Paris for Free for Under-26s and Students?
Paris may seem like an expensive city, but fortunately, there are many places where students and young people under 26 can enter for free, especially if you love the arts. Many museums, monuments, and other cultural sites offer free admission, allowing you to explore the city without breaking the bank.
Here is our selection of the best free activities and good deals in 2025:
Free Museums: A Journey Through Art Collections
Students and EU residents under 26 can always enjoy free access to the permanent collections of national museums and monuments in France. Some of the most famous free-entry museums in Paris include:
- The Louvre Museum, located in the heart of Paris, a must-see for discovering major works of art and history, attracting visitors from around the world;
- The Orsay Museum, specializing in 19th-century arts, with an impressive gallery of Impressionist paintings;
- The Orangerie Museum, home to Monet’s famous Water Lilies in a beautiful garden setting;
- The Centre Pompidou, dedicated to contemporary art and major temporary exhibitions;
- The Rodin Museum, showcasing the artist’s iconic sculptures in a magnificent house surrounded by a garden;
- The Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac Museum, focused on the arts and civilizations of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, with a rich collection of historical artifacts.
Free entry applies only to permanent collections, while each temporary exhibition is ticketed. It is recommended to bring a valid ID or student card to benefit from this advantage.
Additionally, some national museums are free for everyone on the first Sunday of each month, including the Picasso Museum, the Museum of Immigration History, and other municipal museums spread across different districts of Paris.
The Louvre Museum also offers free entry on Friday evenings from 6 PM for visitors under 26, regardless of nationality.
Free Monuments: A Heritage to Visit
Paris is rich in historic monuments that offer free access to students and those under 26. Among them:
- The Arc de Triomphe, overlooking the famous Place Charles de Gaulle;
- The Panthéon, located in the heart of Paris, where great national figures rest;
- The Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its exceptional stained glass windows dating back to the 13th century;
- The Conciergerie, a witness to Paris’ medieval history.
Free entry also applies to certain sites in Île-de-France, true heritage gems where each visit immerses visitors in history. Among them:
- The Palace of Versailles (excluding gardens and Musical Fountains), a 17th-century masterpiece that continues to fascinate the world;
- The Château de Fontainebleau, a historic residence of French sovereigns, featuring a sumptuous gallery tracing centuries of history;
- The Basilica of Saint-Denis, the necropolis of French kings, showcasing medieval architectural evolution and the kingdom’s historical influence.
These visits allow you to explore iconic national heritage sites and admire exceptional architectural works that attract visitors from all over the world.
Kiosque Jeunes: Free Activities for All Tastes
For those looking for free cultural events, the Kiosque Jeunes offers free or discounted tickets for residents under 30 in Paris. This program allows young people to attend shows, concerts, and theater performances in various districts of the capital. Don’t miss out on great free activities for your outings!
- Address: 10 Passage de la Canopée, 75001 Paris
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM – 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM – 6 PM
- Requirements: Proof of residence and student ID.
Pass Jeunes 2025: Free Culture and Leisure
The Pass Jeunes is a great opportunity to explore the city through free exhibitions, cultural events, and sports activities. This program by the City of Paris provides a booklet with coupons for:
- Free entry to the Museum of Modern Art of Paris;
- Temporary exhibition visits in various museums and cultural centers;
- Access to municipal swimming pools and other sports facilities;
- Theater performances in Paris;
- Discounted movie tickets.
Eligibility:
- Must be between 15 and 25 years old;
- Reside in Paris or Île-de-France (see eligible cities on the official website).
How to Get It?
- Online registration on the City of Paris website;
- Pass collection upon approval;
- Available while supplies last.
Coupons are valid from June 15 to September 15, 2025.
Enjoy Paris for Free
There are many ways to explore the French capital for free. From museums and monuments to free exhibitions and cultural events, the city offers young people numerous opportunities to enrich their knowledge of the arts and national heritage.
If you’re traveling and looking for affordable accommodation, many hotels near major attractions offer discounts for students and young travelers. Staying in a hotel close to a palace, museum, or landmark allows you to take full advantage of Paris’ free cultural offerings.
Before heading out, consider checking a city map or public transport routes to plan your day and optimize your travels between districts.
Finally, the Seine riverside is a must-visit spot to unwind after a day of cultural discoveries, with its many green spaces and open-air art galleries.
Conclusion
Paris is a must-visit for art lovers, offering privileged access to an exceptional collection of museums and iconic monuments. Whether visiting the Louvre Palace, strolling through Saint-Germain, or immersing yourself in an exciting exhibition, each district holds unique discoveries. With numerous free events and accessible rates, Paris offers cultural wealth to everyone, making every outing a true journey into artistic heritage.
