Place de la Concorde: 10 Things to Do in Paris' Most Iconic Square
Place de la Concorde is one of the most iconic squares in Paris, France. Located at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées, it is the largest public square in the city, and has been a major public gathering place since the 18th century. From its royal beginnings to its modern-day attractions, Place de la Concorde has something to offer everyone. Here are ten things to do in Place de la Concorde to make your visit to the city of lights truly unforgettable.
1. Visit the Luxor Obelisk: At the centre of Place de la Concorde stands the Luxor Obelisk, a 23-meter-tall granite monolith that was gifted to France by the Viceroy of Egypt in 1831. The obelisk is believed to have been originally erected in the Temple of Luxor in Egypt in around 1450 BC, and is inscribed with hieroglyphs that tell the story of the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II.
2. Take a Picture of the Fountains: The two fountains at Place de la Concorde are a popular spot for taking pictures. The fountains were designed by Jacques Ignace Hittorff in 1836, and feature two bronze groups of figures representing the Rivers Seine and the Rhone.
3. Go to the Jardin des Tuileries: The Jardin des Tuileries, located just to the north of Place de la Concorde, is one of the oldest and most beautiful public parks in Paris. The gardens feature a variety of sculptures, flower beds, and ponds, and is a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic.
4. Visit the Palais de l’Élysée: Located directly across from Place de la Concorde, the Palais de l’Élysée is the official residence of the President of France. The palace is open to visitors on certain days, and offers guided tours of the building and its grounds.
5. Take a Cruise on the Seine: Place de la Concorde is the perfect starting point for a cruise on the Seine. Cruise companies offer a variety of boat tours along the river, and it’s a great way to take in the sights of the city.
6. Watch the Changing of the Guard: Every morning at 10am, the French Republican Guard performs a changing of the guard ceremony at Place de la Concorde. The ceremony is a great spectacle, and is a popular tourist attraction.
7. Visit the Musée de l’Orangerie: Located just to the south of Place de la Concorde, the Musée de l’Orangerie is home to a collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Cézanne.
8. Shop at the Champs-Élysées: Place de la Concorde is the starting point of the iconic Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. The avenue is lined with luxury stores, cafes, and restaurants, and is a great place to spend the day.
9. Take a Tour of the Hôtel de Crillon: The Hôtel de Crillon, located across from Place de la Concorde, is one of the oldest and most luxurious hotels in Paris. The hotel offers guided tours of its grand interior, and is a great place to learn about the history of the city.
10. Attend a Concert at the Place de la Concorde: Every summer, Place de la Concorde hosts a variety of concerts and events, from classical music to pop concerts. This is a great way to experience the square in a different light and enjoy some of the best music in the city.