The Banque de France rarely opens its doors to visitors. Yet this institution is home to one of the capital's most beautiful galleries - a must-see! So, when the Journées du Patrimoine come round again , don't hesitate for a second: book your place, and head off to discover this exceptional building and its gilding during this XXL event.
The Hôtel de Toulouse has housed the Banque de France since 1811. This private mansion, designed by François Mansart, was once the property of the Count of Toulouse, Louis-Alexandre de Bourbon. During the French Revolution, the building was seized, and a few years later bought back by the Banque de France. The hotel still retains some vestiges of this monarchical era.
We can discover the Galerie dorée, redecorated in the early 18th century in the Regency style and restored in 2015. We can also admire the salons d'apparat, which house a collection of 18th-century furniture and Jean-Honoré Fragonard's painting "La fête à Saint-Cloud". Built between 1635 and 1640 by François Mansart for Louis XIII's Secretary of State, Louis Phélypeaux de La Vrillière, the Galerie dorée is 40 meters long, 6.5 meters wide and 8 meters high.
This September 20-21, 2025, the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) weekend, you can visit this magnificent townhouse free of charge. Don't forget to book your visit!
Come and discover the heritage and missions of the Banque de France.
Over the course of 1h30, you'll visit various stands to find out more about the Banque de France's missions, play the game "Mes questions d'argent" ("My money questions"), tour the Paris-Bastille branch and visit the former vault.
You'll be able to ask Banque de France staff any questions you may have.
The old vault will not be accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Come and discover the missions, professions and heritage of the Banque de France.
This year, at the start of the tour, you'll have the opportunity to discover the "banknotes" exhibition, featuring emblematic banknotes.
A nod is also made to the 225th anniversary of the Banque de France, with a frieze on our history designed for the occasion.
You'll also be able to stop off at the traditional "pôles d'échanges", hosted by Banque de France staff, for a chat and to ask any questions you may have.
You can also find out more about La Souterraine, home to France's gold reserve, and admire a gold bullion bar.
The tour will also enable you to discover or rediscover the Banque de France's exceptional heritage: the Golden Gallery, the ceremonial rooms housing a collection of 18th-century furniture, Jean-Honoré Fragonard's painting "La Fête à Saint-Cloud", and finally the office of the Governor of the Banque de France.
Other surprises are planned throughout your visit...
Experiences as beautiful as they are unusual - that's what should make this visit unforgettable! Shall we go to the Banque de France, folks?
Dates and Opening Time
From September 20, 2025 to September 21, 2025
Location
Banque de France - Hôtel de Toulouse
31 Rue Croix des Petits Champs
75001 Paris 1
Prices
Free
Average duration
1 h
30 min
Official website
www.banque-france.fr
More information
Open from 10am to 5pm.
