Private car transfer from CDG airport to the Elysee Palace in Paris

History and tour of the Elysée Palace in Paris

The Elysée Palace, an emblematic mansion serving as both the office and residence of French Presidents since the Second Republic, stands majestically at No. 55 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, in the prestigious 8th arrondissement of Paris. Constructed between 1718 and 1722 by architect Armand-Claude Mollet, this grand edifice sprawls over an area of 11,179 m², including 300 square meters dedicated to private apartments. With a total of 365 rooms, 90 of which are situated in the basement, it also boasts a vast park spanning 1.5 hectares. The palace features two primary entrances: one on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and another leading into the park, conveniently accessible via the Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau and Concorde metro stations.

The palace’s historical narrative unfolds with a tale of misunderstanding between Louis Henri de la Tour d’Auvergne and the Regent of France during the eighteenth century. Provoked by a jest at the expense of the Comte d’Evreux, the Regent challenged him to construct a residence befitting his stature. Moved by the Regent’s taunt, the Earl liquidated his Normandy lands for a staggering 732,000 pounds to acquire the Marais des Gourdes for around 75,000 livres. This project attracted a flurry of architects and aristocrats eager to partake in its grandeur. The construction, however, escalated into a financial ordeal for the Count, prompting his marriage to the affluent heiress of businessman Antoine Crozat. This union, albeit short-lived, significantly bolstered his finances with a dowry of 2,000,000 pounds, despite the bride being barely twelve. Completed in 1720, the hotel’s inauguration coincided with the termination of this matrimonial alliance, a move that saw the Count return the full dowry to maintain amicable relations with his former stepfather.

Continuation of Elysée Palace’s History

The aftermath of the construction and the subsequent internal decoration, which spanned four years, witnessed the hotel’s evolution into a residence of unparalleled elegance. Initially, the Count occupied the ground floor, postponing the embellishment of the upper levels until funds permitted. Noteworthy is the transition of architects from Armand-Claude Mollet to Jules Hardouin Michel Alexandre, marking a significant phase in the architectural finesse of the hotel. The validation of the Count’s efforts by the Regent, who personally commended him and further rewarded him with additional land for a garden, underscores the project’s triumphant culmination.

Upon the Earl’s death in 1753, the hotel traversed through various proprietors including Madame de Pompadour, King Louis XV’s esteemed mistress. It was the media that christened this architectural marvel as “The Castle,” a testament to its unique design and grandiosity. Today, it serves as the cherished domicile of the President, continuing its legacy as a symbol of French heritage and political authority. Within its walls, each room narrates a chapter of France’s vibrant history, making the Elysée Palace not just a residence, but a living museum of the nation’s journey through time.

Transfer by private car to the Elysée Palace in Paris

Discover the Elysée Palace in a prestigious car during your stay in Paris. Opt for an exclusive experience by selecting your preferred vehicle from our assortment of luxury cars. Conveniently located, the Elysée Palace is situated 22 km away from Orly Airport, 30 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport, and 85 km from Beauvais Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers seeking comfort and style in their journey.