Opened in 1639, the palace was home to royal families until the building of Versailles. Here you’ll find quiet formal gardens, aisles of lime and chestnut trees, flowerbeds and fountains. In 1986 an installation of grey and white columns by Buren and Bury was added raising eyebrows and sparking controversy. Le Grand Vefour, one of the oldest restaurants in Paris is tucked away in a corner. Outstanding food and atmosphere but pricey.