Paris Upside Down

Free museums in Paris: what to visit during Heritage Days 2026?

Free museums in Paris: what to visit during European Heritage Days 2026

In September, Paris gradually shifts into a different gear. The light takes on a golden hue, the outdoor cafés regain a sense of calm after the summer, and, for the duration of a weekend, certain doors that are usually off-limits open to the public.

On Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026, the European Heritage Days return for their 43rd edition. Museums, monuments, institutions and venues that are sometimes usually closed invite visitors to see Paris in a different light, through unusual tours, encounters and special openings.

For those looking for free museums in Paris, this is therefore one of the most interesting weekends of the year. But rather than rushing from one arrondissement to another, why not choose a few places, take a stroll between visits and make time to enjoy the city?

From Maison Mère, our lifestyle hub nestled in the 9th arrondissement, we’ve put together a few ideas to help you plan a cultural weekend at your own pace.

 

 

Free museums in Paris: what to visit during Heritage Days 2026?
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Where to stay in Paris near the Palais Garnier and Galeries Lafayette?
around Paris 9

In Paris, the 9th arrondissement is one of the most convenient areas for making the most of the capital. With the Palais Garnier, department stores, theatres and plenty of great local addresses nearby, much of the neighbourhood can easily be explored on foot.

Choosing a hotel near the Palais Garnier means enjoying a central location while experiencing the lively atmosphere of a genuine Parisian neighbourhood.

Where to stay in Paris near the Palais Garnier and Galeries Lafayette?
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The Best Local Spots Around Maison Mère.

There are a thousand ways to discover Paris.
But the most beautiful surprises often hide just around the corner.
A few minutes from the Grands Boulevards and Pigalle, Maison Mère sits at the heart of a vibrant ecosystem: neighbourhood cafés, designer boutiques, hidden workshops, and bistronomic tables that tell the story of authentic Paris.
Between bohemian alleys and secret addresses, let’s explore the best local spots around Maison Mère — handpicked for curious travellers and lovers of everyday Parisian life.

The Best Local Spots Around Maison Mère.
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