In Paris, summer is synonymous with great deals and fantastic outdoor outings. After all, it's hard to resist the allure of beautiful weather! If your budget is a bit tight right now, this is the perfect time to save money and enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Yes, going out in Paris doesn’t always mean spending plenty — you just need to keep an eye out for the best deals.
If you're a fan of cultural outings and your curiosity for new experiences is insatiable, now’s the perfect time to explore free exhibitions this summer 2023 in Paris. It’s a perfect opportunity to enrich your knowledge without spending a cent! Whether alone or with friends and family, you’ll love this treasure hunt for great deals all across the city.
We’ve put together a curated list of completely free exhibitions waiting for you throughout the summer in Paris. And stay tuned: this guide will be regularly updated as we discover new events and receive fresh announcements. To make sure you don’t miss out on free cultural experiences in Paris, bookmark this page and check back often!
The Pont Neuf Cave: work on JR's giant installation begins in Paris
Starting this Monday, May 11, 2026, the Pont Neuf begins a transformation. JR has begun assembling La Caverne du Pont Neuf, a monumental installation that will turn Paris’s oldest bridge into a vast open-air immersive cave. Blending optical illusion, inflatable structures, and light shows, the artist promises a spectacular experience to be unveiled from June 6 to 28, 2026, inviting visitors to cross a temporary mineral fault at the heart of the capital. [Read more]
Free late hours at the Bourse de Commerce: the date of the next free museum night.
Want to explore the Bourse de Commerce’s collections? Take advantage of the free late opening, held on the first Saturday of each month, to discover this must-see art venue in Paris. Next date to put on your calendar: Saturday, July 4, 2026. [Read more]
Coastal Bodies: Camille Guichard's exhibition at the Rachel Hardouin Gallery
The Rachel Hardouin Gallery highlights Camille Guichard with Corps littoral, her first solo exhibition in Paris, running May 21 to June 21, 2026. Blending contemporary photography, poetic texts, bodies and the coastline, the artist examines our relationship with the living world. [Read more]
Forest Tales: Lélia Demoisy's exhibition at Domaine de Chamarande
Lélia Demoisy presents Tales from the Forests, a contemporary art exhibition at the Domaine départemental de Chamarande in the Essonne department, running from May 10 to August 30, 2026. The exhibition journey traverses the forest, living beings, and the memory of materials through sculptures and installations. [Read more]
Discover 20th‑century Paris by night in a free photo exhibition at the Roger-Viollet Gallery
Paris shines as much by day as by night: discover the capital's rich nocturnal life with the exhibition "Paris, Open All Night," free to visit from June 11 to October 3, 2026 at the Roger-Viollet Gallery. [Read more]
Prehistory, between utopia and reality: a free, family-friendly exhibition at the Collège de France
From April 29, 2026, the Collège de France takes visitors back to the Paleolithic era with a free exhibition open to the entire family. Spanning—from early Paleolithic masterpieces to pop culture icons—this unprecedented journey shows how humanity has continually reinvented its roots to better understand its present. [Read more]
This grand gathering of classic cars is back in a charming park in the Yvelines.
