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 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.

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.

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.

Choosing the right accommodation near place de la Concorde 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.

This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

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.