Castles, libraries, historic sites, churches, architectural curiosities, towers or commemorative buildings: monuments are a concentrate of history, culture and know-how, which make up the wealth of a country. Unfortunately, these monuments are sometimes left to deteriorate or fall into disrepair as a result of events or climate change. To preserve this precious heritage,UNESCO created the International Day for Monuments and Sites in 1982.
Every year, on April 18, the worldwide organization invites us to take an interest in the monuments near us, to contribute to their preservation and to share in the greatness of these places. It's a good excuse to visit the cultural treasures of Paris and the Île-de-France region, to fill up on history and beauty, while supporting these important places in France.
It's settled — on Saturday, April 18, 2026, we'll take the time to explore or re-explore the historic monuments nearby. In the Île-de-France region, options are plentiful: here are a few recommended sites to visit on this international day of heritage.
Grand Palais: opening hours, prices... everything you need to know about this architectural gem on the Champs-Elysées
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Grand Palais, an architectural gem in the heart of Paris. Discover its captivating history since the 1900 Universal Exhibition and explore its architecture, which blends classicism and Art Nouveau. With over 2 million visitors a year, this iconic building is a landmark of French art and culture. Opening hours, prices, practical information... we've got it all! [Read more]
L'Obélisque de la Concorde: discover a historic treasure donated by Egypt just a stone's throw from the Louvre
The Obélisque de la Concorde is probably one of the most popular monuments in Paris, along with the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées and the Louvre. In any case, it has been enthroned on Place de la Concorde since 1836, donated by the Egyptian government as a sign of goodwill towards France, and is a source of wonder to visitors passing through, whether they're heading for the Champs-Élysées or the Louvre. Want to know everything there is to know about the monument? We've got you covered! [Read more]
The Tour Montparnasse, a 360° view of Paris
The rooftop of the Tour Montparnasse and its open-air terrace offer an impressive view of Paris and its monuments from 210 meters above ground. [Read more]
The Chapelle Expiatoire in Paris, the monument erected in memory of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette
The Chapelle Expiatoire is one of Paris's hidden monuments. Erected in memory of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, this historic site is well worth a visit! [Read more]
The Sorbonne Library, in the 5th arrondissement
If you're still a student, then you have the chance to visit the Bibliothèque de la Sorbonne, in the 5th arrondissement. A wonderful place to study in peace and quiet. [Read more]
The Richelieu Library, historic birthplace of the BNF
The Bibliothèque Richelieu is one of the most beautiful libraries in Paris. Discover it for yourself! [Read more]
Guided tour of Hôtel de la Païva, a mysterious residence with erotic decorations
The Champs-Elysées harbor many secrets, including the home of the Marquise de la Païva, a former courtesan who had an opulent mansion built, also known as the "Louvre of the ass"... Coming for a visit? [Read more]
This keep in Val-d'Oise, which hides a 100-meter secret passage, reopens its doors
In the heart of the village of La Roche-Guyon, one of Val d'Oise's most beautiful villages in France, an extraordinary troglodyte castle rises, opening to visitors from April 1, 2026, with a medieval keep and its closely guarded secrets. [Read more]
The Merovingian Crypt of Jouarre: A Must-Visit Treasure in Seine-et-Marne (77)
Are you eager to uncover the treasures of Seine-et-Marne? Experience a step back in time with a visit to the Merovingian crypt at Notre-Dame de Jouarre Abbey, one of the few remaining monuments of its kind that’s open to the public. [Read more]
The Château de Dourdan, an ancient fortified castle to discover in Essonne (91)
In the Essonne department, near Dourdan, you'll find a 13th-century fortified castle. Although you can't visit the interior, you can visit the ramparts on a walking tour! [Read more]
The Tower of Figures in Île Saint-Germain Park: A Unique Landmark in Hauts-de-Seine
Do you know Jean Dubuffet's Tour aux figures in the Parc Départemental de l'Île Saint-Germain? Come and visit this monumental work of art, open to the public at weekends from March to October. [Read more]
Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse, a Medieval Treasure in Ile-de-France
Available all year round, the Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse, a medieval jewel in the Ile-de-France region, invites you to immerse yourself in history. [Read more]
Château de Bourron, stay in a truly historic château in the Ile-de-France region
We're off to Seine-et-Marne to discover a hidden treasure: Château de Bourron, a historic 17th-century residence near Fontainebleau, a haven of peace well worth the detour. Stay in this listed monument, lulled by the authenticity and beauty of its 40-hectare park. [Read more]
Le Skit du Saint-Esprit, the unusual treasure hidden in the Mesnil-Saint-Denis forest in the Yvelines department
Have you heard of the Skit du Saint-Esprit, a small Orthodox monastery nestling in the Bois de Fay at Mesnil-Saint-Denis in the Yvelines? This small edifice, which in fact forms 3 churches, reveals a veritable treasure trove hidden within, a must-see for lovers of the unusual and art history. [Read more]
The Mont Valérien crypt (92): free visits to the memorial to fighting France
Located on the summit of Mont-Valérien, the Mémorial de la France Combattante houses a crypt containing the remains of 16 Second World War combatants and ashes collected from concentration camps. Free guided tours invite you to (re)discover the history of this place where many hostages and resistance fighters were executed. [Read more]
La Maison de Fer de Poissy, the unusual museum nestled in the Parc Meissonnier
La Maison de Fer à Poissy, a monument dating from 1896, is an atypical museum on the town of Poissy, to be discovered in the heart of the Parc Meissonnier. Discover its unique industrial architecture and history, and immerse yourself in the evolution of the town of Poissy. [Read more]
A guided tour of the Jeu de Paume room, a treasure trove of the French Revolution
The Salle du Jeu de Paume, famous since the French Revolution, can be visited at weekends near the Château de Versailles, to immerse yourself in history and discover a recently restored national treasure. [Read more]
Which monument will you choose this April 18?
Dates and Opening Time
On April 18, 2026
