Palais Royal, Paris

Name: Palais Royal
Address: Paris, France
Telephone: +33 1 47 03 92 16

#78 among attractions in Paris

Park, Relax in park, Baroque architecture, Architecture, More...

Gallery (22)

Map

Gallery

Photo details 1. Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Alexandre Prevot / URL • 2. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Paris 16 / URL • 3. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0 / File Upload Bot (Magnus Manske) / URL • 4. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon / URL • 5. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Paris 16 / URL • 6. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Gerd Eichmann / URL • 7. Wikimedia Commons / Public domain / Tangopaso / URL

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Palais Royal is a grand palace with a storied past and an enduring presence in the fabric of French history. Situated opposite the Louvre, this once royal residence is now a beloved public space that invites tourists and locals alike to explore its elegant architecture and serene gardens.

Originally called the Palais-Cardinal, the Palais Royal was constructed in the 17th century for Cardinal Richelieu and later became the property of the French monarchy. Over the centuries, it has witnessed significant historical events and has been home to various members of the royal family. After the French Revolution, it served many purposes, including housing the Conseil d'État and the Constitutional Council.

Today, the Palais Royal is renowned for its picturesque Cour d'Honneur, an expansive courtyard that features Daniel Buren's striking art installation, "Les Deux Plateaux," known colloquially as the Buren Columns. This contemporary piece, comprising black and white striped columns of varying heights, creates a stark contrast against the classical architecture of the surrounding buildings and is a popular spot for photography.

Visitors to the Palais Royal can stroll through the tranquil Jardin du Palais Royal, a perfect spot for relaxation amidst manicured lawns, elegant statues, and neatly trimmed hedges. The gardens are lined with arcades that host an array of boutiques, antique shops, and cafes, providing a delightful shopping and dining experience.

The Comédie-Française, France's state theater and one of the oldest still-active theaters in the world, is also located within the Palais Royal complex. Theater enthusiasts may enjoy taking in a performance or simply admiring the historic venue.

For history buffs, the Palais Royal offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of French royalty and the tumultuous events that shaped modern France. Art lovers, meanwhile, can appreciate the seamless blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics that makes the Palais Royal a unique cultural landmark.

Local name: Palais-Royal Completed: 1639 (385 years ago)Architectural style: Classical architectureElevation: 144 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 48°51'49"N, 2°20'13"E

Address

Louvre (Palais-Royal)Paris France

Contact

+33 1 47 03 92 16

Website

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Paris

Day trips

Palais Royal – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Musée du Louvre, Louvre Palace, Carrousel du Louvre, Le Louvre des Antiquaires.

~990 ftS
Landmark art museum with vast collection
Musée du Louvre, Paris
5 min walk • The Musée du Louvre, situated in the heart of Paris, France, is not just a premier repository of art but also an emblematic monument that embodies the cultural sophistication of the French capital. As the world's largest art museum, the Louvre boasts an unparalleled...
~940 ftS
Baroque architecture, Forts and castles, Neo-renaissance architecture
Louvre Palace, Paris
5 min walk • The Louvre Palace, nestled in the heart of Paris, France, is a historic monument and an architectural masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Originally built as a medieval fortress in the late 12th century under Philip II, the Louvre has undergone numerous...
~910 ftSW
Shopping, Baroque architecture, Shopping centre
Carrousel du Louvre, Paris
5 min walk • Nestled beneath the iconic Louvre Museum, the Carrousel du Louvre is a premier shopping center that brings together art, culture, and commerce in the heart of Paris, France. This underground complex presents an elegant shopping experience for both locals and tourists...
~430 ftS
Shopping, Department store
Le Louvre des Antiquaires, Paris
3 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Paris, just a stone's throw from the iconic Louvre Museum, Le Louvre des Antiquaires offers a different kind of cultural experience. This exquisite shopping arcade, which opened its doors in 1978, is a treasure trove for collectors...
~980 ftSW
Square, Garden, Park
Place du Carrousel, Paris
5 min walk • The Place du Carrousel is a significant public square located in the heart of Paris, France, nestled between the renowned Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Garden. This historic square offers visitors a glimpse into France's rich cultural heritage and is a must-see for...
~830 ftE
Shopping, Shopping centre, Scenic walking areas
Galerie Véro-Dodat, Paris
5 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Galerie Véro-Dodat is a hidden gem that transports visitors back to the elegance of the 19th century. This covered passage, built in 1826, is one of the many historic arcades that Paris is famous for, offering a glimpse into the...
~1020 ftSW
Museum, Baroque architecture, Pyramid
Louvre Inverted Pyramid, Paris
5 min walk • The Louvre Inverted Pyramid is a striking piece of modern architecture set against the historical backdrop of the world-renowned Louvre Museum in Paris, France. This glass pyramid, designed by the architect I. M. Pei, serves as a skylight for the underground lobby of...
~260 ftW
Theater
Salle Richelieu, Paris
2 min walk • Salle Richelieu is a prestigious theater located in the heart of Paris, France, known for its historical significance and its role as the main venue of the Comédie-Française, one of the oldest and most esteemed theater companies in the world.
~880 ftS
Museum
Capitoline Venus, Paris
5 min walk • The Capitoline Venus is a renowned classical sculpture housed in the prestigious Louvre Museum in Paris, France. This exquisite piece is a Roman copy of a Hellenistic era sculpture that exemplifies the pinnacle of artistic beauty and craftsmanship from ancient times.
~950 ftW
French furnishings and decor displays
Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris
5 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs is a treasure trove of decorative arts and design. Located on the Rue de Rivoli, adjacent to the Louvre, this museum is an essential destination for anyone with an appreciation for craftsmanship, beauty...
~170 ftW
Theater, Architecture, Concerts and shows
Comédie-Française, Paris
1 min walk • The Comédie-Française, also known as La Maison de Molière, is an iconic theatre located in the heart of Paris, France. As one of the oldest active theatre companies in the world, it has been a pillar of French culture and dramatic arts since its founding in 1680 by...

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is Palais Royal open?

Palais Royal is open:

Monday 7:30 am - 8 pm
Tuesday 7:30 am - 8 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am - 8 pm
Thursday 7:30 am - 8 pm
Friday 7:30 am - 8 pm
Saturday 7:30 am - 8 pm
Sunday 7:30 am - 8 pm

Which popular attractions are close to Palais Royal?

Nearby attractions include Les Deux Plateaux, Paris (1 min walk), Comédie-Française, Paris (1 min walk), Salle Richelieu, Paris (2 min walk), Place de Valois, Paris (2 min walk).

How to get to Palais Royal by public transport?

The nearest stations to Palais Royal:

Bus

Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre • Lines: 21, 67, 69, 72, N11, N24 (2 min walk)
Palais Royal - Comédie Française • Lines: 21, 27, 39, 68, 95, Bleue (3 min walk)

Metro

Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre • Lines: 1, 7 (2 min walk)
Pyramides • Lines: 14, 7 (5 min walk)

Ferry

Louvre • Lines: Batobus (9 min walk)
Musée d'Orsay • Lines: Batobus (14 min walk)

Train

Châtelet - Les Halles (13 min walk)
Musée d'Orsay (14 min walk)