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Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September 2025, the European Heritage Days (JEP) will focus on ‘architectural heritage’, allowing visitors to discover places that are usually closed to the public, events in unusual locations, discovery trails, workshops and more. This is one of the must-see cultural events of the autumn! An exceptional programme of events will enliven the city and make this weekend one of the must-see events of the autumn in Paris and Greater Paris.
Immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of the capital through its iconic museums and monuments. For this exceptional weekend, some will open areas that are usually closed to the public, while others will offer unique tours that reveal their secrets and history.
Immerse yourself in history with the new tour of the towers of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, which are reopening for the 2025 Heritage Days after several years of renovation work. Thanks to models, plans and soundscapes, this Gothic masterpiece reveals all its architectural secrets. A double spiral oak staircase takes you up to a height of 69 metres, where an exceptional panorama of the capital awaits you. After a spectacular climb, enjoy a gentle descent to the famous ‘bourdons’ and the courtyard of cisterns, accompanied by an immersive soundscape.
Housed in former wine cellars dating from the late 19th century, the Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains are offering guided tours at a special JEP rate for one weekend only. For an hour and a half, a guide will take you from one space to another, telling you the history of this unusual place, which houses the largest collection of objects from the heritage of 19th-century entertainment and funfairs, such as mechanical musical instruments and century-old merry-go-rounds.
When the history of jewellery meets architecture.... Allow 1 hour and 10 minutes to visit the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau, a listed historic monument, where the École des Arts Joailliers (https://parisjetaime.com/eng/activity/l-ecole-school-of-jewelry-arts-p4009) moved in June 2024. This is also an opportunity to discover the exhibition Le geste retrouvé: reconstitution du torque celte de Montans (The rediscovered gesture: reconstruction of the Celtic torque of Montans), which features the reconstruction of a Celtic gold necklace dating from the Second Iron Age, whose complexity is beyond comprehension. Amazing!
To mark the 120th anniversary of the Army Museum, the Military Governor of Paris, Lieutenant General Loïc MIZON, is opening the doors of his salons to the public for the first time. These exceptional spaces (the general's office, the grand hall, the state rooms) can be visited in small groups of 10 people, giving visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of republican and military history. Military personnel from the cabinet and citizen reservists will be on hand to answer all your questions.
Reopened in June 2024 after extensive restoration, the Grand Palais offers visitors a fun and interactive guided tour. A guide will lead them on a discovery of this architectural gem with its Rotunda, Central Hall and Seine Room. Whether you're visiting alone or with your family, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the history of this iconic monument. Workshops (Carton Lune !, La Fabrique Palais Pocket and Des bestioles au Grand Palais) are also scheduled in the Salon Seine.
Former industrial warehouse from the 1930s - now a multidisciplinary arts venue - the Magasins Généraux de Pantin were reborn in 2016 under the impetus of the advertising agency BETC. Architect, photographer and tour guide Patrick Bezzolato invites you to explore the history and architecture of this cultural laboratory dedicated to new ideas, contemporary exhibitions and emerging creativity. This iconic building, located on the banks of the Canal de l'Ourcq, embodies the industrial and creative history of Greater Paris.
The famous monument is opening its doors to the public for a special tour of the machinery of its historic lift. The tower's technicians will provide commentary during this unique tour. Make the most of your visit by having lunch or dinner at the Madame Brasserie restaurant located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower.
To mark the 42nd European Heritage Days, the Town Hall is opening its doors free of charge – registration opens on 10 September. On the programme: tours of the state rooms, the Council Chamber, the mayor's office, craft demonstrations, exhibitions on heritage and matrimoine, a library, and meetings with artisans and historians.
Listed as a historic monument, the Saint-Sulpice Church unveils its recently restored chapels. A literary walk through the neighbourhood completes this historical and cultural immersion.
A masterpiece of Gothic art, the Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis houses more than 70 sculpted tombs. Themed tours allow visitors to explore the history of this important site and its sovereigns.
Exceptionally open, the Mobilier national located on Rue Berbier-du-Mets welcomes visitors in search of the most beautiful treasures of the arts and crafts. In this modernist building by Auguste and Gustave Perret, classified as a historic monument, the public can admire priceless collections that faithfully reflect the evolution of official furniture in France from the 17th century to the present day. The history of decorative arts will hold no more secrets for you!
The Cité de l'Économie opens the doors of the Hôtel Gaillard, a masterpiece of Parisian architectural heritage. Formerly a neo-Renaissance mansion, then converted into a branch of the Banque de France, this listed historic monument invites you to step back in time in a setting that is as grandiose as it is unusual. Throughout the weekend, the mediation team will be on hand to help you discover the fascinating history of the place and the secrets of its exceptional décor. Whether you are passionate about architecture, curious about heritage or simply looking for a free visit in Paris, don't miss this unique cultural event in a museum like no other.
