Inflation is a hottopic in France. The overall rise in prices in the country is leading to a drop in purchasing power and prompting us to tighten our belts. So, here we are, counting our pennies. If your outings budget is in danger of taking a hit, don't worry: the capital and the surrounding region are full of great ways to enjoy hotactivities without spending too much. Yes, you can treat yourself and save money at the same time, even in Paris!
We can already see you widening your eyes. After all, it's common knowledge that life is expensive in the capital. But there are plenty of free and affordable places to go out in the Paris region... you just have to know where to look. And that's just as well, because finding good deals is our specialty!
That's why we've come up with a list of all the free and inexpensive things to do in Paris and the Paris region at the moment. And guess what? This guide is updated as we make announcements and discoveries, so you'll be able to consult it at any time to find the affordable outings that await you. You'll never run out of ideas again!
This Week's Best Deals in Paris and Île-de-France, January 12–18, 2026
A new week begins, bringing with it a whole range of activities and discoveries in Paris and the Île-de-France region! Click here to find the best budget-friendly tips and events happening from January 12th to 18th, 2026, in Paris and the surrounding area. [Read more]
Looking for the best deals and events this weekend in Paris from January 16 to 18, 2026? Stay tuned—we’ve put together a selection of free or budget-friendly activities that will allow you to enjoy the French capital and its surroundings without breaking the bank. [Read more]
Looking for free family outings in Paris? We'll show you the spots, events and activities to discover in the capital, so you can enjoy Paris without spending a fortune! [Read more]
"Rêveries de pierres" at the École des Arts Joailliers: an exhibition of a precious collection of stones
Sponsored - Are you in search of a truly original, poetic, and deeply mesmerizing exhibition? From November 6, 2025, to March 29, 2026, the École des Arts Joailliers, in partnership with the Muséum national d’histoire naturelle, invites you to explore "Dreams of Stones: Poetry and Minerals of Roger Caillois," right in the heart of Paris’s 9th arrondissement. This event offers a rare opportunity to marvel at 200 extraordinary minerals, accompanied by never-before-seen texts from one of the most distinctive thinkers of the 20th century. Additionally, entry is free with prior reservation (link below). [Read more]
Grand Palais: Free Exhibition Celebrates 200 Years of Le Figaro – Our Photos
Beneath the nave of the Grand Palais, a spectacular three-day celebration marks "1826-2026: 200 Years of Freedom." This free, ticketed exhibition offers a deep dive into two centuries of images, archives, and debates. An immersive experience to revisit 200 years of vibrant and inspiring history, taking place from January 14 to 16, 2026. [Read more]
100% Paper IV: A Free Collective Street Art Exhibition at Bastille Design Center
« 100% Paper IV »: the title of the upcoming fourth edition of the free collective exhibition curated by Hopare in partnership with Urban Signature. debuting at the Bastille Design Center in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, this street art installation will feature nearly 120 artists, all inspired by paper. Visitors will be able to enjoy approximately 300 original works from January 15 to 18, 2026! [Read more]
Various and assorted objects: the free and immersive exhibition by Song Dong at Le Bon Marché — our photos
For its 11th edition, the January art showcase at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche pays tribute to Song Dong, the renowned Chinese artist renowned for transforming everyday objects into living memory. From January 10 to February 22, 2026, his free exhibition, "Various and Diverse Objects – 百货 (baihuò)", takes over the store's showcases, features two large-scale installations beneath the glass roof, and immerses visitors in an interactive experience on the second floor. [Read more]
ZEUS, the iconic metal horse from the Olympics, on display for free at the Museum of Arts and Crafts in Paris
Zeus, the mechanical horse from the Olympic Games that captured everyone's hearts, has now arrived at the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris. The towering steel colossus is open to the public free of charge from December 17, 2025, to January 10, 2027. [Read more]
District 13 International Art Fair 2026 at Hôtel Drouot – PROMO CODE
