May is definitely our favorite month: it’s the third public holiday this month! Lots of lucky people will spend less time at the office and more time in the museums. This Thursday, May 14, 2026, it’s the Ascension Thursday. In other words: it’s a holiday! Some even have an extra day off: if you take the bridge this Friday, you’ll enjoy a long weekend, perfect for having fun and winding down.
With all these extra days off, we've got plenty of time to get out and discover all the latest events. And when we see the program of museums in Paris and theIle-de-France region, we already know how we're going to spend our free time over the Ascension weekend!
Provided museums are, of course, open on this public holiday. The good news is that nearly all art and culture venues stay accessible to the public on May 14, 2026. The question, rather, is where you won’t be able to go. To that end, let’s review the list of cultural sites that close on this Ascension Day.
Museums and monuments closed this Thursday, May 14, 2026, Ascension Thursday:
Center Pompidou: prices, opening hours, access... All you need to know about the Musée d'Art Moderne
The Centre Pompidou, a museum of modern and contemporary art in the heart of Paris, awaits you every day (except Tuesdays) for a plunge into art in all its forms. Explore its history and exhibitions, and immerse yourself in the artistic universe of one of the world's most visited museums! [Read more]
The Nissim de Camondo Museum is currently closed for renovations, with plans to reopen in early 2027.
The Nissim de Camondo Museum is getting a makeover! From August 4, 2024, until early 2027, the Parisian museum will be closed for renovations. [Read more]
La Monnaie de Paris: an unusual cultural and historical institution in Paris
Do you know how coins are made in France? Come and find out by visiting the Monnaie de Paris, the institution that teaches us more about the history of silver and the minting of medals, in a place steeped in history. [Read more]
The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature in Paris: an exploration of the human-animal relationship
Nestled in the Marais district of Paris, the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature offers a unique insight into hunting, nature and the complex relationship between man and animal. This unusual museum invites visitors to discover an exceptional collection, while encouraging reflection on our relationship with flora and fauna. [Read more]
The Musée de la Carte à jouer, a unique collection dedicated to our card games, in Issy (92).
Just south of Paris, in Issy-des-Moulineaux (92), you'll find a museum that's unique in France: the Musée de la Carte à jouer, a cultural venue devoted entirely to card games, from the first models to appear in the 15th century, right up to the present day. [Read more]
So the good news is that this Thursday, and throughout the long weekend, almost all museums and monuments are open! So, where do we go and what do we do? It's up to you to decide: a multitude ofexhibitions and outings are on offer. Need help choosing? Take a look at our selection.
May 2026 exhibitions: this month’s art program in Paris and Île-de-France
What’s worth seeing in May 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France? The lineup of standout exhibitions is arriving, promising fresh discoveries across the capital’s museums and monuments. Choose your next cultural outing of the month. [Read more]
Le Paradox Museum Paris unveils five new immersive experiences alongside a Hans & Gretel Café
Paradox Museum offers nearly a hundred immersive experiences—from trompe-l'œil illusions and optical tricks to sensory overhauls—that await visitors in Paris. Get ready to be tricked and to snap surreal photos. Five new interactive installations have just been added to the journey, making it the perfect time to challenge your senses! And as a bonus, a brand-new, ultra-delicious café, Hans & Gretel, is ready to tempt you. [Read more]
Musée Picasso in Paris: prices, access, opening hours... All you need to know about the Paris museum
If you're a fan of Picasso's work, head to the Musée Picasso to discover the museum's permanent collections, as well as numerous exhibitions on the artist's world. History, access, opening hours, prices... We tell you everything you need to know about this beautiful Parisian museum! [Read more]
Hilma af Klint at the Grand Palais: an exhibition weaving together spiritualism, the occult, and abstraction
Hilma af Klint, the Swedish visionary artist and a pioneer of abstraction, anchors a groundbreaking show at the Grand Palais, in collaboration with the Centre Pompidou, from May 6 to August 30, 2026. Her mystic works, nourished by Spiritism and the occult, are unveiled in France for the first time in a curatorial journey that brings together almost the entire body of the Temple Paintings cycle, her magnum opus. [Read more]
A free permanent exhibition dedicated to the art of perfumery takes over a former Parisian theatre.
