The main event in Rueil-Malmaison and one of the best-preserved Napoleonic sites in France. Bonaparte and Joséphine bought the estate in 1799 while he was away on the Egyptian campaign; after the coup of 18 Brumaire, it effectively served as the seat of government alongside the Tuileries. The house is modest by palace standards — Napoleon preferred it precisely because it felt more like a country home than a state building.
The interior is displayed as a period museum, with original furnishings, portraits, and personal objects from both Napoleon and Joséphine. The billiard room, the library, and Joséphine's private apartments are highlights. After Napoleon's exile, Joséphine remained here until her death in 1814, and the house preserves her taste more than his — elegant, slightly theatrical, full of Egyptian and classical references.
The grounds include the celebrated rose garden, replanted to reflect Joséphine's original collection, and a pleasant park stretching toward the Seine. Allow at least two hours. The museum is closed on Tuesdays and costs around 8 euros. Take the RER A to Rueil-Malmaison station and walk about 20 minutes, or catch bus 258 from La Défense.