From January 15 to 18, 2026, the District 13 International Art Fair returns to Hôtel Drouot in Paris. The event will showcase urban art, international galleries, with special prices and a promo code to save more. Enjoy a 20% discount with the PROMO CODE: SAP! [Read more]
The Beat Goes On! : Free Exhibition Celebrating Clubbing Culture at Quai de la Photo
The vibrant world of clubbing culture — both festive and politically charged — takes center stage in a free photographic exhibition running from January 9 to April 24, 2026. Come explore The Beat Goes On! at Quai de la Photo. [Read more]
Mathilde Favier’s World in Paris: A Free Exhibition Showcasing Fashion, Art, and Design at Christie’s
The vibrant world of Mathilde Favier, a Parisian at heart and head of PR for a top fashion house, will be on display at Christie’s from January 28 to February 4, 2026. The exhibition, titled Mathilde & Friends in Paris, is free to attend. Featuring iconic outfits, poetic objects, and designer creations, it offers a chic, playful, and distinctly Parisian journey through style. [Read more]
Paris: Wes Anderson recreates Joseph Cornell’s studio at the Gagosian Gallery
This winter, American filmmaker Wes Anderson is transforming the Gagosian Gallery on rue de Castiglione into a meticulously recreated homage to Joseph Cornell’s New York studio. The legendary artist, a visionary and pioneer of assemblage art, is brought vividly to life through Anderson's detailed reimagining. [Read more]
Daily Letters: Malak and Mona Varichon’s Exhibition in Brétigny-sur-Orge (Essonne)
Sponsored - Discover the exhibition Lettres du quotidien – Extraits, débuts, jeux, traces in Brétigny-sur-Orge, which delves into the creative process inspired by the everyday life of Malak and Mona Varichon. Running from January 17 to March 14, 2026, at the Espace de la Croix-Louis, this show explores how personal experiences can fuel artistic expression. [Read more]
Elysée House: FreeMeetings and Activities Featuring the Hidden Worlds of the Presidential Palace
In January 2026, the Élysée House will open its doors to offer exclusive behind-the-scenes encounters featuring the iconic roles that keep the Élysée running. Every Wednesday, step inside the Palace and explore the distinctive expertise that makes it special. Check out the full schedule. [Read more]
I Love Sushi: A Free Exhibition in Paris Celebrates Japan's Iconic Cuisine
In 2026, sushi takes center stage at the Japan Cultural Center in Paris! From January 20 to April 11, the Japanese cultural center is hosting a unique, free exhibition dedicated to this iconic element of Japanese cuisine. [Read more]
Colors of Korea: free contemporary art exhibition at the Korean Cultural Center in Paris, photos
The Korean Cultural Center unveils the exhibition "Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l'art contemporain coréen", on the occasion of the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Korea, from October 24, 2025 to August 29, 2026. This free exhibition presents a unique immersion in Korean art, illustrating the work of 34 artists who blend tradition and innovation through the power of color. [Read more]
Doris Brynner: the iconic fashion exhibition at Sotheby's Paris
Sotheby's Paris is dedicating an exhibition to Doris Brynner, a figure of 20th-century cosmopolitan elegance, from January 23 to 26, 2026. The exhibition is being held during Haute Couture Fashion Week. [Read more]
Rêveries de pierres: the free retrospective exhibition at the Ecole des Arts Joailliers - our photos
The Ecole des Arts Joailliers pays tribute to Roger Caillois, the great writer and collector, with a free exhibition. From November 6, 2025 to March 29, 2026, come and admire "Rêveries de pierres". [Read more]
LV Dream by Louis Vuitton: free exhibition, boutique, café and chocolate shop
The famous Maison Louis Vuitton opens LV DREAM, a free exhibition and gift store that also features a café and a chocolate shop in collaboration with Chef Pâtissier Maxime Frédéric of Cheval Blanc Paris. While the exhibition is by reservation only, the boutique and café are open to the public. [Read more]
Luminescent Celestial Odyssey: The New Immersive Show Coming to Saint-Eustache Church in 2026
The immersive sound and light show, Luminiscence, is making a return to Saint-Eustache Church, this time reimagined as L'Odyssée Céleste. This cutting-edge 3D experience will transform the historic Parisian monument's vaulted ceilings starting January 23, 2026. We’ve got all the details on this upcoming must-see event. [Read more]
International Choir Concert at Notre Dame des Blancs Manteaux
Sponsored - The DePauw University Choir from the United States and the Paris Choir will perform at Notre Dame des Blancs Manteaux on Friday, January 16th, at 6:30 PM.
