I love carousels, especially really detailed, super pretty carousels. I know that they are just an amusement ride that moves round and round in a circle but I think they are magical, especially in Paris. In fact, Paris is the perfect place to find one of these beauties. There are around twenty carousels, scattered about the city. Twenty! Here are my favorite carousels photograph and gawk at while in Paris. 🙂

Carrousel de Saint-Pierre

Also known as the Sacré-Cœur Carousel. It is located in Montmartre, which if you know me you know that this is my absolute favorite area in Paris. This lovely carousel is located at the very base of the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica. This is one of the prettiest carousels in Paris with painted scenes of Venice, Italy all over it. Place St. Pierre, Montmartre, Paris 75018. Nearest metro Abbesses.

Carrousel de la Tour Eiffel

This beautiful carousel is located directly below the Eiffel Tower and next to the Seine River. Come nighttime, the entire area is lit up by the magical, twinkling light of the Eiffel Tower. This carousel is not only lovely but it is also eco friendly. It is equipped with solar panels, LED lamps, photo sensors and pedal power. Promenade Quai Branly, Paris 75007. Nearest metro Trocadero, Bir Hakeim, Passy.

Carrousel de Paris

Located in the Trocadero gardens, this is a magnificent double decker carousel with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Not only is the carousel beautiful (it has a little hot air balloon!) but so is the area. You could pack a picnic, check out the fountain, and explore the nearby streets. 18 avenue Gustave V de Suede, Jardins du Trocadero, Paris, 75016. Nearest metro Trocadero.

Dodo Manège

The Dodo Manege carousel that sits in the middle of Jardin des Plantes is by far the most unusual in Paris. This beautiful garden dates back to 1626, when it was full of medicinal herbs for Louis XIII. It is now home to the Natural History Museum, a menagerie of animals, galleries and an enormous greenhouse full of exotic flowers and plants. This quirky carousel of animals was erected at the turn of the 20th century and has delighted people of all ages ever since. Jardin des Plants, 2 rue Buffon, Paris 75005. Nearest metro Gare d’Austerlitz, Jussieu or Place Monge.

Hôtel de Ville Carousel

The Hôtel de Ville Carousel, named The Belle Epoque is quite charming. The carousel plays circus music and the inside column also features an organ inset, pretty cool. It also has the perfect backdrop with the Parisian architecture of Hôtel de Ville (the city hall). You can take tours of Hôtel de Ville if you are interested. This carousel is seasonal, it may or may not be there when you visit. It tends to pop up around events, such as the Christmas season or Bastille Day. Place Hotel de Ville, Paris, 75004. Nearest metro, Hotel de Ville, Chatelet

There are so many interesting things to do and see while in Paris. Be sure to add a carousel stop and maybe even a ride, along the way.