Looking for things to do in Paris in April 2026? Between art fairs, foodie events, “coffee lovers” festivals, cycling outings and running meet-ups, the month is packed for the general public. To help you plan, here’s a simple, practical guide: dates, venues, announced opening hours, who it’s for… and the official website to book or check the latest info.
And if you’re coming to Paris for a weekend or a few days, location makes all the difference: from Hôtel R de Paris (Paris 9th, Saint-Lazare area), you can easily reach the main venues (Grand Palais, Palais Brongniart, Carrousel du Louvre, Porte de Versailles, Parc Floral…). In the evening, come back to the comfort of our rooms to unwind between outings.
Art & culture: fairs, books, experiences
Art Paris
A major modern and contemporary art fair, popular with art lovers and visitors in Paris.
- Dates: 9 – 12 April 2026.
- Venue: Grand Palais — 7 avenue Winston Churchill, 75008 Paris.
- Announced hours: Thu 12pm–8pm, Fri 12pm–8pm, Sat 12pm–8pm, Sun 12pm–7pm.
- Who it’s for: art lovers, collectors, curious visitors, anyone after a top cultural outing.
Paris Perfume Week
An event dedicated to fragrance: booths, workshops and olfactory experiences for the general public.
- Dates: 9 – 11 April 2026.
- Venue: Palais Brongniart — 16 Place de la Bourse, 75002 Paris.
- Announced hours: Thu 11am–6:30pm, Fri 10am–6:30pm, Sat 10am–6:30pm.
- Who it’s for: fragrance enthusiasts, the curious, and anyone who enjoys workshops and sensory experiences.
Art Shopping
An accessible contemporary art show, designed to discover (and buy) artworks in a friendly atmosphere.
- Dates: 10 – 12 April 2026.
- Venue: Carrousel du Louvre — 99 rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris.
- Announced hours: Fri (invitation-only preview) 7pm–10pm, Sat 11am–8pm, Sun 11am–7pm.
- Who it’s for: art lovers, first-time buyers, the curious, families (a “stroll + discovery” format).
Festival du Livre de Paris
Paris’s big literary rendezvous: publishers, authors, signings and talks for all audiences.
- Dates: 17 – 19 April 2026.
- Venue: Grand Palais — 7 avenue Winston Churchill, 75008 Paris.
- Announced hours: Fri 8:30am–11pm, Sat 9am–8pm, Sun 9am–7pm.
- Who it’s for: readers, families, literature fans, and anyone curious about meetings & talks.
Sport & outdoors: running and cycling
Run Experience (Running Expo)
A public running expo linked to the Paris Marathon (gear, exhibitors, bib collection). Admission is announced as free.
- Dates: 9 – 11 April 2026.
- Venue: Paris Expo Porte de Versailles — Hall 1, 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles, 75015 Paris.
- Announced hours: X (2026 hours not published at this time).
- Who it’s for: runners (from beginners to marathoners), supporters, and fans of running gear and advice.
Vélo in Paris
A public show dedicated to cycling, soft mobility and gear for urban and leisure riders. Admission is announced as free (online registration).
- Dates: 24 – 26 April 2026.
- Venue: Parc Floral de Paris — Route de la Pyramide, 75012 Paris.
- Announced hours: Fri 10am–7pm, Sat 10am–7pm, Sun 10am–6pm.
- Who it’s for: urban cyclists, families, mobility-curious visitors, and anyone who wants to test equipment.
Foodie events: barbecue, local produce, coffee
Barbecue Expo
A festive show/festival around barbecue, outdoor cooking and tasty activities.
- Dates: 10 – 12 April 2026.
- Venue: Parc Floral de Paris — Route de la Pyramide, 75012 Paris.
- Announced hours: Fri 9:30am–9pm, Sat 9:30am–7pm, Sun 9:30am–6pm.
- Who it’s for: food lovers, families, fire-cooking fans, and anyone curious about demos and tastings.
Salon Saveurs des Plaisirs Gourmands (spring)
A gourmet fair celebrating regional products, artisans and culinary specialties.
- Dates: 10 – 12 April 2026.
- Venue: Espace Champerret — 6 rue Jean Oestreicher, 75017 Paris.
- Announced hours: Fri 10am–9pm (late opening), Sat 10am–7pm, Sun 10am–7pm.
- Who it’s for: foodies, fine-food fans, gift ideas, and anyone curious about French terroir.
The Paris Café Festival (public + trade day)
An immersive festival dedicated to specialty coffee: tastings, activities and meet-ups. Public weekend, then a trade day.
- Dates: 11 – 13 April 2026.
- Venue: Le Carreau du Temple — 4 Rue Eugène Spuller, 75003 Paris.
- Announced hours: Sat 9am–6pm, Sun 9am–6pm, Mon 9am–6pm.
- Who it’s for: coffee lovers and the curious (Sat/Sun) + professionals (Mon).
Curiosities: minerals, fossils, crystals
Minéral Expo Paris
A public show devoted to minerals, fossils, crystals and jewellery — ideal for the curious and collectors alike.
- Dates: 10 – 12 April 2026.
- Venue: Espace Charenton — 327 rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris.
- Announced hours: Fri 10am–7pm, Sat 10am–7pm, Sun 10am–6pm.
- Who it’s for: families, curious visitors, geology fans, collectors, jewellery lovers.
Practical tips to enjoy it stress-free
- Book the “comfort” slots: opening time or late afternoon—often nicer than the midday peak.
- Check ticketing: some events announce online-only ticketing (and sometimes no sales on site).
- Plan by area: Grand Palais / Brongniart / Louvre (central); Porte de Versailles; Parc Floral / Espace Charenton (East).
Getting there from Hôtel R de Paris
From Paris 9 (Saint-Lazare), you can easily reach the main venues by metro/RER. For a day of “back-to-back outings”, reception can help you choose the simplest route depending on timing and crowds.
Before you head out, an efficient start makes a difference: breakfast then transport, and in the evening, a welcome pause at the fitness & spa area.
