- History and tour of the Tour Montparnasse in Paris
- Discover the Surroundings of the Tour Montparnasse in Paris
- Transfer to the Tour Montparnasse in Paris
Exploring the Iconic Tour Montparnasse in Paris
The Tour Montparnasse, an imposing skyscraper, graces the Necker neighborhood of Paris, marking the 58th administrative district. This area, nestled to the east of the 15th district along Boulevard de Vaugirard and bordering the 14th (Boulevard Edgar Quinet) and the 6th districts (Rue de Rennes), spans 157 hectares. It’s defined by Boulevard Montparnasse on the north, Rue de la Croix Nivert on the west, Rue Lecourbe and Rue de la Procession on the south, and is framed by the Gare Montparnasse and Rue du Depart on the east.
The Tour Montparnasse, standing tall among the most recognizable features of Necker with its high-rise office buildings, ranks as the 17th tallest tower in Europe. Constructed between 1969 and 1972 on the historical grounds of the old Gare Montparnasse, its creation involved the excavation of 420,000 cubic meters of rubble and the installation of 56 reinforced concrete pillars, extending 70 meters below ground. Officially inaugurated in 1973, it has since become a prominent landmark of the French capital, offering breathtaking vistas, particularly mesmerizing at sunset. Its foundation overcomes the challenge of a complex subterranean landscape made of limestone, plastic clay, marl, and a layer of chalk stretching 62 meters below.
With a towering height of 210 meters and comprising 59 floors, the Tour Montparnasse’s architecture employs a sliding formwork technique, featuring a curved design that minimizes its volume. Its width spans 32 meters, weighing a colossal 120,000 tons and capped with a rooftop terrace. The tower provides a splendid tourist attraction, presenting a panoramic view of Paris from a unique vantage point. By day, it showcases the capital’s splendor and beauty with a 360-degree view, including a prime sightline of the Eiffel Tower. By night, it transforms into a haven for astronomy enthusiasts, dreamers, and novices alike, offering a luminous view of Paris.
Historically, the Tour Montparnasse played host to a scientific experiment where a muon detector at the summit directed a laser beam towards the Paris Observatory. Today, visitors can enjoy the capital’s monuments through audiovisual and interactive installations, including tactile tables, multimedia animations, and a photographic exhibition documenting Paris’s history. An elevator, acclaimed as Europe’s fastest, whisks guests over 200 meters to the summit, appealing particularly to children eager for the view. The 56th floor, home to Paris’s highest panoramic bar, offers snacks, a trendy bar for romantic outings, and a gourmet restaurant.
Attracting 1.2 million visitors annually, primarily from abroad, the Tour Montparnasse’s terrace and 56th floor are open to the public. The visit unfolds through expansive windows offering panoramic views, interactive displays on Paris and its history, and space for private events like seminars, conferences, weddings, and receptions, making it an indispensable destination for tourists seeking to experience the essence of Paris.
Discover the Surroundings of the Tour Montparnasse in Paris
The Tour Montparnasse, standing as a modern beacon in the Parisian skyline, offers not just breathtaking views from its summit but also serves as a starting point to explore the vibrant 15th arrondissement and beyond. Just a stone’s throw away, the Jardin Atlantique, a unique garden situated atop the Montparnasse train station, provides a peaceful retreat with its themed gardens, children’s playgrounds, and tennis courts, hidden away from the city’s hustle.
Art enthusiasts will find the Fondation Cartier for contemporary art within walking distance, offering a dynamic program of exhibitions in a building designed by the renowned architect Jean Nouvel. This institution is dedicated to promoting and showcasing contemporary artistic creation, making it a must-visit for those looking to delve into modern artistic expressions.
For a taste of Parisian daily life, the Rue de Rennes is nearby, leading directly from the foot of the tower towards the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This bustling street is lined with shops ranging from high-end boutiques to traditional French bookshops, offering a shopping experience that caters to every taste and budget.
Additionally, the Montparnasse Cemetery, a serene final resting place of many famous artists and intellectuals, offers a contemplative space to wander and reflect on the contributions of historical figures such as Serge Gainsbourg and Samuel Beckett. The area around Tour Montparnasse is rich in cultural, recreational, and shopping opportunities, making it an essential part of any Parisian itinerary.
Transfer to the Tour Montparnasse in Paris
Our team invites you to discover Paris’s entertaining and historic places aboard a collective shuttle with a driver. Of course, you also have the option to choose from other types of rentals, such as a VIP luxury car or a prestige limousine. The Montparnasse Tower is conveniently located 20.6 km away from Orly Airport, 32 km from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and 83.4 km from Beauvais Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers arriving from various points.