Set in a former theatre in the heart of Paris, just steps from the Opéra Garnier, Fragonard’s perfume house has reopened the doors to its Théâtre du Parfum, a historic museum dedicated to the art of perfumery. Here’s what to expect. [Read more]
Claude Monet in Paris: Where to Discover the Works of the Renowned Impressionist Painter in the Capital?
He is undoubtedly one of France’s most beloved painters: Claude Monet left behind a stunning collection of masterpieces, many of which you can admire in the city’s top museums. Follow the guide! [Read more]
Jardins des Lumières: an exhibition on the art of garden design at the Grand Trianon, Palace of Versailles
At the Grand Trianon of the Palace of Versailles, in Yvelines, the exhibition Jardins des Lumières (1750-1800) delves into the art of the landscape garden through nearly 160 works, including paintings, models, drawings, and furniture. Go see it from May 5 to September 27, 2026, and take the opportunity to explore the Trianon gardens and the Queen's Hamlet. [Read more]
Lafayette, bridging France and America: free exhibit on the Marquis at the National Archives
From April 1 to July 14, 2026, the National Archives will host a free exhibition dedicated to Marquis de Lafayette. Featuring rare documents, caricatures, and related artifacts, this exhibition traces the life of the "hero of two worlds" — a figure equally celebrated in the United States and debated within France, against the backdrop of revolutionary upheavals. [Read more]
Musée d'Orsay: booking, prices, free admission, tips and current exhibitions
Would you like to visit the Musée d'Orsay, one of Europe's most visited museums and home to the world's largest collection of Impressionist paintings? We'll be happy to give you all the tips and tricks you need, as well as the works to discover, the current exhibitions, and the rates and free admission available, so you can make the most of your visit in the best possible conditions. [Read more]
Exhibition "Sèvres, a Rothschild Passion" : a deep dive into the sumptuous collections of the famous family at the Mobilier National
Dive into the art of 18th-century Sèvres porcelain, and especially into the highly sought-after Rothschild family collections, with the exhibition Sèvres, a Rothschild passion, on view from April 17 to July 26, 2026 at the Mobilier national. [Read more]
Kazuo Kitai: the photographer’s humanist oeuvre on show at the Maison de la Culture du Japon
This spring, the Maison de la culture du Japon in Paris shines a spotlight on Kazuo Kitai, regarded as one of the great masters of postwar Japanese photography. Titled "Kazuo Kitai, In Praise of the Everyday," this exhibition unveils nearly 130 prints, documenting student protests, peasant resistance, and villages fated to disappear. On view from April 30 to July 25, 2026. [Read more]
Giovanni Segantini at the Marmottan Monet Museum: our photos from the exhibition on the painter of the Alps
The Marmottan Monet Museum in Paris shines a light on Giovanni Segantini, a master of Symbolism and Divisionism, with an exhibition focused on his Alpine landscapes, running from April 29 to August 16, 2026. More than 60 works on display invite visitors to rediscover a major Italian painter, immersed in nature, light and a spiritual quest. [Read more]
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]
Musée du Louvre: discover the artistic and tourist heart of the capital
The Musée du Louvre, one of the capital's must-see museums, promotes French and European culture through its many masterpieces on display, as evidenced by the 8 million visitors a year who come to contemplate the smile of the Mona Lisa or the fervor of Liberty Guiding the People. A place steeped in history, where art has been flourishing for two centuries already, to discover if you're staying in Paris! [Read more]
AURA INVALIDES, the must-see sound and light show in Paris
Looking for a unique nocturnal experience in Paris? Ready to be amazed and embark on a timeless journey to a legendary heritage site? Come and discover AURA INVALIDES, a sound and light show at the iconic Dôme des Invalides as night falls. A magical moment in the heart of the Dome, sure to delight young and old alike. [Read more]
Flops?! Dare to fail, dare to innovate: explore the after-hours exhibition before it ends at the Musée des Arts et Métiers.
