an unprecedented view of the palace on Place Vendôme. [Read more]

Open studios of the artists in Pré-Saint-Gervais 2026: weekend program
The artist studios of Le Pré Saint-Gervais open their doors to the public for an unmissable 15th edition, themed "The Day Breaks." Come meet around a hundred artists and discover Le Pré Saint-Gervais, its street art, and its exhibitions during the weekend of September 26–27, 2026. [Read more]

Open studios in Ménilmontant: meet the artists of the 20th arrondissement
Les Ateliers de Ménilmontant open their doors to the general public from September 24 to 27, 2026: come meet painters, sculptors, photographers, engravers, ceramicists, illustrators, visual artists, and video artists from Paris’s 20th arrondissement through this arts festival. Discover the program for the 35th edition. [Read more]

This free exhibition reveals the Playmobil archives in Paris.
They have populated castles, pirate ships and police stations for decades. The archives of this famous figurine brand arrive at Hôtel Drouot today for an exhibition and an unprecedented auction running from September 23 to 26, 2026. [Read more]

Photo Doc. 2026 in Paris, the go-to event for documentary photography at the Hôtel de l'Industrie
The Hôtel de l’Industrie welcomes the new edition of the Photo Doc. international fair, running October 9–12, 2026. Don’t miss this must-attend rendezvous for enthusiasts of documentary photography in Paris. [Read more]

The Hôtel de la Marine balls: a calendar of upcoming dance events
Take a step back in time and attend an 18th- or 19th-century ball, with magical evenings held once a month at the Hôtel de la Marine. Here are the upcoming dance dates not to be missed in 2026 and 2027. [Read more]

Extraterrestrial Exhibition: when contemporary art meets space in Paris
The Space Observatory launches its contemporary art fair: from September 25 to 27, 2026, discover for free the unconventional Salon de l'extra-terrestre. [Read more]

The Carnavalet Museum marks its 160th anniversary with a weekend of free events.
The Carnavalet Museum marks its 160th anniversary with a fully free, festive weekend in the heart of the Marais, on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October 2026, featuring quirky tours, a nocturnal opening, and surprises for the whole family. [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 in Paris: the standout exhibitions to discover right now in Paris and Île-de-France
You’re in Paris this autumn? Then take a moment to discover the standout exhibitions staged in Paris and Île-de-France from September 22 to December 20, 2026. The region’s museums and art galleries are eagerly awaiting you. [Read more]

Autumn 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France: free outings and activities to enjoy this season
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]