What to do in May in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? It has to be said that this month, which smells of spring, is like a prequel to the summer vacations: with its many public holidays, May is often awaited for its bridges and extended weekends. And since Parisians for a day and for ever can take advantage of these rest periods, the capital is clearly on hand to keep us busy! So, some of you will be lounging on the terraces, others will be strolling in the gardens... and all of you will be conquering the beautiful Parisian outings.
So, if you're looking to plan your stay in the capital, or if you're in search of some good ideas for going out at the moment, we'd like to give you the lowdown on what's in store for May in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. Betweenthe major events and the must-do activities of the moment, you'll have plenty to put together a great program! We also recommend that you keep your eyes peeled: this page is updated as announcements and discoveries are made, so check back regularly to make sure you don't miss out on any good deals!
NEW: Releases and concepts starting in May 2026 in Paris & Île-de-France
What's new this month in Paris? Here are the new concepts starting in May 2026 in Paris and the Île-de-France region. [Read more]
Ideas for outings ending in May 2026 in Paris: last days to discover them!
No regrets in May! Here's our selection of events and ideas for outings coming to an end this month in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. It's now or never to discover these concepts! [Read more]
Free outings and family events not to be missed with children in May 2026
May has arrived, with its pretty flowers and the return of fine weather: so what are the free or inexpensive outings to discover with the kids right now? [Read more]
Free events in Paris in May 2026: this month's not-to-be-missed highlights
The month of May in Paris is a joyous, springtime period during which we enjoy the return of fine weather to the capital. From open-air exhibitions to festive events, we unveil the program of free things to do in Paris in May 2026. The perfect way to have fun and save money at the same time. [Read more]
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Louvre Museum: free evening opening on Friday, December 5, 2025, the first Friday of the month
This is a great deal that we can take advantage of at the beginning of every month: the Louvre Museum opens its doors free of charge to all visitors on the first Friday of each month after 6 p.m. The next date to remember is December 5, 2025. [Read more]
Marvellous Island Festival 2026: Basswell, Mandragora... the first line-up announcements
The Marvellous Island Festival is making its comeback, set to take place on Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Vaires-Torcy beach for its 14th edition. What’s on the lineup? Expect sets from Basswell, Dennis Cruz, Nic Fanciulli, Bad Boombox, Ilario Alicante, Mandragora, and Mischluft, among others! [Read more]
Foire de Paris and Concours Lépine: dates for the 2026 edition at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
The Foire de Paris is back at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from April 30 to May 11, 2026. This flagship event on the Paris trade show calendar promises good times, great deals, and innovative discoveries, thanks in particular to the Lépine competition. [Read more]
A medieval marathon from the castle of Blandy-les-Tours to the ramparts of Provins (77)
On Sunday, May 10, 2026, run the all-new Seine-et-Marne Medieval Marathon, between Blandy-lès-Tours and Provins, for nearly 42 kilometers through villages straight out of the Middle Ages! [Read more]
May 2026 in Paris: exhibitions to see this month in the capital and the Paris region
What's there to see in May 2026 in Paris and the Île-de-France region? The program of beautiful exhibitions is coming up, and promises us some great discoveries! Here are this month's cultural highlights! [Read more]
Free exhibitions to visit in May 2026 in Paris and the Île-de-France region
What free exhibitions await us in May 2026 in Paris and the Île-de-France region? We'll be glad to tell you all about this spring's cultural highlights in the capital! Here are the free exhibitions! [Read more]
Exhibitions opening in May 2026: what's new this month
Get your fill of new things in May 2026, with these exhibitions opening their doors in museums across Paris and the Île-de-France region. It's all new and beautiful, and all that's missing is you! [Read more]
Last chance: see these exhibitions before they close in May 2026
The clock is ticking and you don't have much time left: so go and visit the exhibitions that will be closing their doors in May 2026 in Paris. Here's a rundown of those that are coming to an end very soon! [Read more]
Not-to-be-missed concerts in Paris in May 2026
Every year, they thrill us with their music. Over the next few months, many more artists and groups will be taking over concert halls in and around Paris. Discover without further delay the concerts not to be missed in Paris in May 2026. [Read more]
Shows and plays to see in May 2025 in Paris
Discover the best theater shows and pacses to see in Paris in May 2025, the ideal month for evenings rich in culture. [Read more]
Fresh Headspa Paris: the wellness destination for shiny hair
Sponsored - Treat your scalp to an exceptional treatment at Fresh Headspa Paris, a center dedicated to scalp massage and customized hair care for revitalized, shiny, and strengthened hair from the very first session. [Read more]
Custom Jewelry Design Studio in Paris
Sponsored - Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure by crafting your own jewelry — from bracelets and necklaces to phone charms and keychains — all within a charming Kawaii-inspired setting.
