Obélisque de Louxor (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Obélisque de Louxor?
What makes it 78% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can freely walk around the obelisk, photograph historic details, join pay-what-you-wish tours, and move on in under an hour, yet there is no shelter, seating, or restroom.
Positives:
- Easy metro access: Take line 1 to Concorde for a direct exit onto the square.
- Photo opportunities: Wide plaza offers clear views of the obelisk and fountains.
Challenges:
- No on-site restrooms: The obelisk area lacks public toilets; use nearby Tuileries facilities.
- Crowded at midday: The square fills with tourists and buses after 11 am.
What is Obélisque de Louxor?
- A pink granite obelisk over 3,300 years old, carved with hieroglyphs that celebrate Pharaoh Ramesses II and originally erected at Egypt’s Luxor Temple
- Gifted to France by Viceroy Muhammad Ali in 1830 and installed at the heart of Paris’s Place de la Concorde on October 25, 1836
- Rising 23 meters atop a decorative marble pedestal, the Obélisque de Louxor anchors one of Paris’s grandest public squares as a protected historic monument
What is so special about Obélisque de Louxor for solo trip?
- Join a flexible, tip-based walking tour around the obelisk
- Capture unique architectural shots during a self-guided photo walk
- Use an audio guide app to learn the obelisk’s Egyptian history
- Visit the nearby Jeu de Paume gallery for contemporary photography
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to view the obelisk, join a walking tour, and explore nearby sites.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Obélisque de Louxor
Join a free walking tour:
Take a 2–3 hour tip-based tour that covers the obelisk and nearby landmarks.
Tip: Book online in advance; tip your guide around €15.
Self-guided photo walk:
Circle the obelisk and its rostral fountains at your own pace.
Tip: Visit late afternoon for golden light on the pink granite.
Use an audio guide app:
Unlock detailed stories about the obelisk’s Egyptian origins.
Tip: Download TravelMate before arrival for offline access (€9).
Explore Jeu de Paume gallery:
See contemporary photography in a historic building beside the square.
Tip: Buy tickets online (€12) and join the free guided tour at 12:30 pm.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Obélisque de Louxor
- Combine with Tuileries Gardens: Walk straight into the gardens after viewing the obelisk for a quieter route.
- Download guides offline: Save audio or map apps before arrival to avoid roaming charges.
Reviews of Obélisque de Louxor
G
A fascinating historical monument right in the center of Place de la Concorde. The obelisk is impressive in size and the carvings are beautiful when you look at them up close. It feels like a real piece of ancient history standing in the middle of Paris. Great spot to walk by, take photos, and enjoy the view of the square and surrounding landmarks. Worth a visit for anyone exploring the area. Fiv...
G E Hallak
The Luxor Obelisk was originally erected at the entrance of the Luxor temple in Egypt during the reign of pharaoh Ramesses II. The hieroglyphics on the obelisk commemorate his divine origin, his right to rule and his relationship with the gods. The pedestal contains diagrams of the machinery used to transport and raise the column in Paris.
Jamie Higgs-Dey
A wonderful and detailed gift from Egypt to France, the detail is great and the gold touches really make it stand out even more, despite being from Egypt it seems to blend in so naturally to the surrounding Parisian architecture.
The K Green Show
Amazing gift from Egypt to France that I'm told was not reciprocated. Obelisk is very old and looks amazing. In line with large Arc de Triomophe and small arc de triomophe as well as louvre pyramid. Near the fountains. Take a hat as there is zero shade.
Shaheryar Alkrid
Beautiful obelisk which was built over 2000 years ago. brought from Egypt a few hundred years ago as a gift from Egypt. It stands tall and proud in this plaza overlooking the Eiffel Tower and multiple historic places around it.
When is the best time to visit Obélisque de Louxor (Paris, France)?
Arrive early in summer to beat crowds and heat. In winter, wear layers against the exposed plaza winds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tip-based walking tour | EUR 15 |
| Audio guide app | EUR 9 |
| Jeu de Paume entry | EUR 12 |
| Coffee near Place de la Concorde | EUR 4 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 40 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Obélisque de Louxor
Address: 73 Pl. de la Concorde, 75008 Paris, France
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About Obélisque de Louxor
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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