The 4th arrondissement is one of the most popular spots for Parisians and tourists alike, with its many trendy addresses, charming streets and many good places to eat. In this hyperactive, historic and trendy district, there's always something to do.
If you're a fan of cultural outings, then the 4th arrondissement is full of nuggets to discover: from museums and monuments to art galleries, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking to delve into the heart of history or immerse yourself in the world ofcontemporary art, there's something here to delight the curious and the passionate!
To help you on your Parisian wanderings in the heart of the Marais, we've put together a list of the must-see places to visit in the 4th arrondissement, as well as a rundown of the exhibitions currently on show. By the way, this magical guide is updated as we post new announcements and make new discoveries, so don't hesitate to consult it again and again to discover even more ideas for cultural outings!
In fact, the 4th arrondissement has many other great discoveries in store for you - we'll take a look here!
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]
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]
All you need to know about Notre-Dame de Paris: opening hours, tours, reservations, events
With its thirteen million visitors a year, Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is one of the capital's must-sees. A place of worship as well as a monument, it has witnessed the history of Paris since its construction. Since December 8, 2024, the monument is once again accessible. With reservations, year-round concerts and suggested tours, discover all the information you need to prepare your visit to this emblem of Paris, ready to welcome the world. [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]
Place des Vosges, an iconic spot in Paris' Marais district
On the Marais side of Paris, the Place des Vosges is one of the most iconic squares in the area, a favorite with tourists and Parisians alike in the summer months. Discover the history of this charming square. [Read more]
Place de l'Hôtel de Ville: one of Paris's most historic squares
The Place de l'Hôtel de Ville hasn't always been the lively, cheerful spot in the heart of Paris. Indeed, it was here that many public executions took place over the centuries. You'll never see the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville in the same light again! [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]
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]
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 Paris archaeological crypt under Notre-Dame Cathedral
The archaeological crypt beneath the forecourt of Notre-Dame in Paris is a real step back in time. Here's what to expect when you visit. [Read more]
The July Column at Bastille opens to the public: here is what is inside
The Colonne de Juillet, which stands on the Place de la Bastille in Paris, opens its doors to the public on October 23, 2021. This is your chance to discover its necropolis and its secrets! [Read more]
The Bibliothèque Historique de la Ville de Paris (Paris Historical Library), to learn more about Paris
At the Bibliothèque Historique de la Ville de Paris, you can consult a wealth of documents, maps, photos and more on the history of the French capital. You're sure to become an expert on the subject! [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]
Sebastião Salgado Honored in a Free Photography Exhibition at the Paris City Hall
The City Hall of Paris pays tribute to photographer Sebastião Salgado with a major exhibition, open to the public free of charge from February 21 to May 30, 2026. [Read more]
Paris / Rome: Free Photo Exhibition Now Open on the City Hall Fences
On the gates of City Hall, discover a curated selection of photographs that reflect the twin beauty of Rome and Paris. Free to view from January 26 to February 26, 2026. [Read more]
Beaubourg Competition of 1971: A Free Exhibition Showcasing the Architectural Proposals for the Pompidou Center
The Centre Pompidou building was created following an international architectural competition. Explore other notable entries from the contest — alternative versions of the Centre Pompidou that might have existed in Paris. These intriguing designs are showcased in a free exhibition by the Academy of Architecture, open from January 30 to February 22, 2026. [Read more]
Simone Veil. My Sisters and I: An Intimate, Free Exhibition at the Memorial of the Shoah
The Shoah Memorial highlights the deep bond between Simone Veil and her sisters with a moving exhibition running from February 10 to October 15, 2026. [Read more]
Expo4Art: Dates Set for the 2026 Editions of the Free Art Fair at Halle des Blancs Manteaux
The Expo4Art fair is making its comeback with four editions scheduled for 2026 at the Halle des Blancs Manteaux. A perfect opportunity to explore the emerging talents shaping the art scene. Mark your calendar for the upcoming dates this year — and remember, entry is free! [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 a groundbreaking exhibition showcasing over a hundred pieces collected by Azzedine Alaïa. This display is part of a dual exhibition, extended at the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation from December 1, 2025, to May 24, 2026, highlighting the dialogue between Dior and Alaïa and revealing the Tunisian designer’s admiration for the New Look. [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]
Les Ateliers d'art des grands magasins: a free exhibition at the Bibliothèque Forney, Paris
Printemps' Primavera, Bon Marché's Pomone, Galeries Lafayette's La Maîtrise and Grands Magasins du Louvre's Studium Louvre showcase the best of Art Deco to mark the centenary of the 1925 Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes. Furniture, textiles, ceramics, catalogs, posters and photographs can all be discovered at the Bibliothèque Forney in a free exhibition running from November 4, 2025 to February 28, 2026. [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]
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]
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]
