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 are passionate about heritage, discover the ninecastles that are open to you for free this Sunday, November 2, 2025. From the most famous castles to hidden monuments in the small townsof Île-de-France, these sites steeped in history are within your reach. So head out, as a couple or with your family, to (re)discover these witnesses to French history that will immerse you in the past, 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.
The Château de Fontainebleau, the second home of the Kings of France
A true jewel of French heritage located in Seine-et-Marne, the Château de Fontainebleau can be visited free of charge on the first Sunday of every month, except June, July, and August 2025. This royal residence, which welcomed French sovereigns for eight centuries, from Francis I to Napoleon III, reveals its sumptuous apartments, galleries decorated with Renaissance frescoes, and French gardens. Come and discover this exceptional castle, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire the famous François I gallery, Napoleon's throne and Marie-Antoinette's apartments. [Read more]
Discover the Château d'Écouen, a Renaissance jewel and national museum
Explore the Château d'Écouen, home to the National Renaissance Museum, located 20 km from Paris. Immerse yourself in the history of this exceptional site and admire 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]
The Château de Rambouillet and its Bergerie nationale, an exceptional estate in the Paris region (78)
A princely, royal, imperial and then presidential residence, the Château de Rambouillet and its grounds are steeped in history and boast some remarkable nooks and crannies, including the Queen's Dairy, the Chaumière aux coquillages and the Bergerie nationale, not to be missed. [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 de Champs-sur-Marne, a magnificent Renaissance-style building with an 85-hectare garden
In the Seine-et-Marne département, the Château de Champs-sur-Marne is less well known than Vaux-le-Vicomte or Fontainebleau. A testament to its rich history, Champs-sur-Marne is best known for its vast 85-hectare wooded park, which is open all year round! [Read more]
The Château de Maisons-Laffitte, a pleasure home with a royal air, in the Yvelines department
In Maisons-Laffitte, in the Yvelines département, the town's château has all the hallmarks of a chateau, yet it was once a "simple" pleasure house! Less than an hour from Paris, it's a beautiful place to discover with family, friends or on your own. [Read more]
Château de Vincennes: a royal fortress in Paris
Along with the Louvre, the Château de Vincennes is one of the most important castles in French history. It is also one of the largest and best-preserved fortified castles in Europe... [Read more]
How about a free castle this Sunday?
And for other free visits:
Free museums and landmarks: Must-visit sites this Sunday, January 4th, in Paris and Île-de-France
Which free museum should you visit in Paris or Île-de-France on the first Sunday of the month, January 4th, 2026? We’re delighted to continue our little tradition at the start of each month: exploring a museum or monument without spending a cent! Don’t miss out on these great Sunday deals… [Read more]
Looking for a free museum in Paris? The Musée des Beaux-Arts, the Musée d'Art Moderne, the Musée de l'Aviation, the Musée des Arts Asiatiques - over 20 museums are free all year round, and we've got some great ideas for getting out and learning something new. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
On December 7, 2025
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Free museums and landmarks: Must-visit sites this Sunday, January 4th, in Paris and Île-de-France
Free museums and monuments in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: cultural tips
