Grand Palais travel guide

The Grand Palais, an iconic Parisian landmark, is steeped in rich history. Constructed for the Universal Exhibition in 1900, it exemplifies French Belle Époque architecture.

The building was designed by four different architects, each responsible for a different section, resulting in a unique blend of classicism and modernism. The Grand Palais was originally built to house large artistic events in the city of Paris.

During both World Wars, it served different roles such as a hospital and a truck depot. Post-war, it resumed its role as an exhibition hall and has since hosted numerous illustrious events.

In 2000, it was designated as a historic monument and has since been undergoing renovations to restore it to its former glory. Today, the Grand Palais continues to be a hub of cultural and artistic activity, hosting significant events like Paris Fashion Week, art exhibitions, and equestrian shows. Its captivating history and architectural splendor make it an unmissable Parisian treasure.

One of the most distinct features of the Grand Palais is its large glass dome, one of the largest in the world, which floods the interior with natural light during the day, highlighting the intricate ironwork and stonework. The exterior of the Grand Palais is equally striking, with its Beaux-Arts style architecture and monumental statues. The building is also home to the Palais de la Découverte, a science museum that fascinates with its planetarium and interactive exhibits.

Inside, the Grand Palais is divided into three major sections: the Nave, the National Galleries, and the Palais de la Découverte. Each area hosts different types of events, from fashion shows and exhibitions to scientific talks and conferences. The National Galleries, for example, regularly host high-profile art exhibitions. Another unique feature is the Grand Palais Éphémère, a temporary structure located in the Champ-de-Mars park, designed to host events during the renovation of the Grand Palais.

Located in Quartier des Champs-Élysées, the iconic Grand Palais is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Paris or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in France.

Paris is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Paris offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Paris has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Paris - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

Grand Palais is located in Paris, France, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14.58 miles (23.46 km) away from Paris. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Grand Palais is located.

If you’re already in Paris, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the palace. The exact address of the attraction is 3 Av. Du Général Eisenhower, 75008 Paris, France, France.

You can also rent a car and drive to Grand Palais. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Grand Palais and other top attractions in Paris at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Grand Palais!

The best time to explore Grand Palais is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These months offer pleasant weather, facilitating a comfortable tour of this historic site. Notably, autumn is marked by Nuit Blanche, an annual all-night arts festival where special events are held in the Grand Palais, making it an especially exciting time to visit. During these periods, the crowd levels are also moderate, allowing you to appreciate the architecture and exhibitions more peacefully. For travellers who wish to avoid crowds altogether, weekday mornings are typically quieter. However, if you don't mind the bustling atmosphere, the Monumenta art exhibition, which takes place every two years in summer, provides a unique experience as contemporary artists fill the nave with monumental installations. Therefore, depending on your preference for crowd levels, weather conditions, and special events, you can choose the best time to explore Grand Palais.

No visit to Paris is complete without a trip to Grand Palais, one of the most iconic attractions in France drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique palace, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Grand Palais starting from 20 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Paris and top attractions like Grand Palais with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Grand Palais and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Paris, France, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind palace in France.

Discovering France's captivating landscapes and the iconic Grand Palais becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 8 reputable rental car companies near Charles de Gaulle Airport and the city of Paris, making transportation seamless and efficient.

France's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Paris and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, Sixt currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 30.86 EUR per day or 215.99 EUR per week. Conveniently located at 195 Boulevard Voltaire, 75011 in Paris, this rental option ensures you can explore France's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Paris by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Grand Palais just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Paris.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Grand Palais below.

Paris offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Paris, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower is a bucket-list lattice tower and top attraction in Paris, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 322,389 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. This is just like Eiffel Tower, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 250,811 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this art museum is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Arc de Triomphe is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Paris. This triumphal arch and top attraction in Paris has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Arc de Triomphe creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Paris below.