Paris is home to a dual palatial and heritage heritage: on the one hand, official palaces, the historic seats of power (theÉlysée Palace, theNational Assembly, the Senate) and, on the other, civil buildings erected as true palaces by their architectural ambition and symbolic role.
This distinction between national palaces and monumental civil palaces enables us to understand the variety of functions that take place there: while some of the "official" palaces continue to function as centers of power, housing one or more state bodies, others have been converted into museums or cultural spaces. Still others have been completely destroyed in the course of French history, such as the Tuileries Palace, the great palace at the center of monarchical power, which was burnt down in 1871 and then demolished, leaving only a few remains.
The official palaces of Paris often date back to theAncien Régime or the 19ᵉ century: the Palais du Luxembourg was built for Marie de Médicis and became the seat of the Senate, the Palais Bourbon now houses the National Assembly, the Palais de Justice, formerly the Palais de la Cité, retains the central judicial function, while the Palais de l'Élysée remains the presidential residence and the less famous Palais de l'Alma is today linked to the services of the Presidency.
These palaces continue to be used for institutional purposes and are mostly closed to the general public, with the exception of certain days of the year such as the Journées du Patrimoine. Nevertheless, most of them can be seen from the street and are thus open to contemplation.
But the capital also boasts a number of civil palaces, built with monumental ambition, such as the Grand Palais, built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, which combines museum architecture and monumental expression, or the Louvre, the former royal palace that is now the museum we know. A way of breathing new life into these magnificent sites, now open to visitors.
To explore Paris through its palaces is to read a cartography of power and discover a history of architectural glory. Follow the guide!
The Conciergerie in Paris: a monument symbolic of the French Revolution
The Conciergerie is a historic building on the Ile de la Cité in Paris. Since its construction in the 10th century, this monument has been the seat of the Palais de Justice and a prison in turn. It was here that Marie-Antoinette was imprisoned. [Read more]
Musée du Louvre: discover the artistic and tourist heart of the capital
The Musée du Louvre, one of the capital's must-see museums, promotes French and European culture through its many masterpieces on display, as evidenced by the 8 million visitors a year who come to contemplate the smile of the Mona Lisa or the fervor of Liberty Guiding the People. A place steeped in history, where art has been flourishing for two centuries already, to discover if you're staying in Paris! [Read more]
The gardens of the Palais-Royal in Paris, a favorite of Parisians
The gardens of the Palais-Royal are one of the most popular spots for Parisians when the sun shines on the capital. We explain why. [Read more]
Visit the Palais d'Iéna free of charge: information and history of this unique building in Paris
Located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, the Palais d'Iéna is an imposing circular building. Designed by Auguste Perret, the building can now be visited free of charge! [Read more]
Heritage Days 2025 in Paris: an exceptional visit to the Senate - Palais du Luxembourg
The Senate takes part in the Journées du Patrimoine 2025! Take advantage of the weekend of Saturday September 20 and Sunday September 21 to discover the Palais du Luxembourg, the Petit Luxembourg and the greenhouses of the Jardin du Luxembourg. An exceptional opening not to be missed! [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2025 at the Palais de l'Elysée in Paris - dates and program
Every year, the Palais de l'Élysée opens its doors to the public for the Journées du Patrimoine. This high place of power, usually closed to the general public, confirms its participation in the 42nd edition, from Saturday September 20 to Sunday September 21, 2025. An opportunity to discover the prestigious salons and gardens of the Hôtel du Comte d'Évreux. Tickets open this Friday, September 5 at 7pm. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2025: visit to the National Assembly - registration required, program
The National Assembly opens its doors to us for the Journées du Patrimoine in Paris, on Saturday September 20 and Sunday September 21, 2025. On the program? Self-guided tours of the Palais Bourbon and the Hôtel de Lassay. Please note that these tours are by registration only. Find out more about the program. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2025 at the Hôtel de Salm, Grande Chancellerie de la Légion d'honneur in Paris
For the Journées du Patrimoine 2025, why not visit the Grande Chancellerie? On Saturday September 20 and Sunday September 21, 2025, the Hôtel de Salm, Grand Chancellery of the Legion of Honor, and its museum will be opening their doors to you for a special visit during this 42nd edition. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2025 at the Paris Commercial Court: exceptional guided tours
For the 42nd Journées du Patrimoine, the Paris Commercial Court invites you to join us on Saturday September 20 and Sunday September 21, 2025. Judge-lecturers will be on hand to offer exceptional guided tours of the court, built between 1860 and 1865. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2025 at the Cour des Comptes in Paris: the weekend programme
The Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) are back again this weekend, September 20 and 21, 2025, in Paris and the Ile-de-France region! It's the perfect opportunity to discover the secrets of the capital's major institutions, including the Cour des Comptes, which is unveiling an exciting program of visits and events. [Read more]
In the footsteps of vanished monuments: Where can you see the remains of the Tuileries Palace in Paris?
Did you know? The famous Tuileries Gardens once housed a palace. It was the Palais des Tuileries. Remnants of this now defunct royal residence are now scattered around the world. Here's where to find them in Paris. Ready to explore the capital's past? [Read more]
Grand Palais: opening hours, prices... everything you need to know about this architectural gem on the Champs-Elysées
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Grand Palais, an architectural gem in the heart of Paris. Discover its captivating history since the 1900 Universal Exhibition and explore its architecture, which blends classicism and Art Nouveau. With over 2 million visitors a year, this iconic building is a landmark of French art and culture. Opening hours, prices, practical information... we've got it all! [Read more]
The Petit Palais in Paris and its hidden treasures, the free museum, opening hours and exhibitions
The Petit Palais, home to the Musées des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris, is a true architectural masterpiece. Designed by Charles Girault for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, this museum is a treasure trove. And since admission is free, you'd be wrong not to take advantage of it. [Read more]
Palais Galliera, the fashion museum for all haute couture lovers in Paris
The Palais Galliera, located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, is a museum dedicated to fashion and the history of clothing. Special evenings, major events, exhibitions: find out what's new at this magnificent cultural spot. [Read more]
Palais de Tokyo: opening hours, prices, reservations... All you need to know about the Paris museum
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Palais de Tokyo, a jewel of contemporary art located in the heart of Paris. Opening times, prices, reservations, nearby transport... Everything you need to know before your visit! [Read more]
Palais de la Découverte: detailed timetable for the reopening of the science museum in Paris
The reopening of the Palais de la Découverte is gradually taking shape: discover the major stages that will shake up the Parisian cultural agenda over the coming months. [Read more]
Musée de l'histoire de l'Immigration: opening hours, collections, prices... All you need to know
Housed in the Palais de la Porte Dorée, the Musée National de l'Histoire de l'Immigration tells the story of France in a different way... Discover this unusual cultural site. [Read more]
The Opéra Garnier in Paris, one of the capital's most beautiful monuments
The Opéra Garnier is one of Paris's must-see monuments. Designed by architect Charles Garnier, this eclectic palace attracts ballet fans and history buffs alike. [Read more]
And also: Palais Brongniart, Palais de Chaillot and Château de la Muette
