Discover Paris with the President
Beyond the congress halls, discover the Paris our JFR President loves.
Dear Colleagues,
Welcome to Paris, a city where science, culture, history and gastronomy come together to inspire discovery and connection.
During JFR 2026, I invite you to take some time to experience the many faces of our capital, whether you are travelling alone, with colleagues or with your family.
In partnership with the City of Paris, I have selected a few highlights not to be missed during your stay:
Entertainment
Montmartre Wine Harvest Festival
Fête des Vendanges
7-11 October 2026
Discover the festive spirit of Montmartre, where tradition, culture and Parisian charm come together.
Creativity
Belleville Craft Days
Journées de l'Artisanat de Belleville
2nd weekend of October 2026
Meet local artisans and explore their creative worlds in this vibrant neighbourhood.
Sport
Harmonie Mutuelle 20 km de Paris
11 October 2026
Experience the energy of Paris through one of its most iconic running events, starting at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe
Longchamp Racecourse
3-4 October 2026
Arriving early? Witness one of the world's most prestigious horse races, the weekend before the congress.
Culture
Enjoy exceptional exhibitions during your stay, including:
Gustave Fayet, Collector and Creator
Fondation Louis Vuitton
Opening 9 October 2026 - steps from the Palais des Congrès
Featuring Van Gogh's famous Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear, returning to France after decades, alongside Gauguin, Redon, Degas and Cézanne.
The Warhol Line
Musée du Luxembourg
16 Sep 2026 - 10 Jan 2027
Cezanne et nous
Grand Palais
23 Sep 2026 - 17 Jan 2027
Monet, Painting Time
Musée de l'Orangerie
30 Sep 2026 - 29 Mar 2027
Mary Cassatt, The Choice of Independence
Musée d'Orsay
From 6 October 2026
Marking the centenary of the great Impressionist's death.
Brussels 1900. Art Nouveau
Petit Palais
From 6 October 2026
Simone Fattal, Des villes au fond d'un lac
Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris
18 Sep 2026 - 24 Jan 2027
Kerry James Marshall, The Histories
Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris
From 18 September 2026
His first major exhibition in France.
For Imaging Professionals
Salon de la Photo
Grande Halle de La Villette
8-11 October 2026
A perfect match for imaging specialists: France's leading photography fair takes place on the very same dates as JFR 2026.
With Your Family
Right next to the congress venue, the Bois de Boulogne is home to the Jardin d'Acclimatation, Paris's beloved amusement park for children, and the spectacular Frank Gehry building of the Fondation Louis Vuitton.
The Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées are a 15-minute walk from the Palais des Congrès, and a Seine river cruise at dusk remains one of the most magical ways to discover the city.
Extending your stay? The Mondial de l'Auto - Paris Motor Show opens at Porte de Versailles from 13 to 18 October 2026.
Bonus — My Parisian Food Recommendations
After a day of scientific exchange, enjoy a taste of the Parisian way of life. Around the Palais des Congrès, you will find excellent restaurants to share a meal with colleagues and discover French cuisine. Bon appétit !
Le Congrès Maillot
A classic Parisian brasserie, perfect for traditional French dishes.
Monsieur Maillot
A warm and elegant brasserie for a relaxed dinner.
Chez Gabrielle
A charming address for a refined French dining experience.
Il Grano
A great option for fresh Italian cuisine in a friendly atmosphere.
I hope these recommendations will help you discover Paris beyond the congress venue and create memorable moments during these days of scientific exchange, friendship and innovation.
I look forward to welcoming you to JFR 2026 and sharing with you the unique spirit of Paris.
Warm regards,
Isabelle Thomassin-Naggara