Behind towering gates, monumental ironwork, or striking façades, some of Paris's most iconic spots feel completely off-limits. The president’s residence, the prime minister’s offices, the palace where the Senate meets, majestic places of worship, or major government buildings… Many Parisians and visitors alike assume there’s no way in.
On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, featuring guided tours and special openings, these buildings usually closed to the public reveal their treasures to visitors. Some are even open year-round, provided you know the right steps or the visiting hours.
Because the seats of power, the city’s grand religious buildings, and its major institutions aren’t reserved only for presidents, lawmakers, or the faithful. With a bit of foresight, you can often step through their doors and uncover an extraordinary heritage that not everyone suspects exists.
So, if you’ve ever wondered what lies behind Paris’s most famous gates, you’re in the right place. Follow the guide: we’ll explain where, when, and above all how to visit these sites that many mistakenly think are completely off-limits to the public.
Did you know you can visit Val-de-Grâce, Paris’s former military hospital?
With its impressive dome towering over the 5th arrondissement, the Val-de-Grâce is often seen as an old military hospital closed to the public. Yet a portion of this historic monument is open for visitors. Here’s how to discover this little-known jewel of Paris. [Read more]
When and how to visit the Hôtel de Matignon, the Prime Minister's residence in Paris?
Behind its imposing gate on the rue de Varenne, the Hôtel de Matignon feels entirely out of reach. Yet the official residence of the Prime Minister opens its salons, offices, and vast garden to the public on occasion. Here’s when and how you can try to gain entry. [Read more]
Is it possible to visit the Grand Mosque of Paris? Here’s what you need to know
With its 33-meter minaret, its Andalusian gardens, and its famous tea room, the Grand Mosque of Paris ranks among the most immersive landmarks in the capital. Some people think it’s reserved for the faithful. Yet it is absolutely possible to visit. Here’s what you need to know before stepping through its doors. [Read more]
Can you visit the Senate in Paris? Here's how to gain entry to the Luxembourg Palace.
Behind the gates of the Luxembourg Garden lies one of Paris's most beautiful palaces… and the seat of the Senate. Many people think it is completely closed to the public. Yet, it is indeed possible to enter on certain occasions. Here’s how to visit the Senate and discover this history-soaked monument. [Read more]
Can you visit this Russian cathedral with its golden domes in Paris?
With its five gilded domes gleaming along the banks of the Seine, the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity intrigues as much as it impresses. Many passersby think it is closed to the public. Yet it is indeed possible to enter… if you know the right information. [Read more]
Is it possible to visit the Élysée Palace, the residence of the French president?
The Élysée Palace, the residence of the President of the Republic, stands as one of France’s power symbols. Curious to know what lies behind those gates? We explain whether it’s possible to visit and how to access it. [Read more]
Palace of Justice on Île de la Cité: explore this historic labyrinth and sit in on a courtroom hearing.
Through a two-hour guided tour, roam a labyrinth of corridors in a solemn atmosphere and uncover the secrets of the Palais de Justice in Paris on Île de la Cité, from a medieval fortress to the temple of justice we know today. [Read more]
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