Château de Malmaison
The Château de Malmaison, west of Paris, was the residence of Joséphine de Beauharnais, wife of Napoleon Bonaparte, who acquired it in 1799. The couple lived and governed part of France there in the early years of the Consulate, before Joséphine remained there alone after their divorce, until her death in 1814.
The château preserves furniture and collections that evoke the taste and daily life of the imperial couple, along with the memory of the roses Joséphine cultivated in the park. The visit offers an intimate glimpse into the Napoleonic era, away from the grandeur of larger palaces. It is worth timing the visit to the park for when the roses are in bloom, generally in spring and summer.
Frequently asked questions about Château de Malmaison
Where is Château de Malmaison located?
Château de Malmaison is located in Rueil-Malmaison, just outside Paris, in the Rueil-Malmaison area. It is easy to reach on foot from the main landmarks nearby and fits naturally into a walking tour around Paris.
Is Château de Malmaison free to visit?
Indicative price: Gratuit – 6.5 €. Rates can change, so check the official website before your visit.
How long does a visit to Château de Malmaison take?
Plan around 75 minutes to enjoy Château de Malmaison at a relaxed pace — a little more in high season or if you want to take photos.
What are the opening hours of Château de Malmaison?
Visite payante : généralement 10h – 18h · Vérifier les horaires saisonniers. These hours are indicative — check public holidays and exceptional closures before you go.
Is Château de Malmaison suitable for children?
Yes, Château de Malmaison (Monument) works well for families: the visit is short and combines easily with other stops around Rueil-Malmaison.