From 24 to 27 September 2026, Cinéma Paradiso will set up shop at the Eiffel Tower for the first time. Although tickets for the movie festival are free, only a handful of enthusiasts will get the chance to attend the event.
The Louvre, the Grand Palais, the Villa Carmignac, the 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit and La Seine Musicale: Cinéma Paradiso has already transformed many an iconic location into an unforgettable cinema. Ever since the start, the aim of the event, organised by arthouse cinema network mk2, has been to take cinema out of the traditional movie theaters and into the open.
Until now, however, the Eiffel Tower had never been a part of Cinéma Paradiso’s network. Yet the organisation has announced this is about to change, as the Salle Gustave Eiffel – located on the Eiffel Tower’s first level – will host the movie festival from 24 until 27 September 2026. Perched at a height of 57 meters and equipped with grand glass walls, the event room offers stunning views over the French capital, blending first-class movies with a grandiose location.
“For over ten years, Cinéma Paradiso has been taking cinema beyond its walls and bringing it to venues that are part of the collective imagination. Following on from the Louvre, taking over the Eiffel Tower is a highly symbolic step: it brings this world-famous monument closer to the Parisians, brings it to life in a new way, and reaffirms mk2’s commitment to popular culture that is both sophisticated and accessible,” said Elisha Karmitz, managing director of the mk2 group, in an interview with the French media outlet Le Parisien.
Cinéma Paradiso’s last edition, which took place from 1 to 4 July 2026, took place at another iconic Parisian location, the Louvre, and was attended by world-class directors Wes Anderson and Joachim Trier. The success of that event combined with the unique location of the September screening is likely to create high demand for the entirely free festival.
“The Eiffel Tower has a special relationship with the world of cinema, inspiring generations of filmmakers. Today, this connection is expressed in a new way: by offering visitors a unique cinematic experience right at the heart of the monument,” commented Patrick Branco Ruivo, Chief Executive of SETE, the firm that operates the Eiffel Tower.
However, film enthusiasts will need to wait a little longer before trying to get their hands on a ticket. Although the dates of Cinéma Paradiso have already been announced, the movies, guests, and other details of the event will be shared on 8 September 2026.
On that day, mk2 will also launch the ticket lottery. Those who are interested in attending can enter the lottery for free. A draw will then select the winners, who will be able to name their preferred screening from the planning in a registration form. Afterwards, tickets will be sent according to personal preferences and availability.
