The oldest planned square in Paris
Ordered by Henri IV and inaugurated in 1612 as Place Royale, the square is built around a garden with a perfectly regular layout: thirty-six pavilions of red brick with white stone dressings, steep slate roofs and continuous arcades. It became the model for many other European squares. It took its current name in 1800.
Under the arcades
The arcades shelter galleries, antique dealers and café terraces: a pleasant place to walk when the weather is poor. At no. 6, the Maison de Victor Hugo is the apartment where the writer lived from 1832 to 1848. At the corner, the passage through Hôtel de Sully leads straight to rue Saint-Antoine, a few steps from the hotel.
The garden
In the middle of the square, the garden is laid out with lawns, lime trees, fountains and a statue of Louis XIII on horseback. On the first sunny day, Parisians settle on the grass and the benches. Come early in the morning for the quietest light, or at the end of the day for the glowing brick.
Make a visit of it
- Start at Place des Vosges, then continue to the museums of Le Marais (Carnavalet is very close).
- Walk on to the mansions and courtyards around the square.
- Finish at Bastille (200 m from the hotel) for a drink.
Good to know. The square is a public space, open all day. Opening hours and prices change: check each venue's official website before you go.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Place des Vosges from the hotel?
100 m, a few minutes on foot.
What is the oldest planned square in Paris?
Place des Vosges, inaugurated in 1612 as Place Royale.