Located near the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées, My Nice Bracelet is the perfect studio-shop to create a unique Parisian keepsake, celebrate a special occasion (bachelorette party, birthday), or host a team-building activity.
You can also explore a second location just steps from the Louvre Palace. [Read more]
Center aquatique Olympique Laure et Florent Manaudou: pools and slides in Colombes (92)
Closed for several years, the Centre Aquatique Olympique Laure et Florent Manaudou, the Colombes swimming pool, is now a delight for families, with its Olympic-size pool, outdoor Nordic pool, slides and other games for children. [Read more]
Pokémon store in Paris, discover the first permanent store dedicated to Pokémon in pictures
A new immersive Pokémon corner opens in Paris? We're off to discover the new 80 m² permanent space, dedicated to the world of the famous creatures, in the Le Coin des Barons store, located on rue de Rivoli in the 1st arrondissement. As of March 28, 2025, this unique corner awaits collectors and enthusiasts alike. [Read more]
Build A Bear: create your own personalized teddy bear at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann
Build A Bear is back in France after a decade's absence! The famous cuddly toy workshop has set up shop on the 5th floor of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, to the delight of young and old alike, excited at the prospect of creating their companion from A to Z. [Read more]
Samaritaine Paris: the historic store's shopping and dining areas and events
La Samaritaine reopened its doors in 2021 after 16 years of renovation. Discover its shopping, beauty and restaurant areas. You'll love strolling around, enjoying the tea rooms and discovering the majestic staircase and window displays. [Read more]
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche in Paris, the world's oldest department store
Le Bon Marché, the world's very first department store, is an iconic institution of Paris shopping. Located on the left bank of the City of Light, in the chic 7ᵉ arrondissement, the historic address offers a cutting-edge selection of luxury brands, young designers and exclusive products in the fields of fashion, beauty, home and children. [Read more]
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann in Paris, the most famous of department stores
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, the world's best-known department store, is the undisputed shopping temple for foreigners and Parisians alike. What makes it so? An abundance of window displays that change with the seasons, an Art Deco building, a majestic cupola, and, of course, the cream of the luxury fashion, beauty and home decor brands! [Read more]
La Caverne aux Livres: an unusual bookstore nestled inside a vintage 1930s train carriage in Auvers-sur-Oise (95)
In Auvers-sur-Oise, SNCF train cars aren’t just for travel… they house La Caverne aux Livres. This quirky bookstore offers a truly unique journey through shelves overflowing with stories. Just a short walk from the station, every page turn feels like a surprising stop along the way, right in the heart of Val-d'Oise (95). [Read more]
Le Printemps Haussmann in Paris: an iconic department store
Women's and men's fashion, beauty, luxury, jewelry, leather goods, shoes, home decor, restaurants and personalized services - everything is available at Printemps Haussmann for a typically Parisian shopping experience! [Read more]
MINISO, the brand for plush toys and adorable lifestyle objects, opens a store on the Champs-Élysées
An avalanche of adorable plush toys and "kawaii" gadgets arrives on the Champs-Élysées with the opening of the MINISO flagship! The ultra-mimi lifestyle brand's biggest store invites fans of cuteness and inveterate collectors to (re)discover its irresistible products, through multiple universes and collaborations. Opening this Saturday, June 22, 2024! [Read more]
Weekend: opening hours for department stores and shopping centers in Paris on Saturdays and Sundays