The Gaîté Lyrique is opening its doors for a special curious and friendly tour of the building, its programming spaces and its rich history - from Offenbach's operettas to the Fabrique de l'époque. Immerse yourself in its multiple architectural layers and discover places that are usually closed to the public.
Heritage Days are not limited to iconic monuments. Many more secret or unusual places are also opening their doors.
Housed in part of the former Saint-Denis power station in the Pleyel district, the Cité du Cinéma is best known for having hosted film sets and a film school before becoming an XXL Olympic village during the 2024 Paris Games. For one weekend only, visitors will have exceptional access to the grounds and nave of the building and learn more about the history and architecture of this extraordinary place.
Come alone, with friends or family to discover the ** Cour des Comptes**, a historic institution. The programme includes a self-guided tour through an exceptional architectural heritage: the Palais Cambon and Tour Chicago by architect Constant Moyaux, majestic façades and grand staircase listed as historic monuments, the Philippe Séguin gallery with its fresco by Bernard Venet, and the Grand’Chambre. A public discussion with Pierre Moscovici, First President of the Court, is also planned.
As every year, the Palais du Luxembourg opens its doors for the European Heritage Days. On the programme: a tour of the hemicycle, the heart of the parliamentary assembly, a tour of the library with its ceilings painted by Eugène Delacroix, and the Conference Room, the former throne gallery. The tour continues to the Petit Luxembourg, where the Presidency of the Senate is located, with the office of the President of the Senate, the Queen's Chapel and the majestic Boffrand salons.
A jewel of French architecture in the Louis XV style, the Hôtel de Béhague - Romanian Embassy is celebrating 145 years of diplomatic relations between France and Romania. Head to the first floor, accessed via a polychrome marble staircase modelled on the Queen's Staircase at Versailles, which opens onto sumptuous rooms: the Golden Salon, the Marble Salon with its painting by François Boucher, La Renaissance de Vénus, the oval library and the Byzantine Room.
Housed in the superb La Rochefoucauld-Doudeauville mansion, also known as the Hôtel de Boisgelin, the Italian Embassy is open to visitors on Saturday 20 September 2025 only. Stroll freely through its majestic salons with Italian accents (ground floor, first floor) and its garden. Don't miss the the tapestries adorning the walls of the staircase, created by the Gobelins Manufactory between 1740 and 1762, based on a design by Jean-François de Troy.
The Centre du patrimoine de la Cité internationale offers guided tours through the uniquely styled houses and 34 hectares of parkland that welcome thousands of international students every year.
The Théâtre National de l'Opéra-Comique is opening the doors of its costume and wig workshop. Visitors will be able to see the rare and meticulous craftsmanship of the artisans at work.
The Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé Foundation The Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé Foundation is offering silent film screenings accompanied by piano, a special free tour of the modern building designed by Renzo Piano, and free access to the collection galleries, which feature posters and iconic film equipment tracing the history of the 7th art.
As it does every year, Le Monde newspaper is organising its festival, which includes the Heritage Days. Since 2020, the Le Monde headquarters has been located in the 13th arrondissement, in an impressive, elegant and modern building designed by Snohetta and SRA-Architectes. The Le Monde festival and Heritage Days are an opportunity to discover this architectural feat through guided tours, enjoy entertainment, including shows, concerts and performances, on the forecourt, and take part in conversations and debates.
The Hangar Y, the world's first airship hangar, can be visited with a guide to immerse yourself in the history of aeronautics and this unique heritage site. Enjoy a fun family visit with a game booklet, watch piano improvisations by Harry Allouche accompanied by an open-air screening of A Trip to the Moon and Proxima, and admire the most original children's drawings from the Mon Jardin Fantastique workshop.
The Institut de France is opening the doors of its palace, an iconic historic monument on the Quai de Conti, for a special event. Take a free tour of its hidden treasures: the Mazarine Library and the Institut de France Library, the two academicians' meeting rooms, the Coupole, which houses the Académie française, the Académie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres, the Académie des Sciences, the Académie des Beaux-Arts and the Académie des Sciences Morales et Politiques. Several academicians will be present to discuss their work and sign copies of their books. Also worth discovering: the exhibition Trémois, l’anatomie du trait (Trémois, the anatomy of the line).
The National Assembly opens its doors to the public! From the famous hemicycle to the restored library, via the Salon Delacroix, the Salle des Quatre-Colonnes and the Galerie des Fêtes, immerse yourself in the behind-the-scenes world of democracy. The Hôtel de Lassay, residence of the President of the National Assembly, is also open to visitors. A digital audio guide enhances the visit. A rare immersion into the political heart of the Republic.
The Banque de France is opening the doors of its Paris headquarters, located in the Hôtel de Toulouse (1st arrondissement), for a special event. The public will be able to discover its state rooms, the sumptuous Galerie Dorée and behind the scenes of the institution, from the underground vault to fun workshops. The visit is free, but only by reservation from 2 September at 2pm.
