The first Sunday of the month is one of the most popular freemuseum and monument days in Paris and the surrounding area, but it's one that we tend to forget about, even though it gives us access to culture and our superb heritage without paying a cent. It's THE perfect opportunity to discover not only historic sites, but also temporary exhibitions full of new discoveries.
If, like us, you’re passionate about heritage, discover the 6 châteaux that open to you for free this dimanche 4 octobre 2026. From the best-known castles to hidden monuments tucked away in the small towns of Île-de-France, these are historic sites right at your fingertips. So head out, as a couple or with family, to (re)discover these witnesses of France’s history that will transport you back in time, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.
For your pleasure, your culture and that of your children, we're off to enjoy these sublime châteaux in the Île-de-France region. Accessible by public transport for some and by car for others, they're the perfect way to get away from it all and enjoy the region's treasures, while taking a nice stroll.
Fontainebleau Castle, the Kings of France's Country Residence
A true jewel of French heritage in Seine-et-Marne, the Fontainebleau Castle reveals itself free of charge on the first Sunday of each month, except for June, July and August. This royal residence, which welcomed French sovereigns for eight centuries—from Francis I to Napoleon III—unfolds its sumptuous apartments, its galleries adorned with Renaissance frescoes, and its French-style gardens. Let’s go and discover this exceptional castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can admire the famed François I Gallery, Napoleon's throne, and Marie-Antoinette's apartments. [Read more]
Closed: Nemours Castle-Museum
Rare medieval urban château in Île-de-France, the Château-Museum of Nemours is currently closed until November 7 for the new installation of the exhibition "A Castle in Sweden," but note that the gardens are freely accessible. A free visit will be available starting December 6. [Read more]
The Villarceaux Estate and Its Two Castles
The Villarceaux estate, open to the public free of charge in Chaussy, Val d'Oise (95), houses two classified châteaux set in a 70-hectare park and offers, through November 2026, a program of free activities: concerts, night-time strolls, performances and nature. We went to explore the site and here’s everything. [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]
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 Museum of National Archaeology - Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye
The Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, high up in the Yvelines, was one of the royal residences of François I. Today, it houses the national archaeology museum. Today, it houses the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale, with over 29,000 objects on display! [Read more]
Sceaux Castle
The Château de Sceaux, the jewel of the Hauts-de-Seine Departmental Museum, opens its doors free of charge on the first Sunday of every month, year-round. An opportunity to discover, at no cost, its collections devoted to French taste, from Louis XIV to Napoleon III. [Read more]
Château de Compiègne: a Royal and Imperial heritage within easy reach
The Château de Compiègne, built on the initiative of Louis XV and Louis XVI, then refurbished under Napoleon I and Napoleon III, is a living page in French history. Located in the town of Compiègne, 80 kilometers from Paris, this architectural gem is one of France's most important royal and imperial residences, alongside Versailles and Fontainebleau. [Read more]
How about a free castle this Sunday?
And for more free tours:
Free museums and monuments on Sundays: the best plans for October 4 in Paris and Île-de-France.
Which free museum to visit in Paris or Île-de-France on this first Sunday of the month, this Sunday October 4, 2026? We’re happy to revive our little monthly ritual: discovering a museum or monument, with no cost involved! Don’t miss the great plans for this Sunday... [Read more]
Are you looking for a free museum in Paris or a free monument in Île-de-France? Free-access venues, free tours on the first Sunday of each month, museums free for under-26s and for teachers: discover the cultural deals you won’t want to miss. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
On October 4, 2026
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Free museums and monuments on Sundays: the best plans for October 4 in Paris and Île-de-France.
Free museums in Paris and free monuments in Île-de-France: the top cultural deals
