It's one of the capital's best-loved historic districts, a place of rich, lively culture and a party zone also known as the gay district of Paris. Spread over the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris, the Marais is home to some of the capital's best-known museums and art venues.
Musée Carnavalet, Musée Cognacq-Jay, Maison de Victor Hugo, Musée national Picasso, Musée de la magie, Mémorial de la Shoah, Maison européenne de la photographie, Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson... It's hard to find a place with a livelier artistic life!
The Marais district is ideal for fun, strolling and culture, whatever the time of year. Still not sure what to do when you find yourself in this part of Paris? Here's a small selection ofexhibitions to see in the Marais right now.
This guide is updated regularly, according to the programming of local museums and art venues. Check back here for new exhibitions.
Brusk unveils a unique, free street-art trail through Paris in celebration of the 2026 Urban Art Fair
Street artist Brusk debuts with Délire(s) d'errance, a new trail of ten murals scattered across Paris, inspired by Don Quixote. This installation marks the 10th birthday of the Urban Art Fair. The murals can be explored via an online map—hurry, in true street art fashion, they won’t last forever. [Read more]
A double fashion showcase at the Dior Gallery and the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation in Paris – our photos
The Dior Gallery will open its doors from November 20, 2025, to May 3, 2026, for an exclusive exhibition showcasing over a hundred pieces collected by Azzedine Alaïa. This display is part of a larger, extended showcase at the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation, running from December 1, 2025, to June 21, 2026. The exhibition creates a dialogue between Dior and Alaïa, highlighting the Tunisian designer’s admiration for the iconic New Look. [Read more]
Ariana Papademetropoulos debuts her new piece "Glass Slipper" at Thaddaeus Ropac Gallery in the Marais
This spring, Thaddaeus Ropac Gallery in the Marais district is featuring "Glass Slipper," the first solo exhibition by Ariana Papademetropoulos in France. To mark the occasion, the California-based artist is showcasing several large-scale paintings, a selection of sculptures, and an immersive installation that places visitors right inside an aquarium teeming with fish! [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]
In my dress, the hue of time: a captivating exhibition at the Les Filles du Calvaire gallery
The artist Julia Haumont delves into the end of childhood and the transformations of the body in a sculpture exhibition running from March 12 to April 25, 2026, at the Les Filles du Calvaire Gallery. [Read more]
Open Forms: An Abstract Art Exhibition at the Swedish Institute in Paris
Sponsored - In the heart of the Marais district, the Swedish Institute hosts Open Forms, an exhibition dedicated to geometric abstract art and the works of Olle Bærtling. Running from February 20 to July 19, 2026, in Paris. [Read more]
"'This is Our History': The Photographic Collection of the Polish Library in Paris Unveiled"
Sponsored - The Polish Library Institute in Paris showcases an outstanding selection from its photographic collection spanning the 19th and early 20th centuries. This exhibition chronicles the story of the Great Polish Emigration through portraits, landscapes, and artist studios. Admission is free, with no reservation required. [Read more]
Labubu Exhibition in Paris: THE MONSTERS Celebrate 10 Years with a Retrospective - Our Photos
The 10th anniversary exhibition of THE MONSTERS is set to open in Paris from March 4 to 29, 2026, at the Hôtel du Grand Veneur. This special showcase celebrates Labubu and the fantastical universe crafted by Kasing Lung. As the latest stop on the global tour — following stops in Shanghai, Taipei, and Hong Kong — the event features original sketches and collectible figurines, offering a fascinating look back at a decade of development in THE MONSTERS universe. [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]
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]
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]
Simone Veil. My Sisters and I: An Intimate, Free Exhibition at the Memorial to the Holocaust — Our Photos
The Shoah Memorial highlights the special bond between Simone Veil and her sisters with an emotionally compelling exhibition running from February 10 to October 15, 2026. [Read more]
American Images at MEP: Dana Lixenberg examines the American Dream through a captivating photo exhibition
Through her striking portraits, photographer Dana Lixenberg challenges the myth of the American Dream. Her exhibition, American Images, is open for visitors at the Maison Européenne de la Photographie from February 11th to May 24th, 2026. [Read more]
Victor Hugo's house in Paris, an artistic plunge into the world of the famous author
The Maison de Victor Hugo is tucked away on the Place des Vosges in the heart of Paris. This museum dedicated to France's most famous author lets us discover the apartment where the artist and his family lived. [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]
And God… created Bardot: a free photo exhibition paying tribute at the Galerie de l'Instant
The Galerie de l'Instant is presenting a retrospective dedicated to Brigitte Bardot, featuring vintage prints and candid snapshots captured on the fly. From January 29 to March 29, 2026, visit this free exhibition to see the legendary "BB" of the 1950s to 70s—an icon who revolutionized societal norms. [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]
Solid'Art Paris 2026: The Charity Art Fair Makes Its Return to the Carreau du Temple
The Carreau du Temple hosts the latest edition of Solid’Art, the contemporary art fair supporting the Secours Populaire. From April 2 to 5, 2026, visitors can enjoy striking modern artworks while contributing to a worthy cause. [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]
Eggxtraordinary: Chocolatiers and Artists Celebrate the Egg in a Free Exhibition at Joseph Gallery
Here’s a one-of-a-kind exhibition to explore during the Easter season. Running from April 3 to May 3, 2026, at the Joseph Gallery, talented pastry chefs, chocolatiers, and artists are showcasing their take on the egg and its symbols in the free exhibition Eggxtraordinaire. A must-see—don’t miss it! [Read more]
Paris: On the Île Saint-Louis, this library hides three museums, one of which is dedicated to Chopin.
