Saint-Germain-en-Laye: Château, National Archaeology Museum and the Grande Terrasse

Updated on October 7, 2026

Saint-Germain-en-Laye, in the Yvelines, can be reached directly from Paris on the RER A. The town is best known for its château, which houses the National Archaeology Museum, and for the Grande Terrasse designed by André Le Nôtre, about 2.4 km long, with a view over the Seine valley and, on a clear day, Paris. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm, closed on Tuesday, for €6. An easy trip of a few hours.

Highlights

The château and the National Archaeology Museum

Francis I began building the present château in 1539. It now houses the National Archaeology Museum. Some rooms (Paleolithic, Roman Gaul, early Middle Ages, comparative archaeology) are closed for renovation: check which route is open before you come.

The Grande Terrasse

Created by André Le Nôtre for Louis XIV between 1669 and 1674, it runs along the forest more than 70 m above the Seine. On a clear day the view reaches the Eiffel Tower and La Défense. Access is free.

Practical info

Tips

Museum prices checked in October 2026: €6; free for under-26s and on the first Sunday of each month. No booking is needed for individual visitors. There is a security check at the entrance and large suitcases are refused. For more ideas, see our day trips from Paris.