The plain where the metro comes aboveground

After being integrated into the Vaugirard commune, it became part of Paris's 15th arrondissement under the enterprise of Baron Haussmann. Since the 20th century, Boulevard de Grenelle is particularly recognizable. It is, of course, a major road on Paris's left bank, but is also dominated by the elevated section of the metro. Between 1903 and 1959, the Grenelle district welcomed the Vélodrome d’Hiver, sadly famous for the Vél d’Hiv Roundup during World War II. A complex of towers built in the 1970s now stands on the same spot: the shopping district of Beaugrenelle.

Visit a changing neighborhood

Twenty or so years ago, it was an impoverished area however recently renovated, the streets have been modernized. Around Rue des Entrepreneurs and Rue du Commerce, the area is asserting itself even more strongly as a business district within the capital. Near the Seine, the Maison de la Culture du Japon provides marvelous insight into Asia and a country that has long been a friend of France. Walking down the Seine, you reach the stunning Tour Totem, a tower of luxury homes, and the Tour Cristal, a glass sculpture and office building.

Getting around and shopping

There are food stores along Boulevard de Grenelle, in particular Middle Eastern food stores. Lines 6, 8, and 10 of the metro intersect at Motte-Picquet-Grenelle station. Line 6 stops at Bir-Hakeim before crossing the Seine. Line 10 also serves the Charles Michels and Javel André-Citroën stations. If you are interested in staying in La Motte-Picquet Grenelle for your next stay, take a look at the list of apartments in the area.