On Île Saint-Louis, the Polish Library of Paris not only holds a remarkable collection of literary works but also features three intimate museums dedicated to Chopin, Mickiewicz, and Bolesław Biegas—perfect for those eager to explore France's rich cultural ties with Poland. [Read more]
Zeus, a masterpiece by artisans: the exhibition on the Olympic horse at the Museum of Arts and Crafts
Zeus, the striking metallic horse that surged across the Seine during the Paris 2024 Olympic opening ceremony, now takes center stage in an exhibition at the Museum of Arts and Crafts. The display runs from December 17, 2025, to March 29, 2026. [Read more]
Revealing femininity, fashion, and appearance in the 18th century: the exhibition on self-image at the Cognacq-Jay Museum
The Cognacq-Jay Museum delves into the myriad portrayals of women in the 18th century with a captivating exhibition: "Women in the Mirror, Appearances and Imaginaries". The show runs from March 25 to September 20, 2026. [Read more]
Victor Hugo, decorator: the exhibition on a little-known facet of the poet at Maison Victor Hugo
What if Victor Hugo had followed his first calling? From November 13, 2025 to April 26, 2026, a new exhibition reveals a little-known aspect of the writer's life: his passion for decorating, which we trace through his many creations, from Paris to Guernsey. [Read more]
Contemporary art exhibitions in Paris: Diego Marcon and Ladji Diaby at Lafayette Anticipations
Lafayette Anticipations is hosting two contemporary art exhibitions in Paris from April 1 to July 19, 2026, featuring the cinematic universe of Diego Marcon and the emerging scene embodied by Ladji Diaby. A double rendez-vous focusing on images, narration and artistic emotions. [Read more]
The Musée des Arts et Métiers: a historical journey through the greatest inventions
The Musée des Arts et Métiers is the kind of fun, family-friendly museum we love. Come and discover the world's greatest technical and technological inventions, housed in a historic monument. [Read more]
Flops?! Dare, fail, innovate: the funny exhibition unveiled at the Musée des Arts et Métiers
The Musée des Arts et Métiers takes a look at failure and its necessity in the world of invention, with the amusing exhibition "Flops. Oser, rater, innover", presented from October 14, 2025 to May 17, 2026. [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]
Chaim Kaliski Exhibition: "Jim d’Etterbeek" at the Museum of Jewish Art and History
Sponsored - Discover "Jim d’Etterbeek", a striking double-panel graphic by Chaïm Kaliski, renowned for his monumental illustrations on Brussels during the Occupation, featuring over five thousand detailed drawings. [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]
Visit the towers of Notre-Dame de Paris: reopening with a new itinerary
The towers of Notre-Dame de Paris reopen to the public on September 20, 2025, to coincide with the Journées du Patrimoine. Climb to a height of 69 meters to rediscover one of the capital's most emblematic monuments, thanks to a new, enriched tour. A unique experience at the heart of Parisian heritage. [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]
Dans la Seine: the exhibition at the Crypte archéologique reveals the objects found in the Seine
The Crypte Archéologique presents an exhibition that's as curious as it is amusing, revealing objects found in the Seine, from prehistory to the present day. Visit this unique exhibition from January 31, 2024, to January 4, 2026. [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 Musée de la Magie, a mysterious and fun place in the heart of Paris
Let yourself be surprised by the Musée de la Magie, an unusual cultural and family venue in the Marais district of Paris. [Read more]
Visit an immersive work by Jean Dubuffet in the Centre Pompidou's permanent collections
Among the permanent collections at the Centre Georges Pompidou, there are many works that question our perceptions, taking us into another universe. Such is the case with Jardin d'Hiver, by artist Jean Dubuffet. [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]
The Musée du fromage in Paris is open, and we want to tell you all about it!
