Palais de Chaillot

The basics

Built on the site of the former Palais du Trocadéro, the Palais de Chaillot is both a major architectural highlight and a cultural heavyweight. The palace—a symbol of Parisian art deco design—is now host to three museums: the Musée National de la Marine (a maritime museum), the Musée de l’Homme (an anthropology museum), and the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine (dedicated to architecture and monumental sculpture). The palace also houses the Théâtre National de Chaillot and the Aquarium de Paris. Altogether, it is one of Paris’ major cultural complexes.

The Palais de Chaillot can be seen during bike tours, driving tours, and even Seine river cruises. It’s easy to explore the landmark (and its various institutions) independently, too.

Things to know before you go

*The Musée National de la Marine is closed for extensive renovations, and is slated to reopen in 2021. *Visitors are forbidden from bringing luggage and large bags into the Palais Chaillot. *In addition to the museums’ own cafés and eateries, Maison Pradier Foyer de Chaillot, located in the landmark’s foyer, is a good place to stop for a casual bite. *The Palais de Chaillot is accessible to wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.

How to get there

The Palais de Chaillot is located in the 16th arrondissement on the Place du Trocadéro. To reach the landmark via public transportation, take Métro lines 6 and 9 to Trocadéro, or use the 22, 30, 32, 63, 72, and 82 buses. It can also be reached on foot, by taxi, or by bike.

When to get there

Institutions within the Palais de Chaillot all have different opening hours, so it’s worth researching specifics in advance of your visit, though the majority are closed on Tuesdays. Many host changing exhibitions and events, while the Théâtre National de Chaillot’s performance schedule is ever-changing; it’s worth planning repeat visits.

Trocadéro Gardens

Poised between the Palais de Chaillot and, on the other side of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro Gardens (Jardins du Trocadéro) offer one of the best views of the world-famous landmark. Their greenery, myriad sculptures, and dancing fountains only add to the picturesque scene.

Ways to explore

The Palais de Chaillot is both a major architectural highlight and a cultural heavyweight. The palace features three museums: the National Maritime Museum, the Musée de l’Homme (an anthropology museum), and the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine (dedicated to architecture and monumental sculpture). It’s also home to the Théâtre National de Chaillot and the Paris Aquarium (Aquarium de Paris).

The Palais de Chaillot can be seen on bike tours and driving tours, while it’s easy to explore the landmark and its various institutions independently, too.

Accessibility

The Palais de Chaillot is wheelchair-accessible, featuring elevators and accessible parking. Amenities are available for visitors with other disabilities, including signs in French sign language, sensory paths, and hearing loops for users of hearing aids.

Age limits

The Musée de l’Homme is recommended for ages 6 and above.

What to pack

Photo ID if you’re eligible for any admission discounts

What to wear

Smart attire for theater shows, comfy shoes for museums

Not allowed

Large bags, smoking

Amenities

Restaurants, bookshops, storage lockers, restrooms

Address

The Palais de Chaillot is located on the Place du Trocadéro, across the River Seine from the Eiffel Tower. Many tours pass by, you can walk there from the tower—across the Pont d’Iéna—or see it from a River Seine cruise.

Driving

Several large thoroughfares run past or to the Palais de Chaillot and the Place du Trocadéro, including the Voie Georges Pompidou, Avenue des Nations Unies, and the Avenue des Président Wilson. The nearest paid parking lots are a few blocks away on Rue de Passy and Avenue Kléber.

Public transportation

To get there by public transportation, take metro lines 6 or 9 to Trocadéro. Alternatively, board a 22, 30, 32, or 63 bus to Trocadéro, or an 82 bus to Iéna.

Best times to visit

Institutions within the Palais de Chaillot have different opening hours, so check specifics before your visit. The museums are open from 11am until 7pm.

Best days to visit

The museums are closed on Tuesdays and stay open until late on Thursdays. The aquarium is open every day and closes late on Saturdays.

Best months to visit

Anytime, but Paris is especially busy with tourists from June to August, so plan your trip for other months to ensure a less crowded experience. The venues here are indoors, so they are a great winter attraction, too.

Special events

The Place du Trocadero and Palais de Chaillot are prime places to watch the Bastille Day fireworks on July 14.