Place Vendôme was built by the order of Louis XIV as a magnificent backdrop intended to embody absolute power in the heart of Paris. Napoleon replaced the king's statue, which was demolished in 1792, with a bronze column containing 1200 enemy cannons. The Vendôme Column was erected by the order of Napoleon 1st, from 1806 to 1810 to commemorate the battle of Austerlitz, and then destroyed during the Paris Commune in 1871 before being rebuilt as we know it today.

Address: Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France

Opening hours:

Always! It’s a historical public square.

Ticket price: FREE

Getting there:

LINE 3 Métro station Opéra

LINE 8 Métro station Opéra

LINE 7 Métro station Opéra

Tip: This impressive square is home to the most exclusive jewelry stores, shops, and top hotels such as the Ritz and Vendôme hotels. Prices are high in this area, but even if you don't plan to shop, it’s nice to have a walk.