The first Musée du fromage has opened its doors in Paris, in the 4ᵉ arrondissement, since this June 13, 2024. A living museum that lets us discover the great French know-how, the making of different cheeses, the history and the many varieties to be discovered all over France. Did you know that there are almost 300 "origine contrôlée" cheeses? You'll have to stay in this world a little longer - and taste it, of course! [Read more]
The Swedish Institute in Paris: Sweden's only cultural center abroad
For a trip to Scandinavia without even leaving the capital, head for the Swedish Institute! Housed in the sublime Hôtel de Marle since 1971, the Nordic cultural center offers a rich and varied program of events all year round, showcasing art, music, design and cinema straight from Sweden. [Read more]
La Maison Européenne de la Photographie, the museum of contemporary photography in Paris
Just a stone's throw from the Saint-Paul metro station in the Marais district, the Maison Européenne de la Photographie showcases those who have turned photography into an art form, a political medium and a means of rebelling, documenting and paying homage... We'll take you with us to the heart of the cultural venue dedicated to photography in Paris! [Read more]
Lafayette Anticipations: opening hours, prices... everything you need to know about the contemporary art foundation
For art lovers, the Lafayette Anticipations Foundation awaits you every day of the week to show you its exhibitions and space. Opening times, prices, practical information... we've got it all! [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]
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]
The Museum of Hunting and Nature in Paris is evolving
The Musée de la Chasse closed its doors in 2019 to carry out expansion work. It also took the opportunity to enrich its collections and review its scenography, in order to question the relationship of Man to living things. Reopening planned for spring 2021. [Read more]
The Enki Bilal Collection: a new art space to explore this June in the Marais, Paris
Comic book artist Enki Bilal unveils his own artistic space in the Marais starting June 11, 2026. Serving as both an exhibition hub and a creative studio, this venue is designed to welcome artists and visitors alike. [Read more]
Street art: A free exhibition exploring the Paris metro map at a gallery in the Marais district
This spring, street art enthusiasts are invited to a Parisian gallery in the Marais for a new, free group exhibition organized by Urban Signature. From Thursday, April 9th to Sunday, April 12th, 2026, come explore a captivating display of works centered around a true urban icon: the subway map. [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]
Hugo and Architecture: From Stone to Pen — An Exhibition at the Victor Hugo House in Paris
The Victor Hugo House is hosting a thematic exhibition exploring architecture in Hugo's work. Open to visitors from June 11 to November 22, 2026. [Read more]
Annette Messager at the Museum of Hunting and Nature: An Exhibition Exploring the Relationship Between Animals and Humans
The Museum of Hunting and Nature in Paris is presenting a groundbreaking exhibition by artist Annette Messager, focused on animal imagery and its artistic reimagining. Running from April 14 to September 20, 2026, the show is titled "A Swallow Doesn't Make Spring." It features a mix of installations, hybrid artworks, and iconic pieces that engage in a compelling dialogue with the museum's existing collections. [Read more]
Henry Taylor at the Picasso Museum Paris: A Contemporary American Painting Exhibition
The Picasso Museum in Paris is hosting an exhibition dedicated to Henry Taylor, the acclaimed American contemporary painter, featuring a collection of portraits and works that explore collective memory and references to Picasso. Running from April 8th to September 6th, 2026, the exhibition is carefully curated in collaboration with the artist himself and is accessible to visitors at the Parisian museum. [Read more]
Expo4Art: the inaugural free art fair kicks off this weekend in Paris in 2026
The Expo4Art fair makes a comeback for its first edition of 2026, taking place at the Halle des Blancs Manteaux. It's the perfect opportunity to discover emerging talents in the art world. Mark your calendar for the upcoming event this March. Don’t wait—admission is free! [Read more]
Madame de Sévigné, Parisian Letters: A Unique Exhibition at the Carnavalet Museum
The Carnavalet Museum pays tribute to Madame de Sévigné with an engaging exhibition full of surprises, running from April 15 to August 23, 2026. [Read more]
There's no doubt about it: the Marais is the liveliest district in the capital! So, shall we go there, my friends?