Paris's department stores and shopping centers await you this weekend! Before you set off in search of the best bargains, don't forget to check their opening times: some are extending their hours, others are closing earlier. To help you prepare your shopping session and avoid any surprises, we've got all the info you need right here! [Read more]
Club Circus: Paris' poker temple
Sponsored - Located in Paris's 16th arrondissement, right next to the Parc des Princes, Club Circus Paris is a gaming lounge that transports visitors into a casino-style atmosphere—perfect for an evening or afternoon out. Poker enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy with a robust lineup of cash games alongside traditional table offerings. For tournament buffs, an exciting new schedule has been announced, culminating in a grand poker festival running from December 12 to 21. [Read more]
Noah's World: An immersive experience of the animal world
Sponsored - Experience an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Paris: an immersive experience in the animal world! [Read more]
Club Pierre Charron: the best Poker and Blackjack in Paris
Sponsored - Just a stone's throw from the Champs-Élysées, Club Pierre Charron is the busiest gaming club in Paris. Created by a gambler for gamblers, the Club offers the most comprehensive range of poker and casino games (blackjack, etc.) in Paris, in elegant surroundings. Designed for epicureans, the Club also offers a bar, a restaurant open continuously until 5 a.m. and a cosy smoking room-library. [Read more]
The Edge: the highest-rated 4D virtual reality experience in Paris!
Sponsored - The Edge offers ultra-immersive virtual reality experiences for friends, colleagues and family. The "Ganymede" experience plunges us into a science-fiction adventure combined with highly realistic physical sensations. A complete change of scenery guaranteed! [Read more]
Scary Trip: escape game and immersive theater in Paris
Sponsored - Scary Trip is an immersive Parisian experience combining escape games and immersive theater that you have to try! For 60 minutes, or 2 hours for the bravest, with your team of 3 to 7 people, you will infiltrate a laboratory hiding dark secrets. Like a life-size role-playing game, you will be the actors in a scenario full of twists and turns with multiple possible endings, all in a 300m² setting. [Read more]
Visit the Christmas lights with Big Bus Paris
Sponsored - Panoramic views of Paris, flexibility, multilingual audio guides—discover an unusual tour of Paris on a double-decker bus with Big Bus, with a 15% discount on certain dates. [Read more]
Disneyland Paris: the complete calendar of attractions open and closed in December 2025
Disneyland Paris regularly updates its attractions with periods of closure for maintenance and renovation. To help you plan your visit, we invite you to check out the calendar of attractions that are open and closed this month. This will allow you to plan your stay, anticipate ongoing maintenance, and enjoy the park to the fullest without any surprises! [Read more]
25 of the most beautiful villages and walks to discover near Paris, nuggets in Ile-de-France
Escape around Paris with these 25 must-see getaways less than 100 km from the capital. [Read more]
Clair Obscur Expedition 33: the DLC announced at the Game Awards is now available
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, crowned Game of the Year 2025, is surprising fans with a free DLC called the Thank You Update, now live on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series. It’s packed with new content—here’s what you need to know! [Read more]
Spider-Man WEB Adventure at Disneyland Paris: our tips for a high score in the attraction
Are you planning to visit Avengers Campus at Disneyland Paris in the near future? If the Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure attraction is on your itinerary, or if you'd like to try and beat your record, we've got some tips on how to get the best score possible. On your webs! [Read more]
Disneyland Paris: prices, reservation opening hours... Everything you need to know about "Bon Plan" tickets
Starting November 18, 2025, Disneyland Paris is offering a new range of discounted "Bon Plan" tickets. This is a limited-time offer that is accessible to everyone, allowing them to enjoy the magic of Disney without breaking the bank. Launch date, prices, availability... We'll tell you everything you need to know! [Read more]
