What is the Palais Royal, and why is it worth visiting?

Tucked away behind the Louvre, the Palais Royal is one of Paris’s hidden treasures. Built in the 17th century for Cardinal Richelieu, it became a royal residence and later a center of Parisian life. Writers, revolutionaries, and fashionable Parisians once gathered here, and today the palace and its gardens remain a symbol of elegance and history.

Unlike the crowded Louvre, the Palais Royal offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Here, you can admire classical architecture, explore chic arcades filled with boutiques, and relax in the Jardin du Palais Royal, one of the most charming gardens in the city.

Where is the Palais Royal located?

The Palais Royal is located in the 1st arrondissement, directly north of the Louvre. Its central position makes it one of the most accessible landmarks in Paris.

From Hôtel du Quai Voltaire, you can walk to the Palais Royal in less than 10 minutes. Cross the Seine via the Pont du Carrousel and you’ll find yourself at the Louvre; just behind it lies the Palais Royal. This closeness makes the hotel an ideal base for exploring the palace and its surroundings.

What can you see at the Palais Royal?

There are several highlights for visitors:

• The Courtyard and the Colonnes de Buren: The striped black-and-white columns by artist Daniel Buren have become one of Paris’s most photographed modern art installations. They create a playful contrast with the classical courtyard.
  
  
• The Palais Royal Gardens: A beautifully landscaped garden with tree-lined walkways, fountains, and flowerbeds. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet break, away from the city’s busy boulevards.
  
  
• The Arcades: Beneath elegant arches, you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, and traditional cafés. It’s a delightful place to window-shop or enjoy a coffee.
  
  
• The Theaters: The Comédie-Française, France’s national theater, is located here, offering performances of Molière, Racine, and modern playwrights.
  
  

Why is the Palais Royal historically significant?

The Palais Royal has been at the heart of French history for centuries. It was once home to royal families, including the young Louis XIV, before the court moved to Versailles. In the 18th century, its gardens and arcades became a gathering place for intellectuals, writers, and political thinkers. Revolutionary ideas were born here, and crowds met to discuss freedom, equality, and new ways of life.

Famous figures such as Voltaire, Diderot, and Rousseau were connected to this place, making it a symbol of Paris’s intellectual and political energy.

When is the best time to visit?

The Palais Royal is open year-round, and its gardens are especially lovely in spring and summer when flowers are in bloom. Autumn adds a golden touch to the tree-lined alleys, while winter brings a quieter, almost poetic atmosphere.

Visit in the morning for a peaceful stroll or in the late afternoon to see the arcades come alive with cafés and visitors.

How long should you plan for the visit?

A visit to the Palais Royal can be as short as 30 minutes if you just want to stroll through the gardens. But if you take time to explore the arcades, sit in a café, and perhaps attend a performance at the Comédie-Française, you could easily spend 2 to 3 hours here.

Why is Hôtel du Quai Voltaire the perfect base for visiting the Palais Royal?

Staying at Hôtel du Quai Voltaire puts you closer to the Palais Royal than almost any other hotel in Paris. Just a short walk across the river, it allows you to visit the palace whenever you like — perhaps in the morning before the crowds, or after dinner for a quiet evening stroll.

The hotel itself is steeped in cultural history, having hosted great artists and writers. Its central location means you can combine a visit to the Palais Royal with the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden, or the chic shops of Rue Saint-Honoré. Afterward, return to the calm of your riverside room, overlooking the Seine and the Louvre.

What else is nearby?

• The Louvre Museum: Right next door, home to the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces.
  
  
• The Tuileries Garden: Perfect for a walk toward Place de la Concorde.
  
  
• Galerie Vivienne: One of Paris’s most beautiful covered passages, filled with boutiques.
  
  
• Rue Saint-Honoré: A fashion hotspot with luxury shops and designers.
  
  

Final tips for visiting the Palais Royal

• The gardens are free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly activity.
  
  
• Don’t miss the Buren Columns for a fun photo opportunity.
  
  
• If you’re a theater lover, check the schedule of the Comédie-Française.
  
  
• Combine your visit with nearby landmarks for a full day of exploration.
  
  

Conclusion

The Palais Royal is a place where history, elegance, and modern life blend seamlessly. From its royal origins to its revolutionary past, from tranquil gardens to lively arcades, it offers a unique Parisian experience that many tourists overlook.

By staying at Hôtel du Quai Voltaire, you are just minutes away from this historic site and countless other treasures. With its central location, artistic heritage, and views of the Seine, the hotel is the perfect base for discovering not only the Palais Royal but the very soul of Paris.