April 2026 in the capital: free exhibitions in Paris and the Île-de-France region

Published by La Rédac · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Updated on October 15, 2025 at 07:14 p.m.
Pic-and-pic-and-collegram... It's not easy to choose the right outing to brighten up our month of April 2026. Fortunately, we've put together a short list of free exhibitions to see this month. A good deal for everyone!

You've heard the old saying: "In April, don't lose track of time". Well, we've got a new one for you: in April, in museums, you can't see the clock ticking! And with so many free exhibitions to see thisApril 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France, there's no doubt about it: you won't be bored for a second.

Time for rhymes is over, and now comes the hard part: which exhibition are you going to see first? It's not an easy choice, as there are so many to choose from! From fashion to science, photography to contemporary installations, open-air exhibitions to art galleries, museums to festivals... The options seem endless this month.

And yet, it's time to make a decision. So go ahead, make your selection from the list below. And don't be shy: these free exhibitions are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the wallet!

Free exhibitions to see in April 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France :

Le Château Ladoucette, un patrimoine historique de Seine-Saint-Denis Le Château Ladoucette, un patrimoine historique de Seine-Saint-Denis Le Château Ladoucette, un patrimoine historique de Seine-Saint-Denis Le Château Ladoucette, un patrimoine historique de Seine-Saint-Denis Anima Mundi: a free exhibit immerses visitors in a fantastical world at Ladoucette Castle
Artist Astrid de Geuser invites us into her Cabinet of Curiosities with her exhibition Anima Mundi, open to the public free of charge from February 21 to April 26, 2026, at Château de Ladoucette in Drancy. [Read more]

Exposition gratuite au Plaza Athénée : le bestiaire de Michel Bassompierre s'invite au palaceExposition gratuite au Plaza Athénée : le bestiaire de Michel Bassompierre s'invite au palaceExposition gratuite au Plaza Athénée : le bestiaire de Michel Bassompierre s'invite au palaceExposition gratuite au Plaza Athénée : le bestiaire de Michel Bassompierre s'invite au palace Free Exhibition at Plaza Athénée: Michel Bassompierre’s Menagerie Invades the Palace
The Plaza Athénée showcases Michel Bassompierre’s wildlife art with a free sculpture exhibition. Gorillas, bears, horses... running until April 16, 2026, this menagerie invites visitors to discover the wild side within the luxurious setting of the Avenue Montaigne palace. [Read more]

Sebastião Salgado au cœur d'une exposition de photos gratuite à l'Hôtel de Ville de Paris - fotor 1771520203762Sebastião Salgado au cœur d'une exposition de photos gratuite à l'Hôtel de Ville de Paris - fotor 1771520203762Sebastião Salgado au cœur d'une exposition de photos gratuite à l'Hôtel de Ville de Paris - fotor 1771520203762Sebastião Salgado au cœur d'une exposition de photos gratuite à l'Hôtel de Ville de Paris - fotor 1771520203762 Sebastião Salgado takes center stage in a free photography exhibition at Paris City Hall
Paris City Hall pays tribute to photographer Sebastião Salgado with a major exhibition, which will be open to the public free of charge from February 21 to May 30, 2026. [Read more]

Masterpiece and Love : exposition collective sur l’amour à la galerie Goldshteyn-Saatort à Paris - IMG 3977Masterpiece and Love : exposition collective sur l’amour à la galerie Goldshteyn-Saatort à Paris - IMG 3977Masterpiece and Love : exposition collective sur l’amour à la galerie Goldshteyn-Saatort à Paris - IMG 3977Masterpiece and Love : exposition collective sur l’amour à la galerie Goldshteyn-Saatort à Paris - IMG 3977 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]

Exposition Contraste et indifférence au Centre culturel canadien - nos photosExposition Contraste et indifférence au Centre culturel canadien - nos photosExposition Contraste et indifférence au Centre culturel canadien - nos photosExposition Contraste et indifférence au Centre culturel canadien - nos photos 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]

All Parts Of Us : Susanna Inglada en exposition au Drawing Lab à Paris - IMG 3728All Parts Of Us : Susanna Inglada en exposition au Drawing Lab à Paris - IMG 3728All Parts Of Us : Susanna Inglada en exposition au Drawing Lab à Paris - IMG 3728All Parts Of Us : Susanna Inglada en exposition au Drawing Lab à Paris - IMG 3728 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]

Une histoire photographique des femmes au XXe siècle, l'exposition photo de la galerie Roger-ViolletUne histoire photographique des femmes au XXe siècle, l'exposition photo de la galerie Roger-ViolletUne histoire photographique des femmes au XXe siècle, l'exposition photo de la galerie Roger-ViolletUne histoire photographique des femmes au XXe siècle, l'exposition photo de la galerie Roger-Viollet 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]

L'Hôtel de Soubise, un écrin remarquable pour les Archives nationales - fotor 1742900073302L'Hôtel de Soubise, un écrin remarquable pour les Archives nationales - fotor 1742900073302L'Hôtel de Soubise, un écrin remarquable pour les Archives nationales - fotor 1742900073302L'Hôtel de Soubise, un écrin remarquable pour les Archives nationales - fotor 1742900073302 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]