Nintendo Switch 2: price, games, features... All you need to know about the console
News at last for Nintendo Switch 2! Nintendo's console 2.0 is finally available in stores everywhere. Price, release date, features... We tell you everything! [Read more]
Valorant: Riot Games' video game available on Xbox Series and PS5
Valorant, a video game developed by Riot Games Studios and available since June 2, 2020 on PC, also lands on Xbox Series and PS5 from August 2, 2024 in the USA, Canada, Europe, Japan and Brazil. [Read more]
Paris’s Aquaboulevard unveils a magical Christmas experience at affordable prices
Sponsored - As the holiday season approaches, Paris’s Aquaboulevard invites visitors of all ages to experience the magic of Christmas with an exclusive offer available throughout the winter break. During any visit from December 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026, enjoy special rates of €12 for children and €25 for adults (reservation link included in the article). [Read more]
Carousel, trampoline, playground... 3 things to do with children in the Tuileries Gardens
Planning a trip to the Tuileries Gardens? With the whole family, even young children, it's the ideal place for a stroll or, better still, some really fun activities. [Read more]
Disneyland Paris: Avengers Assemble Flight Force, our test of the roller coaster at Avengers Campus
New at Disneyland Paris! Since July 20, 2022, Avengers Campus, the park's newest zone, has been home to a brand-new attraction in place of the Rock'n'Roller Coaster. What's it called? Avengers Assemble: Flight Force. A roller coaster based on the same course as the Rock'n'Roller Coaster, but with new preshows and a new story revolving around Iron Man and Captain Marvel... We tried it out (with the new effects), and tell you all about it! [Read more]
Noodle Inn: An immersive Chinese street food restaurant in Opéra, Paris
Sponsored - Discover Noodle Inn, a fresh new spot for Chinese street food opening in Opéra: Noodle Inn immerses you in the lively spirit of Sichuan with its handcrafted noodles and homemade dumplings. [Read more]
Climb: Takayuki Nameura's gourmet fusion in 10 steps!
Sponsored - Enter the world of the gourmet restaurant with Montée, a veritable jewel in Paris's 14th arrondissement, where Japanese chef Takayuki Nameura offers an exceptional 6- or 10-course tasting menu, blending top-of-the-range French cuisine with Japanese refinement. A unique culinary experience not to be missed. [Read more]
Paillettes Paris: the festive restaurant that combines gastronomy and celebration in the heart of Paris
Sponsored - A festive restaurant in the heart of Paris, where you can enjoy tasty Mediterranean cuisine and vibrate to the rhythm of live music: welcome to Paillettes Paris, the sensory experience to be had at 14 rue Saint-Fiacre. You'll also have the chance to discover the Bains du Marais with its hammam, sauna, massage and treatments! Paillettes will be open all summer, so book now! [Read more]
Mama Shelter Paris East – The must-visit address in eastern Paris
Sponsored - Just a stone's throw from Père-Lachaise, Mama Shelter Paris East brings the east of Paris to life with its stylish restaurant and friendly atmosphere. Here, people come to share a good meal, raise a glass with friends, and enjoy a festive moment. [Read more]
Afterwork and parties: book these trendy venues in the heart of Paris for free!
Sponsored - If you feel like going out and getting away from it all, during the week, at the weekend, during the day or at night... here's a selection of the best places in central Paris to party, but also to book for your evenings out! [Read more]
The only TiKi bar in Paris: After-work drinks & parties every day!
Sponsored - Inspired by faraway destinations, Tiki Playa is a place that rhymes with escape and decompression, and it feels good! Typical decor, a beach hut-style veranda, a bamboo bar, a giant terrace and a club in the basement. And it's open every day! [Read more]
Aqua Restaurant, the terrace restaurant with an exceptional view of the Seine!
