Just steps away from Place des Vosges and rue Saint‑Antoine, the Courtyard and Garden of Hôtel de Sully offer a tranquil, elegant escape rooted in 17th‑century Parisian architecture. Designed between 1625 and 1630 by Jean Androuet du Cerceau for financier Mesme Gallet, and later enhanced under the Duke of Sully, this iconic Marais site is a prime example of the “hôtel particulier” layout between courtyard and garden.

Visitors begin in the grand paved courtyard, bordered by sculpted façades adorned with mascarons, allegorical depictions of the elements and seasons, topped by a restored balustraded balcony from mid‑20th century restorations. Passing through an archway, you enter a formal French garden divided into four lawns elegantly edged with boxwood, creating a refined geometric pattern.

At the garden’s rear stands the “Petit Sully” orangery, protected by two pavilions constructed in the 1620s — the first of its kind in Paris. Above it, a terrace offers a perfect vantage point to admire this intimate green space.

The garden serves as a serene green corridor between the bustling rue Saint‑Antoine and the calm Place des Vosges — a city disharmonically enchanting backdrop much loved by visitors. Benches here are prime real estate — ideal for reading, relaxing, or people‑watching.

This spot draws a wide range of visitors: history enthusiasts, families, quiet‑seekers, tourists, and locals. With fewer children than the adjacent square, it’s especially appreciated for its calm. The on‑site bookstore, run by the Centre des monuments nationaux, offers a curated selection of books on heritage, architecture, and gardens, with multilingual staff.

Practical info: free daily admission from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., though hours may vary by season. Accessible from rue Saint‑Antoine and Place des Vosges. Nearest metro: Saint‑Paul (Line 1). The site is wheelchair‑accessible, with free Wi‑Fi in the bookstore and nearby restroom facilities.

Anecdotes & History
Financier Mesme Gallet originally commissioned the hôtel but went bankrupt from gambling losses, selling it unfinished. The Duke of Sully took possession in 1634 and made it his final abode.

Sculpted niches in the courtyard façades represent the four classical elements (Air, Fire, Water, Earth) and seasonal allegories at each garden side.

The orangery was restored in 1973, with the garden fully revamped in early 2023 using disease‑resistant plants, improved irrigation, and refreshed pathways.

This hidden gem is a harmonious blend of architectural grandeur and leafy tranquility — a must‑visit for those wanting a peaceful moment amid historic Paris.