Palais du Tau - An ornate, classical-style building with columns.
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Palais du Tau

4.3
·1k reviews·Reims, France

Palais du Tau, a former archbishop's palace, showcases royal artifacts and statues, deeply connected to French coronation history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, VIP feel

CrowdLow
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Palais du Tau - An ornate, classical-style building with columns.

Palais du Tau

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, VIP feel

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Palais du Tau, a former archbishop's palace, showcases royal artifacts and statues, deeply connected to French coronation history.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"A must-see for history fans, offering a stunning journey into the lives of French kings and queens."

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TIP

🎟️ Get a Combined Ticket

Save money and time by purchasing a combined ticket for Palais du Tau and the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims .

🎧 Rent an Audio Guide

Essential for understanding exhibits, as most descriptions are in French .

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Royal Artifacts Collection

Royal Artifacts Collection

Inside the Palais du Tau

Discover personal objects, clothes, and jewelry of French royalty, offering a glimpse into their lives.

Statues from the Cathedral

Statues from the Cathedral

Inside the Palais du Tau

See impressive statues that once adorned the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims, showcasing intricate artistry.

The Coronation Site

The Coronation Site

Palais du Tau

Experience the historical weight of this building, where French kings were crowned, steeped in royal tradition.

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Planning Your Visit

Combine Your Visit with the Cathedral

Palais du Tau is right next to the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims. Many visitors recommend a combined ticket for a fuller historical experience. Consider visiting early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate exploration of the royal artifacts.Reddit

Audio Guide is Your Friend

While the building and artifacts are impressive, exhibit descriptions are primarily in French. An audio guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical significance and personal stories of the French royalty.Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, VIP feel
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Less busy than weekends
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Reims - must sees?

🎟️ Get a Combined Ticket

Save money and time by purchasing a combined ticket for Palais du Tau and the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims.Reddit

🎧 Rent an Audio Guide

Essential for understanding exhibits, as most descriptions are in French.Reddit

reddit.com

What else to see in Reims

🚶‍♀️ Visit Early Morning

Enjoy a peaceful experience with zero queues and the entire museum to yourself.Reddit

⏳ Allow 1 Hour Visit

Most visitors find 1 hour sufficient unless you want to deeply study each exhibit.Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Get a Combined Ticket

Save money and time by purchasing a combined ticket for Palais du Tau and the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims.Reddit

🎧 Rent an Audio Guide

Essential for understanding exhibits, as most descriptions are in French.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Visit Early Morning

Enjoy a peaceful experience with zero queues and the entire museum to yourself.Reddit

⏳ Allow 1 Hour Visit

Most visitors find 1 hour sufficient unless you want to deeply study each exhibit.Reddit

🆓 Check for Free Entry

Under 18s or those with an Education Pass may get free entry.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Palais du Tau for its rich historical significance, particularly its connection to French royal coronations. The collection of royal artifacts, including personal items and regalia, is a major highlight, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of kings and queens. Its prime location next to the Reims Cathedral is also a significant draw, making it easy to combine visits. Some reviewers noted that exhibit descriptions are primarily in French, making an audio guide essential for a complete understanding.

"Wow, I've been through a lot of feelings going through this place with a great historical load. If you are a fan of history, I recommend you to visit this place, it is the place where the kings were crowned, you can discover a multitude of personal objects of the royal family, clothes, jewelry. The location is impressive as a building, also right next to the cathedral. Everything is impeccable, mysterious, well maintained."

Sasha

"This is a place where Kings have been crowned. It is stunning and mystical at the same time. Situated next to the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims, it is a place to see if you are fan of history and royalty. The display is amazing and takes you on a journey across the lives of Kings. We were alone in the museum early morning so that could be the best part of the day for a visit. Zero queueing and the whole place just for us, the stroll became almost a VIP one. It will not take more than 1 hour unless you really want to spend 5mins contemplating every display, carpet or statues. Equipped with the Education pass and a kid of 11, the entry was free on top of that. Plan your visit and buy your tickets in advance to go quicker otherwise wake up early and enjoy the museum at your own pace freely."

Dr. Jeevashi Pareemanen

"Great artifact collection. Worth getting the audio guide because all the exhibit descriptions are in French. I would recommend getting a combined ticket because entry price is 8 Euros."

Tudor Iliescu

What People Like

Rich royal history
Impressive artifact collection
Proximity to Cathedral

What People Dislike

Explanations mostly in French

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Palais du Tau is conveniently located right next to the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims in the heart of the city. If you're arriving in Reims by train, it's a pleasant walk from the station or a short taxi/bus ride. The proximity to the cathedral makes it easy to visit both landmarks together.

There are several public parking options available in the vicinity of the Palais du Tau and the cathedral. Look for 'Parking Cathédrale' or other city center parking garages. Be aware that parking in the city center can incur fees.

Yes, it's a walkable distance from Reims train station to Palais du Tau, approximately 15-20 minutes. It's a good opportunity to see more of the city on your way.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The standard entry price is around 8 Euros. However, it's highly recommended to check for combined ticket options with the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims, which can offer better value.Reddit Entry may be free for visitors under 18 or those with specific passes.Reddit

While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance, especially combined tickets, can help you skip queues and ensure a smoother entry, particularly during peak tourist seasons.Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any potential closures before your visit.

