For this 2026 edition of the European Heritage Days, on Saturday the 19th and Sunday the 20th of September, why not venture off the beaten path? Beyond the classics, discover hidden places in Paris that often fly under the radar. Little-known historical sites, quietly impressive monuments, even spots normally closed to the public, will open their doors for what promises to be an exceptional weekend.
What are these little-known places that are a must-see? Did you think you knew Paris inside and out? The " Journées du Patrimoine" (Heritage Days ) are full of surprises, with some nuggets that are well worth the detour. It's an opportunity to discover historical and cultural buildings that are often overlooked by the general public. These include private buildings, mansions, secret gardens and rarely-exhibited archives and collections.
Île-de-France also teems with hidden cultural treasures. Time-worn monuments that see little foot traffic, historic mansions, discreet churches and intimate museums just waiting to be discovered. This edition of the Heritage Days 2026 invites you to explore these often-overlooked gems tucked away in the region’s small towns.
Don't know about these secret places? We're here to help you discover them! To mark the occasion, we've put together a selection that should enrich your culture of Paris and the Ile-de-France. The European Heritage Days are an opportunity to visit sites you've never seen before, places that aren't usually open to the public. Thought you knew everything there was to know about Paris and the surrounding area? Prepare to be surprised...
To ensure you don’t miss any of the hidden spots to discover for the 2026 Heritage Days in Paris and Île-de-France, we recommend bookmarking this page and checking it regularly.
Heritage Days 2026 at Montceaux's Royal Castle (77): visit the Castle of the Three Queens.
What if we set off to uncover the ruins of Montceaux’s Royal Castle? This historic site in Seine-et-Marne is inviting visitors for Heritage Days this weekend, September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at Trajan Tower (91): a tour of the ancient column of Méréville
Did you know that a Roman monument overlooks the Essonne? We’re taking advantage of Heritage Days on September 19 and 20, 2026 to discover Trajan’s Tower, this curiosity of the town of Méréville! [Read more]
The last mill in Val-de-Marne unveils its secrets for Heritage Days 2026.
On September 19 and 20, 2026, the European Heritage Days invite you to push open the doors of the Moulin de la Tour in Ivry-sur-Seine. The last mill still standing in Val-de-Marne, this relic of the past is opening its doors for a rare glimpse into its history, between rural heritage and the memory of the Paris region. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: a wealth of fascinating sites to discover in Saint-Denis (93)
The city of Saint-Denis is undoubtedly one of the most captivating towns in Seine-Saint-Denis: proof is in its numerous sites to visit during Heritage Days on 19 and 20 September 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: in the heart of the Musée des Arts et Métiers' reserves in Saint-Denis (93)
On the occasion of Heritage Days, the Museum of Arts and Crafts opens the doors to its storerooms in Saint-Denis (93) this Saturday, September 19, 2026. More than 80,000 objects are catalogued, restored and preserved there since 1994. Note: registration is mandatory! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Pina Bausch Conservatory, a music and dance school in Montreuil (93)
The European Heritage Days 2026, scheduled for September 19 and 20, unveil a slate of unusual venues, including the Pina Bausch Conservatory in Montreuil (93), a 1970s architectural gem. A chance to rediscover this recently renovated metallic jewel! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Embassy of Italy in France: the secrets of a splendid townhouse
For Heritage Days 2026, the Italian Embassy in Paris opens its doors on Saturday, September 19 for a special tour. A site steeped in history, in the heart of the capital, to be explored free of charge for a weekend (booking is required). [Read more]
Visit the Jacques Doucet Library for Heritage Days 2026.
In the 5th arrondissement, the library of the renowned Belle Époque couturier Jacques Doucet will unusually open its doors to the public for Heritage Days 2026. Here’s what you need to know! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: the program at the Russian Orthodox Center
For the 2026 Heritage Days in Paris, the Russian Orthodox Spiritual and Cultural Center, located next to the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, invites you to the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the National Institute of Art History and in its library (INHA)
For the 43rd edition of Heritage Days, the National Institute of Art History invites you to explore a range of free tours and activities for the whole family on September 19 and 20, 2026. It's a chance to step inside a building typically reserved for students and researchers. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: Tour an air-raid shelter in Bourg-la-Reine!