Admission is free and open to all. [Read more]
Disney Village: Your complete lineup of concerts and events for January 2026
Live concerts, free kids' activities, and lively party nights fill the weekends at Disney Village in Disneyland Paris. Discover the full lineup of events and musical highlights scheduled for January 2026. [Read more]
Unusual: Out of the blue, the cinema bar that mixes natural wines and arthouse short films in Paris
In the heart of Paris's 11th arrondissement, Out of the Blue combines a wine bar and cinema for the curious and cinephiles alike. With arthouse short films, natural wines, and a cozy lounge atmosphere, here you can sip, nibble, and immerse yourself in an experience that is unusual, creative, and convivial all at once. [Read more]
Random Comedy Club: stand-up comedy show Sunday evenings at the Chouchou hotel in Paris
Every Sunday evening, the Chouchou hotel invites you to its table for its traditional rendez-vous: the Random Comedy Club comedy show. In the guinguette, among the aperitif boards and cocktails, the new seeds of comedy and stars of laughter take turns on stage for a lively stand-up show, 100% made in France! [Read more]
Tip: Comédie-Française offers free Monday tickets to under-28s
Every Monday evening in Paris, the Comédie-Française offers a unique opportunity to young people under the age of 28: 95 free tickets are distributed for its performances in the prestigious Salle Richelieu. Tickets can be collected from the Petit Bureau, one hour before the start of the play. [Read more]
Freestyle Villette: the House of Urban Cultures in the 19th arrondissement, upcoming programming
To celebrate urban cultures, the city of Paris is building a Maison des cultures urbaines in the heart of the Parc de La Villette. From October 4, 2025, you'll be able to discover urban dance, music, sports and street art. [Read more]
The Sebastopol Comedy Club: stand-up comedy in a Paris hotel
The Sebastopol Comedy Club is the unusual comedy stage that awaits you in the heart of the 123 Sebastopol hotel in Paris. Every weekend, in the heart of a hotel, you'll find a stand-up stage hosted by established artists. [Read more]
Tip: the Guimet Museum cinema is free for all
The Musée Guimet regularly organizes screenings and film cycles on Asian art in its auditorium. All screenings are free of charge. [Read more]
Les Histoires À Double Tranchant: an interactive show whose ending depends on you - our opinion
Immerse yourself in a theatrical experience where the final outcome is up to you! During "Histoires À Double Tranchant", discover tales inspired by myths in an interactive show where you choose the story. [Read more]
An orchestra of their own: a captivating immersive tribute to forgotten female composers at La Seine Musicale
The Seine Musicale hosts a free immersive sound installation dedicated to overlooked women composers from January 22 to May 16, 2026. This immersive journey offers visitors a chance to rediscover these overlooked creators through a heartfelt, sensory experience. [Read more]
Jazz Café Montparnasse: the new landmark for jazz lovers!
Opened a few months ago, Jazz Café Montparnasse illuminates the rue du Commandant Mouchotte with its vermilion neon lights. Inside, jazz and good food await you.... [Read more]
Lyoom Comedy Souk: a comedy club in the 11th arrondissement
Sponsored - The new comedy club has arrived in the capital, and it promises to shake up your Wednesday nights! Meet us at Lyoom Comedy Souk, every Wednesday at 7.30pm, in an intimate and lively atmosphere. [Read more]
Prix d’Amérique Festival 2026 in Paris: Horse Races, Live Entertainment, and Concerts Featuring GIMS & Yann Muller
Sponsored - Live GIMS concert with Yann Muller on the decks, along with shows, a giant food court, children’s entertainment, and the world’s biggest harness racing event: from January 23 to 25, the Paris-Vincennes Racecourse transforms into a celebration hotspot for the Prix d’Amérique Festival, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees. [Read more]
Thermalies 2026: The Wellness and Health Fair Focused on Water
Sponsored - The Thermalies 2026 fair is set to take over the Carrousel du Louvre from January 22 to 25, offering visitors an exclusive journey into the world of wellness, thalassotherapy, thermal treatments, and spa relaxation. This is a must-attend event to enhance your health and wellbeing. Download your free ticket now for Thermalies: a showcase dedicated to water-based wellness and thalassotherapy! [Read more]
Nights of Reading 2026: Musical Travel Tales at the Arab World Institute
For a brief stopover, the Arab World Institute invites you on a free poetic and musical journey. On January 25, 2026, during the Night of Reading, the IMA library will share tales of distant travels. [Read more]
Yves Saint Laurent Beauté Pop-Up Experience: An Immersive Journey at a Famous Parisian Club – Book Your Spot
What if beauty was experienced... to the beat of a club? Yves Saint Laurent Beauté is taking over the Rex Club in Paris for a free immersive pop-up on January 21 and 22, 2026. This sensory journey combines makeup, movement, and interactive experiences designed to ignite your senses. Reservations open this Thursday, January 15, 2026. [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]
XXL Vinyl Fair: This iconic record store in the 11th arrondissement of Paris is offering 5,000 albums for just €2!