Sponsored - Just a stone's throw from the Suresnes bridge, Aqua Restaurant welcomes you 7 days a week, summer and winter, for lunch and dinner, aboard its elegant barge with a breathtaking view of Paris and the Seine. Come and enjoy creative, refined Italian cuisine on a beautiful terrace with DJ set in the evening, and a tasty family brunch on Sundays. Private parking and port if you come by boat! [Read more]
Les Rupins: the soul of the Parisian bistro, a stone's throw from the Canal Saint-Martin
Sponsored - Les Rupins: A vibrant terrace in the heart of the 10th arrondissement, a short, fresh, 100% home-made menu, and a restaurant you can privatize for your most memorable events! [Read more]
Octant, the gourmet destination offering flavors from around the world in the 5th arrondissement
Sponsored - Octant invites you on a culinary world tour from Paris's 5th arrondissement, with seasonal fusion cuisine created by an inspired chef and a refined, cosmopolitan menu. [Read more]
EKINOX, an exceptional bistronomic experience in the heart of Paris's 6th arrondissement
Sponsored - Located a stone's throw from the Pont Neuf on Rue Dauphine in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, EKINOX is a restaurant that combines elegance, creativity and conviviality. With its refined cuisine, warm atmosphere and attentive service, this address has quickly established itself as a must for lovers of Parisian gastronomy. [Read more]
Halle de l'Arsenal - The Biltoki food court in Rueil-Malmaison, Hauts-de-Seine, is now open
La Halle Biltoki heads to Rueil-Malmaison! After making its mark in Issy-les-Moulineaux, the popular concept is now expanding further across the Hauts-de-Seine, settling into the brand-new eco-district of l'Arsenal. We went to explore and have all the details for you... [Read more]
Café Pli: an inspiring coffee shop where you can send yourself a letter in the future
Café Pli is an intimate concept straight from Korea, offering you the chance to put your thoughts on paper for your future self, who will receive a letter in one, ten or twenty years' time, and will undoubtedly have a nice surprise! Rendezvous in the 11th arrondissement for a moment with yourself, over a drink and a sweet treat. [Read more]
Tea Time Louis Vuitton by Maxime Frédéric: luxury you can taste in the heart of Paris—our photos
Louis Vuitton Tea Time invites you to the heart of Paris, where every bite becomes a little luxury signed by Maxime Frédéric, World's Best Pastry Chef. From mini savory bites to jewel-like desserts, everything can be nibbled, savored, and contemplated like a haute couture creation. Here, Café Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton transforms the gourmet break into a chic and indulgent ritual to be savored with your fingertips. [Read more]
Wonderwoods: the immersive restaurant in the heart of the enchanted forest at Val d'Europe (77)
Ephemera's immersive restaurant in Val d'Europe, Seine-et-Marne, is set in an enchanted forest. In a magical setting, Wonderwoods combines themed dishes, magical creatures and colorful fireflies, for a taste experience that borders on the spectacular. [Read more]
Japanese Rooftop in Paris: Aqua Kyoto on the Champs-Elysées
Aqua Kyoto unveils a new rooftop on the Champs-Élysées. We're off to number 26 of the world's most beautiful avenue to discover this beautiful address with terrace facing the Eiffel Tower, with the Arc de Triomphe on one side and the Grand Palais on the other. This is the place to be that you're going to love. We'll take you on a discovery tour! [Read more]
Ukiyo Ramen, the cozy spot serving homemade ramen in Pigalle, 9th arrondissement of Paris
Just a stone’s throw from Pigalle in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, UKIYO Ramen serves up bowls of ramen and donburi crafted with homemade noodles and flavorful broths we absolutely loved. Recently opened by the young duo Céline Li and Guillaume Lam, this vibrant eatery puts a creative twist on Japanese cuisine with style and sophistication. We went to try it out, and here’s what we discovered. [Read more]
Les Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet, the must-see food court in Paris Haussmann
Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet is the ideal place to discover the specialties of the capital's various culinary brands. Good news for gourmets, who can enjoy the delicious counters and shelves of this XXL version of the delicatessen. [Read more]
Il Tornello, the latest Italian eatery specializing in traditional pasta and pizza, offers authentic flavors crafted with ancient grains and sourdough.