Dis quand reviendras-tu ? Barbara et son public, nos photos de l'exposition à la BnF François-Mitterrand  - Barbara Expo 7 fotor 2026012715484Dis quand reviendras-tu ? Barbara et son public, nos photos de l'exposition à la BnF François-Mitterrand  - Barbara Expo 7 fotor 2026012715484Dis quand reviendras-tu ? Barbara et son public, nos photos de l'exposition à la BnF François-Mitterrand  - Barbara Expo 7 fotor 2026012715484Dis quand reviendras-tu ? Barbara et son public, nos photos de l'exposition à la BnF François-Mitterrand  - Barbara Expo 7 fotor 2026012715484 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]

Fika Paris, le nouveau café de l'Institut SuédoisFika Paris, le nouveau café de l'Institut SuédoisFika Paris, le nouveau café de l'Institut SuédoisFika Paris, le nouveau café de l'Institut Suédois 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]

Paris visuel - Place VendômeParis visuel - Place VendômeParis visuel - Place VendômeParis visuel - Place Vendôme 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]

100% L'EXPO 2025 - IMG 2923100% L'EXPO 2025 - IMG 2923100% L'EXPO 2025 - IMG 2923100% L'EXPO 2025 - IMG 2923 100% THE 2026 EXPO: Dates and Schedule for the Free Contemporary Exhibition at La Villette
100% EXPO is a free, must-see artistic festival taking over the Grande Halle of La Villette from April 8 to 26, 2026. Showcasing a diverse lineup of emerging young artists just out of school, this exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the future of art. [Read more]

I love Sushi, nos photos de l'exposition à la Maison de la culture du JaponI love Sushi, nos photos de l'exposition à la Maison de la culture du JaponI love Sushi, nos photos de l'exposition à la Maison de la culture du JaponI love Sushi, nos photos de l'exposition à la Maison de la culture du Japon 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]

Erwin Wurm - Tomorrow yes : l'exposition gratuite à la galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, à Pantin (93)Erwin Wurm - Tomorrow yes : l'exposition gratuite à la galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, à Pantin (93)Erwin Wurm - Tomorrow yes : l'exposition gratuite à la galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, à Pantin (93)Erwin Wurm - Tomorrow yes : l'exposition gratuite à la galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, à Pantin (93) 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]

Jef Aérosol présente "Interstices", une exposition gratuite à découvrir dans le 13e à ParisJef Aérosol présente "Interstices", une exposition gratuite à découvrir dans le 13e à ParisJef Aérosol présente "Interstices", une exposition gratuite à découvrir dans le 13e à ParisJef Aérosol présente "Interstices", une exposition gratuite à découvrir dans le 13e à Paris 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]

Visuels musée et monument - Fondation EDFVisuels musée et monument - Fondation EDFVisuels musée et monument - Fondation EDFVisuels musée et monument - Fondation EDF 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]

Dans ses artères coule la vie à Fluctuart - nos photos - Fluctuart 3 fotor 2026011611185Dans ses artères coule la vie à Fluctuart - nos photos - Fluctuart 3 fotor 2026011611185Dans ses artères coule la vie à Fluctuart - nos photos - Fluctuart 3 fotor 2026011611185Dans ses artères coule la vie à Fluctuart - nos photos - Fluctuart 3 fotor 2026011611185 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]

Maison de la Photographie Robert Doisneau - Gentilly (94)Maison de la Photographie Robert Doisneau - Gentilly (94)Maison de la Photographie Robert Doisneau - Gentilly (94)Maison de la Photographie Robert Doisneau - Gentilly (94) 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]

Montgolfière à Fontainebleau, vol au dessus de l'Ile-de-France -  A7C9028Montgolfière à Fontainebleau, vol au dessus de l'Ile-de-France -  A7C9028Montgolfière à Fontainebleau, vol au dessus de l'Ile-de-France -  A7C9028Montgolfière à Fontainebleau, vol au dessus de l'Ile-de-France -  A7C9028 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]

ZEUS, le cheval métallique des JO exposé gratuitement au musée des Arts et Métiers - fotor 1765963680084ZEUS, le cheval métallique des JO exposé gratuitement au musée des Arts et Métiers - fotor 1765963680084ZEUS, le cheval métallique des JO exposé gratuitement au musée des Arts et Métiers - fotor 1765963680084ZEUS, le cheval métallique des JO exposé gratuitement au musée des Arts et Métiers - fotor 1765963680084 ZEUS, the iconic metal horse from the Olympics, on display for free at the Museum of Arts and Crafts in Paris
Zeus, the mechanical horse from the Olympic Games that captured everyone's hearts, has now arrived at the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris. The towering steel colossus is open to the public free of charge from December 17, 2025, to January 10, 2027. [Read more]

Quai de la Photo, un centre d'art flottant gratuit sur la SeineQuai de la Photo, un centre d'art flottant gratuit sur la SeineQuai de la Photo, un centre d'art flottant gratuit sur la SeineQuai de la Photo, un centre d'art flottant gratuit sur la Seine 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]

