Champs de Mars

The Basics

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.

Things to Know Before You Go

• 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.

How to Get There

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.

When to Get There

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.

The 2024 Paris Olympics

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.

Ways to explore

Given its proximity to Paris’ most famous landmark, the Champ de Mars is most often discovered during visits to the Eiffel Tower. You can also explore the park by bike or Segway on a tour of Paris’ top sights, or glimpse it from a Seine River cruise or hop-on hop-off bus. These experiences take place day and night, so you can choose whether you’d like to see the Eiffel Tower in the sunshine or with twinkling lights. Another option is to enjoy Champ de Mars like a local, bringing a picnic and a book to relax amid the greenery.

Accessibility

The Champ de Mars is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with flat walking paths and sidewalks throughout the park.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water bottle, food and a blanket for picnicking in the park

What to wear

There’s little shade in the Champ de Mars, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the vast park on foot.

Not allowed

The Champ de Mars is a popular spot for lounging with views of the Eiffel Tower—be sure to keep your noise levels down and clean up after yourself out of respect for the public space.

Amenities

Public restrooms, dining options, playground

Address

The Champ de Mars is located in the 7th arrondissement, a central area on the south bank of the Seine River comprising Les Invalides, the Musée d’Orsay, and other top Paris attractions. You can walk to the park from sights such as the Eiffel Tower and Rodin Museum, and it’s well-connected to the rest of the city by public transit.

Driving

It’s best not to drive yourself around Paris due to the city’s heavy traffic and tricky parking, but you can easily find a cab or rideshare app to take you to the Champ de Mars from anywhere in the city.

Public transportation

For easy access to the Champ de Mars, take line 8 on the Paris Metro to École Militaire station. The park is also close to the Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel station, served by the RER C.

Best times to visit

Visit in the early morning for minimal crowds, or go for an evening picnic to enjoy a livelier atmosphere and (once the sun goes down) the Eiffel Tower’s twinkling lights.

Best days to visit

The park sees most visitors on the weekends, so go on a weekday if you’d like a calmer atmosphere.

Best months to visit

Visit the Champ de Mars between June and October, when you’ll have the best weather for strolling and lounging in the park.

Special events

The park is a great place to watch the annual Eiffel Tower concert and fireworks show on Bastille Day (July 14).