Free exhibitions in Paris and the Île-de-France region in January 2026: the must-sees

January 2026 opens with cultural events open to all. Throughout Paris and the Île-de-France region, free exhibitions will be staged to stimulate curiosity. Here you’ll find dates, locations and useful information to help you organize your outings.

Agenda malin: free exhibitions not to be missed

At L’École des Arts Joailliers, “Rêveries de pierres” links poetry, minerals and Roger Caillois’ views. From November 6, 2025 to March 29, 2026, admission is free at the times indicated.

At Galerie du 19M, “Beyond our Horizons: from Tokyo to Paris ” links know-how and scenes. In January 2026, access is announced to be free. Be sure to check opening times and reception arrangements.

At the Swedish Institute, “The Relief” closes on January 11 , 2026, after several months of presentation. However, visits are free of charge, subject to availability.

“Free culture helps keep you going when the budget’s tight.”

Focus quartiers: free exhibitions near you

Galerie Roger-Viollet presents “Gaston Paris – L’équilibre du carré” (Gaston Paris – The Balance of the Square) until January 17, 2026. The photo exhibition offers free access to a rarely-seen heritage collection.

At the Mairie du 17e, “Arman” retraces the accumulations, cut-outs and founding gestures of Nouveau Réalisme. What’s more, it’s free until January 31, 2026, depending on reception and municipal capacity.

• Check opening times and exceptional closures before you come.
• Bring identification for security checks.
• See PMR accessibility and stroller facilities on the venue’s website.
• Book a €0 ticket if the venue requires it, even for free access.
• Anticipate public holidays, late nights and busy periods.

Creation, archives and photography: free exhibitions in January

At Galerie Daniel Maghen, “Monstrologie” closes on January 10, 2026, at the end of the winter session. Consequently, free access will be granted in accordance with the gallery’s usual practices and published opening hours.

At the Bibliothèque Forney, “Les Ateliers d’art des grands magasins” showcases works, models and archives. From November 4, 2025 to February 28, 2026, the visit is free of charge. Find out more beforehand, especially about opening hours.

At the Archives de Paris, “Expo Histoire” can be visited until January 17, 2026, in the 19th arrondissement. This presentation is one of the free exhibitions in January.

At Lafayette Anticipations, “Ciel clair / Eaux troubles” brings together practices, workshops and stories around materials. From December 17, 2025 to April 5, 2026, access is free according to capacity and reservations.

Fashion, decorative arts and design: free window displays

At Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche, “Objets divers et variés – 百货 (baihuò)” brings the department store’s spaces to life. Then, from January 10 to February 22, 2026, the exhibition is free for visitors.

Galerie Templon was offering “Une vitrine de l’Art Déco” until December 31, 2025, i.e. before the period mentioned. On the other hand, be sure to ask if a resumption, or a free hanging, is announced in January.

At the Petit Palais, “Paname” puts Paris in the spotlight during January 2026, in a tour open to the general public. Access is free during the period indicated by the institution.

To end the month on a high note: free short-date exhibitions

Also at 19M, “Trouver son monde” showcases collaborations and young talent in January 2026. Free access is granted according to the terms and conditions specified by the venue.

At La Fabrique de la Solidarité, “Sur les traces du D.” runs until January 30, 2026, in the heart of Paris. Visits are free of charge, subject to registration and identity check.

The Wilde gallery presents the same proposal until January 30, 2026, in a more intimate setting. However, free access is subject to capacity and time slots.

• free exhibitions