place de la Concorde travel guide

The Place de la Concorde, one of Paris's most historic and visually striking public squares, holds a rich and complex history. Initially named Place Louis XV in honor of the then-French king, it was intended as a grand staging area for a statue of Louis XV. However, this square soon became a symbol of the French Revolution, when it was renamed Place de la Révolution.

In the turbulent years of the Revolution, it served as the execution site for King Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, and others. The square was later renamed Place de la Concorde as a gesture of national reconciliation.

Within its 8.64 hectares, it houses the iconic Luxor Obelisk, gifted by the Egyptian government in the 19th century. The twin fountains, Fontaine des Mers and Fontaine des Fleuves, and eight statues representing France's largest cities are also notable features. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of France's tumultuous past while serving as an important venue for national events.

The uniqueness of Place de la Concorde lies in its remarkable blend of history, architecture, and artistry. The place is home to the Obelisk of Luxor, an Egyptian monument that is over 3,000 years old, standing as a symbol of the Franco-Egyptian friendship. Its hieroglyphic inscriptions, detailing the reign of the pharaohs Ramses II and Ramses III, give it an ancient aura.

Two stunning fountains, the Fountain of River Commerce and Navigation and the Fountain of the Seas, adorn the square. They are regarded as the finest examples of the romantic-style fountains in Paris. The eight statues symbolizing French cities further enhance the square's aesthetic appeal.

Flanking the square are two monumental buildings, the Hôtel de Crillon and the French Naval Ministry, displaying the grandeur of neoclassical architecture. The square also offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the Champs-Élysées and the Tuileries Garden, creating a visual treat for visitors.

Located in the dynamic Quartier des Champs-Élysées, the popular place de la Concorde is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Paris or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Paris is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Paris offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Paris and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Paris has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Paris, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

Place de la Concorde is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14.3 miles (23 km) away from Paris. From there, you can easily reach place de la Concorde by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach place de la Concorde, which is located 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to place de la Concorde, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 75008 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at place de la Concorde!

The best time to explore Place de la Concorde is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the crowd levels are relatively low. These seasons offer the perfect weather conditions to admire the historic square's architecture and its stunning obelisk. During these periods, you can also enjoy the beautiful blooming flowers in the spring or the changing colors of the leaves in the fall, making your visit even more memorable. Additionally, the summer (July and August) is also a popular time to visit, though it's usually more crowded. Special events like the Bastille Day military parade in July and the autumn Paris Fashion Week can add to your experience. However, to avoid the busiest times, consider visiting on weekday mornings. Regardless of when you choose to visit, the Place de la Concorde, with its rich history and beautiful surroundings, will surely captivate you.

To truly enjoy your visit to place de la Concorde, joining a tour that features this popular square in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, place de la Concorde draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to place de la Concorde starting at just 14.77 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of place de la Concorde and other top attractions in Paris than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Paris include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in place de la Concorde's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into place de la Concorde and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind square in France.

With a rental car, discovering the popular place de la Concorde and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Charles de Gaulle Airport and the city of Paris, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Paris and beyond.

Conveniently explore place de la Concorde and plenty more captivating attractions in Paris by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to place de la Concorde and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Paris has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting place de la Concorde below.

Aside from place de la Concorde, Paris is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Paris, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Paris, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 320,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. Like Eiffel Tower, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 260,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Arc de Triomphe is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Paris. This museum and top attraction in Paris has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 190,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Paris below.