Eggxtraordinary 2026 exposition oeuf chocolatEggxtraordinary 2026 exposition oeuf chocolatEggxtraordinary 2026 exposition oeuf chocolatEggxtraordinary 2026 exposition oeuf chocolat Eggstraordinary: chocolatiers and artists celebrate the egg in an exhibition at the Joseph Gallery
Here's a unique exhibition to explore this Easter season. From April 3 to May 3, 2026, at the Joseph Gallery, master pastry chefs, chocolatiers, and artists come together to celebrate the egg and its symbols through the free event Eggxtraordinaire. [Read more]

Journées du Patrimoine 2022 à Paris : les secrets des Galeries Lafayette HaussmannJournées du Patrimoine 2022 à Paris : les secrets des Galeries Lafayette HaussmannJournées du Patrimoine 2022 à Paris : les secrets des Galeries Lafayette HaussmannJournées du Patrimoine 2022 à Paris : les secrets des Galeries Lafayette Haussmann 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]

Beyond our Horizons: de Tokyo à Paris, la nouvelle exposition gratuite à la Galerie du 19M - IMG 0371Beyond our Horizons: de Tokyo à Paris, la nouvelle exposition gratuite à la Galerie du 19M - IMG 0371Beyond our Horizons: de Tokyo à Paris, la nouvelle exposition gratuite à la Galerie du 19M - IMG 0371Beyond our Horizons: de Tokyo à Paris, la nouvelle exposition gratuite à la Galerie du 19M - IMG 0371 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]

Exposition 'Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l’art contemporain coréen' au Centre Culturel Coréen - les photos - A7C09793Exposition 'Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l’art contemporain coréen' au Centre Culturel Coréen - les photos - A7C09793Exposition 'Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l’art contemporain coréen' au Centre Culturel Coréen - les photos - A7C09793Exposition 'Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l’art contemporain coréen' au Centre Culturel Coréen - les photos - A7C09793 Colors of Korea: free contemporary art exhibition at the Korean Cultural Center in Paris, photos
The Korean Cultural Center unveils the exhibition "Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l'art contemporain coréen", on the occasion of the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Korea, from October 24, 2025 to August 29, 2026. This free exhibition presents a unique immersion in Korean art, illustrating the work of 34 artists who blend tradition and innovation through the power of color. [Read more]

Le rêve cette autre part : l'exposition onirique à la Fondation Pernod RicardLe rêve cette autre part : l'exposition onirique à la Fondation Pernod RicardLe rêve cette autre part : l'exposition onirique à la Fondation Pernod RicardLe rêve cette autre part : l'exposition onirique à la Fondation Pernod Ricard 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]

Voir la mer : une exposition gratuite qui montre un monde chaviré au Maif Social Club - fotor 1759916443248Voir la mer : une exposition gratuite qui montre un monde chaviré au Maif Social Club - fotor 1759916443248Voir la mer : une exposition gratuite qui montre un monde chaviré au Maif Social Club - fotor 1759916443248Voir la mer : une exposition gratuite qui montre un monde chaviré au Maif Social Club - fotor 1759916443248 Voir la mer: a free contemporary exhibition at the Maif Social Club - photos
Contemporary artists draw inspiration from the oceans to create original works, sometimes amusing, sometimes disturbing... Come and discover the Voir la mer exhibition, presented at the Maif Social Club from October 11, 2025 to July 25, 2026. [Read more]

visuel Paris visuel  -  palais royal - colonnes de burenvisuel Paris visuel  -  palais royal - colonnes de burenvisuel Paris visuel  -  palais royal - colonnes de burenvisuel Paris visuel  -  palais royal - colonnes de buren Acne Paper Palais Royal: the permanent (art) gallery for the Acne Studios brand opens in Paris
Paris mixes fashion and culture in style! On June 26, 2025, Acne Studios opened its first independent art gallery, Acne Paper Palais Royal, under the arcades of the Palais Royal. An arty new spot in the heart of the 1st arrondissement. [Read more]

L'Esquisse, le nouvel Hôtel culturel de Barbizon à la fois café et Musée gratuitL'Esquisse, le nouvel Hôtel culturel de Barbizon à la fois café et Musée gratuitL'Esquisse, le nouvel Hôtel culturel de Barbizon à la fois café et Musée gratuitL'Esquisse, le nouvel Hôtel culturel de Barbizon à la fois café et Musée gratuit L'Esquisse, Barbizon's new cultural hotel, both café and free museum
L'Esquisse is a fusion of hotel, café and free museum. We're off to Barbizon, the famous artists' village, to take advantage of this new spot that combines large, charming rooms, a great café by the fireplace and a free museum honoring the artists who have influenced Barbizon around the world. [Read more]

Have you made your choice? Let's go, the exhibitions are waiting for you! Don't hesitate to come back and consult this guide, which is regularly updated with the latest news.

Art fans know that to discover the best exhibitions to see in Paris every month, you have to read Sortiraparis.com!

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From April 1, 2026 to April 30, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Prices
    Free

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