The 15th arrondissement of Paris, also known as Vaugirard, is a residential area where you will encounter many local residents. It is the part of the city with the highest density of Parisians per square kilometer. As a tourist, you will find many attractions here, including Tour Montparnasse and Saint-Christophe de Javel. The city park is also part of this arrondissement. In the article below, you will learn about the attractions you can visit here. You will also learn more about the accommodations where you can complete your trip. And what is this part of the city known for? Read on and find out.
The History of the 15th Arrondissement in Paris
Today, the 15th arrondissement is one of the most densely populated parts of Paris. However, it was different in the past. It is the location of the former Citroën factories. You can still find a tribute to this, Parc André Citroën. It is also where you encounter the patron saint, Saint-Christophe de Javel, who was worshipped for his protection of travelers. Even today, you can still see many traces of this. The city has a long history of residents who adhere to the old standards of the city.
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Attractions in the 15th Arrondissement
In addition to meeting many local residents, the 15th arrondissement also has many attractions. Below are some attractions that are definitely worth visiting.
1. Tour Montparnasse
Tour Montparnasse was built between 1969 and 1974 by architect Robert Saubot. It is a 210-meter high oval tower made entirely of steel and glass. Most Parisians find the tower unattractive, but everyone agrees that good techniques were used in its construction. During the day, many people work in their offices here. The building has 25 elevators that can take you to the 56th floor in 38 seconds. There is a restaurant there where you can enjoy the view. On the other three floors, which you must walk, there is, among other things, an open-air terrace. The open construction makes it seem as if you are floating.
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2. St.-Christophe de Javel
St.-Christophe de Javel is one of the first churches in the world made of prefabricated concrete panels. These panels were placed in 1930. The facade is made of brick and concrete and features the famous statue of Saint Christophe. The church replaced the wooden chapel that disappeared in 1920. In the gateway, you can see various murals, which symbolize a part of the neighborhood. For example, you can also see a reference to the automobile factories. The interior is a beautiful collection of art, which stands in stark contrast to the exterior of the church.
3. Statues of Liberty
Paris’s Statues of Liberty are also located in the 15th arrondissement. Initially, you might think of the statue that stands in New York, which was a gift from Paris to the city. However, a copy of it stands in the French city. The statue is 4.5 meters high and is located in the Musée d’Orsay. There are also copies of 11.2 meters in the Musée des Arts and one of 11.5 meters on the Île aux Cygnes. The statue still symbolizes independence. All these museums are visitable during your trip.
4. Parc André Citroën
Parc André Citroën was developed in memory of the developer of the Citroën car brand. The brand went bankrupt in 1974, after which in 1986 there was a plan to transform the site into a futuristic city park with gardens. It is a relatively somber park, where you only find fountains. In the summer months, however, it is indeed an oasis of calm. You can rise up to 150 meters high in a balloon. You then have a good overview of the rest of the city and can also admire the park from above.
Staying in the 15th Arrondissement
Now that you know what attractions there are, you can look at your next place to stay in the 15th arrondissement. The accommodations listed below are just a few examples of the many accommodations you can find here.
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Hotel Korner Eiffel
Hotel Korner Eiffel is a hotel located a 20-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. The hotel offers free WiFi, and upon arrival, you enjoy a complimentary hot drink. The rooms are simply furnished but come with a TV and a complete bathroom. Every day, you have a large breakfast buffet at your disposal. If you want to visit some attractions, the metro station is 2 minutes away, taking you to places like Charles Michels.
Read more about the hotel here
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Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel
Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel is located in the heart of Paris. The Eiffel Tower is within walking distance, and it’s only a 10-minute drive to the Parc des Princes football stadium. The hotel itself also offers plenty to do. You can visit the fitness center, the heated pool, and two restaurants. Here you can enjoy French and Japanese dishes. The rooms themselves are modernly furnished and all have a private bathroom. There is always a metro station nearby that can take you to one of the attractions, making for a fun day. In the evenings, you can relax in the hotel or one of the nearby bars.
Read more about the hotel here
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Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel
Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel is a hotel that features luxurious rooms. Each room has a private, fully equipped bathroom, air conditioning, and satellite TV. There is also a terrace where you can enjoy an American breakfast or breakfast buffet in the morning. The restaurant itself primarily serves traditional French dishes and has a number of carefully selected wines. The hotel is a two-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. Trocadero and the Seine are also close by. In the hotel, you can use the bar and a fitness center. With nearby metro stations, you can travel to all attractions and plan your days in Paris.