Il Tornello, located on Rue des Tournelles in the 4th arrondissement, is the latest Italian eatery offering authentic trattoria-style cuisine just moments from Place des Vosges. Their menu features sourdough pizzas made with traditional flours, homemade fresh pasta, and a simple yet enticing selection of dishes—available Thursday through Monday in the heart of the Marais. [Read more]
Bacha Coffee on the Champs-Élysées is open: discover this Moroccan coffee palace in Paris
Bacha Coffee Champs-Élysées opens its very first European flagship at 26, avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris, this Thursday, April 17, 2025. This exceptional 1,500 sq. m. venue offers a unique sensory experience with 200 100% Arabica coffees, in a setting inspired by Dar el Bacha in Marrakech. [Read more]
Kinugawa Rive Gauche, the Franco-Japanese rooftop restaurant at Hôtel Sax, unveiled
A new restaurant with an exceptional terrace has opened its doors on the Rive Gauche side of Paris' 7th arrondissement. Kinugawa Rive Gauche offers refined Franco-Japanese cuisine in a restaurant overlooking Paris and the Eiffel Tower, and we take you on a tour of the restaurant. [Read more]
The Boys: Season 5, the final chapter, finally unveils itself
The Boys, the hit Prime Video series, has released the trailer for its fifth — and final — season, which is set to debut on April 8, 2026. [Read more]
Free platforms for watching films and series without spending a penny
With the number of platforms multiplying, it's sometimes hard to stay financially reasonable. Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Paramount, Canal+, and many others, how do you choose? Today, we're offering you an alternative that's just as good quality, but much cheaper: free streaming platforms. Here's a quick overview. [Read more]
Desperate Housewives: A Convention Coming to Paris in 2026 Featuring Marcia Cross and James Denton...
Some of the cast from "Desperate Housewives" will be heading to Paris in spring 2026. Fans can meet Marcia Cross, James Denton, Nicollette Sheridan, and Doug Savant at the Hilton Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31, 2026, during "The Desperate Con." [Read more]
The Con Artist, a social comedy starring Fadily Camara
The Con Artist is a French comedy directed by Wilfried Méance, starring Fadily Camara and Josiane Balasko. It tells the story of a straightforward life that turns into a full-blown battle. Coming to theaters on April 22, 2026. [Read more]
Berlin and the Lady in the Ermine: a new Netflix series set in the world of La Casa de Papel
A spin-off from Money Heist, Berlin and The Lady with the Ermine are set to debut on Netflix on May 15, 2026. Here’s what you need to know about the cast, plot, context, and key details. [Read more]
Le Grand Rex: the world's largest cinema
Its starry vault, its atypically decorated facade, its grandeur... You've got a thousand and one reasons to visit the Grand Rex! In fact, it's the world's largest cinema, with a grand auditorium seating 2,702 people. [Read more]
In the footsteps of Inception: where in Paris was Nolan's film shot?
With Oppenheimer becoming one of the biggest box-office successes of Christopher Nolan's career, we take a look back at one of his best-known films, Inception, and the neighborhoods where it was shot in Paris. [Read more]
La Géode de Paris: everything you need to know about the cinema in the Parc de La Villette
After 6 years of renovation, La Géode reopened its doors on December 18, 2024, with a 4K IMAX Laser screen unique in France. [Read more]
IMAX, 4DX and Screen X at Pathé la Villette
At the Pathé la Villette cinema, take advantage of a range of technologies for an unusual cinema experience, and discover the Pathé Kids area, the Pathé Gaumont group's only cinema dedicated to children. [Read more]
Shooting locations in Paris and Montmartre for the series "L'été où je suis devenu jolie" ("The summer when I became pretty")
Looking for the street where Belly lives in Montmartre in the series "L'été où je suis devenu jolie"? Find out more about the filming locations in Paris and follow in the footsteps of the young woman and Conrad. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
From May 1, 2024 to May 31, 2028
Recommended age
For all
