Palais-Royal

The Basics

While it’s often overshadowed by the world-famous art museum next door, the Palais-Royal boasts its own cultural legacy, oasis-like gardens, and architectural grandeur. Today, the landmark serves multiple functions; for one, it’s the seat of several government bodies, including the Constitutional Council, the Council of State, and the Ministry of Culture. It also contains La Comédie Française, one of the oldest still-active theaters in the world, the Théâtre du Palais-Royal, another centuries-old theater, and Le Grand Véfour, a Michelin-starred restaurant whose origins date to 1784.

Given its convenient location, the Palais-Royal is a stop on numerous tours, including bike tours, history- and architecture-themed walking tours, and private driving tours of Paris.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The palace complex and its gardens are free to visit.

• Jacques Lemercier, the architect who built the Palais-Royal, also designed the Sorbonne.

• In September, the state rooms at the Palais-Royal are open to visitors as part of the European Heritage Days event.

• The Palais-Royal hosts numerous special events throughout the year, from Easter Egg hunts to Fête de la Musique concerts.

How to Get There

Given its perfectly central location in Paris’ 1st arrondissement, the Palais-Royal couldn’t be simpler to access. Take Métro lines 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre stop, which is just steps away. You can also take the 21, 27, 39, 48, 69, 72, 81, or 95 bus lines. The Palais-Royal is also easily accessed on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.

When to Get There

Between October and March, the Palais-Royal is open daily from 7:30am–8:30pm. From April to May it’s open from 7am–10:15pm; from June to August it’s open from 7am–11pm; and during September it’s open from 7am–9:30pm. Visitors are asked to clear the palace grounds 30 minutes prior to the official closing time.

The Colonnes de Buren

One of the Palais-Royal’s most distinctive (and controversial) elements is an art installation in its inner courtyard (the Cour d’Honneur). Created by artist Daniel Buren in 1985, Les Deux Plateaux (also known as the Colonnes de Buren) consists of numerous black-and-white striped columns.

What is the history behind the Palais Royal in Paris?

The Palais Royal was first built in 1633 for Cardinal Richelieu before it hosted the French royal family while the Palace of Versailles was being constructed. Today, the Palais Royal is a large complex that hosts several government departments, a selection of theaters, shops and restaurants, and destination-worthy gardens.

How do I get to the Palais Royal using public transportation?

The Palais Royal is located smack-dab in the middle of Paris, right in the 1st arrondissement, making it very easy to get to via public transportation. The closest Métro stops are Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre, served by lines 1 and 7, and Pyramides, served by lines 7 and 14.

Are there any restaurants or cafes within the Palais Royal?

Yes, the Palais Royal is home to a number of cafés and restaurants, most of which are hosted in its open-air colonnades. Some of the most notable choices include the Michelin-starred Le Grand Véfour (whose history dates to the 18th century), the Palais Royal Restaurant (also Michelin-starred), and Café Kitsuné.

Is the Palais Royal accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the Palais Royal is accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. Its sidewalks and galleries, many of which are flat and at street level, afford easy access, while ramps can be used to reach the gardens. Assistance dogs are also permitted throughout the Palais Royal complex.

Are there any entrance fees to visit the Palais Royal?

No, there are no entry fees to visit the Palais Royal. The landmark and its gardens are free for all to explore, and its arcades free to browse. However, you may wish to pay to see a performance at one of its theaters, including the Comédie Française, or dine in one of its restaurants.

What are some nearby attractions I can visit after exploring the Palais Royal?

The Palais Royal happens to be right next to the Louvre: one of Paris’ most popular tourist attractions, and one of the world’s leading art museums. Other nearby attractions include the Tuileries Gardens, the Pont des Arts, and Île de la Cité (home to Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle).

Ways to explore

The best way to experience the Palais-Royal is to wander through its colonnaded galleries, popping between shops and cafés before resting on a bench in the gardens or photographing the courtyard’s modern black and white columns by artist Daniel Buren. The Comédie-Française is also on-site, giving you the chance to tour one of the world’s oldest theaters.

Given its location steps from the Louvre, the Palais-Royal is often combined with guided tours of the massive art museum. You can also pass by the palace on a bike or walking tour of Paris’ historical and architectural highlights.

Accessibility

The Palais-Royal is wheelchair accessible, with flat paths throughout the galleries and gardens.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, sunglasses, camera, picnic to enjoy on the garden benches

What to wear

You’ll likely do lots of walking through the Palais-Royal and nearby sights in the 1st arrondissement, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.

Not allowed

The Palais-Royal Garden (Jardin du Palais-Royal) is a popular public park, so avoid littering or playing loud music out of respect for others.

Amenities

Dining options, nearby luggage storage

Address

The Palais-Royal is centrally located in Paris’ 1st arrondissement, with major attractions such as the Louvre Museum and Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) within a short walking distance. It’s also easy to reach by car or public transit.

Driving

Visitors to Paris are better off using taxis and rideshares than self-navigating around the bustling city. The drive to the Palais-Royal takes 25 minutes or less from most Paris attractions.

Public transportation

The Paris Metro makes it really easy to get to the Palais-Royal. Nearby stations include the Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre stop on lines 1 and 7, Les Halles on line 4, and Pyramides on lines 7 and 14.

Best times to visit

Most people visit the Palais-Royal at midday—head there in the early morning or evening for minimal crowds.

Best days to visit

Weekends are particularly busy at the Palais-Royal, so go on a weekday for a calmer atmosphere.

Best months to visit

Though March–May can be a bit chilly in Paris, these spring months are a great time to admire the blooms in the Palais-Royal Garden.

Special events

The Palais-Royal participates in various events throughout the year, including Rendez-vous aux Jardins, a countrywide festival featuring special tours and family activities in June.