Place de la Bastille (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Place de la Bastille?
What makes it 74% Couple-Friendly: Couples can admire the July Column, picnic in the Jardin du Port de l’Arsenal and catch a performance at Opéra Bastille, all within steps, making the area a convenient romantic stop.
Positives:
- Romantic ambiance: The canal-side setting offers benches and lawns perfect for couples.
- Historical depth: The July Column and opera house reflect Paris’s revolutionary and modern heritage.
- Vibrant nightlife nearby: Le Marais bars and cafés are a short walk away for evening plans.
Challenges:
- Limited seating: The square itself has few benches—bring a blanket for your picnic.
- Crowds on Bastille Day: July 14th draws large crowds and fireworks - expect busy streets and limited access.
- Minimal shade: The open square offers little cover—carry a hat or umbrella on sunny days.
What is Place de la Bastille?
- A public square in eastern Paris occupying the former site of the medieval Bastille fortress and revolutionary prison
- Anchored by the 47-meter Colonne de Juillet, a bronze-topped victory column commemorating the 1830 July Revolution
- Functions as a major traffic junction and cultural landmark, bordered by the modern Opéra Bastille and intersected by multiple boulevards
What is so special about Place de la Bastille for couple trip?
- 360° view and history at the Colonne de Juillet
- Canal-side picnic at Jardin du Port de l’Arsenal
- Behind-the-scenes Opéra Bastille tour
- Intimate private Seine cruise at sunset
Recommended visit duration: 1 hour
Why 1 hour visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to see the July Column, explore the opera house exterior and enjoy a canal-side picnic.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Place de la Bastille
View the Colonne de Juillet:
Walk around the 47 m bronze-topped victory column commemorating the 1830 Revolution.
Tip: Read the inscription plaques at the base to learn key historical details.
Picnic at Jardin du Port de l’Arsenal:
Spread a blanket on the lawns beside the Bassin de l’Arsenal.
Tip: Pick up fresh baguette and cheese from nearby bakeries before 11 am for best selection.
Backstage tour of Opéra Bastille:
Explore the theatre’s machinery, rehearsal rooms and modern design by Carlos Ott.
Tip: Book online in advance (€20 pp) to secure your preferred date and time.
Private Seine cruise from Port de l’Arsenal:
Enjoy intimate views of Paris monuments at sunset with Champagne onboard.
Tip: Reserve the discovery cruise (€70 pp) at least a week ahead, and ask for a sunset departure.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Place de la Bastille
- Arrive early: Get here before 10 am to find quiet picnic spots and clear views of the column.
- Combine activities: Pair the opera tour with a late-afternoon canal picnic to maximize your visit.
When is the best time to visit Place de la Bastille (Paris, France)?
In summer, head here in late afternoon for soft light on the canal. Winters can be chilly and windy on the square—bring layers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Opéra Bastille backstage tour | EUR 40 |
| Private Seine cruise | EUR 140 |
| Picnic supplies | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 190 |
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 Place de la Bastille
Address: Pl. de la Bastille, Paris, France
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