Le Vésinet hosts the 3rd edition of Vési-Rétro on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Parc des Ibis – Pelouse des Fêtes. Classic cars and prestige models gather there in a lush, welcoming setting. A day dedicated to vintage automobiles and discovery. [Read more]
The President of the Republic's Honorary Titles: a free exhibition at the Élysée Palace in Paris
At the Élysée, power wears its insignia rather than its rhetoric. With the free exhibition “The Honorary Titles of the President of the Republic,” on display from April 28 to June 27, 2026, it is the decorations of power that take center stage. [Read more]
Open-air exhibition of Theodoulos Gregoriou's sculptures in the Faubourg Saint-Honoré district
Faubourg Saint-Honoré is rewritten as an open-air gallery with a free, outdoor exhibition in Paris, where time is carved in layered strata. From April 28 to July 27, 2026, the sculptures by Cypriot artist Theodoulos Gregoriou for "Cyprus on Faubourg Saint-Honoré" invite memory and contemporary creation to converse in the heart of the 1st arrondissement, between reinvented ruins and today’s sculptural language. [Read more]
Sumo: a free exhibition exploring this ancient martial art at the Japanese Cultural Center
In conjunction with the Paris Sumo Tournament taking place in the capital this summer, the Maison de la Culture du Japon is mounting a free exhibition devoted to this ancient martial art. From June 9 to September 26, 2026, discover "Sumo, Sacred Forces," a photographic installation by Bruno Aveillan. [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]
Everyone’s looking for their cat: a street-art exhibition centered on felines at Fluctuart
"Everyone's Looking for Their Cat," is the name of the new free urban art exhibition to see at Fluctuart. Join us from May 7 to August 23, 2026 to admire the works by about ten street artists created around the famous feline. [Read more]
JACE, the street artist behind Gouzou, unveils his exhibition "Cœur Sensible" in Paris's 13th arrondissement.
Le street artiste Jace, known worldwide for his famous Gouzous, returns to Paris with a new solo exhibition in collaboration with the Mathgoth gallery. This time, the French urban artist takes over a 300-square-meter pop-up space in the 13th arrondissement to present his "Cœur Sensible." [Read more]
The Belle Époque under Prefect Lépine? : Free Exhibition at the Police Prefecture Museum
Until July 6, 2026, the Police Headquarters Museum is shedding light on Louis Lépine, an essential figure in Paris at the turn of the 20th century. Featuring an exclusive collection of 150 vintage postcards, this free exhibition delves into the media portrayal of the ever-present prefect—ranging from heroic scenes to satirical caricatures. [Read more]
ABC Dictionary: Exploring the Arctic Through Inuit Art — The Contemporary Exhibition at Art Inuit Gallery
Inuit artists share their lives and culture from the Arctic through an artistic alphabet, available for free at the Art Inuit Gallery from March 26 to August 31, 2026. [Read more]
Courage to Honor: Free Exhibition on Military Decorations at the Legion of Honour Museum
The Musée de la Légion d’honneur opens a free exhibition devoted to the symbolism of military distinctions and the trajectories of France’s most notable figures. From April 22 to July 26, 2026, “From Courage to Honor” explores how bravery and recognition are expressed through insignia, works, and archives, many of which are being shown to the public for the first time. [Read more]
Napoleon I’s Last Will: A Special Free Exhibition at the National Archives
This is one of the most legendary documents in French history. Safeguarded under tight security at the National Archives, Napoleon I’s will is being temporarily displayed to the public from March 4th to June 29th, 2026, in Paris. [Read more]
Silent Storytellers: Female Sculptors Share Their Journeys in a New Exhibition at Espace Monte-Cristo
The Monte-Cristo Space will host several female sculptors from April 18 to December 13, 2026, offering free access to the exhibition titled "Speakers of Silence." [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]
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]
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, 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]
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]
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]
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]
The Galerie des Carrosses, the free museum at the Grandes Ecuries of the Château de Versailles
The Galerie des Carrosses, nestled in the Grande Écurie at the Château de Versailles, opens its doors free of charge every weekend. When visiting Versailles, it's a discovery you'd be wrong not to make. We'll take you on a tour... [Read more]
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]
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]
La maison de Victor Hugo à Paris, une immersion artistique dans l'univers du célèbre écrivain français
La Maison de Victor Hugo is hidden in Place des Vosges, in the heart of Paris. This museum dedicated to the most famous of French authors lets visitors step into the apartment where the artist and his family lived, as well as into his artistic universe. [Read more]
Discover the free Legion of Honor Museum: a journey through the history of honors
Immerse yourself in the history of honors at the Musée de la Légion d'honneur et des ordres de chevalerie, housed in the magnificent Hôtel de Salm in Paris. [Read more]
The City of Paris' Museum of Modern Art (MAM): An artistic journey from the 20th to the 21st century
The Paris Museum of Modern Art, opened in 1961 and tucked in the heart of the City of Light, just steps from the Eiffel Tower, invites visitors to discover more than 15,000 works that reflect the richness of 20th- and 21st-century artistic creation. Open Tuesday to Sunday, this museum whisks us into the world of contemporary art. Go check it out—admission is free! [Read more]
The Musée Bourdelle, a free museum-workshop dedicated to the sculptor in Paris
The Musée Bourdelle, dedicated to the famous sculptor, awaits you in the 15th arrondissement, with an itinerary designed for adults and children alike. As an added bonus, there's a café-restaurant perfect for prolonging the visit. [Read more]
Louvre Museum: a free late-night experience on Friday, June 5, 2026 — the first Friday of the month.
