Jardin du Trocadero

18 avenue Gustave V de Suede, Jardins du Trocadero, Paris, 75016. Nearest metro Trocadero.

Situated in the Trocadero gardens in the 16th arrondissement, with a view of the Eiffel Tower, this is a magnificent double decker carousel, in the Belle Epoch style. Similar to the carousels at Sacre Coeur and the Tuilleries, it is deceptively smaller than its cousins. It mirrors their decor with scenes of Paris on the outer and inner panels, surrounded by yellow lights, with togaed women on the lower inside deck.

Horses of different sizes populate it, carriages, tea cups and even an aeroplane from Le Petit Prince for your children to crash land.

Whilst being a very handsome carousel, brilliantly situated, it is worth remarking what it looks like as night descends. Carousels have always seemed to be a great winter activity, and as the nights get earlier this is worth seeing.

Distinguishing Feature: Continuing the French theme, the carousel also has another French invention, the hot air balloon. Not the only one I have seen on a carousel in Paris, but quite rare to see.

Music: French chanson is played by a band, with an accordion playing the melody. Quite loud and slightly distorted through the speakers, giving one an overwhelming sense of Frenchness.