There is no strict dress code for visiting Palais du Tau, but as it's a historical and cultural site, modest attire is generally appreciated. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll be doing some walking.

Yes, an audio guide is available and highly recommended. Since most exhibit descriptions are in French, the audio guide will greatly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the historical artifacts.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Palais du Tau houses a significant collection of artifacts related to the coronation of French kings, including personal items, royal regalia, and statues from the cathedral. It offers a deep dive into the history of French royalty and the significance of Reims as a coronation city.

Most visitors find that a visit to Palais du Tau takes about 1 hour, especially if you utilize the audio guide. If you wish to spend more time examining each artifact in detail, you might allocate a bit longer.Reddit

Children, especially those interested in history and royalty, can find the collection fascinating. The stories of kings and queens might capture their imagination. Some visitors have noted free entry for children with certain passes.Reddit

While an audio guide is readily available, information on specific guided tours might vary. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire upon arrival for any available guided tour options.

Palais du Tau served as the archbishop's palace and was intrinsically linked to the coronation ceremonies of French kings held at the adjacent Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims. It was where the monarch would stay before and after the ceremony.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can change, but generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use inside Palais du Tau. However, it's always best to look for signage or ask staff if you're unsure, especially for specific exhibits.

The grand architecture of the palace itself, the impressive royal artifacts, and the statues from the cathedral offer excellent photographic opportunities. The juxtaposition of historical items against the palace's interior is particularly striking.

While personal photography is usually allowed, commercial photography or videography might require special permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Palais du Tau can be an engaging visit for families, especially if your children have an interest in kings, queens, and historical stories. The collection of royal objects, like clothes and jewelry, can spark their imagination about past lives. Some visitors have noted that children under 18 might get free entry, making it a budget-friendly option.Reddit

To make the visit more enjoyable for younger visitors, consider focusing on the most visually striking artifacts and the stories of the kings. The proximity to the grand cathedral also offers a chance to explore a magnificent architectural wonder. An audio guide, if available in child-friendly versions or if parents can narrate key points, will help bring the history to life.

🏛️ History Buffs & Royalty Enthusiasts

For those passionate about French history and the intricacies of royal life, Palais du Tau is an absolute must-visit. This former archbishop's palace offers a direct connection to the coronation ceremonies that defined French monarchy for centuries. You'll be walking through halls that once hosted kings and witnessed pivotal moments in national history.

The collection of personal artifacts, royal regalia, and the historical context provided by its adjacency to the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims create an unparalleled immersive experience. The opportunity to see items that belonged to legendary French monarchs, coupled with the understanding of their significance in the coronation process, makes this a deeply rewarding visit. Don't miss the chance to rent an audio guide to fully grasp the depth of history presented.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Royal Connection: Reims and its Kings

Palais du Tau is more than just a museum; it's a testament to the deep historical ties between Reims and the French monarchy. For centuries, this city was the spiritual heart of France, chosen as the site for the coronation of its kings. The Palais du Tau, as the former residence of the Archbishop of Reims, played a crucial role in these sacred ceremonies. It was here that the monarch would prepare for the momentous occasion and celebrate their ascension to the throne.

The artifacts housed within the Palais du Tau offer an intimate look at this royal legacy. Visitors can marvel at the personal belongings of kings and queens, including their opulent clothing, intricate jewelry, and other precious objects. These items provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to imagine the grandeur and solemnity of the coronation events that unfolded in this very city. The collection is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by French history and the lives of its rulers.

Understanding the context of the coronation is key to appreciating the Palais du Tau. The adjacent Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims was where the actual crowning took place, and the Palais du Tau served as the essential supporting venue. Together, these two sites form an unparalleled historical complex, offering a comprehensive narrative of French royal tradition and the enduring significance of Reims in shaping the nation's history. Many visitors find that a combined visit truly brings this history to life.Reddit

Exploring the Artifacts: A Glimpse into Royal Life

The collection at Palais du Tau is a curated journey through the lives of French royalty, focusing on the period of coronations. Among the most captivating exhibits are the personal effects of the kings. Imagine holding a piece of history that was once worn or used by figures like Louis XIV or Napoleon. The displays include exquisite garments, ceremonial swords, and other regalia that speak volumes about the wealth and power of the monarchy.

Beyond the grander items, the museum also showcases more intimate objects that offer a glimpse into the daily lives and personal tastes of the royal family. These can range from religious artifacts to decorative pieces. The statues, originally part of the cathedral's facade, are also a significant draw, showcasing the masterful craftsmanship of medieval sculptors and providing a visual link to the architectural splendor of the cathedral itself.

To truly unlock the stories behind these artifacts, the audio guide is indispensable. Without it, the rich historical context and the personal narratives associated with each piece can be easily missed, especially given the predominantly French descriptions. The audio guide transforms a viewing experience into an educational and immersive journey through centuries of French royal history.Reddit