Here's the monthly tip you can count on: the Louvre opens its doors to everyone for free on the first Friday of every month after 6 p.m. Next date to note: June 5, 2026. [Read more]
The Petit Palais in Paris and its hidden treasures, the free museum, opening hours and exhibitions
The Petit Palais, home to the Musées des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris, is a true architectural masterpiece. Designed by Charles Girault for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, this museum is a treasure trove. And since admission is free, you'd be wrong not to take advantage of it. [Read more]
The Musée Cognacq-Jay in Paris, a collector's museum in the heart of the Marais district
The Musée Cognacq-Jay, located in the Marais district of Paris, boasts a fine collection of 18th-century works evocative of the Age of Enlightenment, acquired between 1900 and 1927 by Ernest Cognacq. It's a free historical plunge! [Read more]
The Maison de Balzac, home of the famous writer, and its secret garden overlooking the Eiffel Tower
The Maison de Balzac, one of the famous writer's homes, is one of the capital's literary gems, located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. This house-museum also boasts an incredible garden overlooking the Eiffel Tower, as well as a café. [Read more]
The Musée Zadkine: the sculptor's studio-museum near the Jardin du Luxembourg
On the edge of the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Musée Zadkine in Paris opens its doors to its permanent collection, free of charge, all year round, in the heart of a green setting populated by sculptures. Nestled at 100 bis rue d'Assas, the museum is the former home of iconic sculptor Ossip Zadkine, who lived there from 1928 to 1967. [Read more]
The Maison Jean Monnet: behind the scenes of the creation of Europe at Bazoches-sur-Guyonne (78)
Nestled in the greenery of the Yvelines region, the Maison Jean Monnet offers an intimate, free immersion in European history. It was here, in this peaceful residence in Bazoches-sur-Guyonne, that Europe was born. [Read more]
Did you know? There is another Rodin Museum ... and it's hidden away in Meudon, in the heart of the 92 region!
Just a stone's throw from Paris, there's another Rodin museum just around the corner... and it's no Plan B! Nestled in Meudon, in a verdant setting in the Hauts-de-Seine department (92), this confidential site plunges you into the world of the sculptor with striking authenticity. House, workshop, park... everything you need to rediscover Rodin in a different way - free of charge, without reservation and in the heart of nature, every weekend until the end of September. [Read more]
L'École des Arts Joailliers: the art of jewelry at the heart of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
Discover the fascinating world of jewelry at the École des Arts Joailliers, housed in a sumptuous 18th-century townhouse in the heart of Paris. All year round, free exhibitions and workshops await you to learn more about the art of jewelry. [Read more]
Musée Cernuschi: the free museum, the jewel of Asian arts in Paris
The Musée Cernuschi is the museum of Asian arts in Paris, tracing the history of Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese peoples since Neolithic times. The collection includes works acquired by the city, including 5,000 bequeathed by Henri Cernuschi in the 19th century. The museum's centerpiece is a large bronze Buddha, which dominates the immense, high-ceilinged hall housing the permanent collections. [Read more]
The Pharmacy Museum: Paris’s Most Hidden and Unexpected Free Exhibit Space
Nestled within a historic townhouse just steps from Parc Monceau, one of Paris's most discreet museums awaits— the Museum of Pharmacy. Visitors can explore the fascinating history of the site for free, now home to the National Order of Pharmacists and an eclectic collection of curiosities. [Read more]
Center Wallonie Bruxelles: programme, exhibitions... all you need to know about the cultural center in Paris
Attention contemporary art lovers! The Centre Wallonie-Bruxelles, located in the 4ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, opposite the Centre Pompidou, awaits you to fill up on knowledge. This cultural institution, inaugurated in 1979, highlights the artistic scene of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation through a varied program: visual arts, live performances, cinema and literature. Want to plan a visit? We'll tell you all about it! [Read more]
