Le saviez vous guide - activities

Did you know? Why is it called the Fountain of the Innocents?

The Fontaine des Innocents, the jewel in the crown of Paris's Les Halles district, is back in full view and freshly restored, just ahead of the Olympic Games. Do you know the history of this emblematic monument, witness to Parisian history since the 16th century, and why it bears its name? We tell you.

Did you know? Discover the fascinating history of the Westin Paris Vendôme

The Westin Paris Vendôme is not only a renowned hotel in the heart of Paris, it's also a place steeped in history. Located on rue de Castiglione, this iconic establishment opened its doors in 1878, and continues to seduce us with its timeless elegance. Immerse yourself in the history of its rich past and discover why it remains a must-visit address in Paris.

Did you know? What is the origin and history of the Fête de la Musique?

Why is the Fête de la Musique celebrated on June 21? Who created the Fête de la Musique, where did it take place and when was the first edition? These are just some of the questions that deserve to be asked about the origins of the festival, and its history.

Did you know? Why do we celebrate Father's Day? A look back at the origins of this tradition

Father's Day is celebrated in France this Sunday, June 16, 2024, an annual celebration that honors dads. When did Father's Day begin? Who created it? When is it celebrated and why? We tell you all about its origins and history.

Did you know? This Belvédère kiosk in the Yvelines is a remnant of the Universal Exhibition.

How about discovering the Kiosque du Belvédère de Châtillon, nestling in the Rosny-sur-Seine forest in the Yvelines department? We tell you all about its history and how to find it.

Did you know that RATP lends umbrellas free of charge?

It's raining and you don't have an umbrella? Did you know that RATP can lend you one? To protect yourself on rainy days, all you have to do is ask at the reception desk of one of the participating stations and pay a deposit, which will be returned to you when you return the umbrella.

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.

La Hublotière, Hector Guimard's Art Nouveau villa opens this summer in Le Vésinet (78)

Have you heard of La Hublotière? This Art Nouveau villa, designed by Hector Guimard, is hidden away in the heart of Le Vésinet, in the Yvelines department. Exceptionally, it's opening its doors to the public this summer - a golden opportunity to discover our heritage!

Did you know? There's an abandoned "ghost" water park in the Yvelines department.

There's no shortage of amazing sites in the Paris region. Such is the case of this "ghost" water park in the Yvelines department. Abandoned for more than 20 years and listed as a Monument Historique in 2009, the former leisure center was a popular spot for families from its inauguration in 1935, and remained so for several decades. Here's the story.

Moret-sur-Loing : Medieval and Impressionist city among the most beautiful detours in France

Discover Moret-sur-Loing, this medieval and impressionist city among the Most Beautiful Detours of France, only one hour from Paris. Visit this charming town, famous for its Sucre d'Orge, its royal city and the landscapes of Alfred Sisley.

The original building facade on rue Blomet, Paris 15th arrondissement

Flanking rue Blomet in the 15ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, you may come across the facade of this unusual and original Paris building. This 1909 building, designed by architect Charles Lefebvre, is reminiscent of the grand houses of Normandy.

Did you know? This fountain near the Jardin du Luxembourg represents only 4 continents.

Just off the Jardin du Luxembourg, in the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, is a grandiose fountain by Napoleon III's sculptor. It represents four women carrying the world, allegories of the continents, but one is missing... find out why!

Did you know? What is the history of the Magnolias in the Jardin du Palais Royal?

It's magnolia season in the gardens of the Palais Royal! Over the past few days, the majestic trees have been decked out in beautiful shades of pink and purple, much to the delight of walkers, tourists and photographers alike. But do you know why there are magnolias in this garden? Back in history...

Climbing District Saint-Lazare, a climbing gym and coworking space hidden in a chapel

How about a climb in an atypical location? Climbing District is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Saint-Lazare train station. Housed in a hidden former chapel, this climbing gym, which looks like an old library, is sure to surprise. Tip: coworking spaces with free wifi and coffee shop.

Did you know? There are a dozen ghost stations in Paris. Do you know them?

While many Parisians take the metro every day, few are aware that the capital is home to a dozen ghost stations. Operated then finally abandoned or never opened... what are these ghost stations and where are they located in Paris? We tell you all about them.

Did you know? The Place des Fêtes metro station was designed as an air-raid shelter.

Located on lines 7 bis and 11 of the Paris metro, Place des Fêtes station is far from being the busiest on the RATP network. Yet this station hides many secrets. With its unique architecture, Place des Fêtes station was designed as an air-raid shelter for the population. We explain.

Grandma's Day, since when has there been a grandma's day? date and origin

When is Grandmother's Day and where does it come from? Did you know that this celebration, contrary to popular belief, has its origins in a commercial initiative rather than in historical or religious tradition? We tell you all about it...

Did you know? Seine flooding in Paris - what was the worst? Back in pictures

Do you know the worst flood ever to hit Paris? A look back at the flood of January 1910, a historic event that left its mark on the capital.

Did you know? Where is the highest point in Paris?

What's the highest point in Paris? It's an interesting question, and one worth considering. We're not talking here about the highest vantage point in the capital, but the highest point on land in Paris. Belleville, Montmartre? What do you think?

Did you know? The Statue of Joan of Arc in Paris has been secretly replaced

The equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, which stands proudly on the Place des Pyramides in the 1st arrondissement, is one of Paris's most emblematic monuments. Since its creation in the 19th century, it has never ceased to be a political issue, although its history remains little-known. Did you know that the statue we admire today is not the original, but a replica secretly substituted by the artist himself?