Petit Palais
Built by Charles Girault for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, the Petit Palais has housed the City of Paris fine arts museum since 1902. Its monumental porch, dome and trapezoidal plan are arranged around a semicircular inner garden lined with a peristyle.
The collection, entirely free, runs from antiquity to 1920: Rembrandt, Rubens, Fragonard, Courbet, Monet, Cézanne, Vuillard, plus a remarkable set of Art Nouveau objects and a fine collection of icons. The painted vault decorations are original. Tip: the inner-garden café, with its palms and mosaics, is one of the most pleasant and least known terraces near the Champs-Élysées.
Frequently asked questions about Petit Palais
Where is Petit Palais located?
Petit Palais is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, in the Champs-Élysées area. It is easy to reach on foot from the main landmarks nearby and fits naturally into a Paris walking tour.
Is Petit Palais free to visit?
Yes, Petit Palais is free to visit — no ticket required.
How long does a visit to Petit Palais take?
Plan around 60 minutes to enjoy Petit Palais at a relaxed pace — a little more in high season or if you want to take photos.
What are the opening hours of Petit Palais?
Mar–Dim · 10h – 18h · Fermé le lundi (gratuit, collections permanentes). These hours are indicative — check public holidays and exceptional closures before you go.
Is Petit Palais suitable for children?
Yes, Petit Palais (Musée) works well for families: the visit is short and combines easily with other stops around Champs-Élysées.