Journées du Patrimoine 2026, held on September 19 across Paris, is an annual event celebrating the city's rich cultural and historical heritage. For this special day, numerous monuments, museums, and private buildings open their doors to the public, allowing visitors to enter places typically inaccessible. Guided tours, exhibitions, and special activities are organized to share insights into Paris's architectural, artistic, and historical significance. From grand landmarks to lesser-known sites, the event provides a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the depth of Parisian heritage. Whether interested in medieval churches, elegant mansions, or government buildings, attendees can enjoy a wide range of locations throughout the city. The festival is free or low-cost, attracting locals and tourists alike. Its educational and cultural focus makes it an excellent occasion for families, history enthusiasts, and curious visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Paris beyond the usual sightseeing spots.
Tips for Attending
•Arrive early to avoid long lines at popular sites.
•Check the official program in advance to plan your day efficiently.
•Some locations require timed entry tickets—book online if possible.
•Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking between venues.
•Carry a map or use a mobile app to navigate between multiple sites.
Practical Information
Budget: Mostly free, but budget for occasional admission fees, transport, and meals.. Duration: Plan for several hours to a full day depending on how many places you want to visit.. Food Drink: Bring snacks or take breaks at nearby cafes; some venues may have limited food options.. What To Wear: Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing; layers recommended for varying indoor and outdoor temperatures.. Getting There: Accessible by metro, bus, and train. Use public transport to avoid traffic and parking challenges.. Booking Advice: Many events are free but some require advance reservation via the official website; popular sites fill up quickly.
Best For
history loversfamiliesculture seekersarchitecture enthusiasts
Venture to the eastern Paris landmark on this 2.5-hour, semi-private (12 Guest Maximum) guided walking tour. With its cobblestone paths, centuries-old gravestones, and famous residents, Père Lachaise is one of the world’s great cemeteries. Discover the final resting places of luminaries ranging from Oscar Wilde to Jim Morrison, and soak up the evocative, unforgettable atmosphere.
Discover the sweet flavors of Paris on a guided walking tour led by a local expert! Stroll through charming Parisian streets as you explore the city’s rich culinary traditions and taste some of its most iconic desserts. Start your experience with beloved French classics, a viennoiserie tasting featuring buttery croissants and melt-in-your-mouth pains au chocolat, the perfect introduction to a true Parisian breakfast. Continue with elegant macarons, warm crêpes, a decadent chocolate tasting, and timeless favorites such as madeleines and éclairs. Paris is world-renowned for its dessert heritage. Join us and treat yourself to the city’s most delightful sweets!
This Montmartre experience goes beyond the landmarks, inviting you to truly feel the neighborhood’s artistic soul. You’ll not only see the iconic sights, along the way, you’ll also hear untold tales of Montmartre’s artists, scandals, and love stories, bringing the district’s bohemian past vividly to life. What makes this tour special: -A mix of famous highlights and hidden corners most visitors miss -A local bakery stop to taste a freshly baked croissant -Small-group atmosphere for an authentic, intimate experience -Continued support during your stay in Paris — even after the tour ends, we’re here for you. Whether you need directions, restaurant recommendations, or advice on places to explore, we’re just a message away — like having Parisian friends on the other side of the line. -Exclusive benefit for our guests — enjoy a 30% discount on professional photo sessions in Paris with our trusted partner photographers, the perfect way to capture unforgettable memories of your trip.
Join your Franco/American guide for a small group tour of this vibrant area of Paris. Wander through the historic Marais neighborhood, and discover hidden courtyards, medieval architecture, the beautiful Place des Vosges, and the home of Victor Hugo. The neighborhood will be brought to life with the unforgettable stories and insights that only a native guide can provide.
Explore the rich history and modern charm of Le Marais, Paris’s trendiest neighborhood. Join a small group (max 8) for a 2-hour guided tour and discover hidden gems with your local guide. Embark Paris’s most stylish neighborhood is known for its rich history and unique blend of old and new. With an intimate group, you’ll enjoy a personal experience led by a knowledgeable local guide. Discover the centuries-old architecture, including hidden hôtels particuliers, and explore the vibrant Jewish Quarter. Stroll through historic spots like Place des Vosges and the Marché des Enfants Rouges while learning how Le Marais evolved from its medieval roots to its current status as a cultural hotspot. Your guide will reveal hidden treasures and fascinating stories about Le Marais’s past, from the Templar Order to its modern-day art galleries and boutiques.
You are gonna live an amazing moment with a true Parisian woman ! As it has been 8 years that I am living in Paris I created a tour mixing some of our major architectural places and authentic living spaces. After this tour, you will know the real Paris, I can guarantee !
What makes this tour unique is the excellent quality of the 300 pictures that are being taken. In different locations and backgrounds. Also the fact that all these pictures will be delivered retouched in terms of their exposure, saturation, sharpness, incorrections etc. and ready for immediate printing. The sending of the pictures is being made within 24 hours. But what mostly makes this session unique, is the wonderful smile, the warmth, the politeness, the humour and the patience of our experienced photographer Ari Bafalouka that speaks perfectly well English and French. No need to worry about snapping the perfect selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower when you can instead book a walking tour that includes a photo shoot by a professional photographer. During this 2-hour Paris experience, you'll explore the area around the Eiffel Tower while the photographer captures 300 artistic photos of you in front of the world-famous landmark. Retouching for all the pictures is included.
A perfect introduction to the City of Lights! Meet the city's legacy by exploring the grand monuments that make Paris such a desirable destination - from the Louvre to the Iron Lady herself and everything in between!