Place du Trocadero is a popular public square set on a hill on the east bank of the Seine River. Crowds gather at Place du Trocadéro to admire views of the iconic Eiffel Tower. An aquarium and a picturesque garden, complete with a dazzling water display, add to the entertainment here. Learn about French history at the collection of museums located in the halls of a palace building.
At the top of the hill is a paved terrace, which serves as a viewpoint favored by hundreds of photo-snapping tourists. Gaze in amazement at how the Eiffel Tower soars high above everything that surrounds it. Look to the left of the tower to spot the gilded dome of Les Invalides military complex. Vendors set up on the terrace each morning and sell artwork and miniature models of the tower.
At the rear of the terrace is a two-winged neoclassical landmark called the Palais de Chaillot. Built for the 1937 Exposition Internationale, it houses museums and the Théâtre National de Chaillot. Browse anthropology artifacts at the Musée de l’Homme and architectural models, murals and stained glass at the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine. Outside, look for Daniel Bacqué’s La Femme, Pierre Traverse’s L’homme and wall inscriptions of quotes by poet Paul Valéry.
Walk down the steps from the terrace to the Jardins du Trocadéro garden space and its centerpiece water feature. Sit on grass verges and watch as cannons and fountains shoot water into the pond. Sculptures by French artists, such as Paul Jouve and Georges Guyot, surround the pond. Watch the light and water show taking place here in summer months.
Landscaped lawns spreading out on either side of the central garden are ideal places for picnics. Carousels provide entertainment for children. Spot sharks and tropical fish species at Paris Aquarium Cinéaqua.
Reach the square by taking the metro to the Trocadéro station. Jena Bridge crosses the Seine and connects the gardens with the Eiffel Tower.
Opening hours of the aquarium, museums and theater at Place du Trocadero vary. Visit the attraction’s official websites for more information.
