Exhibitions in Paris this winter: 20 cultural outings to warm your heart in the Île-de-France region

Winter is setting in, and you’re looking for outings that will warm your spirit. Our seasonal guide offers a wide range of ideas for enjoying museums, foundations and art centers. You’ll find exhibitions in Paris to suit every taste, budget and busy schedule, whether you’re looking for a festive season on the town or an impromptu cultural interlude.

Winter is ideal for exhibitions in Paris

The cold and the rain invite you to come and visit the museums. What’s more, certain evening hours create an intimate atmosphere, leaving more space to enjoy the works. On the other hand, weekends can be very busy, which is why it’s a good idea to buy a time-stamped ticket to make your visit more fluid, especially if you combine your exhibitions with other experiences such as a Christmas tea time or a stroll at the end of the day.

The season guide features retrospectives, photography, design and immersive experiences. So everyone can build their own itinerary at their own pace, from the center of the city to the outskirts of the Île-de-France region. The guide will also help you choose from dozens of venues without missing out on the essentials of Paris exhibitions, while keeping in mind a few ideas for future escapades, such as a cruise or a longer stay.

Convenience and budget for Paris exhibitions

Before you leave, check the number of visitors and the time-stamped tickets. In this way, you can avoid queues and anticipate the duration of your visit, often 60 to 90 minutes. And don’t forget to pack your jacket and bags for the left-luggage office, which can fill up quickly, especially if you’re also taking advantage of the Paris illuminations or other winter activities.

“Cultural winter is lived in the warmth, not in slow motion.”

In terms of budget, you can expect to pay between €10 and €20 for an adult, depending on the venue. Think about passes, evening discounts and the first Sunday of the month free at many museums. As a result, under-26s (EU) often get free entry to national establishments, leaving more room to try out a good restaurant, such as an exceptional showcase like Ducasse Baccarat.

Hours vary from morning to evening, with closures on Mondays and Tuesdays. Also, some venues restrict entry during busy slots for comfort. In short, it’s a good idea to leave plenty of time, especially if you’re doing two Paris shows in the same day.

• Book early in the morning or late in the day
• Aim for the first Sunday if your budget is tight
• Group nearby locations to reduce transport costs
• Plan a 20-minute break between visits
• Check our policy on bags, strollers and audioguides

Districts and key locations for Paris exhibitions

Around the Seine, the Louvre-Tuileries-Orsay triangle concentrates major events. Masterpieces and recent creations are just a few minutes’ walk away. As a result, this area is ideal for a first day of exhibitions in Paris.

On the right bank, the Marais livens up the scene with its museums and art centers. What’s more, the Centre Pompidou, the Bourse de Commerce and private mansions offer strong views of modernity. In short, you can go from a cutting-edge exhibition to one for the general public, without having to leave Paris.

To the west, the Palais de Tokyo and the Musée d’Art Moderne offer contemporary tours. Installations interact with the architecture and large rooms. Photo and design spaces complete the offer to vary formats.

In Île-de-France, heritage sites program seasonal exhibitions. What’s more, some venues combine digital art, history and nature for a different perspective. So you can extend your Paris exhibitions with a cultural getaway just outside the capital.

A family experience in Paris

The winter vacations lend themselves well to this, with workshops and guided tours. Choose short, fun and concrete formats to capture attention. Immersive experiences also work well with younger visitors.

With teenagers, opt for current themes, nocturnes and free tours. An audioguide or app can punctuate the visit and encourage discussion. In short, these guidelines make Paris exhibitions more flexible and lively for everyone.

Last-minute tips for your Paris expeditions

On the big day, control opening hours, access and attendance in real time. So you can adjust the schedule if the weather changes or a venue fills up. What’s more, a nearby Plan B secures your program.

The metro remains the quickest solution on major routes. If you’re going out to the suburbs, especially at weekends, don’t forget the RER option. On the other hand, look ahead to the evenings when matches or shows are taking place, as some stations are very busy when you’re in Paris.

Avoid overloading the day and keep a comfortable tempo. Two venues are more than enough, with a coffee break or bookstore in between. As a result, you’ll get more out of your day, retain more, and bring your Paris expo to a smooth conclusion.

• exhibitions in Paris