Palace Elysée

(Elysée Palace - Presidential Palace of President Emmanuel Macron)

Every year, curious visitors walk by the grand gates of the Palais de l’Élysée, home of the French President, wondering what it looks like inside. Spoiler: You probably won’t get in. But there are a few clever ways to experience its elegance, energy, and even its official vibe—without committing a felony.

Here’s how to get as close as possible to this iconic power palace.

1. The One Weekend a Year You Can Actually Enter

The Palais de l’Élysée opens its doors only once a year—during the European Heritage Days, known in France as Journées européennes du patrimoine which this year will take place from September 13–14, 2025.
That's your opportunity to tour the opulent salons, library, and presidential garden—no red carpet required.

Entry is free, but lines can be long, and access is limited. Arrive early and bring ID.

2. Visit Maison Élysée: The Palace Without the Red Tape

Located just across the street at 88 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Maison Élysée is the next best thing to being inside the real thing.

Admission: Free
Open year-round

This museum-café-shop hybrid offers:

• Exhibitions on presidential protocol and behind-the-scenes life
• Displays of rare artworks and curiosities
• A “travel through time” exhibit about the presidency
• A café where you can sip coffee while literally staring at the Palace gates

You can even book guided tours, also free!

3. Hear the Story: Self-Guided Audio Tours

Want context while you stroll past the façade? Several self-guided audio tours of Paris include the Élysée Palace as a stop, often bundled into broader political or historical walking routes.

Search for:

• "Paris Presidential Walk"
• "Champs-Élysées Hidden Gems"

Most tours will share quirky stories, architectural details, and juicy historical anecdotes as you walk past.

4. Take a Virtual Tour from Your Couch

The official virtual tour gives you full access to the most prestigious rooms inside the Élysée.

This is the actual government-produced 3D walkthrough. It’s incredibly well done and available in multiple languages.

5. Or… You Know, Just Get a Job There

Can’t get in as a tourist? Maybe try as an employee. The Élysée requires everyone from chefs and cleaners to IT specialists, archivists, and—who knows—maybe the next President?

Browse official listings on the Place de l’Emploi Public (French only)

Search terms to try:

• “Présidence”
• “Palais de l’Élysée”
• “Ministère”

Is it realistic? Maybe not. But it is technically possible.

6. Love Palaces? Visit These Nearby

If you're craving gold-trimmed ceilings and royal courtyards, Paris has plenty of spectacular palaces you can actually enter—and we've got tickets!

Here are a few that deliver that same stately feel:

• Palais-Royal – Famous gardens and arcades
• Petit Palais – A hidden gem of art and architecture, free to enter!
• Château de Versailles – The ultimate palace day trip
• Hôtel de Ville – The stunning Paris City Hall, often missed by tourists

Bonus: Add It to Your Walking Tour Anyway

Even if you can't go inside, the Palais de l’Élysée deserves a spot on your Paris itinerary. It's a historical landmark surrounded by chic boutiques, embassies, and high-end bakeries. Watch for motorcades, guards, and—if you're lucky—a glimpse of official comings and goings.

Pro tip: Combine it with nearby stops like the Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais, and Place de la Concorde to make your own DIY “Power and Prestige” walking tour.

In Summary: You Can Get the Élysée Experience

No, you probably won't shake hands with the President. But that doesn’t mean you can't enjoy the spirit, style, and even secrets of the Palais de l’Élysée. With a bit of creativity—and the tips above—you can get surprisingly close.

Don’t forget to check out family friendly activities, city tours, river cruises, and skip-the-line tickets on our Paris tours page. We've got curated picks to elevate your trip.

Ongoing Exhibitions

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