Why start at Nation?
Nation is less postcard-famous than central Paris, which is exactly why it is useful for curious travelers. The vast roundabout, Revolutionary sculpture and old toll-gate columns introduce eastern Paris, while four metro lines make it a strong jump-off point for Père-Lachaise, Bastille or Vincennes.
Le Triomphe de la République
The monumental bronze group at the center of the square gives Nation its symbolic scale.
Barrière du Trône columns
The twin Ledoux columns recall the former tax wall and mark the historic eastern approach to Paris.
Jardin de l’Impératrice Eugénie
A nearby green pocket for a short rest away from the traffic around the circle.
Cours de Vincennes
A broad local shopping axis that shows everyday Paris beyond the museum corridor.
Practical tip: Exit toward Place de la Nation and Avenue du Trône for the fastest route to the columns and central monument.
Use the 7-day Paris Pass to build an eastern Paris day from Nation to Bastille or Père-Lachaise.