Hotel de la Marine Paris – An 18th-Century Gem On Place de la Concorde

Want a taste of Versailles without the hassle? Head directly to the newly-renovated Hotel de la Marine Paris, the 18th-century mansion dedicated to French craftsmanship, culture, and history. Found at the foot of the Champs-Elysées, next to the Tuileries Garden, the palace, once only privy to French royalty or the French navy, is now open to the public for the first time in its 300-year history.

Smack dab in the middle of Paris, overlooking Place de la Concorde, where Marie Antoinette lost her head, the Hotel de la Marine Paris stands as a testament to centuries of Paris's tumultuous history.

A Grand Landmark on Place de la Concorde

Salon of the Admirals at Hotel de la Marine, photo by Mark Craft

Hotel de la Marine Paris has stood witness to centuries of French history. Completed in 1774 by architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel, this majestic building (the twin of the Hotel de Crillon, next door) was originally the headquarters of the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne, the royal furniture and art repository.

This wasn't just about storing fancy chairs and such — this was where some of France's most precious treasures were kept. From glittering royal jewels to intricately crafted tapestries, the Hotel de la Marine was a keeper of French heritage before the classic building transformed into a symbol of naval power.

The Navy Moves In

Golden hallway connecting the salons, photo by Mark Craft

Just a few years later, in 1789, the French Revolution swept through Paris and the Hotel de la Marine (as it would become known as) found itself at the heart of major events. For instance, the infamous guillotine was set up in front of the building, in Place de la Concorde. Onlookers lining the balconies of the Hotel could watch the grisly spectacle of the deaths of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

That year, under the new revolutionary administration, the Navy Ministry moved in, marking the beginning of the building's maritime legacy. Over the next two centuries, the Hotel de la Marine became synonymous with France's naval might and military prowess. Napoleon himself passed through these halls. Today, a stroll through the Hotel de la Marine feels like walking in the footsteps of revolutionaries, military strategists, and even the last kings and the emperor who shaped the nation's destiny.

If these walls could talk! In 1792, during the French Revolution, the Crown Jewels were stolen from here. Then, in 1848, this is where the decree was signed to abolish slavery in France and the colonies.

Hotel de la Marine Paris: A Return to Glory

Dining room of the Intendant of the Garde-Meuble, photo by Mark Craft

With government offices cleared out and recently restored to its former glory, the Hotel de la Marine Paris now offers visitors a glimpse of the past in its grand salons and lavish apartments, meticulously returned to their original splendor. But this is more than a preserved relic — art, history, and immersive exhibitions make the building as vibrant as ever. The gilded rooms, sweeping staircases, and perfectly restored details breathe life into this iconic space, showcasing the elegance of royal Paris with a modern flair.

Fireplace in the Salon of the Admirals, photo by Mark Craft

Step inside and find yourself immersed in 18th-century splendor. The grand reception rooms, adorned with gilded moldings, crystal chandeliers, and intricate tapestries, evoke the grandeur of France's royal era.

The best part of your visit might be the interactive audio-visual tour that takes you through the restored apartments and ceremonial spaces, showcasing the elegance of the time. Your self-guided tour begins in the Intendant's Court, the interior courtyard that has been fitted with a new pyramid-shaped glass roof.

Highlights include the Cabinet of Mirrors, reminiscent of the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, and the Loggia, which gives you breathtaking views of Place de la Concorde. Each of the 550 rooms tell a story of France's cultural evolution, making this a captivating experience for lovers of Paris history and art. One of our highlights was the dazzling restored dining room showcasing how VIP guests were wined and dined by the French royal navy.

For us, the Hotel de la Marine captures the essence of French grandeur and history in one magnificent location. With spectacular views over Place de la Concorde — the Eiffel Tower and the dome of Napoleon's tomb in the distance — and its layers of history, our experience at the Hotel has stayed with long after our visit ended.

Hotel de la Marine Paris – A Cultural Destination

The main courtyard of Hotel de la Marine, photo by Mark Craft

More than a historical monument, the Hotel de la Marine Paris has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. It's not just a mansion, it's a historic space with mammoth entrance gates, imposing courtyards, and several restaurants. The museum also features temporary exhibitions and hosts special events and lectures.

Plan to spend at least two hours on your visit, ending with the gift store (of course!) before visiting its restaurant or cafe. There are two dining options — Mimosa, a modern Riviera-inspired restaurant created by Michelin-star Chef Jean-François Piège offers a more formal setting while the more casual Cafe Laperouse takes you from breakfast to lunch to dinner… even tea time.

This is Cafe Laperouse's first offsite location, which is something for an eatery established in 1766. The stunning interior designed by the artistic director of Dior Maison includes a dining room, wine cellar and even a glacier-chocolatier (chocolate and ice cream shop).

Why Hotel de la Marine Paris Is a Must-Visit

View of the Eiffel Tower and Place de la Concorde, photo by Mark Craft

Let's sum up what we've been talking about. Hotel de la Marine Paris is a multifaceted experience, blending history, art, and architecture into one unforgettable visit. It's a place where the stories of royal splendor, revolutionary change, and modern reinvention intersect. In that way, it out-Versailles Versailles!

With its location on Place de la Concorde, Hotel de la Marine is a perfect starting point for exploring nearby landmarks, including the Tuileries Garden, the Louvre, and the Champs-Elysées. If you're a history buff, an art lover, or just a curious traveler, this Parisian site will leave a lasting impression.

Hotel de la Marine Resources

Place de la Concorde with Hotel de la Marine on the right

Hotel de la Marine is open for visits every day from 10:30 to 7:00, Friday nights until 9:30. Hotel de la Marine tickets can be purchased right at the door or online in advance.

Following our visit we had a lovely snack and drinks at Mimosa Restaurant, the Paris branch of a famed Saint Tropez eatery, located off the main courtyard. There's more dining on site at Café Lapérouse, a trendy outpost of the historic Parisian restaurant.

• Place de la Concorde, 8th Arrondissement
• Hotel de la Marine Website…
• Hotel de la Marine Tickets…
• Mimosa Restaurant Website…
• Café Lapérouse Website…