During these 2026 Heritage Days, immerse yourself in history and discover a genuine World War II air-raid shelter in Bourg-la-Reine on September 19 and 20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: the tour schedule at the Jean Monnet House in Bazoches (78)
On Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, the Heritage Days are back in Paris and Île-de-France: in Bazoches-sur-Guyonne, in the Yvelines, it’s a chance to discover the Jean Monnet House. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: Exploring the floating chalets at Étang de la Galiotte (78)
Escape during Heritage Days—it's possible! On the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, head to Étang de la Galiotte in Carrières-sous-Poissy to discover an astonishing floating village, right up close to the nature of Yvelines. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the House of Latin America in Paris
Craving a weekend off the beaten path? On Sunday, September 20, 2026, step through the doors of the Maison de l’Amérique latine in Paris for a rare, reservation-only tour during the Journées du Patrimoine. A venue steeped in history where grand townhouses, hidden gardens, and Latin–French heritage converge in the heart of Saint-Germain. [Read more]
Crime and mysteries: Heritage Days 2026 at the Police Prefecture Museum in Paris
For the 2026 Heritage Days, head to the Musée de la Préfecture de Police in Paris’s 5th arrondissement. Better than in crime dramas, you’ll see real artifacts, meet professionals, and even get to try things out! Family-friendly event on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at Maison Ferrari (92): the Duchess of Galliera's legacy.
Heading to the Hauts-de-Seine for the 2026 Heritage Days, and to Maison Ferrari in Clamart, built by the Duchess of Galliera, which today houses a retirement home, in a sublime setting. [Read more]
Paris Heritage Days 2026: The Institute of Human Paleontology opens its doors to the public
Heritage Days are coming to Paris and the Île-de-France region on the weekend of 19 and 20 September 2026. For the occasion, the Institute of Human Paleontology, founded by Prince Albert I of Monaco, will unusually open its doors to the public. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: Historical reenactment at the Museum of Life in Former Times (77)
On Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, Heritage Days are back: a chance to discover lesser-known museums, such as the Museum of Everyday Life in Seine-et-Marne. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at Claude Monet's Impressionist House in Argenteuil (Val-d'Oise)
For the 2026 Heritage Days, Claude Monet's Impressionist House invites you to Argenteuil on September 19 and 20, 2026. Check out the program! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2025: visit the Orville archaeological site in Louvres (95)
On the weekend of September 20 and 21, 2025, many cultural and historical sites will be opening their doors for the European Heritage Days. In Louvres (95), the Orville archaeological site opens its doors to the public for the occasion. [Read more]
Re-enactors in period dress at Fort de Cormeilles-en-Parisis for Heritage Days
Visit Fort de Cormeilles during Heritage Days 2026, on Sunday, September 20. This former military fort, now owned by the Île-de-France Regional Agency for Green Spaces, opens its doors to families and history enthusiasts, of course free of charge! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: visit to the park and the vegetable garden of the Château de la Celle-Saint-Cloud (78)
On 19 and 20 September 2026, you can, exceptionally, explore the magnificent gardens of the Château de la Celle-Saint-Cloud in Yvelines, a property owned by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs that hosts heads of state! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Hôtel de Roquelaure, Ministry of Ecological Transition in Paris
Seeking an exceptional tour for Heritage Days 2026? In Paris, the Hôtel de Roquelaure, home to the Ministry of Territorial Planning and the Ecological Transition, unveils its programme for the weekend of 19 and 20 September 2026. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2026 : Discover the enigmatic Vault of the Holy Spirit in the Paris region
In Provins, in Seine-et-Marne, the Caveau du Saint-Esprit opens its doors for a captivating visit on the occasion of Heritage Days, during the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Hidden beneath a convent in the Île-de-France region, this crypt will open exceptionally for Heritage Days 2026.
For the 2026 Heritage Days, discover the crypt of the English Benedictine Convent in Pontoise, a site steeped in history that will unusually be open to the public on the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at Maison Saint-Sulpice: visit this former seminary in Paris
On the occasion of Heritage Days, the Maison Saint-Sulpice in Paris opens its doors for a special visit on Saturday, September 19, 2026. Step into the history of this former 17th‑century seminary, wander its tranquil gardens, and discover its pivotal role in Paris’s religious and cultural life! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at Montagu Castle (91) in the heart of the ruins and the Henry IV Tower
We’re sharing the 2026 Heritage Days program for Montagu Castle (91), nestled among the ruins and the Henry IV tower. Here are the tours scheduled for this weekend, September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Treasure hunt and music at Victor Hugo's literary house for Heritage Days
Victor Hugo's literary house, in Bièvres, Essonne, will open its doors free to the public on September 19 and 20, 2026, for Heritage Days. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: explore the Valentin Haüy Museum, devoted to the history of the blind.