The Maif Social Club, an inspiring cultural venue on rue de Turenne
On the rue de Turenne in Paris, a hybrid venue awaits cultural visitors and the curious: the Maif Social Club. It's an exhibition space, a library and a place for meetings and conferences. Here, new ideas for a better future are fished out, and children are welcome. [Read more]
Art42: the free street-art museum that puts urban art in the spotlight in Paris
If you're a street-art fan, come and visit Art42, the street-art museum in Paris. This unusual place is open free of charge once a month, with guided tours. [Read more]
The Curie Museum: In the footsteps of Marie Curie and her family
At the heart of the Curie campus, in the 5th arrondissement of Paris near the Panthéon, lies the Musée Curie. Open from Wednesday to Saturday, this free place of memory and knowledge offers an insight into the history of radioactivity and its medical applications. [Read more]
Musée Carnavalet, Paris's oldest museum dedicated to the capital's history
The Musée Carnavalet invites you to discover the history of the capital. Discover what awaits you in Paris' oldest museum, which has the advantage of being free... [Read more]
99 Cameras Museum: a free museum dedicated to legendary cameras, at Studio Harcourt
In the heart of Studio Harcourt, come and discover a brand-new museum showcasing the history of photography, through iconic cameras from a unique collection, to be admired free of charge! [Read more]
Musée Aéronautique et Spatial Safran: a plunge into the history of aviation
The Musée Aéronautique et Spatial Safran in Réau, near Melun, invites enthusiasts to rediscover the evolution of aeronautical propulsion since 1905. Why not visit this free museum, which is well worth the detour? [Read more]
The Musée de la Préfecture de Police, immerse yourself in history and police investigations
The Musée de la Préfecture de Police, nestled in the heart of the 5th arrondissement, invites visitors on a fascinating exploration of the history of the Paris police force from the 17th century to the present day. Available all year round, this historic treasure trove on rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève unveils over 2,000 authentic and captivating works of art. [Read more]
The Shoah Memorial: a place of remembrance in Paris
The Shoah Memorial in Paris opens its doors to us free of charge, inviting us to remember and understand the history of the Jews of France, especially during the Second World War. [Read more]
L'Astrolabe: discover space in virtual reality at the headquarters of the European Space Agency
Have you always dreamed of visiting space? At the headquarters of the European Space Agency, a new space has just opened for the general public, allowing you to discover the ISS in virtual reality and learn more about what surrounds us! [Read more]
Free museum: one Tuesday a month, the Jeu de Paume is freely accessible to young people!
When you're young, you don't have much money. But that doesn't stop us from enjoying the museums in Paris: the last Tuesday of each month, you can visit the Jeu de Paume for free! [Read more]
Enjoy your free exhibitions and discoveries!
Free exhibitions in June 2026 in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: good ideas for outings
Fancy a free exhibition in Paris? We'll take you on a tour of the capital's cultural highlights for June 2026. Here are the free exhibitions that await you! [Read more]
It's finally time to discover the free exhibitions in Paris in July! With summer in full swing, we've got some great cultural offers waiting for you under the Parisian sun. Let's get started with this month's free exhibitions! [Read more]
In August, we enjoy a Paris with fewer Parisians. But there's still plenty to do all summer long! Here are the free exhibitions that await you in Paris in August! Great ideas for outings during the summer vacations! [Read more]
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Free exhibitions in Paris and the Ile-de-France region in July 2026
Free exhibitions to see in August 2026 in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
