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.

Discover place de la Concorde, a prime feature of Paris, in the vibrant Quartier des Champs-Élysées. Place de la Concorde is situated at 75008 Paris, France, just a short distance from Musée de l'Orangerie and Petit Palais, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of place de la Concorde, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Paris, a city in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Paris to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of place de la Concorde. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Paris travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

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 the city center. 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. 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 guided tour of this renowned public square in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, place de la Concorde draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Paris, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to place de la Concorde starting at just 16 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Paris, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring place de la Concorde.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic public square in France.

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Choosing the right accommodation near place de la Concorde from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Paris can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from place de la Concorde, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond place de la Concorde, Paris boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Paris offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Paris is Eiffel Tower, located at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Louvre Museum is worth seeing when you're in Paris. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Arc de Triomphe completes any trip to Paris. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Paris below to discover even more incredible places to explore.