For the 43rd edition of Heritage Days, the Valentin Haüy Museum invites Parisians and residents of Île-de-France to explore the history of blindness, on Saturday, September 19, 2026. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2026 : a deep dive into Paris's enigmatic sewer museum
The Paris Sewer Museum is taking part in the new edition of Heritage Days. See you Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, for unusual tours beneath the capital’s streets. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois (91): the schedule of tours
In Essonne, the town of Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois unveils a rich lineup for Heritage Days 2026. Mark your calendars for September 19–20, 2026, to discover the many treasures of this site, easily accessible with a Navigo pass! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: Explore the Japanese Gardens of Favières in Seine-et-Marne
The Japanese Gardens site in Favières, Seine-et-Marne, opens its doors at a special rate on September 19 and 20, 2026, for Heritage Days. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris at the Army Health Service Museum at Val-de-Grâce
Heritage Days in Paris are also a chance to discover the Army Health Service Museum at Val-de-Grâce! Here’s what’s in store for the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: a tour of the Paris Foreign Missions Seminary and its museum
The 43rd edition of Heritage Days will unfold over the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, in Paris and the Île-de-France region. It offers a chance to discover the Séminaire des Missions Étrangères and its hidden museum. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Singer-Polignac Foundation, the mysterious private mansion in the 16th arrondissement.
On the occasion of Heritage Days 2026, September 19 and 20, you can, exceptionally, explore the sumptuous state rooms of the Singer-Polignac Foundation, normally closed to visitors. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Pharmacy Museum: a guided tour of the National Order’s headquarters
If you’re looking to discover a hidden museum in the capital, join a guided tour during Heritage Days 2026 at the National Order of Pharmacists’ headquarters and its stunning architecture. See you on September 19 and 20. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: Le Regard de la Lanterne, a secret spot in the 19th arrondissement
Looking to get off the beaten path during Heritage Days? Why not visit the Lantern's Gaze, a secret spot in Paris’s 19th arrondissement? Here’s the program waiting for you there on Saturday, September 19, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: the Radiology and Medical Imaging Museum
Heritage Days take place over the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, in Paris and throughout Île-de-France. Attention to science and medical technology enthusiasts: the Radiology and Medical Imaging Museum reveals its program! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: the little-known Cognacq-Jay Museum unveils its program
For the 43rd edition of Heritage Days, the Cognacq-Jay Museum, nestled in the heart of Paris’s 3rd arrondissement, will open its doors to all visitors on 19 and 20 September 2026. Set out to discover this little-known gem in the capital. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: guided tour and demonstration at the Maison du Vitrail in Paris
Discover the fascinating world of stained glass during Heritage Days 2026 in Paris! From September 18 to 20, the Maison du Vitrail will open its doors to the public for an exceptional event. Immerse yourself in the art and history of this unique workshop, where tradition and modernity come together. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Clemenceau Museum in Paris: a tour of the apartment and the garden
For the 2026 Heritage Days in Paris, visit a museum that’s secret and unlike any other: the Clemenceau Museum! You stroll through the apartment of the former Prime Minister, with a garden and a view of the Eiffel Tower, and you take the opportunity to revisit his History of France. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Maison du Fontainier, a deep dive into Paris's water history
Are you ready to dive into Paris’s history during Heritage Days 2026? What better way to do it than a tour of the Maison du Fontainier, a cornerstone in the capital’s water history. Join us this weekend, September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: the program at the Maison d'Auguste Comte
The Maison d'Auguste Comte unveils its program for this weekend in Paris, September 19–20, 2026, on the occasion of the 43rd edition of Heritage Days. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Rosny Rail (93): discover the Seine-Saint-Denis train museum
Are you familiar with the Rosny-sous-Bois Train Museum? For Heritage Days, the Rosny Rail Museum will open its doors free of charge on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, inviting you on a journey to the heart of railway history! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Catacombs of Paris: what’s on!
