Place de la Concorde, France Travel Guide

The Place de la Concorde is not only one of Paris' largest squares but also a site steeped in history. Originally designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel in 1763 to honor King Louis XV, it was named Place Louis XV. However, during the French Revolution, it was renamed Place de la Révolution and became the location of many public executions, including that of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

In 1836, King Louis-Philippe transformed the square into a symbol of peace, renaming it Place de la Concorde. At its center stands the 3,300-year-old Luxor Obelisk, a gift from Egypt that was erected as a testament to diplomacy. The 75-foot tall monument is adorned with hieroglyphs celebrating the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, adding an air of mystique and ancient allure to the site.

Flanked by lavish fountains and statues representing French cities, the square has seen both grand celebrations and solemn events. It was here that Charles de Gaulle famously led a parade in 1944 to mark the liberation of Paris. Today, with its rich past and vibrant present, The Place de la Concorde invites visitors to delve into its stories and marvel at its timeless beauty.

The Place de la Concorde is an architectural marvel that stands out in the heart of Paris. One of its most striking features is the majestic Luxor Obelisk, a 3,300-year-old Egyptian monument that towers above the square. This ancient artifact, gifted by the Egyptian government, adds a touch of exotic allure to the Parisian atmosphere.

Another captivating aspect is the square's harmonious blend of classical French architecture and open space design. The twin fountains, La Fontaine des Mers and La Fontaine des Fleuves, offer a symphony of water and art, perfectly complementing the surrounding neoclassical buildings.

The square's layout fosters a sense of openness, acting as a gateway to the Tuileries Garden, seamlessly connecting visitors to nature and urban beauty. The strategic location of The Place de la Concorde offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

The intricate details of the street lamps and statues add to the square's charm, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the artistic craftsmanship that adorns this historic place. The Place de la Concorde is not just a square; it is a cultural tapestry that weaves together history, art, and urban life in a uniquely captivating way.

The Place de la Concorde, a magnificent open space in the heart of Paris, is home to a fascinating array of secrets waiting to be discovered. Did you know that the square's iconic obelisk, a gift from Egypt, dates back over 3,000 years and once stood at the entrance of the Luxor Temple? It's intriguing how the obelisk's journey to Paris was fraught with challenges, taking over two years to transport from Egypt in the 1830s.

What many visitors may not realize is that beneath this grand plaza lies a bustling world of underground tunnels and utilities. These hidden passageways are crucial in supporting the city's infrastructure, a testament to the blend of historical charm and modern innovation that defines Paris. Additionally, the elaborate fountains that grace the square are inspired by the maritime spirit, designed to pay homage to France’s naval prowess and its connection to the sea.

Finally, the eight majestic statues surrounding the square each represent a major French city, symbolizing unity and strength. These statues add a layer of artistic significance that complements the square's architectural beauty, making it a captivating spot for both history buffs and art lovers alike. So next time you're in Paris, take a moment to appreciate the layers of history and artistry that make The Place de la Concorde truly unique.

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.

The best time to go to place de la Concorde is during the spring and early fall months. From April to June and September to October, the weather is pleasantly mild, allowing visitors to explore without the stifling summer heat or the chill of winter. These periods also see moderate crowd levels, offering a more relaxed experience for those looking to soak in the grand ambiance of this iconic Parisian square.

Summer, while bustling, is marked by a vibrant atmosphere as tourists flock to the city, making it an exciting time to witness Place de la Concorde come alive with activity. However, early mornings or late evenings during this season can provide a quieter, more intimate visit. During Christmas, the square is adorned with beautiful festive lights, adding a special charm to the winter season.

Explore our extended guide on the best time to visit place de la Concorde for more inspiration on things to do in every season.

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!

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 14.77 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.