11 Best Things To Do In La Defense

Are you planning a trip to La Defense and looking for the best things to do there? We’ve got you covered! La Défense, only a stone’s throw from the center of Paris, is an area that exemplifies the ideal balance of modernism and tradition.

This is the French capital’s main commercial center and a spectacular example of architectural brilliance. There are several things to do in La Défense, from towering buildings to open-air art galleries and delectable food. The top things to do in La Defense are listed below.

11 Best Things To Do In La Defense

1. Admire the View at the Top of Grande Arche

The gigantic Grande Arche de La Défense, standing on the outer edges of Paris, is a 20th-century counterpart of the Arc de Triomphe.

The monument pays tribute to humanity as well as humanitarian values rather than military accomplishments. It is undoubtedly Paris’ most imposing landmark, beside the Eiffel Tower.

The Grande Arche’s simplicity was only matched by the intricacy of its prestressed beam construction.

The Grande Arche not only takes pride in its place on the western end of the Historical Axis, but urban designers also place it in such a manner that it provides a different viewpoint, with an ideal orientation facing the Eiffel Tower along with the Tour Montparnasse.

Regular tickets are $15.86, discounted tickets are $12.69, and student tickets are $10.58. Visitors who are retired, jobless, or handicapped can obtain discounted tickets. Tickets for youngsters aged 3 to 18 are $7.40. Children under the age of three are admitted free of charge.

2. Be Amazed at Europe’s Skyscrapers at La Defense

La Défense is Europe’s biggest purpose-built commercial zone, comprising 1,450 acres and employing 190,000 people on a daily basis, with 71 glass and steel structures, 20 of which are finished skyscrapers, and there are 24 in the Paris region.

The Hermitage Plaza construction is set to become Europe’s tallest building. There will be three towers in all, with the shortest completed in 2014.

The last two buildings, which will stand 320 meters tall and have 86 storeys, are now under construction. The project is expected to be completed in 2027.

3. Check out the La Défense Art Collection

The Musée à Ciel Ouvert was established in 1972 as part of an ambitious public order agenda and offers a one-of-a-kind trip across the commercial area centered around 76 colossal pieces.

Some of the pieces displayed in La Défense are Agram’s Fountain, as well as Miró’s Characters, in addition to Takis’ Pond, Moretti’s Chimney, César’s Thumb, along with Serra’s Slat. This museum is open 24 hours a day and is free to all visitors.

We propose that you buy an art map if you don’t like to skip any artwork, especially those belonging to your favorite artist. This may be obtained from the Info Defense kiosk in the square.

You may also pre-download it from the La Defense site. This website also contains details about guided tours as well as the art pieces themselves.

4. Visit the Nanterre Cathedral

Nanterre Cathedral exists as a Roman Catholic cathedral in the French town of Nanterre. The church houses the Bishop of Nanterre. After the founding of the diocese in 1966, it was renamed Nanterre Cathedral from Nanterre Parish Church.

Saint Geneviève grew up in Nanterre in the year 420 and was raised there. Legend has it that she performed miracles here, including restoring her mother’s eyesight with well water and adding the crypt of the chapel that was previously her house’s cellar.

5. Browse and Buy from Westfield Les 4 Temps

The shopping mall Westfield Les 4 Temps was established in the early 1980s and refurbished in 2008. In terms of sales, it immediately became France’s leading retail center.

It now has about 200 different businesses, including Europe’s largest Zara, an Auchan supermarket, a UGC cinema, and approximately 50 eateries.

A Westfield Les 4 Temps – CNIT smartphone application can be downloaded on Google Play and the App Store for viewing the center’s timetables, news, and events. You may also make use of click-and-collect assistance, a restroom, and free internet at Les 4 Temps.

6. Take a Walk at Parc des Anciennes Mairies

This park, situated in the center of the old town, has a surface area of 14,100 m2 and is well-known for its flowers, magnificent trees, playground, and pond. It is a hub of activity and entertainment, hosting events including the Parade and The Giant Farm.

