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Tucked between the Seine and the Champs-Élysées lies a glass-and-steel giant that could outshine any modern art museum or Belle Époque relic - the Grand Palais. But this isn't just another stop on your average sightseeing list. With its ever-changing exhibitions, glamorous events, and secrets tucked into its monumental halls, the Grand Palais is a living chronicle of Parisian culture.
What is the story behind the Grand Palais?
Built for the Exposition Universelle of 1900, the Grand Palais was intended as a celebration of French art and innovation. Its full name - Grand Palais des Champs-Élysées - hints at its royal scale and purpose. But beneath the architectural marvel lies a layered story of reinvention.
Over the years, the Grand Palais has served as:
- A military hospital during World War I
- A Nazi vehicle depot during World War II
- A hub for art expos like the FIAC (Foire Internationale d'Art Contemporain)
- The Paris Fashion Week venue for Chanel’s legendary runway shows
The building’s design - an ambitious mix of Beaux-Arts style, iron and steel framework, and a glass dome - was a technical feat for its time. Even today, it stands as one of the largest existing iron-glass structures in the world.
Want to hear stories of wartime occupation and glamorous catwalks echoing under one roof? Tap into the StoryHunt Inner Paris tour for the full sensory experience.
What is the Grand Palais famous for?
The Grand Palais is known for three things: Exhibitions. Events. Epic architecture.
This is not your average gallery. Think of the Grand Palais as a living calendar of the world’s most important cultural events. You’ll find:
- Major temporary exhibitions from Picasso retrospectives to immersive digital shows
- The RMN – Grand Palais exhibitions (run by the Réunion des Musées Nationaux)
- The Art Paris Art Fair, one of Europe’s most prestigious art fairs
- Large-scale events like the Saut Hermès, an international show-jumping competition held inside the nave
Its central Nef (nave), an immense hall of iron and glass, is often described as the "soul" of the building. Standing there feels like being inside a spaceship designed by a Belle Époque architect.
Is Grand Palais free to enter?
Short answer: It depends.
The building itself is not open for general admission unless there is a scheduled exhibition or event. Most exhibitions have an entry fee (usually €10–15), but:
- EU residents under 26 often enter free or at a reduced rate
- Some events have free admission days or evenings
Keep an eye on the official RMN Grand Palais site for up-to-date schedules and pricing.
Pro tip: Even if you’re not going in, the exterior and surrounding area are worth the detour - and you can still hear all the juicy backstories on the StoryHunt audio tour.
What to see in Grand Palais?
If you’re lucky enough to catch an open exhibition or event, here’s what to look out for:
- The Nave: This is the show-stealer. Whether it's housing fashion shows, art installations, or even equestrian competitions, this massive glass-ceilinged hall is breathtaking.
- Contemporary Art Shows: Think big names - Monet, Hopper, or modern artists pushing digital boundaries. Many exhibits are temporary, rotating every few months.
- Digital Immersive Exhibitions: Recent years have seen a shift towards VR experiences, light shows, and multisensory exhibits (think Van Gogh meets EDM).
- Architectural Details: Look up. The sweeping staircases, ironwork, and Art Nouveau flourishes are Insta-heaven and history-nerd nirvana rolled into one.
Is Grand Palais under renovation?
Yes - and this is important. The Grand Palais closed in 2021 for major renovations and is set to reopen fully by 2025 for the Paris Summer Olympics. In the meantime, exhibitions have been relocated to a temporary venue known as the Grand Palais Éphémère, located at Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower.
Want the historical scoop without waiting? The StoryHunt audio walk offers stories that transcend scaffolding and detours.
Is it worth seeing Grand Palais?
Absolutely, yes. Even if the main building is temporarily closed, the Grand Palais Éphémère is keeping the art alive. Plus, the building’s façade, history, and location in the cultural heart of Paris make it a must-stop.
Here’s why it’s worth your time:
- You’ll walk in the footsteps of history and haute couture.
- You’ll see the best of both worlds: modern art inside a classical shell.
- You’re steps away from other major Parisian icons (more on that below).
So yes, don’t skip it - just check in advance what's happening on-site or nearby.
What else is nearby Grand Palais?
You're in central Paris, so everything is nearby. But here are our curated picks for the curious traveler:
- Petit Palais (literally across the street): Its free permanent collection and dreamy garden café are ideal for an afternoon breather.
- Pont Alexandre III: Possibly Paris’s most photogenic bridge. Golden statues, Seine views, and all the romantic vibes.
- Champs-Élysées: A short stroll takes you to the most famous avenue in the world. Window shop or people-watch to your heart’s content.
- Palais de la Découverte: A science museum located in the western wing of the Grand Palais - temporarily closed but worth keeping on your list.
And of course, you're never far from another audio adventure - dive deeper into the area with the StoryHunt Inner Paris audio walk for a layered storytelling experience.
