Off-center and a late annexation, the 16th arrondissement, along with the VIIIth arrondissement, is considered one of the richest and most bourgeois districts of right-bank Paris. It’s both quiet, because it’s very residential, and very touristy, due to its many must-see Parisian sites, such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Trocadéro (from which you can see the Eiffel Tower) and its numerous museums.
This arrondissement is also the greenest in Paris, thanks to the Bois de Boulogne.
Here are a few tips for a successful day out with friends in Paris’s 16th arrondissement.
Morning in the 16th
Start your day with friends in the 16th arrondissement with some delicious viennoiseries from Maison Lenôtre.
At 48 avenue Victor Hugo.
Walk up the avenue towards Place de l’Etoile (between the 16th, 17th and 8th arrondissements). In the center is the Arc de Triomphe. A Napoleonic symbol of victory, it also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in honor of the victims of the First World War.
The Arc Triomphe is located on the main Parisian axis running from the Louvre Pyramid to the Arche de la Défense, via the Obélisque de la Concorde. Can you still see these monuments lined up?
NB: you can also climb up to its 49-metre-high terrace to take in the view of Paris.
Free ascent for under-26yo.
On Place de l’Etoile.
Head up Avenue Kléber towards the Trocadéro.
The Palais de Chaillot was built on the former Palais du Trocadéro for the 1937 Universal Exhibition. Originally temporary, destined to disappear at the end of the Exhibition, its buildings are typical of the neo-classical architecture (rather close to a totalitarian aesthetic) of the interwar period. From the Esplanade des Droits de l’Homme, you’ll have the best view of the Eiffel Tower (on the other side of the Seine, in the 7th arrondissement), located in the axis of the Palais, as well as the Champs de Mars.
Place du Trocadéro.
Head down to the Palais de Tokyo and the Musée d’art moderne.
Passionate about fashion? Don’t forget to visit the Palais Galliera, Paris’ fashion museum, just across the street. This unique institution has hosted exhibitions of collections by Gabrielle Chanel, Margiela, Azzedine Alaïa, Jeanne Lanvin… Right now, “La Mode en mouvement”.
At 10 avenue Pierre-Ier-de-Serbie.
Cozy afternoon in Paris
Have lunch in one of Paris’s friendliest bistros, Les Marches. It gets its name from its location at the bottom of the grand staircase leading to the Palais de Tokyo and the Museum of Modern Art.
A picturesque, typically Parisian setting. In a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, you can enjoy local specialties of impeccable quality — all served in generous portions (French fries galore!). For adults, special mention goes to the baba au rhum. Prices are as friendly as the welcome, probably the best value for money in the arrondissement.
6 rue de la Manutention.
If you’re more into luxury and dream of Parisian-style service, here are some chic, sophisticated spots with stunning settings and interior design:
- La Girafe: the hidden terrace on the roof of the Musée de la Marine;
- Monsieur Bleu, the elegant restaurant at the foot of the Palais de Tokyo, with its terrace overlooking the Seine and the Eiffel Tower;
- Bambini, the trendy Italian restaurant next to the Palais de Tokyo;
- Corail, with its refined Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and its huge terrace facing the Eiffel Tower, in the heart of the Museum of Modern Art.
NB: Reservations are a must and watch your wallet!
Then, head straight to the Fondation Louis Vuitton. This extraordinary creation by architect Frank Gehry (also behind the Cinémathèque Française — see the 12th arrondissement), designed like a massive ship cutting through the waves, rises above the Bois de Boulogne. It’s a destination worth visiting in its own right.
The exhibitions focus on modern and contemporary art, from Claude Monet to Jean-Michel Basquiat. Currently on display: British pop artist David Hockney.
NB: you can take a free shuttle bus directly from Place de l’Etoile.
At 8 avenue du Mahatma Gandhi.
If you fancy a refreshing dip, the Piscine Molitor is an absolutely magical place. The 1930s-style building is now home to numerous street artists, creating a bold contrast with its decor. A trendy place to enjoy an aperitif!
At 10 avenue de la Porte Molitor.
Evening in the 16th
How about an exotic dinner escape? Then head to Andia, located in the former Muette train station. This incredible venue, with its festive atmosphere, will transport you to South America — with the sounds of Latin music and a vibrant array of colorful dishes.
At 19 Chaussée de la Muette.
Finally, if you’re not too exhausted, a great way to round off a day out with friends in the 16th arrondissement is to bowl together at Bowling Foch. It’s a great opportunity to challenge each other on the lane while enjoying a drink in a very festive atmosphere!
NB: the venue also offers billiards and table soccer.
At 1 avenue Foch in the basement, enter via the metro station.
If you’re in the mood to party, dance the night away at L’Aventure. This exclusive new club is located in a luxury hotel complex.
More accessible, the Duplex and Arc nightclubs are possible fallback solutions…
At 4 avenue Victor Hugo.
Enjoy your visit!
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