Champs de Mars

The Champ de Mars—Mars’ Field—was originally named after the God of War, and it does have a bloody history. First used for training drills hosted by the École Militaire, it was also the site of an infamous massacre and numerous violent episodes during the French Revolution. Today, the riverside site has a far more tranquil reputation, thanks in part to the Wall for Peace, a symbolic monument that has stood on the site since 2000. Given its proximity to the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars draws large groups of tourists, but it’s also popular among local picnickers and families looking to relax amid the greenery.

Unsurprisingly, the Champ de Mars is most frequently discovered during visits to the Eiffel Tower, but you can also glimpse it on a river cruise down the Seine, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, a Segway and bike tour, and other jaunts around town.

• Head to the Champ de Mars after sunset to enjoy an up-close perspective on the Eiffel Tower’s nightly light show.

• The park’s ground-level paths are largely wheelchair-accessible.

• Playgrounds, fountains, monuments, and even a hand-cranked carousel are all hosted on-site.

For easy access to Champ de Mars, take the Métro line 8 to the École Militaire stop. The park can also be reached via the Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel station, which is served by the RER C. Alternatively, take bus lines 42, 69, 82, or 87, or walk, drive, or hop on a Vélib’ bike.

The Champ de Mar, which is free and always open, is a popular Paris destination throughout the year. The park hosts a number of popular annual events, from Bastille Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations to Christmas markets and athletic tournaments.

Like many iconic Paris landmarks, the Champ de Mars will take on hosting duties during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Beach volleyball tournaments will be held here during the Olympics and boccia—a game that’s similar to bocce—will be held here as part of the Paralympics.