The Museum of Arts and Crafts is exploring failure and its essential role in invention, through the quirky exhibition "Flops. Dare, Fail, Innovate," running from October 14, 2025, to May 17, 2026. Evening openings are planned from May 5 to May 16, 2026. [Read more]
Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris: programming, opening hours, history... All you need to know
The Musée de l'Orangerie is famous for Monet's Water Lilies. But the museum holds many other treasures... Here's everything you need to know to visit. [Read more]
The Château de Monte-Cristo, Alexandre Dumas' hidden and unusual home
Discover the Château de Monte-Cristo, the residence imagined by the writer Alexandre Dumas. Set in an English garden on the Saint-Germain-en-Laye side of the Yvelines region, this exuberantly styled 19th-century château and its small Château d'If (Yew Castle) are waiting to be discovered. We take you on a tour of this hidden heritage, listed as a historic monument. [Read more]
Château de Fontainebleau, the second home of the Kings of France
The Château de Fontainebleau invites you to discover its spaces and its history. Come and admire this superb château, with its medieval and classical styles, and its ornate gardens covering more than 130 hectares. [Read more]
The Château de Malmaison, from residence to museum
The Château de Malmaison, located in Rueil-Malmaison in the Hauts-de-Seine region of France, is now home to the Napoleonic National Museum. During the French Revolution, Josephine Bonaparte acquired the property and it became the Palais Impérial de Malmaison, transforming it into the seat of government for a time. [Read more]
The Château de Vaux le Vicomte and its gardens, a fabulous estate in Seine-et-Marne
The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, 50 km from Paris, is one of the jewels of the Île-de-France region: its beauty even inspired the Château de Versailles. Come and visit this French heritage treasure, and its gardens, which offer great walks and activities for children. [Read more]
Castles to Explore in Paris and Île-de-France: The Hidden Treasures of the Francilien Heritage
In the Paris region too, stunning castles await exploration! From regal royal residences and historic estates to centuries-old ruins, embark on a journey to uncover these treasures of heritage right in Paris and across Île-de-France! [Read more]
Discovering the Château d'Écouen, a Renaissance jewel and national museum
Discover the Château d'Écouen, home to the National Museum of the Renaissance, just 20 kilometers from Paris. Delve into the history of this remarkable site and marvel at its unique collections. [Read more]
A visit to the Château de Versailles and its program
The Château de Versailles, its gardens and grounds, are a world heritage site. The official residence of the kings of France, the Château de Versailles holds the record as the largest château in the world, and of course the most visited in France. [Read more]
The Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise, the Impressionist treasure and its program
Discover the Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise and its sublime English gardens. Throughout the year, exhibitions and events focusing on Impressionism await you. [Read more]
(Re)discover Royaumont Abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in Ile-de-France
Just north of Paris, in the Val d'Oise, stands the Abbaye de Royaumont, founded in 1228 by Saint Louis and his mother Blanche de Castille. This royal abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in the Île-de-France region, is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. With its listed buildings, Royaumont offers a fascinating insight into French medieval history. Many events now take place on the premises, and we take you on a journey of rediscovery. [Read more]
Château de Blandy-les-Tours, a medieval monument in a charming Seine-et-Marne village
The little-known Château de Blandy-les-Tours, located in the very center of a picturesque village in the Seine-et-Marne region, boasts a rich heritage that has spanned history, wars and centuries. A true medieval fortress that has been preserved to the present day, it is one of the most impressive castles in the Île-de-France region. We take you on a voyage of discovery. [Read more]
There's plenty to keep you busy this Ascension Bridge. So, where do we start?
Dates and Opening Time
On May 14, 2026
