Exhibitions in Paris: the major cultural events of the autumn 2026 season
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September isn’t just about getting back to work: it also marks the official start of the cultural season in the capital.
Highly anticipated retrospectives, contemporary gems, unique artistic dialogues and masterpieces from around the world are taking centre stage in Paris’s museums. From the Grand Palais to the Bourse de Commerce, here is the essential calendar of exhibitions not to be missed this autumn.
Major retrospective exhibitions at leading museums
Photo : Amandine Goetz
The grand return of masterpieces to the Grand Palais (8th arrondissement)
Following its reopening for the summer events, the nave and galleries of the Grand Palais are set to host major artistic blockbusters this autumn. It’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover the masters of modern painting in a legendary, fully renovated architectural setting.
The Masters of Modernity at the Centre Pompidou (4th arrondissement)
Ahead of the building’s scheduled closure for major renovation works, the National Museum of Modern Art is presenting a rich programme of events highlighting the avant-garde movements of the 20th century, from sculpture to conceptual art.
Icons of Painting at the Musée d’Orsay (7th arrondissement)
True to its reputation, the Musée d’Orsay is presenting a series of fascinating comparisons this autumn between the great names of Impressionism and leading figures of the 19th century, through exceptional loans from international institutions.
Contemporary art and private foundations: putting artists in the spotlight
Photo : Amandine Goetz
Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection (1st): The Giants of Contemporary Art
Beneath the rotunda, beautifully transformed by Tadao Ando, the new season centres on immersive installations and themed exhibitions drawing on the renowned contemporary art collection. A sensory and thought-provoking journey through the heart of historic Paris.
Fondation Louis Vuitton (16th arrondissement): A retrospective of international stature
Nestled in the Bois de Boulogne, Frank Gehry’s iconic building is making a big splash at the start of the new season by bringing together a selection of masterpieces rarely exhibited in France, accompanied by a spectacular exhibition layout.
Intimate museums and themed gems
Photo : Amandine Goetz
Musée de l’Orangerie (1st arrondissement): Spotlight on the avant-garde movements
Set against the backdrop of Monet’s *Water Lilies*, the lower galleries of the Orangerie host an intimate exhibition exploring the little-known links between French and international artists of the early 20th century.
Musée des Arts Décoratifs (1st arrondissement): Fashion, design and craftsmanship
The MAD is dedicating its major autumn exhibition to the world of fashion and exceptional design. A rich exhibition journey tracing the creative process, from sketches on paper to collector’s items.
Our 3 tips for enjoying exhibitions without getting trampled
- Book your time slot in advance: Almost all of Paris’s major museums require or strongly recommend that you book a time-slot ticket.
- Opt for late-night openings: Many museums (the Bourse de Commerce on Fridays, the Musée d’Orsay on Thursdays) stay open late (until 9 pm or 10 pm), perfect for a more peaceful visit after the day’s hustle and bustle.
- Make the most of museum passes: If you’re planning to go on a series of visits from September onwards, an annual pass (Pass GrandPalais, Carte Blanche d’Orsay) pays for itself after just three or four visits and offers permanent skip-the-queue access.
Whether you’re a fan of modern art, a design enthusiast or simply keen to explore new forms of visual art, the start of the new cultural season in Paris promises some memorable discoveries for everyone. Mark your calendars!
Featured photo: Amandine Goetz