Heritage Days are waiting for you—even in the depths of Paris's catacombs. Find out what’s planned in the capital’s underground over the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at Visionnaire, the historic headquarters of the L’Oréal group
This new edition of the Heritage Days has plenty of surprises in store for September 19 and 20, 2026. On the occasion, Le Visionnaire - Espace François Dalle, best known as the historic headquarters of the L'Oréal group, will exceptionally open its doors to visitors for free guided tours. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: a special opening of Hôtel Pereire — Del Duca Foundation
Hôtel Pereire, home of the Simone and Cino Del Duca Foundation - Institut de France, opens its doors for Heritage Days 2026. On September 19 and 20, dive into the heart of Parisian heritage and explore this historic building enriched with photos, videos and archives. A not-to-be-missed opportunity in Paris! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: Guided tours of the Grand Lodge of France
Les Journées du Patrimoine invites you to an exceptional visit of the Grand Lodge of France in Paris on September 19 and 20, 2026. Dive into the heart of this mysterious institution, and discover its fascinating history, its sublime architecture, and the rituals of Freemasonry! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Paris Court of Appeal — Hôtel de Beauvais
For Heritage Days 2026, set off to discover the Hôtel de Beauvais, home to the Paris Administrative Court of Appeal since 2003. Built in 1654 for Catherine de Beauvais, the listed monument overflows with trompe l’oeil effects and crafted symmetry. Mark your calendar for the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, for this exceptional opening not to be missed. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Hôtel de Salm, Grand Chancellery of the Légion d’Honneur, and museum
For the 2026 Heritage Days, why not visit the Grand Chancellery? On Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, the Hôtel de Salm, Grand Chancellery of the Légion d’honneur, opens its doors for a special tour as part of this 43rd edition. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2026 à Paris : des visite insolites de la gare Saint-Lazare
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: unusual tours of Saint-Lazare Station
For Heritage Days, Saint-Lazare Station pulls back the curtain on its behind-the-scenes spaces on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, with guided and commentary tours (registration required). [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at La Roche House – Le Corbusier Foundation in Paris
As the season kicks off, heritage meets curiosity. Among the gems to visit, La Roche House, Le Corbusier’s modernist residence in the 16th arrondissement, opens its doors for the European Heritage Days. On September 19 and 20, 2026, museums, grand town houses, and unusual venues invite free exploration for one unforgettable weekend. A must-see opportunity for architecture enthusiasts! [Read more]
European Heritage Days 2026 at the Niemeyer Space, the Communist Party’s Paris headquarters
For the 2026 Heritage Days, take a tour of the iconic Niemeyer Space, the headquarters of the French Communist Party. Designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, this futuristic building with bold, sculptural forms is opening its doors for an exceptional, immersive experience. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: the Saint-Serge de Radonège Orthodox Church, an unusual venue
The Saint-Serge de Radonège Church, one of the most unconventional gems in Paris's 19th arrondissement, invites you to uncover its secrets for Heritage Days, this weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
European Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: a stroll through Paris's covered passages
Covered passages and arcades are also part of the charm of Parisian streets, and we invite you to rediscover them on September 19 and 20, 2026, during Heritage Days. Here’s the program and the practical information. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: on the quest for the White Queen's Castle
As part of Paris Heritage Days 2026, why not explore an extraordinary residence in the very heart of the capital? In the 13th arrondissement, the Château de la Reine Blanche unlocks its secrets with a special program for the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Expiatory Chapel in Paris: tracing Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette!
Heritage Days are coming to Paris the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. On this occasion, La Chapelle expiatoire, a monument still too little known in the heart of the capital, will reveal its secrets to you. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: Visit the Greek Cathedral of Saint-Stephane
For the 2026 Heritage Days, we’re off to discover Paris. Among the city’s lesser-known gems in the City of Light, let’s step into the Greek Cathedral of Saint-Stephen on September 19 and 20, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: tour the remarkable Eiffel wind tunnel in Paris
This is an aerodynamics lab that’s over 120 years old and still active: visit the Eiffel wind tunnel during Heritage Days, on September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Discover Paris's quirky Counterfeiting Museum for Heritage Days 2026.
This autumn, the European Heritage Days are offering you unique experiences, with hundreds of exceptional sites opening free of charge. On 19 September 2026, don’t miss the Musée de la Contrefaçon in Paris, a secret haunt where truth and fiction clash to sharpen your eye and teach you how to spot counterfeits. Free, booking required. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: An exclusive visit to the Grand Lodge of France for Women
During the 2026 Heritage Days, discover a hidden gem of Paris: the Grand Lodge of Women of France. Delve into the history of this unique institution and uncover the mysteries of women's Freemasonry on September 19. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: visit Paris's Bourse du Travail
Discover the Bourse du Travail in Paris through guided tours during Heritage Days 2026, on September 19 and 20. [Read more]
The monks' refectory opens up for Paris's Heritage Days 2026.
It's a genuine hidden gem that's been unfairly overlooked: during Heritage Days on September 19–20, 2026, come discover the Central Library of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Viaduc des Arts in Paris: a must-visit for lovers of craftsmanship
The Heritage Days are also a chance to discover the Viaduc des Arts in Paris. Indeed, this remarkable site in the eastern part of the capital unveils a special program for this exceptional weekend of 19 and 20 September 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: Discover the studio of the renowned sculptor Claude de Soria in Paris
Heritage Days invite you to the weekend of September 19–20, 2026 for a fresh edition packed with cultural discoveries. For art and sculpture lovers, it’s a prime chance to dive into the heart of Claude de Soria’s workshop in Paris. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: Explore the King’s Cellars with a subterranean tour in Sèvres
At Sèvres, history is hidden even beneath the city's streets... During Heritage Days on September 19 and 20, 2026, explore the king’sCellars. Registration will open soon. [Read more]
Which secret location(s) will you be discovering this year?
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Prices
Free