The Royal College of Religious of the Abbaye Sainte-Genevieve was situated on the site, and the first stone was set by Queen Anne of Austria in 1642.

7. Don’t Miss the Food Trucks at La Defense

One of the benefits of being in such a busy business center is that there are several food alternatives. Many dozen food trucks started to make visits at La Défense lunch hour in recent years.

There is a wide range of cuisine offered, ranging from fusion to classic French to Italian. They are usually located in Parvis de La Défense, but their location varies often.

Puccia on the road? You’ve got it here. La Puccia is a light and crispy Italian bread baked over a wood fire, ideal for delightful hot sandwiches garnished with fresh ingredients from the region.

During the early hours of the morning, there will be two coffee trucks if you need a coffee to wake you up. A weekly calendar is offered to locate each food truck and location based on the day.

8. Wander at André Malraux Park

The departmental park, developed by landscaping architect Jacques Sgard and built between 1970 and 1978, is situated in the middle of Nanterre. This beautiful park covers a surface area of 26 hectares and is made up of gentle hills with meandering trails.

Structures surround the park, most notably Jacques Kalisz’s terraced structures to the north. As a result, there is no visible cut separating the park from the neighboring buildings.

Climbing, fishing, running, and street work are all options for sports aficionados. Kids are not left behind, with a typical games area including a merry-go-round available all year. In the summer, there will be a water play area just for them.

This park is a wonderful refuge of serenity and nature in the midst of La Défense’s skyscrapers and structures. Visitors may wander along the tree-lined paths, rest on the lawns, or observe the park’s contemporary artworks.

9. See the La Défense de Paris Statue

There are three figures that represent Paris’ defense: a lady clad in National Guard attire, resting on a cannon and clutching a flag, an iconic image of Paris, a young guard who inserts a final cartridge in his gun and a prostrate girl embodies the misery of ordinary people with her sorrowful look and wretched appearance.

Louis-Ernest Barrias began his career as a painter before transitioning to sculpture under the supervision of François Geoffroy. He won the Prix de Rome at the age of 23 and was recruited on the Paris Opera site.

Barrias created a great combination of neoclassical, passionate, and realistic currents via multiple works displayed in public spaces, nourished by structural references to Michelangelo.

10. Arrive at the Skyline Lounge Bar

The Skyline Lounge & Bar, located on the 19th floor of the Mélia Paris La Défense hotel, is a must-see in the west of Paris. Consider an exquisite and cozy atmosphere, a patio with an uninterrupted view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower, and a refined drink and tapas menu.

For $15.86, the Skyline bar provides two drink menus: one classic with exquisite tapas and one with distinctive cocktails. The Apple Sky or the End Of All Risk will whisk you away to heaven!

You may order a variety of beverages and tapas while admiring the view from the restaurant’s room or the rooftop patio.

The typical price for an appetizer and a main meal, or a main course including a dessert, is $29.61. The beverages are not included.

11. Witness the Agam Fountain

The Agam Fountain is a magnificent work of art. It gives a beautiful perspective of the Grande Arche thanks to its mosaic and 66 jets, making it one of the most romantic sites in Paris La Défense.

Yaacov Agam, an artist born in 1928, became interested in the kinetic movement during the early 1950s.

He communicates to the observer through metallic structural features, methods that include sound and light, or fluids such as water, who, as he wanders about, enjoy new dimensions of the artwork by finding its numerous possibilities.

Under the pool, there’s a machinery area the same size as the pool, with two water retention tanks running the length of the chamber.

The first basin collects, filters, and treats the water that falls from the cascade; 16 pumps convey the water to the second basin, which is located directly below the jets & adjacent to the first. The water will flow from this basin.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in La Defense

For visitors looking for a contemporary, international, and creative side of Paris, La Défense provides a really distinctive and intriguing experience. From its renowned architectural treasures to its thriving cultural scene and delectable gastronomic delights, this region is a must-see.

Whether you enjoy modern art, are a foodie looking for gastronomic pleasures, or simply enjoy beautiful cityscapes, La Défense offers something for everyone.