Who hasn't dreamed of sneaking behind the scenes of the Élysée Palace? Peeking into its opulent salons, grabbing treats from the kitchen, wandering through its massive gardens, or admiring quirky diplomatic gifts? Rather than embarking on a political career, France's most secretive palace has just opened an "Élysée beyond the walls" right across the street—featuring a boutique, exhibition rooms, and even a café in collaboration with Alain Ducasse. Curious? It's free to visit with a reservation!
A 100% Made-in-France Boutique
In what used to be a wedding dress shop, the visit starts with a mini shopping spree. About 40 French brands, known for their craftsmanship and proudly made-in-France products, have created special Bleu, Blanc, Rouge items for the official presidential brand.
The result? A dream gift shop for patriots and passing tourists alike, where you can pick up an adorable Doudou & Compagnie plush (€44.90), a pétanque bag by Maroquinor (€39), Marseille soap by Marius Fabre (€4.90), a chic striped Saint James t-shirt (€69), a marine leather wallet by Larmorie (€129), or a lovely Papier Tigre notebook (€12.50).
Educational Tour
Beyond the shop, continue the experience with several rooms showcasing fascinating relics and photographs about the presidency. Highlights include a re-creation of the President’s Golden Room featuring the real desk where historic treaties have been signed since Charles de Gaulle's time, stunning porcelain sets from the prestigious Manufacture de Sèvres used for state dinners, and candid shots showing confidential aspects of Emmanuel Macron’s presidency, such as his aides-de-camp, security detail, and restoration work on the palace.
The main attraction? A room screening a short documentary narrated by the irreplaceable Stéphane Bern, followed by another displaying the (often extravagant!) diplomatic gifts received by the President during his term. Special mentions go to a carpenter’s axe used to restore Notre-Dame de Paris, a beautifully painted wooden elephant from India, and a pair of marble penguins gifted by Chile.
Café Break
Finish upstairs at the café, tastefully decorated by Sarah Lavoine, where Élysée staffers often drop by for a snack. Try to grab the table by the window to watch the armored cars coming and going, and play the game "Who might be inside?"
The menu offers desserts straight from the Élysée kitchens: vanilla-pecan choux pastry bomb (€12), the graphically stunning "Jardin d’Hiver" with its tricolor glaze (€12), Vanilla Pompadour Flan (€9), or Eugénie’s Savoie Cake with apricot marmalade and a delectable crème anglaise (€9). Instagram-worthy moments are guaranteed, thanks to the charming mismatched crockery.
To drink: Kusmi Tea Breakfast at the Élysée (€6), iced coffee (€6), or a Patrick Font fruit juice (Merlot grape, gariguette strawberry, Corsican clementine… €7). And for the sweet touch, Alain Ducasse adds his hazelnut praline "Petit Coq" creation (€6) and, of course, ice creams from his famous manufacture (€8).
Register and book online at billetterie.elysee.fr. Free admission from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM to 6:30 PM, by reservation.
© Présidence de la République - Clémence Renoux
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