What to do in Paris this Ascension Day weekend? A trip away from Paris, or a getaway just a few kilometers from the capital? If you've opted for the latter, then we're offering you the chance to discover 10 unusual spots in and around Paris over the extended weekend of Thursday June 29, Friday June 30, Saturday June 31 and Sunday June 1!
Whether you're in the mood for a change of scenery in your sneakers, or just want to get away from it all and experience something different, we've put together the perfect guide for you, so you won't be bored during these few days of rest that will take you out of your daily routine.
Le Désert de Retz, the unusual Anglo-Chinese park in Yvelines
One of the most unusual spots in the Paris region is the Desert de Retz, at Chambourcy in the Yvelines. This 18th-century Anglo-Chinese garden is one of the few to have been preserved in its original state. This enchanting place, once frequented by the likes of Marie-Antoinette and Thomas Jefferson, stands out for its fanciful constructions. You'll also enjoy discovering the many remarkable trees that dominate the landscaped area. [Read more]
The Roseraie du Val-de-Marne at l'Haÿ-les-Roses, the world's first rose garden
Looking for the most beautiful rose garden around Paris? We'll take you to L'Haÿ-les-Roses in the Val-de-Marne to discover the world's first rose garden, created in 1894! Both a conservatory of plant collections and a Jardin Remarquable, this rose garden, open from May to September, is sure to delight your eyes. [Read more]
La Maison du docteur Gachet, between art and history: Impressionist immersion in Auvers-sur-Oise
The Maison du Docteur Gachet in Auvers-sur-Oise is reopening its doors until November 2, 2025. This emblematic site, where Vincent van Gogh stayed in 1890, features a new scenography and the Empreintes Gravées exhibition, on view from Wednesday to Sunday. [Read more]
Unusual in the Yvelines: the superb waterfall grotto at Parc du Dr Fauvel in Villennes-sur-Seine
Villennes-sur-Seine, a charming commune in the Yvelines department, is home to a little-known treasure: the waterfalls of the Parc Fauvel grotto. Located some 36 kilometers west of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, this small town near Poissy on the left bank of the Seine boasts a park that combines history and nature. The park, an example of English romanticism, features an unusual grotto and waterfalls. [Read more]
The Hangar Y's contemporary open-air exhibition is back! An artistic stroll in the green
The Hangar Y, which conceals a 10-hectare natural area planted with trees, offers a year-round open-air art walk, free on weekdays and €3 with access to the Hangar on weekends. Since April 28, 2025, new works have been added to the circuit. From Erwin Wurm and Lionel Sabatte to Pauline Tralongo and Odile Decq, it's time for an unusual, unplugged stroll through the heart of the Hauts-de-Seine. [Read more]
The Cyclop of Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle, welcomes you for its new cultural season!
Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle's Cyclop reveals its secrets in the heart of the Milly-la-Forêt forest in Essonne. This extraordinary, monumental sculpture can be discovered or rediscovered, spruced up with an original and varied artistic program. [Read more]
The Jardin d'Agronomie Tropicale, a hidden garden of exotic treasures
Do you know the Jardin d'Agronomie Tropicale René-Dumont? This exotic place steeped in history, hidden away in the Bois de Vincennes? We'll take you on a tour of this unusual garden with its many exotic treasures. [Read more]
Unusual: Visit the Lutetia thermal baths and their ancient underground galleries in Paris
Did you know? In Paris, you can immerse yourself in antiquity with a visit to the Roman baths in what was once northern Lutetia. Visit the Musée de Cluny to discover these ancient baths on one of its regular tours. [Read more]
An exceptional show of 120 Chinese drums at the Jardin d'Acclimatation for Ascension Day
Looking for something original to do on Ascension Day, Thursday May 29, 2025? Why not head to the Jardin d'Acclimatation to see the 120 drummers from Shenmu, Shaanxi, perform a unique blend of music, dance and martial arts? [Read more]
Méry Fantasy 2025: magical shows, concerts and entertainment in Méry-sur-Oise (95)
Wizards, fairies and dragons will take over the park of the château de Méry-sur-Oise on Sunday June 8 for "Méry Fantasy", a free festival dedicated to magic and the imaginary. Entertainment, shows and workshops will transport young and old into a magical world, just a stone's throw from Auvers-sur-Oise. [Read more]
So, how about an unusual discovery for Ascension Day?
Dates and Opening Time
From May 29, 2025 to June 1, 2025