For European Heritage Days, the legendary Molitor (16th arrondissement) is opening its doors and showcasing its two Art Deco pools. On Saturday 20 September 2025, guided tours will reveal the iconic stained-glass windows, railings and portholes (booking required). On Sunday 21 September 2025, there will be free visits to the 70 artistic cabins, taken over by designers from around the world.
The start of the cultural season in Paris sets the pace for the city from the end of summer: major exhibitions, theatre plays, concerts, festivals and family activities breathe new life into the capital.
Don't miss out on any of this cultural excitement: our guide will take you through the highlights of autumn, so you can enjoy this rich season full of discoveries and emotions to the fullest.
Beyond the major monuments and unusual places, Heritage Days also offer themed experiences that enrich your discovery of Parisian heritage.
A monument to luxury travel, the Orient Express is on display at Paris-Austerlitz station for Heritage Days. Comprising seven carriages, four of which are listed as historic monuments, this legendary train embodies the elegance of French rail travel. True masterpieces of Art Deco designed by René Lalique and René Prou, the Pullman carriages showcase the excellence of the Compagnie des Wagons-Lits' craftsmanship. A rare opportunity to visit the heart of a legend that began in 1883 between Paris and Constantinople.
One year after the Paris 2024 Games, explore the urban transformations in Saint-Denis. Discover the new face of the Pleyel district, combining rehabilitated industrial heritage and architectural prowess, notably with the Franchissement Urbain Pleyel, a monumental structure spanning 48 railway tracks and an unmissable feature of the urban landscape. From Place Ampère, the coordinating architect will guide you through sector D of the future residential neighbourhood, highlighting the legacy of the Paris Games, not to mention the architectural innovations and sustainable ambitions of the Seine-Saint-Denis department.
Beneath the Gare de l'Est, at platforms 4 and 5, a most unusual tour awaits you during this cultural weekend. **Young and old, curious and enthusiastic alike are invited to discover miniature train networks covering 800 metres of track divided into three networks on three different scales. Hundreds of points, high-voltage lines, stationmasters, passengers... A magical place to learn all about railway history.
Want to go behind the scenes of the RATP** (Régie autonome des Transports Parisiens)? Come to Thiais, near Paris, to the bus maintenance and depot centre, where you will find the maintenance workshop and administrative offices (dispatch, line manager, stocks, etc.). This unexpected industrial heritage can also be explored through a photo exhibition on the lines operated by the Thiais Bus Centre, or by taking a seat in the driver's cab!
Built in 1965 at the request of the municipality, the Maison du Peuple Guy Môquet houses two major works classified as regional heritage sites: a stainless steel spiral staircase by ironwork artist Raymond Subes, and the monumental fresco A la Conquête du bonheur by artist Blasco Mentor - a 400 m² canvas celebrating humanity and solidarity. Completely restored in September 2025, these two works can be (re)discovered during four exceptional guided tours on Heritage Days.
Follow the water and explore behind the scenes of the Île-de-France region's first river port on an exceptional guided cruise. Steeped in the region's industrial history, the Port of Gennevilliers reveals its impressive infrastructure and key activities, including logistics, construction, agri-food, recycling and energy. This immersion in the heart of this strategic site also provides a better understanding of the challenges of river transport, a sustainable mode of transport serving the city and the ecological transition.
Step back in time aboard the Chemin de Fer des Chanteraines, known as the Decauville, a historic 5.5 km long narrow-gauge railway located in the heart of the Hauts-de-Seine departmental park. Throughout the weekend, historic passenger and freight trains will be running to bring you back to the world of old-fashioned locomotives, including at least one steam engine. A highly original way to discover France's railway heritage.
In Ivry-sur-Seine, discover a little-known and fascinating place: the cellars of the former Dumesnil brewery, located in old limestone quarries. Closed in the 1980s, the brewery is being brought back to life for Heritage Days thanks to the OCRA association, which specialises in promoting underground heritage. The tour reveals the technical installations used to make beer (malting, fermentation and storage vats). Please wear suitable clothing for this unusual underground experience.
Uncover the secrets of scientific and technical heritage during a guided tour of the reserves of the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Saint-Denis. Home to some 80,000 objects and 15,000 drawings, these reserves, designed in 1994 by architect François Deslaugiers, are a testament to the meticulous conservation, inventory and restoration work carried out for future generations. A place of memory and research to be discovered without delay.
Paris is a city with a thousand faces, where each neighbourhood tells a unique story. Whether you're looking for little-known places, typical atmospheres or architectural gems, our Paris by neighbourhood guide will immerse you in Greater Paris.
From the Marais to the heights of Montmartre, via Saint-Denis and the banks of the Marne, explore these places at your own pace and according to your mood.
