đïž A little history
đ A building born of the Universal Exhibition
The Grand Palais was built between 1897 and 1900 for the Paris Universal Exhibition. It was intended to embody France’s artistic, scientific and industrial influence. Since then, it has been dedicated to “art in all its forms”.
đ§ An ambitious restoration
Since 2021, the Grand Palais has been closed to the public for renovation. A complete restoration is being carried out there to reinforce the structure, restore the decor and modernize the technical installations. The complete reopening is scheduled for 2025, in conjunction with the Paris Olympic Games.
𧱠Monumental architecture
đš A unique blend of styles
An eclectic style blending classicism, baroque and Art Nouveau has been adopted here. The monumental nave, covered by a 17,500 mÂČ glass roof, is considered one of the largest in Europe. The glass roof is held in place by an iron framework that symbolizes the technical prowess of the period.
đïž An exceptional space
The Grand Palais houses several distinct areas, including the Nave, the Galeries nationales and the Palais de la dĂ©couverte (in the west wing). Covering an area of 77,000 mÂČ, the Grand Palais is as vast as it is prestigious.
đ Grand events are hosted here
đŒïž An artistic tradition
The Grand Palais has been devoted to major exhibitions for over a century. Major retrospectives have been organized here, on artists such as Picasso, Turner, Monet and MirĂł.
𧔠Fashion, sport, technology…
Chanel’s haute couture shows were regularly presented here, in spectacular settings specially designed for the occasion. Events such as Paris Photo, the Salon du Livre and Saut HermĂšs (a prestigious equestrian competition) were also held here.
đïž Free tours not to be missed
đ Immerse yourself in the building’s history
Free or reduced-rate guided tours are offered by the RMN (RĂ©union des MusĂ©es Nationaux). Visitors can discover the nave, backstage areas, restored spaces and the building’s construction secrets.
đ°ïž When and how to visit?
The Grand Palais ĂphĂ©mĂšre, located on the Champ-de-Mars, is open to visitors even during the construction period. Temporary exhibitions are organized in a modern building designed by architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.
đ Times and slots can be booked on the official website :
https://www.grandpalais.fr
đž What’s on around the Grand Palais?
đŒ An exceptional location
The Grand Palais is located right in the heart of Paris, between the Champs-ĂlysĂ©es and the Seine. Just a few minutes’ walk away, iconic landmarks can be discovered:
- Le Petit Palais (just opposite), also built for the World’s Fair and transformed into a free art museum.
- The Pont Alexandre III, one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris, adorned with gilded statues.
- The Champs-ĂlysĂ©es, perfect for strolling or shopping.
- The nearby Tuileries Gardens and Place de la Concorde.
đœïž Where to eat nearby?
đ„ Popular visitor addresses
- Le Mini Palais: located in a wing of the building, a chic restaurant with terrace. âŹâŹâŹâŹ
- CafĂ© LenĂŽtre: for a sweet break with a view. âŹâŹâŹâŹ
- Le M64: modern French cuisine just a few steps away. âŹâŹâŹ
đ§Practical information
đ Access
- Metro: lines 1 and 13, Champs-ĂlysĂ©es – Clemenceau station
- Bus: lines 28, 42, 72, 73, 80, 93
- On foot: from Les Invalides or the Louvre in around fifteen minutes
đ Useful contacts
- Official website: https: //www.grandpalais.fr
- RMN telephone number: +33 1 44 13 17 17