Get ready for a vinyl frenzy in Paris! On the weekend of January 17–18, 2026, record shop A-One in the 11th arrondissement is turning its headquarters into a massive clearance sale, with 5,000 classic vinyl records priced at just €2 each—and even more deals to be discovered! [Read more]
The Jardin of the Bridgerton Chronicle: free decorations and activities this Thursday in Paris - photos
Dear fans of secrets and high society, an extraordinary event awaits you this Thursday, January 17, 2026: the Garden of the Bridgerton Chronicle opens its doors to the public for free in the 2nd arrondissement. Arrive early! Stroll through the beautifully manicured French gardens, participate in a fashionable dress contest, and snap glamorous photos—all leading up to an enchanting evening of music and dance. Don’t miss this magical experience right in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
L'Heure Bleue: a free immersive experience of light and sound under the elevated metro viaduct in Paris
Under the viaduct of Line 6, Paris is gearing up to sparkle. Starting January 26, 2026, L’Heure Bleue will turn concrete and sky into an immersive stage, blending light and music for a one-hour sensory journey. Throughout the year, this artistic installation will light up at dusk, offering walkers a poetic, vibrant, and one-of-a-kind experience. [Read more]
Anime-inspired spirit, handcrafted soul: when pop culture merges with Japanese craftsmanship
Sponsored - Over the course of four days, a groundbreaking exhibition in France brings together iconic characters like Evangelion, Lupin III, and Ken the Survivor, along with many more—reimagined by ten renowned Japanese craftsmanship companies.
Blending pop culture with extraordinary artisanal skill, visitors can explore one-of-a-kind works where tradition and modern imagination collide. The event runs from January 14 to 17 at 23 Rue du Sentier. Admission is free and open to all. [Read more]
Lueurs de Mantes: return of the free light trail in the heart of the Yvelines 2026
Mantes-la-Jolie is shining brightly again this winter with the third edition of Lueurs de Mantes in the Yvelines. This free light show is back in a smaller format from Thursday, January 15, to Sunday, February 1, 2026, with a drone show to kick things off. Here's a rundown of the details. [Read more]
Dior Paris 30 Montaigne, boutique - museum, café and restaurant
The legendary Dior address at 30 Avenue Montaigne reopens its doors and reveals its new face. Renovated and redesigned, this new address should appeal to fashion addicts as well as gourmets in search of a gourmet café or refined restaurant. [Read more]
CAN 2025: Giant Screens in Montreuil (93) to Watch the Africa Cup Final
Attention Montreuil sports fans: The Arthur Ashe Sports Center will be open this weekend, offering a giant-screen viewing experience of the thrilling climax of the 2025-2026 Africa Cup of Nations. Expect a lively, festive atmosphere as everyone comes together to watch the third-place match and the grand African final unfold. [Read more]
Nights of Reading 2026: Literary Evening and DJ Set at Ground Control in Paris
Ground Control is taking part in this year's Night of Reading on January 23, 2026, offering an exciting and free lineup of activities for everyone to enjoy! [Read more]
Nights of Reading 2026: A Literary Marathon in the Heart of a Parisian Private Mansion
For its 10th edition happening from January 21 to 25, 2026, the Nights of Reading will turn Paris into a vibrant stage for readings, performances, and encounters. On January 22, the Hôtel de Béhague will open its doors for a dadaist poetic marathon, inviting the audience to become readers and delve into the world of avant-garde Romanian literature. [Read more]
Nights of Reading 2026: Free Interactive Shows for the Whole Family at the Grand Palais
Immer yourself in new and exciting worlds: take part in the activities organized at the Grand Palais for the Nights of Reading, happening on January 24th and 25th, 2026. [Read more]
Lost package sales: mystery parcels sold by weight at a pop-up shop in Westfield Les 4 Temps
The trending craze of buying lost packages is arriving in Paris from Monday, January 26th to Sunday, February 1st, 2026! Westfield Les 4 Temps is hosting a pop-up shop where you can snag mystery parcels for just a few euros — with no idea what's inside! [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]
This Week's Best Deals in Paris and Île-de-France, January 12–18, 2026
The top weekend tips for Paris and Île-de-France on January 16-18, 2026
What to do with children: free family outings in Paris
