Petite Palais: One Of The Best Free Things To Do In Paris

We planned a weekend in Paris and rather than looking for the top things to do in Paris, we were on the hunt for the best free things to do in Paris. Why? Well, free is always good, but also, we decided waiting in lines at the biggest hot spots just wasn’t for us this trip.

Petit Palais ended up being a fabulous addition to our Paris itinerary. Not only was it great for kids, doesn’t have the “silence” rule of some of the other museums, but it has a fantastic collection for art lovers like me but isn’t so big that it’s overwhelming for kids and husbands that may not be as much into the art.

Petit Palais is an amazing museum in Paris, manageable in size for kids, and free on top of that. You really have to visit:

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Basic Info

Address: Avenue Winston-Churchill, 75008, Paris
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
Admission: Free*
- Special exhibitions may require an admission fee.
Website: https://www.petitpalais.paris.fr/en

From History To Today

The Petit Palais was originally built for the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle. The building, designed by the renowned architect Charles Girault, is beautiful. There are four wings that encircle a semi-circular garden adorned with a beautifully decorated arcade. And, if you visit in the spring like we did, you can see some gorgeous king cherry blossom trees in bloom.

When you approach the Petit Palais’ main entrance, you’ll notice the larger Grand Palais across the street. Inside, the museum is split into two levels and each exhibition space was created to showcase every aspect of the collection.

Unlike its larger counterparts like the Louvre, the Petit Palais offers a more manageable and intimate experience which makes it especially kid-friendly. Despite its modest size, the Petit Palais is bursting with exquisite details to admire—from the ornate murals that took two decades to complete, to the intricate mosaic floors by the famed Italian artist Giandomenico Facchina. You’ll want to look up, down, and all around.

For The Art Lovers

As you step inside, you’re greeted by a grand facade that mirrors the richness of the art collections housed within. The Petit Palais features works spanning from ancient times to the early 20th century. There are pieces from the Middle Ages, Renaissance paintings, and works from the French Romantic and Impressionist movements.

There are works by artists such as Rembrandt, Poussin, Delacroix, and Monet. That is to say that while there may be other larger and more popular art museums in Paris, Petit Palais has plenty to offer any art lover. The Petit Palais focuses on French art so it’s the perfect addition to a Parisian itinerary in my opinion.

Tips For Visiting With Kids

Audio Tours: There aren’t the traditional audio guides that you pick up and drop off, but the museum does have a mobile app that provides some free tours: “12 Masterpieces,” “30 Must-Sees,” and a self-guided tour. This is good for you and older kids that can pay attention to it.

Take Advantage of The Garden: If the interior arts get a bit too much, or your little ones just need a break, step into the garden which also has a cafe and restaurant where you can get a snack to boost that energy.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, this little palace warmly welcomes all. Not only free, but also manageable in size and therefore very kid-friendly, the Petit Palais is a great addition to any weekend in Paris.

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