Place Des Ternes

Introduction

Place des Ternes is a vibrant and historic square at the intersection of Paris’s 8th and 17th arrondissements. Its evolution from a rural village to a bustling urban hub epitomizes the Parisian blend of tradition and modernity. Today, Place des Ternes is celebrated for its Haussmannian architecture, lively markets, cosmopolitan café culture, and proximity to iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Parc Monceau. This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, nearby attractions, and insider tips to help you experience the best of Place des Ternes (Travel France Online, Dispatches Europe, Paris Insiders Guide).

Historical Evolution and Architectural Significance

Origins and Haussmannian Transformation

Originally derived from the rural village of Ternes, the square was incorporated into Paris in 1860 during the city's expansion. Its development accelerated under Baron Haussmann's mid-19th-century urban renewal, which introduced wide boulevards, circular plazas, and harmonious limestone facades. Place des Ternes now stands as a classic example of Haussmannian urban planning, with its symmetrical layout, mansard-roofed buildings, and grand avenues radiating outward (Travel France Online).

Notable Features

• Uniform Haussmannian Facades: Cream-colored stone, wrought-iron balconies, and arcaded ground floors.
• Major Avenues: Avenue de Wagram, Avenue des Ternes, Boulevard de Courcelles, and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré converge at the square.
• Vibrant Markets: Marché aux Fleurs and Marché Poncelet showcase local produce and floral artistry.
• Accessibility: The Ternes metro station (Line 2) and multiple bus lines ensure easy access.

Visiting Information

Hours and Tickets

• Place des Ternes: Open public square, accessible 24/7 with no entry fee.
• Markets:
  • Marché aux Fleurs: Open daily except Mondays, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.
  • Marché Poncelet: Open daily except Mondays, 7 a.m.–2 p.m.
• Nearby Museums:
  • Musée de la Contrefaçon: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; tickets ~€6.
  • Musée Jean-Jacques Henner: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; tickets ~€8.
• Arc de Triomphe: 10 a.m.–10:30 p.m.; tickets ~€13 for adults (Official Arc de Triomphe Site).

Check individual attraction websites for up-to-date hours and ticketing.

Accessibility

• Transport:
  • Metro: Line 2 (Ternes station).
  • Bus: Lines 22, 43, 73, 92, 244, 274, 341, N11, N24.
  • Tram: Closest is T3B (Anny Flore), fully accessible.
• For Visitors with Disabilities: Trams and most buses are wheelchair accessible. Metro accessibility varies; Ternes station is limited. Streets and markets offer wide, mostly flat sidewalks with some uneven paving (Accessible Paris Information).

Best Times to Visit

• Markets: Early morning and weekend hours provide the most vibrant atmosphere.
• Photography: Early morning and late afternoon for the best light.
• Events: July (Bastille Day festivities, Paris Plages) and seasonal festivals.

Key Attractions and Experiences

Market Culture

Marché Poncelet: A quintessential Parisian open-air market offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, seafood, pastries, and more. Mingle with locals, try samples, and immerse yourself in daily Parisian life.

Marché aux Fleurs: A visual delight of blooms and fragrances, perfect for photography and gift shopping (Cityzeum).

Dining and Café Culture

• Classic Brasseries:
  • La Lorraine (seafood and art deco ambiance)
  • Ballon des Ternes (Belle Époque decor)
  • Bar à Huîtres Ternes (fresh oysters)
  • Chez Georges and Le Relais de Venise (famous for steak-frites)
• Trendy Bars and Cafés:
  • Le Stübli (tea salon)
  • Café Dada (creative cocktails)
  • Flute Bar de Paris (champagne)
• International Cuisine: Italian, Asian, and other global options are available.

Shopping and Local Life

Avenue des Ternes is home to boutiques, bakeries, florists, and specialty food stores, alongside major retailers like Fnac and Darty. The area boasts a lively mix of long-term residents and cosmopolitan newcomers, ensuring a dynamic neighborhood spirit.

Parks and Green Spaces

• Parc Monceau: A historic English-style park ideal for picnics, jogging, and family outings.
• Promenade Pereire: A tranquil garden walkway nearby.

Cultural and Historical Sites

• Arc de Triomphe: Iconic monument with panoramic city views.
• Saint-Alexandre-Nevsky Cathedral: Russian Orthodox church with stunning architecture.
• Musée de la Contrefaçon & Musée Jean-Jacques Henner: Unique cultural offerings within walking distance.

Events and Social Scene

Place des Ternes pulses with energy during summer evenings and festive periods. Bastille Day (July 14th) brings parades and fireworks at the nearby Arc de Triomphe. Seasonal markets and neighborhood events foster a strong sense of community, while the district's nightlife is enhanced by classic pubs and jazz clubs (Paris Insiders Guide).

Practical Travel Tips

• Transport: Use Metro Line 2 (Ternes) or nearby Charles de Gaulle – Étoile for wider connections. Download the Moovit app for real-time public transit updates.
• Payments: Most venues accept cards; some market stalls prefer cash.
• Safety: The area is considered safe, but always be mindful of personal belongings in crowded places.
• Language: Basic French greetings are appreciated.
• Weather: Spring and autumn are ideal for mild temperatures and lively markets.
• Wi-Fi: Available in many cafés and some public spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Place des Ternes open year-round?
Yes, the square is a public space accessible 24/7.

Are there entrance fees?
No fee for the square or markets; some museums and the Arc de Triomphe require tickets.

How do I get to Place des Ternes?
Via Metro Line 2 (Ternes), several bus lines, or by foot from nearby attractions.

Are the markets open every day?
Both the flower and Poncelet markets are closed on Mondays.

Is the area accessible for wheelchair users?
Tram and bus networks are accessible; some metro stations, including Ternes, are not fully accessible.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, various guided walking tours cover the area’s history, markets, and culinary highlights.

Final Visitor Tips

• Arrive early at markets for the best selection and local interactions.
• Enjoy café terraces for people-watching and a true Parisian experience.
• Consider guided tours for deeper insights into the area’s heritage and culture.
• Stay mindful of local customs, such as greeting shopkeepers with “bonjour.”
• Download digital resources like the Audiala app for audio guides and real-time updates.

Explore More

Download the Audiala app for guided tours and insider tips. Follow us on social media for real-time updates and inspiration. Place des Ternes is more than a landmark—it's a living slice of Parisian culture waiting for your discovery.

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