Paris Heritage Days 2026: Discover the Historic Treasures Around Signature Saint-Germain

On Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, Paris will celebrate the 43rd edition of the European Heritage Days.

For one weekend, historic monuments, museums, institutions, workshops and remarkable buildings across the French capital will open their doors, offering visitors the opportunity to discover places that are rarely accessible to the public.

For guests staying at Signature Saint-Germain, this is the perfect occasion to explore the extraordinary heritage of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Left Bank.

From the hotel, many of Paris's most fascinating historic sites can be reached on foot, allowing visitors to discover the city at their own pace while enjoying the unique atmosphere of one of Paris's most iconic neighbourhoods.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés: a neighbourhood steeped in history

It is hard to imagine a better starting point for a heritage weekend than Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Once centred around its historic abbey, the neighbourhood has long been associated with literature, philosophy, art and Parisian intellectual life. Today, its elegant streets are home to historic cafés, art galleries, bookshops and beautiful architectural landmarks.

The European Heritage Days offer a wonderful opportunity to look beyond the familiar atmosphere of the neighbourhood and discover some of its hidden treasures.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church: 1,500 years of history

Just a few steps from Signature Saint-Germain, Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church is one of the oldest and most fascinating religious monuments in Paris.

Originally part of a Benedictine abbey, the church has witnessed more than a millennium of Parisian history and remains one of the defining landmarks of the neighbourhood.

During the 2026 European Heritage Days, free guided tours will be offered on September 19 and 20, providing an opportunity to discover the history, architecture and artistic heritage of this remarkable site.

Access is available without advance booking, subject to capacity.

It is the perfect place to begin a heritage walk through Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Musée Eugène-Delacroix: inside the artist's world

A short walk through the charming streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés leads to the peaceful Rue de Furstemberg, home to the Musée Eugène-Delacroix.

The museum occupies the former apartment and studio of the celebrated French Romantic painter Eugène Delacroix.

For the 2026 Heritage Days, the museum is offering special activities dedicated to artistic techniques and the world of Delacroix's studio.

On Saturday, September 19, visitors can take part in “Sculpting the Muses of Delacroix's Studio”, from 5:30 pm to 8 pm.

This intimate museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and creative environment of one of France's most important artists.

The Paris Mint: more than 1,150 years of craftsmanship

Continue towards the Seine and you will reach the Monnaie de Paris, France's historic mint, located on the Quai de Conti.

Founded more than 1,150 years ago, the Paris Mint is one of the oldest continuously operating institutions in France.

During the European Heritage Days, the museum will open its doors free of charge on September 19 and 20, from 11 am to 6 pm, without advance booking.

Visitors can explore the museum's collections dedicated to the history of money while discovering the craftsmanship and expertise behind the production of coins and medals.

Special demonstrations will also provide an insight into traditional crafts and the work of the artisans who continue these remarkable techniques today.

For anyone interested in history, craftsmanship and French heritage, this is certainly a stop worth including in your itinerary.

The Institut de France: beneath the famous dome

Just across from the Paris Mint stands one of the most recognisable buildings on the Left Bank: the Institut de France.

During the European Heritage Days, the Institut will exceptionally open its doors on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, from 9 am to 6 pm.

Admission is free and no advance booking is required.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore historic spaces that are normally closed to the public, including the Mazarine Library, the Library of the Institut de France, meeting rooms used by members of the academies and the famous Dome.

The Institut de France is home to five prestigious academies, including the Académie Française and the Académie des Beaux-Arts, making it a particularly fascinating place for anyone interested in French culture, literature and intellectual history.

Paris-Malaquais School of Architecture: a hidden architectural gem

Another fascinating heritage site close to Signature Saint-Germain is the Paris-Malaquais School of Architecture – PSL, located on Rue Bonaparte.

The school occupies the historic site of the former École des Beaux-Arts and forms part of an exceptional architectural complex listed as a French historic monument.

On Saturday, September 19, architecture students will offer activities centred around architectural drawing, including a session in the beautiful Cour du Mûrier.

This is an original way to discover an exceptional historic setting while exploring the relationship between architecture, drawing and contemporary creativity.

A perfect Heritage Days walk from Signature Saint-Germain

One of the greatest pleasures of experiencing the European Heritage Days in Paris is that so many remarkable places can be discovered on foot.

From Signature Saint-Germain, guests can follow a beautiful heritage itinerary:

Signature Saint-Germain → Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church → Rue de Furstemberg → Musée Eugène-Delacroix → Rue Bonaparte → Institut de France → Monnaie de Paris → Seine River

This walk takes visitors through several centuries of Parisian history in just a few hours.

Along the way, there is plenty of time to enjoy the atmosphere of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, with its historic cafés, independent bookshops, art galleries, elegant façades and picturesque streets.

Continue your walk along the Seine

Once you reach the Seine, the discovery can continue.

From the Quai de Conti, visitors can walk towards the Louvre, the Tuileries Gardens or the Pont des Arts, enjoying some of the most beautiful views in Paris along the way.

The banks of the Seine themselves form an exceptional part of Paris's heritage and have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991.

During the 2026 Heritage Days, Paris will also offer special cruises along the Seine, providing another perspective on the historic monuments and landscapes of the riverbanks.

Our tips for enjoying the European Heritage Days

The European Heritage Days are one of the highlights of Paris's cultural calendar. While many events are free, some special tours require advance booking and places can be limited.

Our recommendations:

• Check the programme before your visit.
• Book in advance for activities that require reservations.
• Choose several sites located within walking distance of one another.
• Wear comfortable shoes and take your time exploring the Left Bank.
• Start early if you want to visit several sites during the same day.
• Ask the Signature Saint-Germain team for advice. We will be delighted to help you plan your itinerary and recommend places to discover nearby.

Discover the historic side of Paris

The European Heritage Days are a wonderful opportunity to experience Paris beyond its most famous landmarks.

From an ancient abbey and the former studio of a great French painter to a centuries-old mint, an academic palace and the historic buildings of the École des Beaux-Arts, the Left Bank reveals a fascinating side of Paris at every turn.

On September 19 and 20, 2026, let history guide your steps and discover the authentic Paris of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, right from the heart of the Left Bank.

After a day spent exploring the city's heritage, return to the peaceful and elegant atmosphere of Signature Saint-Germain, perfectly located in the heart of this historic Parisian neighbourhood.